Large breed dogs are known to be one of the best pets. Their loyal, gentle and loving nature makes them highly suitable for families, especially with children. However, there’s a lot that should be taken into consideration while adding a large-breed dog to your family. Whether you need a vigilant guard dog, an energetic hiking companion or a softhearted cuddle buddy entirely depends on your family’s lifestyle. If you’re looking to adopt a large dog but are not sure which breed to go for, don’t worry, as we’re here to help. To make your search easy, we’ve come up with this blog, where we have listed the best large dog breeds for families. Let’s get started.
Best Large Dog Breeds for Families
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best large-breed family dogs.
1. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are loyal, friendly and patient, making them great with children and other pets. They are highly intelligent and are excellent at following commands. The dogs are highly enthusiastic and act as great outdoor companions. They have devoted and loving personalities and form deep connections with their human families. However, labs require a good amount of exercise daily to maintain good health. They are also known to shed throughout the year and require regular grooming.
Breed Overview:
Height: 55 to 62 cm
Weight: 25 to 36 kg
Health Risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia & eye conditions
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 Years
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds can be the best family dogs when they’re trained and socialized from a tender age. They’re known to form strong bonds with their human families, including children. The dogs are extremely loyal and loving. Their agile nature makes them suitable for active families. However, pet parents should be well aware of their need for constant exercise, both mental and physical, to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. German Shepherds also shed quite a bit and may require consistent grooming. Also, prior to adopting a German Shepherd, pet parents should be aware of the fact that the breed is a restricted one in Singapore that needs to be muzzled while in public.
Breed Overview:
Height: 55 to 65 cm
Weight: 22 to 40 kg
Health Risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, ear infections & bloating
Life Expectancy: 7 to 10 Years
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are popular among dog lovers for their patience and loving personalities. The dogs are also highly intelligent and respond well to training. They tend to form strong bonds with their human families, including children and adapt to a wide range of lifestyles. The dogs have high energy levels and require regular exercise, including long walks and playtime. They love physical activities and are ideal for families that have an active lifestyle. The canines have thick coats that shed significantly and need regular grooming.
Breed Overview:
Height: 51 to 61 cm
Weight: 25 to 34 kg
Health Risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, allergies, hyperthyroidism & eye conditions
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 Years
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known to display an affectionate and gentle nature, especially with children. They are incredibly protective and thrive on companionship. Berners love being part of human families and form strong bonds with the family members. Despite their large size, the dogs are calm and not overly active. With early socialization, they mingle well with fellow animals. Because of their large size, they need plenty of space to live comfortably. These dogs have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming, especially during the shedding season. Also, they are sensitive to hot weather and need to be kept indoors during hot conditions. Though the dogs are not very hyper, they do need exercise and outdoor walks in cooler months.
Breed Overview:
Height: 58 to 70 cm
Weight: 36 to 50 kg
Health Risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia, certain cancers, eye conditions, allergies & heart conditions
Life Expectancy: 7 to 10 Years
5. Great Dane
Often known as ‘Gentle Giants’, Great Danes are popular among dog lovers for their loving and loyal nature. However, their large size and strength require early socialization and consistent training. They are generally calm and patient, making them an ideal addition to families with children. The dogs are protective towards their hoomans and act as excellent guard dogs. Great Danes are not very active and require moderate exercise and occasional playing sessions.
Breed Overview:
Height: 71 to 90 cm
Weight: 45 to 90 kg
Health Risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloating, heart disease & eye conditions
Life Expectancy: 6 to 8 Years
6. Goldendoodle
A Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. The breed is an excellent family dog, having inherited intelligence, friendliness and trainability from its parent breeds. They are generally gentle and patient, making them ideal for families with children. The canines are eager to please and are very easy to train. They are playful in nature and love to indulge in activities like fetching and long walks. Goldendoodles have curly coats and require regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They also need monthly baths and professional haircuts every 6 to 8 weeks.
Breed Overview:
Height: 53 to 63 cm
Weight: 23 to 36 kg
Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, allergies & ear infections
Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 Years
Concluding Note
Welcoming a large breed dog into your family will surely bring a lot of warmth into your lives. The big family dogs thrive in environments where they find space and affection. With proper socialization and care, they form great connections with adults as well as children and leave memories that last for a lifetime.
