Just because most people get pint-sized puppies that are destined to remain small in stature, doesn’t mean that “toy” and “miniature” breeds are the only options. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to get the most “dog” for your dollar, here are 5 large dog breeds to consider. With these breeds extra love is guaranteed!
BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG
The Bernese Mountain Dog’s roots can be traced back to ancestors that were first brought to Switzerland more than 2,000 years ago by invading Roman soldiers. Historically, Bernese Mountain Dogs worked on farms in the canton of Berne, Switzerland, by corralling livestock, and as watchdogs and guard dogs in those farmlands. In 1926, the first Bernese Mountain Dog entered the United States and quickly became a staple working dog on American farms.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a strikingly large, tri-colored dog. He is sturdy and balanced. He is also intelligent, strong, and agile enough to corral livestock and do other farmwork historically. The Bernese Mountain Dog is tri-colored. The ground color is jet black. The markings are rich rust and clear white.
Characteristics:
Lifespan: 7 – 10 Years
Weight: 80 – 110 lbs.
Shedding: Seasonal
Coat Length: Long
Grooming: Moderate
Size: Large
Color: Black, White, Brown, Rust
Temperament:
The temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog is self-confident, alert, and good-natured, never sharp or shy. The Bernese Mountain Dog are not aggressive with strangers, but rather alert, gentle, and poised.
GREAT DANE
Historians claim that there are drawings of dogs that resemble the Great Dane on Egyptian monuments from roughly 3000 B.C. The earliest written description of a dog resembling this large breed can be found in Chinese literature of 1121 B.C. The origins of the Great Dane as we know it today can be traced to the Irish Wolfhound breed with the Old English Mastiff breed, though you wouldn’t necessarily guess that by comparing these breeds. The Great Dane breed was originally developed by the Germans to hunt wild boar, a ferocious animal.
When no longer used for hunting, the Great Dane became a companion and estate guard dog. Considered a “gentle giant,” the Great Dane is nothing short of majestic. Sometimes referred to as the “king of dogs,” this extremely large dog breed is known for being strong yet elegant with a friendly, energetic personality. The Great Dane’s coat colors can be brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin and mantle.
Characteristics:
Lifespan: 7 – 10 Years
Weight: 100 – 170 lbs.
Shedding: Year-round
Coat Length: Short
Grooming: Low
Size: Large
Color: Brindle, Fawn, Blue, Black, Harlequin, and Mantle
Temperament:
Great Dane puppies have gentle and loving dispositions, making them excellent family companions, but as with all dogs, they should be supervised around young children.
WEIMARANER
The Weimaraner dog breed originated in Germany. Weimaraners have a sleek, athletic body that can look “classy” thanks to the sheen of their gray coats. This dog is very athletic and a pleaser at heart.
Weimaraners were specifically designed for intelligence, speed, courage, and an excellent smelling nose. Weimaraner puppies are most compatible with people who are looking for a walking, jogging, and exercise companion. This puppy is eager to please and will happily do anything for you.
Characteristics:
Lifespan: 11-13 Years
Weight: 77 – 88 lbs.
Shedding: Moderate
Coat Length: Short
Grooming: Low
Size: Large
Color: Gray
Temperament:
Weimaraners can be high-strung and very energetic. These puppies are very loyal, intelligent, and eager to please. You won’t find a better running or hunting partner! They are quick learners and are highly motivated by praise.
GERMAN SHEPHERD
The German Shepherd originated in Germany. The German Shepherd is a strong, rugged, athletic breed with an aloof, noble demeanor. This breed has a very strong stature, with a rectangular body, and a long neck, a bushy tail, and a powerful, ground-covering gait. German Shepherd puppies are intelligent and easy to train, but due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, if they aren’t given a great deal of training and attention they could be difficult to control later. For people who know they will enjoy the training process and bonding with their puppy through training sessions, outdoor activities, and a lot of quality time, the German Shepherd is an excellent choice of breed.
Characteristics:
Lifespan: 7 – 10 Years
Weight: 50 – 85 lbs.
Shedding: Year-round
Coat Length: Medium
Grooming: Moderate
Size: Large
Color: Black, Tan, Gray, and Red
Temperament:
The German Shepherd was bred to be a versatile, trainable, willing worker. They are considered to be one of the most intelligent breeds, and these dogs have a great ability to ignore distractions and focus on work, which makes them the #1 choice for law enforcement. This is a poised, confident, self-assured dog with a protective nature. They make excellent watchdogs and are typically reserved with strangers. Loyal, sensitive, and reliable, German Shepherds have a strong desire to please.
SAINT BERNARD
The Saint Bernard dog breed originated in the snowy Swiss Alps. They were bred by hospice monks to be able to locate and rescue distressed travelers who became buried by drifts and avalanches.
The Saint Bernard is an outgoing, friendly dog, who is known for being amazing with children, showing outstanding patience and tolerance. These puppies love being with their family, and are happiest when they’re at home with their “people.” The Saint Bernard has a sound temperament, and although they take longer to mature mentally and behave like a puppy for longer, they do make wonderful pets.
Characteristics:
Lifespan: 8 – 10 Years
Weight: 120 – 180 lbs.
Shedding: Seasonal
Coat Length: Medium
Grooming: Moderate
Size: Large
Color: White, Red, Brown, Cream
Temperament:
Loyal, gentle, affectionate, and very intelligent, the Saint Bernard breed responds well to praise and rewards. They make great watchdogs, yet they have low-key energy and make great snuggle companions. That being said, love from a Saint Bernard often comes with drool, so it’s a good idea to have towels placed strategically around the home.
Those are our top 5 large dog breeds that you should know about! Petland Kansas City has each of these breeds in store. If you’re in the Overland Park area and would like to meet our large dog breeds, then you’re welcome to stop by! We hope to see you soon!