Top Tips for Caring for Big Dog Breeds
We cannot overstate the importance of early socialization and training for all big dog breeds. Since many of these are working dogs, known for their independent spirits, instilling good behavior and obedience as soon as possible is key to happy, healthy, well-mannered dogs.
This means having a training plan for your puppy right off the bat. Work with a professional trainer, attend obedience classes or take the time to teach your dog yourself. If you go the homeschool route, The AKC warns against training regimens that are too taxing for large breed puppies. Big dogs take longer to mature physically and mentally, so a slow, steady routine is key.
Keep in mind: Training is a lifelong endeavor that doesn’t end once your pup grows up.
VCA Animal Hospitals says large and giant dog breeds actually require fewer calories per pound than smaller breeds. To optimize nutrition, focus on high-protein, low-fat meals. Look for food providing glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids, too. These ingredients improve joint health, which is a significant concern for large breeds.
What Dog Breeds Are Considered Extra Large?
Extra large dog breeds can reach more than 30 inches tall and weigh upwards of 150 pounds. That’s a lot of dog. The breeds who meet these criteria include:
- St. Bernards
- Newfoundlands
- Leonbergers
- Irish Wolfhounds
- Black Russian Terriers
- Great Danes
- Mastiffs, including Tibetan Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs, Neapolitan Mastiffs and Pyrenean Mastiffs
Which Big Dog Breed Is Right for You? Find Your Perfect Match
If, after reviewing all the info on big dog breeds and fawning over pictures of huge pups, you’re convinced you want a large dog, ask yourself a few questions. The American Kennel Club’s breed selector tool is a great place to start. It will prompt you to consider:
- How trainable do you want your dog to be?
- How energetic do you want your dog to be?
- How much shedding can you deal with?
- How much barking can you handle?
- What type of home do you live in?
- Do you have a yard?
- Do you have other pets?
- Do you have kids?
Answers to these questions can help you narrow down the best breed for you and your family. Don’t forget to ask yourself some additional important questions, too.
- How much money can you put towards your dog in the first year? Think about vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery and all the supplies you’ll need right away.
- How much time can you devote to training? As we’ve learned with big dog breeds, training puppies is super important and takes a lot of dedication early on.
- Does everyone in your family want a dog? If you don’t want to be the sole guardian, make sure everyone is on board.
- Where will my dog stay when I’m on vacation? What will she do when I’m at work? Leaving a large breed home alone for long stretches could lead to destructive or aggressive behavior.
Sarah Ashley
Freelance Writer
Sarah Ashley covers dogs, cats and pet products for PureWow. She's also tackled mental health, travel and her own struggles with infertility. Beyond earning a Certificate in Creative Nonfiction, covering PetCon and the National Dog Show, Sarah is currently working towards her Masters in Journalism. You can read more of her work on The Click, Culture Trip and Reductress.
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