Top 10 Best Big Dog Breeds: You’ll Absolutely Fall in Love With

You know that moment when a 100-pound dog gently rests their head on your lap and stares at you like you’re their whole world?

Yeah… that’s the magic of big dogs.

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a dog that’s part gentle protector, part oversized teddy bear, and part chaos-filled comedian, you’re in for a treat. As someone who’s lived with big dogs all her life, I can tell you—there’s nothing like the love they give.

This list of the best big dog breeds is for families who want more than just a pet—they want a best friend who fills the house with tail wags, goofy grins, and giant-sized affection.

So, grab your pup (or future pup) and let’s dive in. 🐾

Why Do Families Love Big Dogs?

Let’s be honest—big dogs can be a lot. They take up space (and the whole couch), they eat more, and some of them drool enough to fill a kiddie pool. 😅

But oh, the love. The loyalty. The way they follow you from room to room, like your own fuzzy shadow.

Here’s why families adore them:

• They’re protective without being aggressive

• They’re often gentler with kids than smaller breeds

• They bond deeply with every family member

• And they’re just… goofy, soulful, and impossible not to love

Ready to meet the best big dog breeds that could soon be part of your family?

Top 10 Best Big Dog Breeds for Families

🥇 1. Golden Retriever – Pure Sunshine on Four Paws

A golden retriever is an emoji that would signify the heart-shaped sign of big dogs. These are canine sunshine.

The reasons they are loved:
They are tempered, loyal and all the members of the family as well as most importantly, the sticky-fingered, uproarious children.

Fun Fact: Goldens are born to retrieve Johns: so get ready to waste some good time casting tennis balls.

🖤 2. Labrador Retriever – America’s #1 Big Dog

Labs are everyone’s friend—seriously. They’ll love your kids, the mailman, your neighbor’s cat, and your leftover sandwich.

Why families can’t get enough:
Labs are playful, gentle, and always in the mood for fun. They’re super smart and eager to make you proud.

💡 Anna’s Note: Don’t skip walks—they’ll chew your shoes if they get bored. Learned that one the hard way. 😅

🏔️ 3. Bernese Mountain Dog – The Gentle Fluffball

If you’ve ever wanted to hug a walking teddy bear, this is your dog.

Why they’re perfect for families:
Berners are calm, patient, and incredibly affectionate. They’re amazing with children and love being outside (especially in cooler weather).

🧼 Heads up: They shed a lot. You’ll find hair in your cereal and on your jeans, but you’ll also find love in their eyes every single day.

🎭 4. Boxer – The Clown with a Heart of Gold

Boxers are the comedians of the dog world. Always goofy, always up for a game, and always full of love.

Why do they shine in families?
They’re protective without being aggressive, love kids, and are endlessly entertaining. They’ll play chase in the yard, then fall asleep in your lap.

🐾 Tip: They have endless energy—perfect for active families.

💦 5. Newfoundland – The Water-Loving Giant

These gentle giants are known as “nanny dogs” for a reason. They adore kids and will watch over your little ones like furry guardians.

Why they melt hearts:
Despite their size, they’re incredibly gentle. Many Newfies even have a natural instinct to rescue in water. Yup—they’ll save your kid from a splash in the kiddie pool.

💦 Warning: Drool alert. Keep towels handy—but trust me, the love is worth the mess.

🧠 6. German Shepherd – The Devoted Protector

German Shepherds are intelligent, firm, and so faithful. They exist to defend and care about their families.

Why they’re among the best big dog breeds:
They are attentive and smart by nature, so they make great watchdogs and wonderful companions. Once trained, they are so tolerant of children.

Anna, Advice: You’ve got to train early. These puppies seek employment, even watching the backyard.

✨ 7. Standard Poodle -The Thinker Breed

The fancy haircut is not the only sign of how athletic, friendly, and whip-smart Standard Poodles are.

The reason why families love them:
They are non-aggressive, intelligent, and hypoallergenic. No shedding tumbleweeds and lots of less sneezing!

Bonus: They need less training than most breeds, and on the other hand, have a playful, silly side that children love.

🔥 8. Irish Setter: The Red-haired Rascal

Irish Setters are the type of mate who always has a smile on his face, who enjoys himself, and lives from one activity to another.

The reason why they are good family dogs is:
These are mellow and loving pups and yet energetic. The kids love to run around, play, and chase after butterflies with them.

Most suitable: Families that would appreciate having a jogging partner or a playmate for their active children.

🛋️ 9. Great Dane – The Giant Lapdog

Great Danes look like small horses, but don’t tell them that—they’ll still try to sit in your lap. 💕

Why families love them:
Despite their massive size, they’re sweet, lazy (in the best way), and amazing with children. They just want to be close to you.

📏 Need to know: They don’t need tons of exercise but do need space. Also—those tails are whips! Move breakables up high.

🖤 10. Rottweiler – The Loyal Lovebug

Rotties are misunderstood. Yes, they’re strong. But underneath that tough look? A softie who just wants to be part of your pack.

Why they’re one of the best big dog breeds:
They’re incredibly loyal and protective, especially of children. With early socialization and love, they become confident, calm companions.

🎯 Training tip: Start early. Be consistent, gentle, and loving—and you’ll raise a Rottie with a golden heart.

Also Read: 10 Best Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed: Clean Home, Happy Heart!

💞 So… Which Big Dog is Your Soul Pup?

Choosing one of the best big dog breeds is kind of like dating—you’ve got to find the one that fits your life.

Think about:

• Do you want an active playmate or a mellow cuddle buddy?

• Do you need a hypoallergenic option like a Poodle?

• Do you have space for a gentle giant like a Newfoundland or Great Dane?

Every breed on this list brings something beautiful to a family. The only question is… which one will you bring home?

🐶 Final Woof: Big Dogs, Bigger Love

Having a large dog is not easily done, there will be drooling, and fur, large paw marks, and possibly some stolen footwear.

However you will also receive unconditional love, protection, hugs like warm hugs and an ever faithfully best friend who is always with you.

This is what makes the best big dog breeds. It is not the size but size of their hearts. 💛

📝 Quick Recap: Best Big Dog Breeds for Families

💬 Tell Me Your Big Dog Story

Do you already live with a big doggo? Or are you still searching for your furry soulmate?

Drop your stories, questions, or just your favorite dog emoji 🐶 in the comments—I’d love to hear about the giant paws that stole your heart.