Welcoming an extra-large dog into your home can bring unparalleled joy, loyalty, and companionship, especially for active families who thrive on adventure. These gentle giants, known for their loving nature and remarkable intelligence, are perfect for those seeking both a family protector and a playful companion. From the majestic Great Dane to the protective Anatolian Shepherd, these breeds excel in offering affection and enthusiasm for active lifestyles. Discover the unique traits, energy levels, and care needs of the nine best XL dog breeds, ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling addition to your family dynamic and daily adventures.
If you’re looking for a dog that’s not only big but also in heart, giant dog breeds are an excellent choice. Often called “gentle giants,” these dogs are known for their loving personalities, loyalty, and calm temperaments.
Despite their massive size, breeds like the Great Dane, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Saint Bernard are incredibly affectionate and patient, making them perfect companions for families, kids, and even other pets. Originally bred for guarding, working alongside shepherds, or providing companionship, these large dogs bring a special kind of love to any home.
However, caring for a giant breed does come with a unique set of responsibilities. Their massive size means they need more space, proper training from an early age, and a nutritious diet to stay healthy.
Whether you have an active lifestyle or simply want a loyal protector, these big dogs as listed by the AKC have so much to offer. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best XL dog breeds, what makes them stand out from other giant breeds, their personalities, and tips to help them thrive as the gentle giants of your family.
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a majestic, large dog with a thick double coat that’s usually pure white, though some have gray or tan markings. Standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing between 85–160 pounds, they carry a regal, lion-like mane that makes them hard to miss according to the Great Pyrenees Club of America (GPCA).
Despite their massive size, these dogs are calm, gentle, and affectionate—perfect for families, especially those with small children. They’re incredibly loyal and have an instinct to protect their loved ones, a trait they developed while working alongside shepherds as livestock guardians.
When it comes to exercise, they’re moderate in their needs. They enjoy leisurely walks, playtime in a fenced yard, or even just patrolling the property, but they’re not overly energetic.
Early training and socialization are essential because this breed is independent and strong-willed, though their intelligence makes them quick learners when handled with patience and consistency.
Health-wise, they’re prone to hip dysplasia and bloat, so regular vet checkups, joint supplements, and a balanced diet are a must. Their thick coat requires regular brushing to keep shedding under control, and they thrive in larger living spaces where they have room to move comfortably.
With an average life expectancy of 10–12 years, the Great Pyrenees can bring years of joy and protection to any family. If you’re looking for a calm, loyal, and protective companion with a heart as big as their size, the Great Pyrenees might be your perfect match.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a powerful, muscular dog with a massive head and a short, smooth coat that’s typically a deep reddish-brown.
Weighing around 99–110 pounds and standing 23–27 inches tall, they have a striking, wrinkled face and a broad chest that showcases their strength. Don’t let their imposing looks fool you—this breed is a gentle, affectionate giant that forms strong bonds with its family.
They’re known for being calm, loyal, and excellent with children, though their natural protective instincts make them outstanding watchdogs as well.
While they’re not overly active, the Dogue de Bordeaux still needs daily walks and light playtime to keep them healthy. Because of their size and short snouts, avoid overexerting them, especially in hot weather, as they’re prone to overheating as mentioned by WebMD.
Early training and socialization are key since this breed can be stubborn and strong-willed. Consistency and positive reinforcement will help them grow into well-mannered companions.
Health concerns for this breed include hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart issues, so regular vet visits and a nutritious diet are vital. Their short coat is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional grooming.
While they’re adaptable indoors, they need a home with enough space to accommodate their size and a secure yard for light activity.
With a shorter lifespan of 5–8 years, the Dogue de Bordeaux makes up for it with unmatched loyalty and affection.
If you’re looking for a gentle, loving protector who’s as devoted as they are strong, this breed will be an incredible addition to your family.
Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is a big, rugged dog with a muscular build, weighing 90–150 pounds and standing up to 29 inches tall. They have a short, dense coat, often fawn or brindle with a distinctive black mask that gives them a noble, no-nonsense look.
Here’s the best part: they’re natural protectors, fiercely loyal to their families and incredibly gentle with children when raised properly.
While they love having space to roam, they’re not overly energetic—regular walks and time in a fenced yard keep them happy. However, early training and socialization are non-negotiable. They’re intelligent but independent, so consistency is key to shaping their strong will.
Health-wise, they’re fairly robust, though hip dysplasia and bloat can pop up, so regular vet visits are important. These dogs need larger living spaces, especially if you want to see them in their element—calm, confident, and watchful.
With a life expectancy of 11–13 years, they’re in it for the long haul. Sounds like a lot of work? Maybe. But wait, there’s more! If you want a loyal, low-maintenance guardian who’ll watch over your family like a pro, the Anatolian Shepherd is the breed for you.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, often called the “bodyguard dog,” is a powerful breed with a short, sleek coat and a muscular frame that can weigh up to 120 pounds. They look like they mean business, and for good reason—they’re incredibly protective.
But here’s the good part: behind their tough exterior is a loyal, loving dog that adores its family and behaves beautifully with kids when trained early as per Britannica.
These dogs thrive with regular exercise, like brisk walks, play sessions, or mental challenges to keep them sharp. Early socialization is a must—without it, their strong-willed nature can get tricky.
Although intelligent and eager to please, they need confident owners who’ll guide them with structure and patience. Health-wise, hip dysplasia and bloat are common, so a balanced diet and routine checkups are key. Cane Corsos are happiest with plenty of space to roam and a family who values their protective instincts.
With a lifespan of 9–12 years, this breed will stand by your side—literally and figuratively. Sounds crazy, right? But if you want a loving, fearless companion who’ll guard your home and heart, the Cane Corso won’t disappoint.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a stunning, big dog with a thick double coat of black, white, and rust that gives them a regal yet cuddly look. Weighing between 80–115 pounds, they’re the ultimate “gentle giants” with a heart full of love for their family.
Here’s the best part: they’re patient, affectionate, and amazing with kids and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.
Although they’re calm indoors, these dogs need daily walks and outdoor adventures to burn off energy—think hikes or playful romps in the yard. Early training and socialization? Non-negotiable.
They’re eager to please, but their size makes good manners a must. Health-wise, Gastric dilation volvulus and shorter lifespans can be an issue, but regular vet visits and joint supplements will go a long way. And yes, they’ll need brushing—that double coat sheds a lot.
With a life expectancy of 7–10 years, the Bernese Mountain Dog will shower you with love every single day. Exactly the kind of loyal, affectionate companion every family dreams of, right?
Great Dane
The Great Dane isn’t just a dog—it’s practically a small horse, standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing between 100–175 pounds. Sounds intimidating, right?
But wait, there’s more! Despite their massive size, they’re total sweethearts with a gentle, loving nature. They adore kids, get along with other pets, and are happiest lounging on the couch like they’re still puppies.
Daily walks and play sessions are plenty for these giants, but avoid overexerting them, especially when they’re young as per PDSA. Training at an early age is essential—after all, you don’t want a 150-pound dog pulling on the leash!
Health can get tricky with issues like bloat and heart problems, so proper feeding routines and regular checkups are key.
Moreover, they adapt surprisingly well to indoor living as long as they have enough space to stretch their long legs.
The Great Dane’s lifespan is 7–10 years, and while that’s short, they’ll fill every day with love and loyalty. They’re proof that sometimes, the biggest dogs have the biggest hearts.
Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier is a powerful, muscular breed with a thick black coat that gives them a confident,lion-like appearance. At 80–145 pounds, they’re big, bold, and built for work.
But here’s the twist: while they look like serious guard dogs, they’re also affectionate, incredibly loyal, and great with kids—when properly socialized.
Exercise is a must for this breed; they thrive on daily walks, training sessions, and activities that challenge their sharp minds. Exactly why early training and socialization are so important—these dogs are intelligent but strong-willed, so consistency is key.
Health-wise, they’re generally sturdy but can face hip dysplasia and joint issues, so a balanced diet and routine checkups matter.
While they need space to move and play, Black Russian Terriers adapt well to family life as long as they stay busy. With a lifespan of 10–12 years, they’re protective, loyal, and endlessly devoted—everything you’d want in a four-legged guardian.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is truly the tallest breed out there—standing up to 32 inches tall, they’re like a gentle giant straight out of mythology. Their rough, double coat comes in shades of gray, brindle, or fawn, and while their size might seem intimidating, their calm and gentle temperament makes them absolute sweethearts.
They’re great with kids, other dogs, and even smaller breeds—sounds crazy, right? But it’s true! They’re affectionate, sensitive, and surprisingly mellow.
While they don’t need intense exercise, regular daily walks and some outdoor playtime will keep them happy. However, early socialization and training are key because, let’s face it, a dog this size with bad manners could be chaos according to PetMD.
Health-wise, they’re prone to heart conditions and bloat, so keep an eye on their feeding routines and avoid overexertion. They do best in larger living spaces, where their long legs can stretch out comfortably, but they’ll happily lounge indoors too—often curled up like a small horse.
With a life expectancy of 6–8 years, their time may be shorter, but they fill those years with loyalty and love. If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate dog that turns heads wherever they go, the Irish Wolfhound is your perfect gentle giant.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a powerhouse of a dog, weighing up to 130 pounds with a solid, muscular build and a short, smooth coat that’s low-maintenance. They were originally bred to guard estates, and here’s the good part: they’re protective without being overly aggressive.
While they’ll keep watch, they’re also calm, loving, and fantastic with small children when raised together. Exactly the kind of balance you want in a family guardian.
Exercise? They’re not marathon runners, but they do need daily exercise—think brisk walks, playtime, or a bit of light training. Early socialization and early training are essential for this strong-willed, powerful breed, as they need to know who’s in charge as recommended by the AKC.
Health issues like hip dysplasia and bloat can arise, so maintaining a healthy weight and routine vet visits is key. And here’s the thing: they adapt well to homes with more space, but as long as they get their exercise, they’ll happily nap the day away indoors.
With a life expectancy of 7–9 years, the Bullmastiff is a loyal, low-maintenance dog that’s ready to protect and love you unconditionally. If you want a powerful breed with a soft heart and gentle temperament, look no further—this big dog’s got you covered.
Conclusion
In the world of large dog breeds, there’s truly something special about these gentle giants. Whether it’s the protective Bullmastiff, the loyal Irish Wolfhound, or the regal Neapolitan Mastiff, each individual dog brings its own charm, loyalty, and gentle disposition into your life.
Sure, they’re big—sometimes powerful dogs that stand tall on their strong hind legs—but they have even bigger hearts. Raised properly from young puppies, these dogs make great companions for families, children, and even other pets, proving that size doesn’t mean they can’t be great pets for small homes or busy lives.
Caring for such a working dog comes with its challenges, from managing health problems like joint issues to ensuring you’re ready for the financial commitment of feeding these lovable giants.
Keep in mind that very young puppies of these giant breeds require extra care and attention to ensure they grow up healthy, happy, and well-socialized. Unlike small dogs, who stay tiny throughout their lives, these puppies can quickly grow into large, lovable companions.
But wait, here’s the good part: their gentleness, loyalty, and natural ability to bond with families far outweigh the effort. Whether they’re splashing through water with their webbed feet or cuddling up during cold weather, these dogs are truly suited for anyone who wants a lifelong friend.
At the end of the day, a giant breed doesn’t just take up space—they take up a huge spot in your heart. They’re not just pets; they’re excellent companions who bring warmth, love, and a touch of magic into your home.
So, if you’re ready to open your life to one of these fully grown giants, you’ll be rewarded with unwavering loyalty, endless affection, and a best friend like no other. Because let’s face it—life is better with a gentle giant by your side. Exactly.
In conclusion, selecting the right XL dog breed for families and active homes involves considering the unique traits and energy levels of each breed. Among the nine best, breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Bernese Mountain Dog stand out for their friendliness, intelligence, and adaptability. These dogs not only thrive in active environments but also display a remarkable bond with children and family members. While larger breeds often require more space and exercise, their loyal and protective nature makes them wonderful companions. Ultimately, choosing the right XL breed can enhance family life with unconditional love and endless adventures.