Big dogs, with their imposing presence and affectionate nature, captivate many animal lovers. Whether you are looking for a loyal companion or a protective guardian, large dog breeds offer unique qualities. Let’s explore the characteristics of these big furballs and the top 10 largest dogs!
Why Are Big Dogs Great? #
Big dogs bring a unique dimension to their owners’ lives. They are appreciated for their various characteristics:
- Loyal and Protective Companions: Big dogs often have a strong protective instinct. They watch over their family and create a sense of security. And as a bonus, their deterrent presence is a significant asset for those who want a guard dog!
- Versatility: These dogs adapt to many roles, whether as working dogs, rescue dogs, or simply life companions. Some breeds like the Labrador Retriever or the German Shepherd are also used as assistance or search dogs.
- Affectionate and Loyal: Contrary to their sometimes intimidating appearance, big dogs are often gentle and affectionate. They form strong bonds with their family and love cuddles. They can also be very patient, making them excellent companions for children.
How to Train a Big Dog? #
Training a big dog requires patience and consistency. Here are some essential techniques:
- Positive Reinforcement: It is crucial to use reward-based methods, such as treats or praise, to encourage good behaviors. This builds the dog’s confidence and motivation.
- Early Socialization: To avoid aggressive or fearful behaviors, it is essential to expose a big dog to different environments, people, and other animals from a young age.
- Basic Commands and Obedience: Teaching fundamental commands such as “sit,” “down,” and “heel” is vital, especially for big dogs. In unexpected situations, these commands help manage the dog more easily.
- Resources and Professional Training: For those who feel overwhelmed, there are dog schools and professional trainers that offer training tailored to big dogs, ensuring gentle education.
Big Dog: What Is the Ideal Environment for Their Happiness? #
Big dogs need space to thrive. Open spaces are therefore ideal for this. They should be able to move around in a sufficiently large area, such as a garden or a house in the countryside. This allows them to expend energy freely.
If you live in an apartment, don’t panic: you can absolutely realize your dream of adopting a big dog. You just need to think about adapting to their needs. This involves multiple daily outings to keep them physically and mentally healthy. You can add interactive games to prevent boredom at home.
In terms of exercise, whether in the city or the countryside, big dogs need to expend energy. Physical activity helps prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Walks in the woods, fetch games, or swimming activities (for water breeds like the Newfoundland) are ideal.
Meeting the Needs of Big Dogs #
To keep your big dog healthy, it is essential to meet their specific needs:
Nutrition of the Big Dog #
Big dogs have particular nutritional needs. A diet rich in quality proteins, vitamins, and suitable for their size is essential. It is advisable to divide their meals into two to three portions per day to avoid stomach torsion.
Physical Exercise #
Large dogs need a lot of exercise to stay fit. Activities can include walks, running, or games like agility for the more athletic breeds. Activity also helps strengthen their muscles and maintain an optimal weight.
Care and Hygiene of Large Dogs #
Regular brushing is crucial, especially for long-haired breeds like the Saint Bernard. Additionally, it is recommended to check their ears, particularly for breeds with droopy ears, and their paws after each outing. Regular veterinary check-ups also help prevent or detect health issues early.
Top 10 Best Large Dog Breeds #
1. Saint Bernard #
Average Size: 28 to 35 inches at the shoulder
Known for its role as a rescue dog in the mountains, the Saint Bernard is a gentle giant, ideal for families. It needs plenty of space and coolness, as its thick fur makes it sensitive to heat. Loyal and patient, it is an excellent companion for children, although it requires firm training to channel its energy.
2. Great Dane #
Average Size: 30 to 34 inches at the shoulder
One of the largest dogs in the world, the Great Dane is impressive yet affectionate. Despite its imposing size, it is a calm dog that gets along well with children and other animals. It is important to provide it with long walks and sufficient space to expend energy. Training should start early to avoid undesirable behaviors.
3. German Shepherd #
Average Size: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder
Versatile, the German Shepherd is both an excellent working dog and a loyal family companion. Very intelligent and obedient, it learns quickly but needs daily mental and physical stimulation. It is an ideal breed for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
4. Mastiff #
Average Size: 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder
These muscular giants are the ultimate guard dogs. Calm and protective, Mastiffs are loyal to their family, but they require early socialization to avoid aggression or excessive distrust of strangers. Their size necessitates adequate living space, such as a large garden.
5. Newfoundland #
Average Size: 26 to 29 inches at the shoulder
Water lovers, the Newfoundland is a rescue dog known for its kindness and intelligence. It is ideal for families living near water bodies or who enjoy aquatic activities. Its thick coat protects it from the cold, but it requires regular grooming. Its calm temperament also makes it compatible with children.
6. Leonberger #
Average Size: 26 to 31 inches at the shoulder
Large and majestic, the Leonberger combines strength and gentleness. It is a balanced family dog that loves being outdoors and participating in activities. Although protective, it is rarely aggressive and prefers human companionship. Its training should include plenty of socialization to become a confident and sociable dog.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog #
Average Size: 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder
With its distinctive tricolor coat, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a loving and loyal companion. This dog adapts well to cold climates and enjoys large spaces where it can expend energy. Very attached to its family, it can suffer from loneliness if left alone for too long. Regular exercise and social interactions are essential for its balance.
8. Rottweiler #
Average Size: 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder
The Rottweiler is a powerful guard dog known for its loyalty and intelligence. Although it can be intimidating, it is also affectionate with its loved ones, especially with consistent training and early socialization. It excels in obedience and protection activities, but it needs an experienced owner to be well-trained.
9. Irish Wolfhound #
Average Size: 31 to 34 inches at the shoulder
This calm giant is one of the largest dogs in the world. Although its appearance is imposing, it is affectionate and loves spending time with its family. The Irish Wolfhound needs open space to thrive and plenty of exercise. Its gentle nature makes it an excellent companion for families, but its size and activity needs must be taken into account.
10. Akita Inu #
Average Size: 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder
Loyal and protective, the Akita Inu is a large dog with a strong protective instinct. Although it is distant with strangers, it is very affectionate with its family. The Akita Inu requires an experienced owner who can train it firmly and gently, as it can be independent … and often stubborn. It thrives in a calm environment with plenty of physical stimulation.
Large Dogs: Energetic Companions to Watch Closely #
When it comes to big dogs, there is plenty of energy to spare! Unfortunately, this energy can sometimes lead them to seek even more exercise and to run away… Among the 10 most escape-prone dog breeds, 8 of them are classified as “big dogs” by Business Insider.
Nothing beats monitoring these escape behaviors with a GPS tracker for dogs like the Minitailz from Invoxia! With its advanced GPS tracking features, efficient network, and anti-escape alerts, you will never worry again if your dog escapes. Add to that a daily activity tracking to know if your big dog has exercised enough, and you have the ideal tool to deal with escapes.
Monitor My DogAdopting a big dog is a decision that requires thought and preparation. These dogs have specific needs in terms of space, exercise, and nutrition, and it is essential to provide them with a suitable environment. Before diving in, it is important to consider several factors: do you have enough space at home, like a garden or easy access to green spaces? Can you dedicate the necessary time for daily walks and activities?
If all these answers are positive, we have only one thing to say: go for it, you won’t regret it!