When it comes to choosing a family dog, size often comes second to temperament, especially when children are involved. Surprisingly, many of the largest dog breeds are known for their gentle, patient, and friendly nature, making them excellent companions for kids. These gentle giants are more than just their imposing stature; they are bundles of affection, loyalty, and playfulness. In this guide, we’ll explore seven giant dog breeds that, despite their size, have hearts as big as they are. Discover why these lovable canines are perfect additions to families looking for a four-legged friend who is both a gentle guardian and a devoted playmate.
Few childhood memories are as heartwarming as the bond between a child and their dog. If you’re finally saying “yes” to your kids’ dreams of having a furry companion, it’s a decision that brings so much joy—but also comes with some big questions. What kind of dog will fit your family’s unique dynamics?
Choosing the right breed is more than just picking a cute face. Your child’s age and temperament play a huge role. For instance, a large, bouncy dog might unintentionally topple a toddler during playtime, while small or delicate breeds can struggle to keep up with the enthusiasm of older kids. Meanwhile, tweens and teens may be ready to take on the responsibility of helping care for a dog, but it’s essential to choose a breed with a temperament that matches their energy and lifestyle.
Beyond picking the right breed, one of the most valuable lessons you can give your children is teaching them how to interact with dogs responsibly. Understanding how to respect a dog’s boundaries and recognizing when it needs space can make all the difference in creating a happy, safe bond. To help you get started, here are some of the best giant dog breeds that are not only gentle giants but also make wonderful playmates for kids.
Best Giant Dog Breeds for Kids
1. Black Russian Terrier
|
Personality |
Intelligent, calm, powerful |
|
Energy Level |
Energetic |
|
Trainability |
Trainable |
|
Height |
27-30 inches (male), 26-29 inches (female) |
|
Weight |
80-130 pounds |
|
Barking Level |
Occasional |
The Black Russian Terrier, often called “Blackies,” is a commanding presence with a history as bold as its appearance. Originally bred in Russia to patrol borders and assist in high-security tasks, these dogs were designed to be fearless guardians. Today, while they still have that innate protective instinct, they’ve transformed into devoted family companions, especially gentle and watchful around children.
Despite their intimidating size and stoic demeanor, Blackies have a playful and affectionate side when they’re off duty. Orvis adds that they thrive on close bonds with their families and are known to stick by your side like a loyal shadow. However, this devotion comes with a need for consistent training and respect—these intelligent working dogs respond best to confident leadership and clear guidance.
To keep a BRT happy, you’ll need to provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Without it, their powerful energy might lead to destructive habits, like chewing. If you’re up for the challenge of keeping them engaged, the Black Russian Terrier will reward you with unwavering loyalty, calm confidence, and an extraordinary ability to protect and love their human pack.
2. Labrador Retriever
|
Personality |
Friendly, active, outgoing |
|
Energy Level |
Needs Lots of Activity |
|
Trainability |
Eager to Please |
|
Height |
22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female) |
|
Weight |
65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female) |
|
Barking Level |
Occasional |
The Labrador Retriever is the quintessential family dog—loyal, affectionate, and endlessly energetic. Whether black, chocolate, or yellow, Labs are known for their gentle nature and ability to form strong bonds with both their families and strangers. Their high intelligence makes them eager learners, and they’re always up for mastering a new trick or two.
A sporting breed at heart, Labs have energy to spare, making them perfect playmates for kids. Whether it’s running around the yard or splashing in the pool, they thrive in active households. Their webbed toes and love for water make them natural swimmers, so if your family enjoys water adventures, a Lab will fit right in. Even during the chaos of excited kids, Labs keep their cool, always staying patient and even-tempered.
According to PetPlan, while low maintenance in terms of grooming, Labs are moderate shedders, so weekly brushing with a bristle brush or comb can help keep loose fur at bay. If your family is ready for an energetic, loving companion who doubles as a built-in lifeguard, a Labrador Retriever will bring joy and loyalty to your home.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
|
Personality |
Good-natured, calm, strong |
|
Energy Level |
Energetic |
|
Trainability |
Easy to Train |
|
Height |
25-27.5 inches (male), 23-26 inches (female) |
|
Weight |
80-115 pounds (male), 70-95 pounds (female) |
|
Barking Level |
Occasional |
Bernese Mountain Dogs, affectionately called “Berners,” are beloved for their sweet, gentle nature and unshakable loyalty to their families. PDSA notes these giant, fluffy companions thrive in homes with plenty of space, making them a great choice for families who can accommodate their size and energy.
Hailing from Switzerland, Berners were originally working dogs, helping farmers transport produce and cheese to market by pulling carts. While they’re both strong and smart, they’re also slow to mature, so patience is key during training. These sensitive souls respond best to positive reinforcement, as harsh methods can hurt their tender hearts.
Berners are wonderfully gentle with children, instinctively aware of their smaller size, making them excellent family dogs. However, their thick double coat, built to handle chilly Swiss winters, means they prefer cooler climates and need regular grooming to manage heavy shedding. If you’re prepared for some extra brushing and vacuuming, a Berner will bring boundless love, warmth, and companionship to your family.
4. Newfoundland
|
Personality |
Sweet, patient, devoted |
|
Energy Level |
Regular Exercise |
|
Trainability |
Agreeable |
|
Height |
28 inches (average male), 26 inches (average female) |
|
Weight |
130-150 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female) |
|
Barking Level |
Only To Alert |
The Newfoundland is truly the definition of a “gentle giant.” These big-hearted dogs are known for their loving, calm demeanor, especially around kids. Often called “Newfies,” they’ve earned the nickname of being the ultimate canine nanny, thanks to their incredible patience and natural fondness for children. Their protective nature adds an extra layer of comfort for families.
Beneath their lion-like, fluffy appearance is a strong, sturdy dog built for adventure and companionship. These amazing swimmers are perfectly equipped with webbed feet and a thick, water-resistant double coat, making them ideal playmates for a family day at the lake or pool. PetMD notes that their coat comes in striking colors like black, brown, gray, or black-and-white, but regular brushing is required to manage shedding and keep it looking its best.
If you’ve got the space and the love to match their size, a Newfoundland can be a devoted, gentle addition to your family. Just be ready for plenty of cuddles and a bit of fur cleanup along the way!
5. Golden Retriever
|
Personality |
Friendly, intelligent, devoted |
|
Energy Level |
Needs Lots of Activity |
|
Trainability |
Eager to Please |
|
Height |
23-24 inches (male), 21.5-22.5 inches (female) |
|
Weight |
65-75 pounds (male), 55-65 pounds (female) |
|
Barking Level |
Only To Alert |
Golden Retrievers are a dream come true for families with young children. Their mix of patience and playful energy makes them excellent companions for kids, and when properly socialized from an early age, they’re calm, tolerant, and incredibly loving. Add in their goofy, fun-loving personalities, and it’s no wonder children are drawn to them.
These social butterflies love being the center of attention and often become local celebrities on their walks, charming neighbors and kids alike with their wagging tails and warm smiles. The attention isn’t just fun for them—it also helps keep them mentally engaged and prevents boredom, which can sometimes lead to mischief in this intelligent breed.
Goldens have a beautiful medium-to-long coat, but they are definitely shedders. If vacuuming isn’t your thing, this might be a challenge. Regular brushing—three times a week at a minimum—helps manage the shedding, and during seasonal coat changes, daily grooming is a must to keep those golden tufts under control. For families ready to embrace the fur and fun, a Golden Retriever is a loyal, loving addition who will bring endless joy and laughter into your home.
6. Great Pyrenees
|
Personality |
Smart, patient, calm |
|
Energy Level |
Needs Lots of Activity |
|
Trainability |
Agreeable |
|
Height |
27-32 inches (male), 25-29 inches (female) |
|
Weight |
100 pounds & up (male), 85 pounds & up (female) |
|
Barking Level |
Occasional |
The Great Pyrenees, affectionately called “Pyrs,” is the ultimate gentle giant with a heart as big as its powerful, muscular frame. Originally bred to guard livestock, these majestic dogs are naturally protective and incredibly loyal to their families. Despite their imposing size—often weighing over 100 pounds—they are sweet-natured and form a particularly strong bond with children, often acting as their quiet guardian.
Pyrs have an instinct to keep a watchful eye on their “flock,” which, in a family setting, usually means following kids around to ensure their safety. Their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs, but they also need early training and socialization to channel their strong-willed, sometimes stubborn nature. Without guidance, they might become overprotective or overly wary of strangers.
On the cuddly side, Great Pyrenees are a ten out of ten. Their thick, fluffy coat makes them incredibly huggable, but they also appreciate their space when needed—a lesson kids should learn early on. For families who can provide consistent training, room to roam, and plenty of love, the Pyr will be a steadfast protector and affectionate companion.
7. Leonberger
|
Personality |
Friendly, playful, gentle |
|
Energy Level |
Regular Exercise |
|
Trainability |
Eager to Please |
|
Height |
28-31.5 inches (male), 25.5-29.5 inches (female) |
|
Weight |
110-170 pounds (male), 90-140 pounds (female) |
|
Barking Level |
Occasional |
The Leonberger is a striking giant breed with roots in Germany, often compared to a lion thanks to its flowing coat and regal appearance. Despite their majestic look, these dogs are gentle, patient, and incredibly loyal to their families. Originally bred to accompany European royalty, they’ve now traded palace life for family-friendly adventures and plenty of splashing around in lakes—something they excel at, thanks to their waterproof coat and agility in the water.
While their playful, affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions, Leonbergers also have a sharp sense of awareness, making them reliable watchdogs with excellent judgment. However, their luxurious fur does come with some upkeep; daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles, and their nails need regular trimming to keep them comfortable.
AKC states that Leos are friendly and intelligent, and love being part of the family, but they thrive in homes with plenty of space to roam and play. If you can meet their grooming needs and match their energy, the Leonberger will reward you with unwavering devotion and endless love.
Conclusion
Choosing the right companion from the best large dog breeds for your family is a rewarding decision that goes beyond size. While our list highlights some of the most kid-friendly giant breeds, it’s worth noting that other large breed dogs, like German Shepherds and Great Danes, also make wonderful additions to many families.
However, their suitability often depends on factors such as early socialization and proper training, especially since breeds like these can be extremely protective of their loved ones. For families with younger kids, it’s important to choose a dog that matches the energy and needs of your household.
Not every breed, like therapy dogs, hunting dogs, or small breeds such as the Basset Hound, fits the mold for families looking for a powerful working dog to join in on family activities. However, even dogs with a dense double coat or a short double coat, like German Shepherds, can thrive in the right setting. Whether you’re drawn to the massive size of a Great Dane or a breed bred to herd cattle, what matters most is finding a dog that connects with all family members. As recognized by the American Kennel Club, the best dog for your family will ultimately be one that brings joy, love, and companionship to every moment.
In conclusion, while their large size might initially seem intimidating, giant dog breeds often possess a friendly and gentle nature that makes them great companions for families with children. Breeds like the Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Bernese Mountain Dog are known for their calm demeanor and protective instincts. With proper training and socialization, these gentle giants can offer both companionship and security, fostering a loving and enriching environment for kids. It’s essential, however, to consider the specific needs of each breed, including exercise and grooming, to ensure a harmonious relationship between the dog and family.