Large Dog Breeds
68 large breeds to explore.
Afghan Hound
Hound · Large
The Afghan Hound is a breed of stunning beauty and ancient lineage, known for its long, silky coat and unique ring-curled tail. Originally bred to hunt large prey in the mountains of Afghanistan, these 'Aristocrats of Dogs' are famously independent and carry themselves with a dignified, aloof air.
Airedale Terrier
Terrier · Large
Known as the 'King of Terriers,' the Airedale is the largest of all terrier breeds. Originally bred to hunt otters and rats in the Airedale valley, they are versatile, brave, and deeply loyal companions with a clever sense of humor.
Akita
Working · Large
The Akita is a large and powerful dog breed with a noble and intimidating presence. Originally from Japan where they are revered as symbols of health and loyalty, they are famously devoted to their families but can be wary of strangers and other animals.
Alaskan Malamute
Working · Large
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful and sturdy arctic sled dog known for its endurance and strength. Originating from the Mahlemut tribe in Alaska, these dogs are affectionate family companions that thrive in cold weather and active environments. They are famous for their wolf-like appearance, thick double coats, and friendly, outgoing personalities.
American Bulldog
Working · Large
The American Bulldog is a powerful and athletic breed originally developed for farm work and hunting. They are incredibly loyal to their families and protective of their home, making them excellent guardians, though they require experienced handling and early socialization.
American English Coonhound
Hound · Large
The American English Coonhound is a sleek, athletic hunter known for its speed and endurance. Descended from European foxhounds, they are famous for their musical 'bay' and excel at tracking game across varied terrain. While affectionate at home, their high energy and strong prey drive make them best suited for active families with plenty of space.
American Foxhound
Hound · Large
The American Foxhound is a sleek, long-legged scent hound known for its speed and musical baying. Bred originally by George Washington and other founding fathers for fox hunting, they are gentle at home but require significant exercise and space to run.
American Leopard Hound
Miscellaneous · Large
The American Leopard Hound is a versatile hunting dog known for its incredible stamina and striking leopard-spotted coat. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, forming deep bonds with their families and showing a natural protective instinct toward children. As one of the oldest tree dog breeds in the Americas, they require significant physical and mental engagement to stay happy.
Azawakh
Hound · Large
The Azawakh is an elegant and slender sighthound from the Sahel region of Africa, known for its remarkable speed and lean physique. Originally bred by nomadic tribes to guard camps and hunt gazelle, these dogs are deeply loyal to their families while remaining aloof and protective around strangers.
Beauceron
Herding · Large
The Beauceron is a powerful French herding breed known for its calm confidence, loyalty, and strong work ethic. Historically used to herd and guard flocks, this versatile dog also served in military and police roles thanks to its intelligence and courage. Beaucerons thrive with active, experienced owners who can provide structure, training, and a job to do.
Belgian Malinois
Herding · Large
The Belgian Malinois is a world-class worker that forges an unbreakable bond with its human partner. Originally bred for herding, they are now famous for their service in police and military units due to their incredible agility and intelligence. These elegant, fawn-colored dogs require a job to do and thrive on intense physical and mental challenges.
Belgian Sheepdog
Herding · Large
The Belgian Sheepdog is a highly intelligent and versatile herding breed known for its striking, solid black coat and elegant appearance. Deeply devoted to their families, these dogs are tireless workers who thrive when given a challenging task or active outdoor lifestyle.
Belgian Tervuren
Herding · Large
The Belgian Tervuren is an elegant, agile, and courageous herding dog known for its beautiful long coat and keen intelligence. Originally developed in Belgium as a versatile farm dog, they are deeply devoted to their families and excel in various canine sports and work roles.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Herding · Large
An ancient herding breed from the Italian Alps, the Bergamasco Sheepdog is best known for its unique 'flocked' coat that resembles felt mats. They are remarkably intelligent and independent thinkers who view themselves as equal partners to their owners rather than subordinates. Despite their rugged appearance, they are incredibly patient and gentle, making them devoted family companions and watchful protectors.
Berger Picard
Herding · Large
The Berger Picard is a rare and ancient French herding dog known for its rustic appearance, upright ears, and J-shaped tail. These dogs are highly intelligent and loyal companions with a playful sense of humor, though they can be independent thinkers. Originally bred for herding in the Picardy region, they are athletic, observant, and deeply devoted to their families.
Black and Tan Coonhound
Hound · Large
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a resilient and dedicated working dog, known for its distinctive coal-black coat with rich tan markings. Developed in the United States, they are famous for their musical 'bawl' while tracking and their exceptionally calm, easygoing nature at home.
Bloodhound
Hound · Large
The Bloodhound is a world-class trailer, famous for an unmatched sense of smell and long, wrinkled ears that help sweep scents toward its nose. Though they are gentle and affectionate companions at home, their single-minded determination when following a trail makes them powerful and sometimes stubborn working dogs. Their noble and slightly mournful expression belies a friendly, easygoing nature.
Bluetick Coonhound
Hound · Large
A smart and soulful scent hound, the Bluetick Coonhound is famous for its distinctive 'blue' ticked coat and melodic bay. Originally bred in the United States for hunting raccoons, they are devoted companions that require plenty of outdoor activity and mental stimulation.
Borzoi
Hound · Large
The Borzoi, once known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a regal and aristocratic sighthound known for its graceful silhouette and lightning-fast speed. These elegant dogs are calm and affectionate indoors, often described as 'couch potatoes,' but they retain a strong prey drive and a love for sprinting in wide-open spaces.
Bouvier des Flandres
Herding · Large
Originally bred as versatile farm dogs in Flanders, the Bouvier des Flandres is a powerful and courageous herder known for its distinctive beard and mustache. These 'Dogs of Flanders' are remarkably loyal protectors who balance a calm, steady temperament with a strong work ethic and deep devotion to their families.
Boxer
Working · Large
The Boxer is a sleek, muscular dog known for its boundless energy and playful, almost puppy-like nature that lasts well into adulthood. Originating in Germany, they are fiercely loyal protectors of their families and are celebrated for their distinctive 'boxing' style of play using their front paws.
Bracco Italiano
Sporting · Large
An ancient Italian pointer with a distinctive appearance, known for its noble expression and gentle, affectionate nature. They are powerful athletes in the field and calm, devoted companions at home, though they require significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Briard
Herding · Large
The Briard is an ancient French herding breed known for its distinctive long, wavy coat and impressive 'beard' and 'eyebrows.' Originally used to protect and herd sheep, they are fiercely loyal to their families and possess a tireless work ethic. Often called 'a heart wrapped in fur,' they are deeply devoted companions that require consistent leadership and plenty of mental stimulation.
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Herding · Large
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a versatile working breed famous for its striking 'leopard' coat patterns and piercing blue eyes. Originating in the Louisiana swamps, they were bred to be tough-as-nails hunters and herders capable of managing wild hogs and cattle.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Sporting · Large
Developed in the 19th century to hunt waterfowl in the icy waters of the Chesapeake Bay, this breed is famous for its waterproof, oily coat and immense endurance. Unlike many other retrievers, they are notably protective and reserved with strangers, making them excellent guardians as well as hunters. They are rugged, athletic, and possess a calm but determined disposition that requires consistent leadership.
Chinook
Working · Large
The Chinook is a rare and versatile sled dog developed in New Hampshire, known for its exceptional power, speed, and gentle disposition. They are deeply devoted to their families and excel in various activities ranging from hiking and dog-sledding to therapy work. Their calm demeanor and patience make them wonderful companions for active households.
Chow Chow
Non-Sporting · Large
An ancient breed from China, the Chow Chow is known for its lion-like ruff, deep-set eyes, and unique blue-black tongue. While aloof with strangers, they are intensely loyal to their families and possess a dignified, cat-like personality.
Clumber Spaniel
Sporting · Large
Known as the 'mellow' spaniel, the Clumber is a low-slung, heavy-boned dog originally bred for hunting in thick cover. They possess a dignified, sweet-tempered personality and are famous for their signature slow-and-steady gait and massive head.
Collie
Herding · Large
The Collie is a legendary herding breed from Scotland, famously portrayed by Lassie for its unwavering loyalty and intelligence. These graceful dogs are exceptionally gentle with children and make devoted family protectors who are both active outdoors and calm in the home.
Curly-Coated Retriever
Sporting · Large
One of the oldest retriever breeds, the Curly-Coated Retriever is distinguished by its unique coat of tight, water-resistant curls. They are more independent and reserved than other retrievers, making them excellent, hardworking companions for active owners.
Dalmatian
Non-Sporting · Large
Originally used as carriage dogs to protect horses and coaches, Dalmatians are famous for their unique spotted coats. They are high-energy athletes with a history as firehouse mascots and versatile workers. Their sleek appearance and distinct spots make them one of the most recognizable breeds in the world.
Doberman Pinscher
Working · Large
The Doberman Pinscher is a sleek and powerful dog possessing a magnificent physique and keen intelligence. Originally developed in Germany for protection, they are one of the world's finest working dogs and loyal family guardians. While they are known for their fearless nature, modern breeding has emphasized a stable and affectionate temperament with their families.
Dogo Argentino
Working · Large
The Dogo Argentino is a powerful, athletic breed originally developed in Argentina for big-game hunting, including wild boar and pumas. Known for their striking white coat and unwavering loyalty, they are fiercely protective of their families while remaining gentle and affectionate with those they trust. They require a strong leader and plenty of physical and mental stimulation to thrive.
Dutch Shepherd
Herding · Large
The Dutch Shepherd is a versatile and highly intelligent herding dog known for its striking brindle coat and tireless work ethic. Originally developed for farm work, they are exceptional athletes that excel in obedience, agility, and protection sports. They are deeply loyal companions that thrive when given a clear purpose and plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
English Foxhound
Hound · Large
The English Foxhound is a quintessential pack hound, known for its incredible stamina and melodious bay. Historically bred for long days of hunting, they are sociable, gentle, and happiest when they have plenty of room to run and other dogs for company.
English Setter
Sporting · Large
Known as the 'gentleman of the dog world,' the English Setter is a graceful bird dog famous for its unique speckled coat and mellow indoor personality. They are incredibly sweet-natured companions who transition seamlessly from an athletic hunter in the field to a calm presence on the sofa.
Flat-Coated Retriever
Sporting · Large
Known as the 'Peter Pan' of dogs, the Flat-Coated Retriever maintains a puppy-like outlook on life well into its senior years. Originally developed as a dual-purpose retriever for land and water, this breed is celebrated for its distinctive long head and lustrous coat. They are deeply devoted family companions that thrive on human interaction and vigorous outdoor activities.
French Spaniel
Sporting · Large
The French Spaniel is one of the oldest pointing breeds, cherished by French royalty for its exceptional hunting skills and gentle nature. Known as the tallest of all spaniels, it combines elegance with endurance, making it a versatile companion in the field and a calm, affectionate friend at home. These dogs are deeply devoted to their families and thrive on companionship and active outdoor life.
German Shepherd Dog
Herding · Large
The German Shepherd Dog is a versatile working breed celebrated for its exceptional intelligence and unwavering loyalty. Originally developed for herding sheep, their courage and trainability have made them the preferred choice for police, military, and search-and-rescue work worldwide.
German Shorthaired Pointer
Sporting · Large
A versatile all-purpose hunting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is known for its incredible endurance and power. These elegant athletes thrive on vigorous activity and form deep bonds with their families, making them both capable field companions and affectionate household pets.
German Wirehaired Pointer
Sporting · Large
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a rugged, versatile hunting breed developed in Germany to work confidently on land and in water. Known for its wiry weather-resistant coat, keen nose, and strong work ethic, this dog thrives with active families who enjoy outdoor adventures. Loyal and affectionate with its people, it also has a bold, independent streak that benefits from consistent training.
Golden Retriever
Sporting · Large
The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, known for its friendly and tolerant attitude. Originally bred in Scotland for retrieving game, they have evolved into versatile companions, therapy dogs, and search-and-rescue experts. Their striking golden coat and soulful eyes reflect their gentle, loyal nature.
Gordon Setter
Sporting · Large
The Gordon Setter is the largest and heaviest of the setter breeds, known for its stunning black and tan coat and noble bearing. Originally developed in Scotland to hunt game birds, they are rugged and athletic dogs that combine stamina with a devoted and protective nature. While they can be aloof with strangers, they are intensely loyal to their families and make excellent, albeit energetic, companions.
Greyhound
Hound · Large
Known as the 45-mph couch potato, the Greyhound is the fastest dog breed and one of the most ancient. While they are world-class sprinters, they are incredibly gentle and calm companions who love to lounge at home. Their sleek physique and noble temperament make them elegant pets that adapt surprisingly well to urban life.
Hamiltonstovare
Hound · Large
The Hamiltonstovare is a handsome, tri-colored scent hound developed in Sweden for hunting fox and hare. Known for their endurance and calm demeanor indoors, they are skilled solo hunters with a distinguished, athletic build. They are devoted family companions but require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep their keen noses occupied.
Hanoverian Scenthound
Hound · Large
The Hanoverian Scenthound is a prestigious German tracking dog with roots in medieval hunting hounds. Renowned for its exceptional nose and methodical persistence, this breed forms a deep, singular bond with its handler. While calm and composed at home, they are tireless workers that thrive when given a challenging trail to follow.
Ibizan Hound
Hound · Large
The Ibizan Hound is a sleek, agile hunter from the Balearic Islands, known for its incredible jumping ability and large, upright ears. Originally bred to hunt rabbits, these 'Beezers' are elegant and fast, possessing a quiet and affectionate nature that makes them wonderful family companions.
Irish Red and White Setter
Sporting · Large
The Irish Red and White Setter is a high-spirited and athletic sporting dog, distinguished by its stunning red and white coat and friendly demeanor. Older than its solid red cousin, this breed is a dedicated hunter in the field and an affectionate companion at home, thriving on vigorous activity and close family bonds.
Irish Setter
Sporting · Large
The Irish Setter is a stunning mahogany-coated gundog celebrated for its grace, speed, and 'rollicking' personality. Highly energetic and affectionate, they thrive as active family companions and require significant daily exercise to channel their natural exuberance.
Irish Water Spaniel
Sporting · Large
Known as the 'clown of the spaniel family,' the Irish Water Spaniel is a distinctive gundog with a curly, water-repellent coat and a unique 'rat tail.' They are highly intelligent, energetic, and possess a great sense of humor, making them wonderful partners for outdoor enthusiasts.
Labrador Retriever
Sporting · Large
The Labrador Retriever is a friendly, active, and outgoing companion known for its sturdy build and intelligence. Originally bred to retrieve nets and fish for fishermen in Newfoundland, they have become the quintessential family dog and versatile working breed.
Large Munsterlander
Sporting · Large
The Large Munsterlander is a versatile German gun dog known for its striking black and white coat and exceptional tracking abilities. Highly intelligent and affectionate, they excel as both dedicated hunting partners and gentle, devoted family companions who thrive on active outdoor adventures.
Old English Sheepdog
Herding · Large
The Old English Sheepdog is a large, athletic breed famous for its shaggy double coat and distinctive 'pot-cascading' bark. Originally bred for driving cattle and sheep, these 'Bobtails' are now beloved family companions known for their gentle, clownish personalities and devotion to their owners.
Otterhound
Hound · Large
The Otterhound is a rare, lovable British scent hound originally bred to track otters in rivers and marshes. They are cheerful, social, and full of personality, with a big voice and an even bigger sense of adventure. Their rough, water-resistant coat and powerful nose make them stand out as one of the most distinctive hound breeds.
Perro de Presa Canario
Miscellaneous · Large
The Perro de Presa Canario is a powerful guardian breed developed in Spain’s Canary Islands to protect farms and handle livestock. Calm and deeply devoted with its family, it is naturally wary of strangers and needs early socialization plus firm, experienced handling. Its imposing build, steady nerve, and strong bond with its people make it a standout working mastiff-type dog.
Plott Hound
Hound · Large
The Plott Hound is a powerful, courageous hunting dog and the only coonhound breed not descended from English Foxhounds. Developed in the mountains of North Carolina for hunting bears and wild boars, they are famous for their stamina, distinct brindle coats, and unwavering loyalty to their families.
Pointer
Sporting · Large
The Pointer, often called the English Pointer, is a powerful and graceful sporting dog known for its incredible stamina and tracking ability. Originally bred to find game birds, they are affectionate family companions that thrive in active households with plenty of space to run.
Poodle (Standard)
Non-Sporting · Large
The Poodle is an exceptionally intelligent and elegant breed, famous for its hypoallergenic curly coat and remarkable versatility. Originally bred as a water retriever, they combine a dignified presence with a playful, athletic spirit that makes them excel in both work and companionship.
Redbone Coonhound
Hound · Large
The Redbone Coonhound is a sleek, all-American scenthound known for its rich red coat, big voice, and enthusiastic hunting drive. Originally developed in the American South for tracking raccoons and larger game, this breed combines stamina, courage, and a sociable nature at home. Redbones are affectionate with family but thrive best with active owners who can provide daily exercise and consistent training.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Hound · Large
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful, elegant scenthound known for the distinctive ridge of hair growing in reverse along its back. Developed in southern Africa, the breed was prized for endurance and bravery, including tracking large game such as lions. At home, Ridgebacks are affectionate and devoted to their family, but they are also independent thinkers who need consistent training and plenty of exercise.
Rottweiler
Working · Large
The Rottweiler is a powerful, steady working dog known for deep loyalty and natural guarding instincts. Descended from Roman drover dogs and later developed in the German town of Rottweil, the breed was historically used to drive cattle and pull butcher carts. With consistent training, socialization, and purposeful activity, Rottweilers are devoted family companions who combine strength, intelligence, and composure.
Saarloos Wolfdog
Miscellaneous · Large
The Saarloos Wolfdog is a striking Dutch breed developed in the 20th century by crossing a German Shepherd with a European wolf. They are sensitive, highly observant, and deeply bonded to their family, but typically aloof with strangers. Their wolf-like instincts, athleticism, and strong need for space make them best suited to experienced owners.
Saluki
Hound · Large
Known as the Royal Dog of Egypt, the Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds, prized for its incredible speed and elegant, slender build. They are independent and sensitive sight-hounds that form deep bonds with their families but remain reserved with strangers.
Samoyed
Working · Large
Known as 'smiling sled dogs,' Samoyeds were originally bred for hunting and hauling sleds in the Siberian Arctic. They are famous for their stunning white coats and gentle, social personalities that make them wonderful family companions.
Sloughi
Hound · Large
The Sloughi is an ancient North African sighthound known for its grace, speed, and noble demeanor. Often called the 'Arabian Greyhound,' this breed is deeply loyal to its family while maintaining a dignified and reserved attitude toward strangers. Their lean, muscular build and incredible stamina reflect their history as elite hunters of the desert.
Spinone Italiano
Sporting · Large
The Spinone Italiano is an ancient Italian gundog known for its calm, patient nature and rugged versatility in the field. Unlike many high-drive sporting breeds, Spinoni are thoughtful workers with a steady, affectionate temperament at home. Their distinctive wiry coat, expressive beard, and easygoing personality make them a unique companion for active families who want a softer-paced sporting dog.
Treeing Walker Coonhound
Hound · Large
The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a sleek, muscular working dog originally bred to hunt raccoons. Known for their incredible endurance and distinctive baying bark, they are intelligent and confident hunters in the field but affectionate and relaxed companions at home. Their high energy levels and strong prey drive mean they require plenty of exercise and are best suited for active families.
Weimaraner
Sporting · Large
The Weimaraner, often called the 'Gray Ghost', is an athletic and aristocratic hunting dog known for its striking silvery coat and light-colored eyes. They are highly energetic, exceptionally loyal, and thrive on being part of the family, though their intense stamina and strong-willed nature require dedicated training and exercise.