medium-large dog breeds

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! If you’re like me and believe that a family isn’t complete without a furry, four-legged member, you might be considering adding a big dog to your clan.

Big dog breeds can make wonderful family pets – they’re loyal, protective, and often have hearts as large as their impressive stature.

I made a quick summary of the 5 best big dog breeds for families for the busy girls out there 😉

  1. Golden Retriever: Super friendly, trainable, and adaptable. Watch out for shedding and keep them active.
  2. Labrador Retriever: Outgoing and smart, great with kids and pets. Just be prepared for their boundless energy.
  3. Bernese Mountain Dog: Gentle giants that love cuddles. They adapt well to any setting but require grooming.
  4. Boxer: Energetic goofballs, patient with kids, and low-maintenance grooming with short coats.
  5. Newfoundland: Gentle giants with hearts as big as their size. Good with kids and pets, but be ready for shedding.
  6. I reserved this extra spot for a surprise breed; read below.

Grab your coffee, and let’s chat about these fantastic furry that will be perfect for your family.

1. Golden Retriever

big dog breeds

Pros:

  • These guys are the definition of friendly. Perfect for families with kids!
  • Super trainable, so you can teach them all the fun tricks.
  • They can chill in apartments or sprawl out in houses.

Cons:

  • Get ready for some shedding – regular brushing is a must.
  • Keep an eye out for hip issues.
  • They love their exercise, so plan for playtime!

Golden Retrievers are the ultimate family pals. Seriously, their friendly vibe and love for people make them a hit with kids and adults. Just be prepared to give that golden coat some TLC and keep them active. They’ll love you forever for it!

2. Labrador Retriever

best family dogs

Pros:

  • Outgoing and friendly – your family’s new BFF.
  • Smart cookies, so get ready for some fun training sessions.
  • Good with kids and other pets – total team players.

Cons:

  • They might accidentally bowl over tiny tots in their excitement.
  • Need regular exercise to keep boredom at bay.
  • Expect a bit of shedding and watch those treat portions.

Labrador Retrievers are like the class clowns of the dog world. They’re up for anything, from family hikes to movie nights on the couch. Just keep them moving, and they’ll be your partners in crime for all the family adventures.

3. Bernese Mountain Dog

big family dogs

Pros:

  • Gentle giants who adore cuddles, especially with kids.
  • Get along with everyone in the furry and human squad.
  • They can adapt to city life or the countryside – total chillers.

Cons:

  • Brush up on your grooming skills – they’ve got a heavy coat.
  • Keep an eye on those hips, as they can be a bit finicky.
  • Don’t forget the playtime – they need their exercise!

Bernese Mountain Dogs are basically walking fluff bombs of love. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them ideal for families. Sure, the grooming is a bit of work, but those big, soulful eyes make it totally worth it.

4. Boxer

big family dogs

Pros:

  • Energetic goofballs – perfect for active families.
  • Patient and protective, especially with the kiddos.
  • Low-maintenance grooming – short coats for the win!

Cons:

  • They might be a bit too bouncy for really little kids.
  • Keep an eye on their hearts – it’s a boxer thing.
  • Early training and socializing are key.

Boxers are the life of the party! Their playful energy and love for a good goof-off make them ideal for families with a bit of spunk. Plus, with that short coat, grooming won’t cramp your style.

5. Newfoundland

best big dog breeds

Pros:

  • Gentle giants with hearts as big as their paws.
  • Kids and pets? No problem – they’re all about the love.
  • Bonus: They’re water wizards!

Cons:

  • Shed alert! Get ready for some fur maintenance.
  • Keep an eye on those hips – a common theme with big dogs.
  • They need their space and exercise – big dogs, big needs.

Newfoundlands are basically the “teddy bears you can hug for real.” Their calm nature and love for water antics make them a hit with families. Just get a good vacuum and enjoy the extra fluff love.

6. Surprise Dog Breed– Mutt

my big rescue dog

I reserved this spot for a surprise dog breed: the Mutt or mixed dog breed. As a mixed dog breed mom myself, I know this breed is a special one. My dog’s picture above says everything.

If you are thinking of adopting a dog, I can’t recommend enough you get a mutt; they will be the most grateful creature ever to exist. You will save that dog’s life, so you will feel his/her gratitude every day.

Let’s be honest: getting a dog is a huge life change. So, you must be practical, especially if you are a first-time dog owner. Rescuing an adult dog can reduce the initial workload of training, and you might even adopt one for FREE!

Many U.S. shelters commonly house mixed and pure breeds like Pit Bulls, Chihuahuas, German Shepherds, or even Golden Retrievers or any of the other breeds we talked about. Many of these adult dogs, at risk of euthanasia, are already potty-trained and may know basic commands.

Here is where you can find your next furry friend:

Choosing a big dog for your family is like picking the coolest member of your squad. Each of these breeds brings something special to the table, from Golden Retriever goofiness to Newfoundland calm vibes.

Remember, training, socializing, and regular vet check-ups are the keys to a happy life with your new furry family member.

So there you have it, my friends – the lowdown on the best big dog breeds for families. Get ready for a whole lot of love, laughter, and some seriously epic doggy adventures! 🐾💕


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