45 Best Large Dog Breeds for People Who Have a Lot of Love to Give (2024)

These dogs may be one of the largest dog breeds, but they're truly gentle giants with a sweet, calm and affectionate nature. Bernese mountain dogs are also eager to please, which mean they're typically easy to train.

Weight: 70-115 pounds

Among the rarest of dog breeds, Chinooks were first bred to be all-purpose sled dogs. They're known to be devoted family pets that are intelligent and patient — plus, they're also the official state dog of New Hampshire!

Weight: 50-90 pounds

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Despite their funny-sounding names, Hovawarts are highly intelligent, devoted canines that not only are outstanding family pets, but also make great search-and-rescue dogs thanks to their excellent noses.

Weight: 65-90 pounds

These super-athletic dogs are fun, loyal companions that are gentle and patient with all of their family members, even young ones. Plus, you won't find a better cuddle partner.

Weight: 30-80 pounds

Known for their famous "Sammy smile" due to their perpetually upturned mouths, Samoyeds are smart, fun-loving dogs who sport a stunning white coat (which sheds a lot!). This highly energetic breed also needs vigorous exercise, as they were originally bred to herd reindeer and haul sledges.

Weight: 35-65 pounds

As the largest terrier breed, Airedales convey the alert, fearless attitude of the group on a supersized scale. They can also carry some of the same stubbornness, but that determination is what makes them such popular and spirited companions.

Weight: 50-70 pounds

Sweet and silly, these endearing hounds originated in the mountainous region of Afghanistan. Their silky, fine coat served as protection from the cold at high altitudes, and it requires plenty of grooming.

Weight: 50-60 pounds

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By nature, Malamutes are friendly toward humans. They need a pack leader to set the standard, so stick to a training regimen early on for a well-behaved family member.

Weight: 75-80 pounds

People-oriented Am Staffs are both intelligent guardians and natural clowns. They can be a bit strong-headed and do best when they're made part of the family.

Weight: 40-70 pounds

With a background in herding, Aussies live to work (or play) thanks to a tireless drive. They're keenly intelligent and loyal, making them extremely receptive to training. Be prepared to provide an an hour or more of active exercise daily.

Weight: 40-70 pounds

As total couch potatoes, Basset Hounds love to lounge around — when they're not on a scent that is. Bonus: They're extremely patient with young children, making them a great family pick.

Weight: 40-60 pounds

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These herders are incredibly smart and loyal protectors, which explains why they're the preferred breed for the military and Secret Service. Understandably, Mals require plenty of exercise and stimulation and they're happiest when they're given a job to do.

Weight: 40-80 pounds

Bright and loyal, these canines worked during World War I as message-carriers and ambulance dogs. Today the herders are known for being versatile, good with children and protective.

Weight: 45-75 pounds

One of the smartest breeds out there, Tervs take their training — and their work — very seriously. All of that focus comes with a lot of energy, so a regular exercise outlet is a must.

Weight: 45-75 pounds

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Boxers are affectionate and loyal to no end. They're suspicious of strangers, but highly intelligent and willing to please when it comes to training.

Weight: 50-80 pounds

These dignified hounds, also known as Russian wolfhounds, are independent and surprisingly affectionate. The Russian aristocracy bred them for hundreds of years to hunt — you guessed it — wolves, and they can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.

Weight: 60-105 pounds

Charming and mischievous, bull terriers may appear intimidating but they're actually extremely friendly, playful and sometimes goofy. Another plus? The extremely short coat requires little grooming.

Weight: 50-70 pounds

Behind all of those wrinkles is an excellent watchdog and a devoted family member. That said, Shar-Peis stay suspicious of strangers and other dogs, prizing loyalty above all else.

Weight: 45-60 pounds

Martha Stewart is famously a fan of this dignified breed. Despite their powerful appearance, Chows require only moderate exercise — making them adaptable to city life.

Weight: 45-70 pounds

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Collies exhibit the qualities of loyalty, intelligence and gentleness, and live up to their Lassie reputation. A desire to please is hard-wired in the collie's genetic makeup. They're easy to train but tend to bark.

Weight: 50-75 pounds

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