The Pros And Cons Of The Top 9 Big Dog Breeds For Families
Is bigger really better? Well, when it comes to family-friendly dog breeds, it may just be true. FYI, our sources say that a large breed dog is at least 50 pounds — or 70 depending on who you ask — and 24 inches tall at the shoulders. It’s impossible to deny the allure of a big hound dog and all the love, affection — not to mention security — that they bring to the home. Making a large doggo a permanent member of your budding tribe is perfect if you want your children to grow up bonding with a social and gentle giant. Of course, not all big breeds are created equal.
Each one comes with its own personality, pros, and cons that should be carefully considered by any family that’s looking for the perfect pooch.
To help you hone in on the best hound for you, we researched dozens of lists and articles — and consulted the dog wellness experts at Finn — to see what people were saying are the best big dog breeds for families.
Newfoundland
Pros: The Newfoundland is one of the biggest and most docile dogs out there. Weighing up to 150 pounds, this enormous breed has even been deemed the “nanny dog” due to its nurturing and patient personality.
Cons: Due to their intense coat of fur, Newfies require weekly brushing to prevent matting. As shedding seasons approach — the spring and fall — brushing should happen daily. This is another fluffy breed that can benefit from a skin and coat supplement.
Goldendoodle
Pros: The poodle and the golden retriever got together and birthed the goldendoodle. If you’ve been plagued with allergies, this friendly, low-shedding hybrid pooch is as close as you’ll get to finding a truly hypoallergenic canine companion!
Cons: Despite possessing some of the best qualities of the poodle and the golden retriever, this curly-coated dog is known to experience separation anxiety and hip dysplasia. So the benefits of both a calming aid supplement and a hip and joint supplement will not go unnoticed.
Leonberger
Pros: For families that really want to go big, there may be no better choice than the Leonberger. Reaching up to 170 pounds, these giants are highly intelligent, easily trained, and are known to be gentle with small children. They’re also insensitive to noise and other outside stimuli, so they won’t freak out or cause trouble in public or around large groups.
Cons: While they take to training well, they’re known to be a little extra rowdy as pups. Fortunately that can be eased with a tasty calming aid, which vets say can effectively help with hyperactivity and stress.
Golden Retriever
Pros: They’re a classic for a reason. With their cheerful demeanor, boundless athletic ability, and knack for getting along with other animals — including children — it’s no wonder that this breed has remained so popular. And as if that wasn’t enough, they take to training like fish to water. Families looking for a true companion really can’t go wrong with a golden.
Cons: While they live into their early/mid teens, Golden Retrievers do have a number of health issues that can begin decreasing their quality of life as early as 6 or 7 years old. These include bone and joint issues, digestive problems, heart disease, and skin disorders. That’s why it’s important to start them early on dietary supplements like an auto-renewed subscription to Finn's Multivitamin for their overall optimal health.
