When it comes to choosing a canine companion, size and intellect often play a pivotal role in the decision-making process. Big dog breeds are not only majestic and imposing but also bring a unique blend of intelligence and loyalty that can enrich any household. Whether you’re looking for a gentle giant to lounge with, a vigilant guardian for the family, or a versatile partner for outdoor adventures, these seven smart big dog breeds stand out as exceptional choices. Their keen instincts and affectionate nature make them ideal companions, offering both protection and love in abundance.
When it comes to finding the perfect large dog companion, it’s not just about size – intelligence and temperament play a huge role.
If you’re looking for a big dog that is not only loving and loyal but also smart and trainable, you’re in the right place. These seven breeds combine impressive brainpower with their brawn, making them excellent companions for families and active pet parents alike.
Smart Big Dog Breeds
1. Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is an ancient scent-tracking breed with an extraordinary nose, boasting around 230 million scent receptors—40 times more than humans, as stated by Britannica. This powerful ability makes it one of the best tracking dogs in history, used for hunting, search-and-rescue, and law enforcement. Its evidence has even been accepted in U.S. courts.
Despite its name, the Bloodhound isn’t aggressive. The breed originated in ancient Greece and Rome but was refined in the Middle Ages by Belgian monks at Saint Hubert Monastery. These dogs were prized by European nobility for their tracking skills, which helped shape many modern scent hounds.
Large and strong, the Bloodhound has short fur, long droopy ears, and loose, wrinkled skin that helps trap scent. It comes in black and tan, red-brown, or tawny. Though independent and determined, it’s also sensitive and thrives on companionship, making it a devoted but gentle giant.
2. Akita
The Akita is a powerful, ancient Japanese breed originally bred for hunting. These large, intelligent dogs have strong instincts and make excellent guard dogs due to their protective nature. Revered in Japan, they’re even designated as a national monument, symbolizing strength and good health. Often given as a thoughtful gift when a baby is born or a family member is ill, the Akita is known to form strong bonds with its family.
This breed’s intelligence and loyalty make it a perfect companion, but Akitas require proper training from a young age to ensure they thrive as family dogs. They are naturally independent and can be reserved around strangers, but with early socialization, they can coexist well with other pets and children. Their calm demeanor and devotion to their pet parents make them loyal companions, capable of learning new skills quickly.
While they require daily exercise, PetMD says Akitas are not overly demanding when it comes to activity, making them well-suited for families with a fenced yard. They may have a strong prey drive, so consistent training and a firm hand are essential for a well-behaved, affectionate pup.
3. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a strong and hardworking breed with a fascinating history. Originally descended from Roman drover dogs, it was used in Rottweiler, Germany, for tasks like herding cattle, guarding property, and carrying money for butchers. Over time, the breed took on many roles, from police work to rescue missions, proving its versatility and loyalty.
Rottweilers were bred to be brave, tough, and reliable, qualities they still carry today. These dogs excel at tasks that require focus and determination. However, they can also be independent and stubborn at times, especially if they feel a task isn’t worth their effort. Early training and clear boundaries help them become well-mannered and dependable companions.
While not overly playful, Rottweilers are serious and protective once they mature. They are typically calm and quiet, preferring to keep a watchful eye on their family, making them excellent guardians and loyal friends.
4. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a highly intelligent and active breed, often categorized as a sporting dog. They are known for their remarkable tracking ability and excel in both speed and endurance. With their natural instinct for hunting and tracking, these dogs thrive on physical activity, making them well-suited for families who can provide mental stimulation and exercise.
Originating in the 19th century, the Weimaraner was bred by German nobles to create a dog that could handle tasks like tracking and retrieving large game, which gives them a strong drive similar to that of herding dogs.
Their energetic nature and intelligence make them excellent for police work and even therapy dogs, as they form strong bonds with their families and learn new skills quickly.
5. Chinook
The Chinook is a rare and athletic breed, typically standing 23 to 25 inches tall and weighing between 60 to 80 pounds. Their size can vary, but they are generally well-built and sturdy, bred for strength and endurance. These dogs thrive in a pack environment, so they are best suited for families where they won’t be left alone for long periods.
Known for their intelligence and loyalty, Chinooks are easy to train and enjoy being around their family. They have a non-aggressive, gentle nature, making them wonderful working dogs, including assisting the handicapped. While they are good watchdogs and will bark at strangers, they are not meant to be guard dogs. Early socialization and gradual introductions to other pets are key to ensuring they get along well with other animals.
According to Hill’s Pet, Chinooks were originally bred in New Hampshire by Arthur T. Walden to create a sled dog with speed, power, and endurance. The breed was developed by crossing a mastiff-type dog with a northern husky.
6. Berger Picard
The Berger Picard, or Picardy Shepherd, is a rare, highly intelligent breed from northern France, originally bred for herding and droving. Known for their independence and strong bond with their family, these dogs are protective, friendly, and eager to please. Their sharp minds make them quick learners, although they can be independent and require firm training, as stated by WebMD.
Medium in size, they have a well-muscled, yet elegant build, with erect ears and distinctive brown, oval eyes that reflect their alert nature. Their thick eyebrows frame their face, adding to their expressive demeanor.
As a natural working dog, the Berger Picard excels with mental stimulation and moderate exercise, making them excellent companions for active families. They thrive in homes where they are given both attention and the chance to use their intelligence. These dogs are protective, loyal, and adaptable, forming deep connections with their owners.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog, or Berner, is a hardy Swiss working dog that has been around for over 2,000 years. Originally brought to Switzerland by invading Romans, these dogs were bred to pull carts, drive cattle, and protect farms. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable to farmers in the Swiss Alps.
Known for their striking appearance, Berners have broad chests, long, silky black coats with rust-colored markings, and white accents on their chests, feet, and tail tips. They stand between 23 to 27.5 inches tall and typically weigh around 88 pounds. Their calm, gentle nature makes them excellent family companions, and they are known for being particularly good with children.
The Bernese Mountain Dog was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1937. These dogs require regular exercise but are equally happy relaxing with their families. Their affectionate and loyal nature makes them fantastic pets for active households.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog is about more than just size—it’s about finding a breed that fits your lifestyle and values. These smart, big dogs are not only capable of learning quickly, but they also bring immense loyalty and affection to the table.
With the right care, training, and love, they’ll prove to be not only great companions but also lifelong friends, making your bond with them even stronger each day.
In conclusion, these seven intelligent big dog breeds are not only known for their impressive size but also for their exceptional companionship qualities. Each breed brings a unique set of traits that make them ideal partners for families and individuals alike. Whether it’s their loyalty, protective nature, affectionate demeanor, or trainability, these dogs are steadfast friends who thrive on human interaction and love. Choosing one of these breeds ensures a devoted and intelligent companion that will enrich your life with both their presence and their engaging personalities, making them truly irreplaceable members of any household.