Kinds of Big Dogs

There's nothing like the love of a big dog...the sloppy, wet kisses, that affectionate "lean" against your hip, not to mention how safe you feel with your big canine pal in the house. However, large breeds come with their own special needs and challenges (and, unfortunately, don't typically live as long as their smaller counterparts). To be good canine citizens, big dogs must receive reliable, consistent training.

Irish Wolfhound

Although not the heaviest breed, the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest, growing as high as 34 inches at the shoulder. This highly intelligent breed is affectionate, patient, loyal, good with kids and extremely friendly, so don't count on your Irish wolfhound to guard your home.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is an ancient livestock guard-dog that can adapt to family life. This breed is intelligent, intuitive, perceptive, calm, protective and extremely loyal to its family. It is not, however, the breed for inexperienced owners, as it requires a firm, confident trainer.

Mastiff

One of the heaviest breeds of dog, Mastiffs are known to exceed 200 pounds. This dignified, good-natured breed is intelligent, calm, courageous, unflinchingly loyal to its family and normally excellent with children.

Great Dane

Often referred to as the "king of dogs," the Great Dane is an elegant, sweet, brave, playful, loyal, dependable and people-oriented breed that is an excellent choice for families with children. As with all big dogs, early obedience training is a must.

Newfoundland

A breed that inspired the poetry of Lord Byron, the Newfoundland is the true personification of a "gentle giant." Sweet, intelligent, loyal, courageous, patient, intuitive and social, the Newfoundland is an ideal family and guard dog.

Great Pyrenees

Solid and muscular, the Great Pyrenees can reach a shoulder height of 32 inches. This sweet and dignified breed is obedient, intelligent, devoted, calm, affectionate, loyal and makes an excellent guard dog and family pet.

References

• AKC Breed Information
• Dog Breed Information
• Lord Byron's Tribute to the Newfoundland

Resources

• American Kennel Club
• The Humane Society of the United States