20 Large Dog Breeds That Make Perfect Pets

Mastiffs come in all shapes and sizes. All of those sizes, however, are variations of extremely large. Although their size can be intimidating to those who aren't used to dogs, English mastiffs are gentle giants. They're calm, good-natured, and extremely loyal. On top of that, they make great cuddle-buddies for the whole family. In fact, mastiffs have been keeping humans company for hundreds of years. Measuring in at between 28-31 inches and weighing between 150-200 lbs, that's some company.

The Mastiff’s “cousin de Francais” hails from across the English Channel. If you've seen the Tom Hanks movie Turner and Hooch, Hooch was a Dogue de Bordeaux. Surprisingly for a large dog, the Dogue de Bordeaux - or French Mastiff - adapts incredibly well to apartment living. With adequate early training and socialization, these huge and powerful dogs make sweet and devoted partners-in-crime. The DDB, as they're affectionately known, are loyal and self-assured. They're also one of the largest breeds in the world, although they don't quite measure up to their English cousins.

People call Great Danes the "Apollo of Dogs" and to look at one, you can easily see why. Apollo is the Greek God of the Sun, and the Danes' stature is certainly as stand out as the sun. Great Danes are another breed whose appearance is deceiving. Being the size of most adult humans, they can appear imposing, but they're actually sweet dogs with a sensitive nature. They're people-oriented, eager and easy to please, and when trained, love to play with children.

Despite their towering height of almost 30 inches and thick, furry coat that makes them seem even bigger, Newfoundlands love to cuddle. History even says that J.M. Barrie, author of Peter Pan based the dog in the story on his own Newfoundland. This is probably because they're companion dogs who love to look after their owners. They put their owners first, and their owners do the same for them. Newfies are an intelligent and lovely breed to have as a pet, but only if you've got the space for them. They require a lot of it, after all, including ample garden space to run around.

Anyone who remembers the Beethoven movies will know a St. Bernard from the titular dog. St. Bernards were originally bred to find and save lost or injured travelers in the Swiss Alps. These days, however, they much prefer the creature comforts of a cozy and loving home. Because of their ancestry, these guys are eager to please, which makes training them far easier. They need a lot of room, similar to the Newfoundland, making them the ideal large dog for a family home. There's just one thing to watch out for, though: the drool!

Irish wolfhounds come with varying temperaments, both of which are very safe and family-friendly. Some of these giants are calm and dignified whereas others are very playful and extremely silly. Whichever way your wolfhound comes, they're always an easygoing pet. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they do best in the countryside or in a suburban setting where there are plenty of places to exercise. Unfortunately, they can be pretty expensive to buy.

The Leonberger is actually a mixture of three other gentle giants: Newfoundlands, St. Bernards, and Great Pyrenees. Leonbergers are affectionate lions of dogs who love being part of the family rather than the family pet. They're very protective pets and grow to distrust strangers, though should never cause anyone any harm. One of the Leonbergers favorite things to do is to lean against their human's legs. As you can imagine, having a 125-170 lb pooch leaning on you can be cute but a bit awkward. They can’t help it; they just love you so much.

Anatolian shepherds aren't family dogs or ones that will lie on the couch for hours, but that doesn't mean they don't make great pets. If you're a farmer or live on a ranch, this breed can be your greatest companion. They were bred to guard livestock and therefore shouldn't be a pet to anyone who wants a more casual companion. These beautiful giants are smart and independent but tend to want to be the boss. A well-trained Anatolian your ranch will protect your chickens, horses, sheep, and more. And they might even consider you one of their pets!

Bernese mountain dogs are a huge and exceptional candidate for Netflix marathons on the couch. This loveable breed likes to laze as much as we do, but they also like to be outside. The clue's in their name! They love cool weather and love being out in the wilderness with their family. Bernese can sometimes be shy, and so as a puppy, they need quite a bit of socialization to make sure they don't shy away too much. But even when they do, these peaceful pups are great companions.

Like their Irish wolfhound cousins, the Scottish deerhound is slightly different to a lot of usual family dogs. They're playful as puppies but grow into dignified and loyal companions. If you live in a small apartment, a deerhound probably isn't the best dog to have. Their long legs need a lot of exercise and like to run around in spacious backyards. These beautifully independent dogs are also sweet and polite to strangers.

Alaskan malamutes are friendly, energetic, and powerful dogs that were originally bred for their strength and endurance in pulling heavy sleds across the Arctic. These gentle giants are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and playfulness, making them excellent family pets.

Though they can adapt to various living situations, they thrive best in larger homes with yards where they can burn off energy. Malamutes require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, so be prepared for long walks, hikes, and playtime.

The Greater Swiss mountain dog is a robust and powerful breed known for its striking tri-colored coat and strong work ethic. With their calm and gentle disposition, these dogs make excellent companions for families with children. They are loyal and protective, yet friendly and social, making them great pets.

However, these mountain dogs do need space and regular exercise, so they might not be suitable for apartment living.

Elegant and graceful, the Borzoi is a large breed of sighthound originally bred for hunting in Russia. They are known for their speed, agility, and aristocratic appearance. Despite their size, Borzois are gentle, affectionate, and good-natured dogs that can make wonderful companions.

They require a moderate amount of exercise, and their peaceful temperament makes them suitable for both urban and rural settings. Just make sure they have a securely fenced yard to prevent them from chasing after any small animals.

The Belgian Tervuren is a highly intelligent and versatile breed with a unique look and strong work ethic. Originally bred as a herding dog, Tervurens are alert, agile, and protective, making them excellent family pets.

They require a good deal of physical and mental stimulation, so be prepared to engage in activities like obedience training, agility, and herding. Their natural loyalty and alertness make them good watchdogs as well.

Akitas are large, powerful dogs with bold, independent spirits. Hailing from Japan, they are known for their loyalty, courage, and intelligence. Akitas can be reserved with strangers, but they form strong bonds with their families and can be affectionate and loving pets.

These dogs require consistent training and socialization from a young age, and they are best suited for experienced dog owners. With proper care, an Akita can be a rewarding addition to your family.

The Black Russian terrier is a large, powerful breed known for its intelligence and versatility. These dogs are confident, protective, and loyal, making them excellent companions and watchdogs. They require consistent training and socialization to ensure they are well-mannered and adaptable pets.

With their thick, weather-resistant coat, these terriers are well-suited for colder climates and enjoy spending time outdoors. Be prepared to provide them with regular grooming and ample exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

The Cane Corso is an imposing Italian breed known for its strength, loyalty, and protective nature. With their muscular build and strong work ethic, Corsos were traditionally used as guard dogs and hunting companions. They form strong bonds with their families and can be loving, gentle pets when properly trained and socialized.

Due to their size and temperament, Corsos require a confident and experienced owner who can provide consistent training, socialization, and exercise.

Doberman pinschers are sleek, muscular dogs known for their intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism. They are highly trainable and versatile, excelling in obedience, agility, and protection work. Dobies make excellent family pets when properly trained and socialized, and they are known for their devotion to their owners.

These dogs require a good amount of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy and well-behaved. With their protective instincts and alert nature, dobermans can also make effective watchdogs. Keep in mind that they are best suited for families with experience in handling large, strong-willed breeds.

Rottweilers are a powerful and robust breed known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. With a strong work ethic and an innate desire to please, they excel with tasks like herding, search and rescue, and protection work. Rotties can be gentle and loving family pets when given proper training, socialization, and exercise.

Due to their size and strength, they require a confident and experienced owner who can provide clear and consistent guidance. With proper care, a rottweiler can be a rewarding addition to your family.

Tibetan mastiffs are an ancient and majestic breed known for their immense size, powerful build, and thick, lion-like mane. Originally bred to guard livestock and monasteries in the Himalayan mountains, these dogs are known for their independence, loyalty, and natural protective instincts. Tibetan mastiffs can be loving and gentle with their families, but they require consistent training, socialization, and a firm, experienced owner.

Due to their size and exercise needs, they are best suited for homes with large yards and a secure fence. You'll be set with a loyal and impressive companion if you give this dog the training and attention it needs.