Large Dog Breeds – An Easy Guide To Help You Choose One

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large dog breed

Big dog breeds are sometimes known as large dogs, they don’t quite hit the giant mark. The difference between big and giant dogs is like trying to summarize a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd. Giants usually have low metabolisms and don’t want strenuous exercise. They enjoy exercise, but it can often be a chore to them.

Bigdog breeds are the opposite to giants, they love exercising. This is mostly because they’re not as weighty. If you prefer a more laid-back dog checkout ‘Survival guide for towering giant dogs‘.

Big dog breeds blueprint

Generally, most big dog breeds are extremely active; they eat rather a lot; some can be very stubborn, and they shed a lot of hair. If you’re not used to going out in all types of weather, then these dog’s are not for you. For the most part, big dog’s require more work than most other sized dogs, this is why they’re found in rescue centers.

These usually weigh around 24kg plus; their heights range between 24 and 28 inches. Believe it or not, the weather is one of peoples biggest hindrances as to whether they keep a dog or not.

Firstly, try to imagine yourself dressed up in full-on waterproof clothing. Now envision yourself trekking in a treacherous rainfall in -2ctemperatures on the beach with waves one meter high. Another visualisation is trekking in 40c temperatures with 97% humidity.

I’ve just given you a picture of the South of England temperature fluctuations.

Today as I write, the wind is so strong that anyone wearing a wig will soon be revealing their beautiful shiny head!

Okay, you might be blessed with a balanced all year round climate; however, for us who live in the UK, North America or Canada etc, our lifestyle is dependent upon the climate.

Personally, I love climate varieties, but I wouldn’t say no to the constant sunshine that reaches a maximum temperature of 30c. It would definitely make my life easier and I wouldn’t have to worry about vitamin D deficiency.

Rescue centers are inundated with big dog breeds; before heading to a breeder checkout your local pet charity. All animals are thoroughly vetted, vaccinated and their fees are nominal.

The dog you choose will be living with you for many years. Ask yourself if you can afford a big dog as they can be quite expensive to keep. Big dog breeds are usually very loving and gentle; they thrive on companionship, and are usually great guard dogs or protectors. However, this does depend on how they’ve been allowed to develop from puppy stage.

Some people believe these size dogs can live well in apartments; the size of your apartment can only make that call. However, big dogs are highly active and they require a lot of space, a garden should be a priority. Big dog breeds in a small living area could result in a destroyed home.

If you are thinking about buying a dog, be very scrupulous where you buy your companion. There are some extremely indiscriminate dog breeders out there who have carelessly over bred.

If any dog has been carelessly bred, they can become unstable, temperamental and unhealthy. Often, you won’t realize there’s a problem until you’re home or had the dog for a few weeks.

As with all dogs bills can be high, particularly with big dog breeds. To see what’s involved check out our very informative article on Interesting facts for dogs – The new owners guide, it includes everything you need to know.

Big dog breeds can have health issues, especially as they become older. They are more prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis,osteosarcoma, bone and cartilage diseases. Their lifespan is usually around 10 to 14 years.

Large Dog Breeds

Afghanhounds

large dog breeds

An afghan hound dog walking on the lawn

These are from Iran and Afghanistan. These large dogs are strong-willed, faithful, have a beautiful nature and are loving. They are intelligent and can be disobedient, they need to be trained properly.

Airedale Terriers

large dog breed

Beautiful Brown Airedale Terrier Dog

Airedale Terriers are from Britain and are also known as Bingley and Waterside Terriers. These large dog breeds are strong dogs and are very active. They are protective of their owners. They crave lots of love and affectionate.

Alaskan Malamutes

large dog breeds

Alaskan malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are from America. These are incredibly stubborn, which means they are intelligent. They need to be trained from a puppy. They are very strong and can pull sledges easily.

American Foxhounds

large dog breeds

This is an American Foxhound on a snowy day.

American Foxhounds are from America. These dogs love to play and run around; they become bored too easily as a result they need a lot of stimulation, otherwise they will become destructive. They are a stubborn dog and hard to train.

American Water Spaniels

large dog breed

American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniels are from America. They are a great companion and very energetic. They require a lot of exercise and stimulation; otherwise, they will become bored and destructive. They are very friendly and love lots of attention.

Beauceron

large dog breeds

Beauceron are from France. These large dog breeds are very friendly, loyal and good protectors. They are great obedient dogs and are not afraid. They are intelligent, eager to please and quick to learn.

Belgian Malinois

large dog breeds

Belgian Malinois are from Belgium. These are beautiful and highly intelligent, easy to train, obedient, and make a good house dog. They need lots of exercise and bundles of stimulation.

Belgian Sheepdogs

large dog breed

Belgian Sheepdogs are from Belgium. These have tons of energy so need plenty of exercise. They are loyal, obedient and are very protective of their owner. They are very intelligent; therefore, they need a lot of stimulation.

Belgian Tervurens

large dog breed

Belgian Shepherd Tervuren dog

Belgian Tervurens are from Belgium. These large dog breeds are very active so need a lot of exercise and stimulation. They are loyal, intelligent, learn very fast and are great family dogs.

Bouvier des Flandres

large dog breed

bouvier dog outdoors lying on grass

Bouvier des Flandres are from France. These are great family pet dogs, and they love people. They are loyal, faithful, and gentle. They will always want to be around you, and are great with children and other pets.

Boxers

large dog breeds

Boxers are from Germany. These dogs are intelligent, can be stubborn, but learn very quickly and should be trained from a puppy. They look aggressive, but they are far from it; they are actually friendly and very loyal.

Briards

large dog breed

Briard dog in autumn park

Briards are from France. These are great family dogs, and they love companionship. They are strong willed, intelligent and so desire to be boss. These dogs need firm leadership, but once they understand whose boss.

Collies

large dog breed

collie dog

Collies are from Britain. These large dog breeds are great companions; they love being with the family. They are quiet, intuitive, and easy going. They love to bark; consequently, they aren’t an option if you don’t like excessive barking.

Curly Coated Retriever

large dog breed

curly coated retriever

Curly Coated Retriever are from Britain. These are great companions; they adore being around their family; they are energetic as a result they need plenty of exercise. They like to bark to protect; however, to some people this could be irritating.

Dalmatians

large dog breeds

Dalmatians are from Croatia. These large dog breeds have amazing personalities, very lively and playful. You need to be a strong leader, or they will lead you. They are usually dominant dogs, highly strung and can be destructive.

Doberman Pinschers

large dog breeds

Doberman pinscher running in the woods

Doberman Pinschers are from Germany. These dogs can be good in built-up areas. They are easy to train and should be trained from a puppy, others wise it may prove harder to train when they’re older.

English Foxhounds

large dog breeds

Old English foxhounds at a meet of the Belvoir Hunt in England.

English Foxhounds are from Britain. These are very stubborn dogs; they love to explore; actually, they are hunters. They are highly active so need plenty of exercise. These dogs should not be off the lead or their nose will get them lost.

English Setter

large dog breeds

cute happy english setter in action running towards camera

English Setter are from Britain. These large dog’s breeds are incredibility delightful and very cordial. They are loyal and friendly and are a good family dog. They can be trained easily, but they can be wilful. They need a lot of exercise.

Flat-Coated Retriever

large dog breeds

Flat-Coated Retriever are from Britain. These are outstanding family companions; they absolutely love people unconditionally. They have tons of energy; consequently, need sufficient exercise and enough training.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds are from Germany. These dogs are extremely muscular and are remarkably strong. They are particularly loyal and are excellent protectors towards their owners. They are highly intelligent and quite easy to trained.

German Short haired Pointer

German Short haired Pointer are from Germany. These dogs have a tremendous amount of energy so need a lot of exercise and stimulation. They are highly intelligent, agile, and obedient. They are decent protectors and excellent watchdogs.

German Wire haired Pointer

German Wire haired Pointer are from Germany. These have enormous amounts of energy; subsequently, they need huge amounts of exercise, if they don’t get it, they will destroy your house and garden. They are loyal, loving, devoted and affectionate. They are good protectors and excellent watchdogs.

Giant Schnauzers

Giant Schnauzers are from Germany. These dogs are highly active; they have enormous amounts of energy as a result they need masses of exercise. They are protective, easy to train, learn quickly, and they are very loving towards people.

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are from Scotland. They are very easy to train if you provide a challenge, these dogs will always need something to do, otherwise they will become bored. They are a good family dog, loyal and protective.

Gordon Setters

Gordon Setters are from Scotland. These are loving dogs, and they are fond of people; they need to be part of a family. They are highly intelligent, however, can be stubborn. They become bored comparatively easily hence need plenty to do.

Greyhound

Greyhounds are from European. These are beautiful racing dogs; they are intelligent, in addition you will need a lot of patience with them. These dogs are very insightful dogs.

Huskies

Huskies are from Russia and are bred in Siberia. These dogs are gentle and friendly; unfortunately, they aren’t a guard dog and will not attack. They are loyal, intelligent and faithful.

Ibizan Hound

Ibizan Hound are from Spain. These have a great temperament; they have lots of energy, as a result of this; they need a lot of exercise. They are faithful pet dogs who are loyal, kind and loving.

Irish Setters

Irish Setters are from Ireland. These are great family pet dogs that have an active outdoor lifestyle. They have high energy levels; consequently, they need plenty of exercise. They are intelligent subsequently they will learn very quickly.

Komondors

Komondors are from Hungary. These are rare large dog breeds, and they are good protectors and will guard you and everything you own. It is important to socialise these dogs at an early age and continually. These dogs are very loyal and love their family.

Labrador Retrievers

Labrador Retrievers are from Britain and Canada. These are beautiful and highly intelligent, loving and protective, they’re often used as assistance dogs. Labrador Retrievers are a good first choice for families because they are excellent around children.

Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog are from Britain. These are beautiful family dogs; they’re incredibly loving and devoted to their owners; they love the cuddles and are fun to be around. If you find it difficult to give affection, then these dogs aren’t for you given that you’ll receive negative attention.

Otterhound

Otterhound are from Britain. These dogs are excellent trackers to hunt otters; they are always happy to see their owners and please them. They are loving dogs but like their own space so they appear slightly aloof.

Plott Hound

Plott Hound are from Germany and America. These dogs love to use their voice, they are alert and aren’t afraid of anything. Plotts are great tracker dogs and can be aggressive in hunting. They are intelligent and love to please their owners.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are from Zimbabwe. These dogs are extremely intelligent, very loving caring and faithful in the home; however, children need to be watched. They are easy to train, are great watchdogs and are one of the best hunter dogs.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are from Germany. They are very strong with large muscles like the German Shepherd. They are used as guard dogs because they appear fierce; however, they are a very serious dog, loyal and have a sweet nature.

Weimaraner

Weimaraner are from Germany. They’re extremely intelligent and a very easy dog to train; these dogs are a hand full; you have been warned. They are very loyal, loving, and affectionate. Your time spent with them will pay off.

Wolf Dogs

Wolf Dogs are from Europe, America, Canada. These are incredibly beautiful; their nature varies depending on their line. This could be a Czechoslovakian wolf dog, Saarloos wolf dog, or any other wolf dog that stems from the grey wolf. They love to pull on the lead, are wilful and need lots of exercise; they are loyal and loving.

If you’re unsure about owning large dogs go to ‘Discovering the best dog breed for you‘ to start another search.

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