Top 15 Gentle Large Dog Breeds

Most dog lovers will tell you that good dogs come in all sizes. Large dog breeds are often associated with strength and power, but many of them also have a gentle and affectionate nature that makes them wonderful companions for families. Everyone loves a good cuddle with a giant dog that thinks it’s a lap dog, and a calm, patient personality is essential if you have young children. If you’re considering adding a large dog to your household, here are the top 15 gentle large dog breeds that are well-suited for families in 2023.

Top 15 Gentle Large Dog Breeds in India

Dogs have been known as “man’s best friend” for a long time. Known for being one of the most loyal and intelligent animals in the world, dogs are the first choice as pets for humans. Some benefits of big dogs include being more loyal and protective, but if you are thinking of adopting a large canine, it’s important to discuss your plans with your family. Here are the top 15 gentle large dog breeds that are well-suited for families in India:

Labrador Retriever

• Origin: Canada
• Temperament: Outgoing, even-tempered, and gentle.

The Labrador Retriever, often referred to simply as the Labrador, is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and adaptable nature. They are highly intelligent and easy to train, making them ideal for families of all sizes. They are gentle, friendly, and loyal, making them excellent family pets.

Golden Retriever

• Origin: United Kingdom
• Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, and devoted.

The Golden Retriever is renowned for its friendly and outgoing personality. They are excellent with children and make great family pets due to their patient and gentle nature. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train. Adult males typically stand 23–24 inches (58–61 cm) at the shoulder, and females are slightly smaller. Golden Retrievers are social dogs and tend to get along well with other pets, animals, and people.

Great Dane

• Origin: Germany
• Temperament: Friendly, patient, and dependable.

The Great Dane, also known as the “gentle giant,” is a magnificent and imposing breed known for its impressive size and friendly disposition. Adult males usually weigh between 140–175 pounds (64–79 kg), while females weigh slightly less at 110–140 pounds (50–64 kg). They are gentle, friendly, and loyal, making them excellent family pets. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train.

Saint Bernard

• Origin: Switzerland/Italy
• Temperament: Gentle, friendly, and patient.

The Saint Bernard is a large and lovable breed, known for its gentle nature, intelligence, and willingness to help. Saint Bernards are known for their gentle and kind nature. They are excellent family dogs, especially for families who enjoy outdoor activities. With proper training, socialization, and care, they make wonderful and loyal companions. They often form strong bonds with their human companions.

Newfoundland

• Origin: Canada
• Temperament: Gentle, sweet-natured, and patient.

Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and loving nature. They are excellent family dogs, especially for families who enjoy water-related activities. With proper training, socialization, and care, they make wonderful and loyal companions. Regular walks and some playtime are usually sufficient. They often form strong bonds with their human companions.

Boxer

• Origin: Germany
• Temperament: Energetic, affectionate, and playful.

The Boxer is a medium to large-sized breed known for its playful and energetic nature, as well as its distinctive appearance. Adult males typically stand 22.5–25 inches (57–63 cm) at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller. They are playful and often referred to as the “Peter Pan” of dog breeds due to their youthful exuberance. Boxers are naturally protective and can be good watchdogs. They are alert and aware of their surroundings.

Basset Hound

• Origin: France/Belgium
• Temperament: Easygoing, patient, and affectionate.

Basset Hounds have a laid-back nature and are known for their affectionate disposition. They are good with children and make excellent family pets. They love playing with children and are known as clown dogs in the Hound community – not just because they look funny, but due to their humorous personalities.

Bulldog

• Origin: United Kingdom
• Temperament: Docile, willful, and affectionate.

The Bulldog, often simply referred to as the “Bulldog,” is a unique and distinctive breed with a charming and often comical appearance. They form strong bonds with their human companions. Bulldogs are known for their courage and confidence. They are affectionate with their families and make loyal companions. Bulldogs are easy to train, they enjoy getting out and playing but, like other short-snouted dogs they are very susceptible to overheating.

Irish Setter

• Origin: Ireland
• Temperament: Energetic, outgoing, and affectionate.

The Irish Setter, known for its elegant appearance and lively personality, is a beloved breed known for its affectionate nature and striking red coat. They have a long, silky coat that is either solid chestnut or rich mahogany in color. They excel in various canine sports and activities. Irish Setters are intelligent and quick learners, although they can also be independent thinkers.

Dalmatian

• Origin: Croatia
• Temperament: Outgoing, energetic, and friendly.

The Dalmatian is a distinctive and energetic breed known for its striking black or liver-colored spots on a white coat. They have a short, dense coat that is usually white with distinct black or liver-colored spots. They are active and enjoy physical activities and mental stimulation. Early socialization and consistent training are important.

Doberman Pinscher

• Origin: Germany
• Temperament: Alert, loyal, and obedient.

The Doberman Pinscher, often referred to simply as the “Doberman,” is a highly intelligent and loyal breed known for its sleek appearance and strong protective instincts. The Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany in the late 19th century. They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families. They form strong bonds with their human companions.

Rottweiler

• Origin: Germany
• Temperament: Confident, fearless, and good-natured.

The Rottweiler is a powerful and confident breed known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts. Rottweilers have ancient roots, dating back to the Roman Empire. They have a short, dense double coat that is black with distinctive rust markings on the cheeks, chest, paws, and thighs. They are highly intelligent and are quick learners.

English Mastiff

• Origin: United Kingdom
• Temperament: Dignified, gentle, and affectionate.

The English Mastiff has ancient origins, dating back to ancient civilizations, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. The English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds, but they are also one of the gentlest. They are affectionate and devoted to their families. They make excellent family dogs, especially for those who have the space and are looking for a calm and affectionate companion.

Bullmastiff

• Origin: United Kingdom
• Temperament: Devoted, protective, and affectionate.

The Bullmastiff is a large and powerful breed known for its strong and protective nature, combined with a calm and gentle demeanor. Coat colors are typically fawn or red, with a black mask. Despite their imposing appearance, Bullmastiffs are generally calm, gentle, and affectionate with their families. They are deeply loyal and devoted to their families. They form strong bonds with their human companions.

Portuguese Water Dog

• Origin: Portugal
• Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, and active.

Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent and affectionate. They are great with children and are known for their love of water. They make excellent companions for active individuals and families who enjoy water-related activities and have the time and commitment to meet their exercise needs. Adult males usually weigh between 42–60 pounds (19–27 kg), while females weigh slightly less at 35–50 pounds (16–23 kg).

Top 15 Gentle Large Dog Breeds UK

When it comes to choosing a dog, many people prefer to have a gentle and affectionate companion that they can rely on for a lifetime. Over 98% of owners play regularly with their dogs and declare that play boosts their bond, improves motivation, and enriches their dog’s lives. Here are the top 15 gentle large dog breeds that are well-suited for families in the United Kingdom:

1. Labrador Retriever
2. Golden Retriever
3. Bulldog
4. Collie
5. Irish Setter
6. English Springer Spaniel
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
8. Border Collie
9. English Mastiff
10. Basset Hound
11. Boxer
12. Old English Sheepdog
13. Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)
14. Bearded Collie
15. Gordon Setter

For more information about DOG BREEDS visit the site.

Top 15 Gentle Large Dog Breeds US

Each year, the American Kennel Club releases a list of the most popular dog breeds in the US. There are plenty of other popular dog breeds that pet owners welcome into their homes and eventually call family. If you’re looking for names for one of these breeds, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top 15 gentle large dog breeds that are well-suited for families in the United States:

1. Collie
2. Great Dane
3. Newfoundland
4. Saint Bernard
5. Irish Setter
6. Basset Hound
7. American Bulldog
8. Dalmatian
9. German Shepherd
10. Bernese Mountain Dog
11. Poodle (Standard)
12. American Eskimo Dog
13. Irish Wolfhound
14. Leonberger
15. Old English Sheepdog

Top 15 Gentle Large Dog Breeds for Families

There are tons of large, family-friendly dogs in the world, but certain breeds are well-known for their loyal, loving, and gentle demeanors—despite their bigger size. All dogs have unique personalities, whether small or large. However, larger dogs are a little more successful when intruding on one’s personal space, simply due to their size. Here are 15 large, gentle, family-friendly dogs to consider if you are looking to round out your family pack.

1. Labrador Retriever
2. Golden Retriever
3. German Shepherd
4. Boxer
5. Rottweiler
6. Bulldog
7. Collie
8. Great Dane
9. Newfoundland
10. Saint Bernard
11. Irish Setter
12. Basset Hound
13. American Bulldog
14. Dalmatian
15. Bernese Mountain Dog

Top 30 Most Gentle Large Dog Breeds 2023

The statistics for registrations of purebred puppies with the American Kennel Club for last year have just been released. Large dog breeds are typically in the working group of dogs, which means they were originally bred to help people with tasks like pulling sleds and carts, guarding livestock and homes, and protecting families. These give us a good indication of what the most popular breeds will be this year. Here’s a list of the top 30 gentle large dog breeds in 2023.

1. Labrador Retriever
2. Golden Retriever
3. German Shepherd
4. Boxer
5. Collie
6. Great Dane
7. Newfoundland
8. Saint Bernard
9. Irish Setter
10. Dalmatian
11. Bernese Mountain Dog
12. English Springer Spaniel
13. Poodle (Standard)
14. American Eskimo Dog
15. Irish Wolfhound
16. Leonberger
17. Old English Sheepdog
18. Keeshond
19. Norwegian Elkhound
20. Vizsla
21. Clumber Spaniel
22. Pyrenean Mastiff
23. Samoyed
24. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier
25. Bloodhound
26. Brittany Spaniel
27. English Mastiff
28. Rottweiler
29. Whippet
30. Alaskan Malamute

While these breeds are known for their gentle nature, individual dogs may have their own unique personalities. It’s important to spend time with a dog before bringing them into your family to ensure they are a good fit for your lifestyle and household.

In India, the UK, and the US, these breeds are popular choices for families looking for large, gentle dogs. Keep in mind that regardless of the breed, proper training, socialization, and regular exercise are crucial for a happy and well-adjusted family pet.