Best LARGE Dog Breeds

German Shepherds are working dogs originally developed for herding sheep. Because of their strength, intelligence and obedience training abilities they are often employed in police and military roles around the world. Due to their loyal and intelligently protective nature, the German Shepherd is one of the most registered of breeds. In 1993, they became the 3rd most popular breed in the United States by registration, a position the breed still holds. They were actually bred specifically for their intelligence and are considered to be the 3rd most intelligent breed of dog, according to The Intelligence of Dogs, by Stanley Coren, who in his research found that they had the ability to learn simple tasks after only 5 repetitions and obey the first command given 95% of the time. They do have a reputation for aggression and in the U.S., they are responsible for more random biting than any other breed, and should be controlled around smaller breeds of dogs. However, claims regarding their aggression are well refuted on the basis that German Shepherds represent a much higher proportion of the population than other breeds. Shepherds have a loyal nature and bond well with people they know. However, they can become over-protective of their family and territory, especially if not socialized correctly – so the trick is a lot of exposure to people and other pets, especially during the first 12 months.

Doberman Pinschers are of the most intelligent, alert, and loyal of companion dogs. Although once commonly used as guard dogs, this is far less common today. In recent decades, the Doberman Pinscher's size, short coat, and intelligence made it a desirable house dog and many contemporary North American Doberman Pinschers (vs their European counterparts, which are considered more excitable and less even in temperament) are gentle, loyal, loving, and intelligent dogs. Having personally had a Dobie for 14 years, I can say Dobie literature mentions significant scientific evidence that Doberman Pinschers have a number of stable psychological traits, including personality factors and intelligence. One study found that compared to other breeds, Doberman Pinschers rank high in playfulness, average in curiosity/fearlessness, low on aggressiveness and low on sociability. Regarding intelligence, Doberman Pinschers rank amongst the most intelligent of dog breeds in several experimental studies and expert evaluations, with Hart and Hart ranking the Doberman Pinscher 1st in intelligence, and Tortora as well as Howe ranking them highest in trainability.

Very best dogs for children! Don't need too much exercise, and are the best water dogs! Not to mention they are the very best companions!

Danes are well-known for their giant size and gentle personality, and they are considered one of the tallest dog breeds, though it never appears clumsy and resembles the grace of a horse in full stride. Because Great Danes have a fairly slow metabolism they need daily exercise the same as any other dog, and a fair amount of it. They are robust, alert and agile when needed to be. And equal to the greatness of their size is their amazing sense of personality – both Scooby-Doo and Marmaduke were appropriately and not exaggeratedly Danes – absolutely bursting with animated character! Like most giant dogs, they have a fairly slow metabolism, which results in less energy and less food consumption per pound of dog than in small breeds, but they also have some health problems that are common to large breeds, mainly and most seriously, Bloat (a painful distending and twisting of the stomach) which is a critical condition that rapidly results in death if not quickly addressed. Though there is ample information available on how to protect Danes from incurring Bloat, so don’t let fear of Bloat scare you away from the breed, just be informed. They’re worth it! In fact, with responsible care and nutrition they can live to be 12-14, rather golden in years for a giant breed.

Golden Retrievers are perhaps the most beloved of all family dogs, and are well-known for their intelligence and versatility. Their friendly, eager-to-please and patient demeanor has also made it one of the most popular family dogs (according to registration) in the world today. They are highly compatible with children – in fact are renowned for their patience with children – and are also good with other dogs, cats and most even livestock. They are also known to become excellent surrogate mothers to different species. Golden Retrievers are particularly valued for their high level of sociability towards people, calmness, and willingness to learn. Because of this, they are commonly used as guide dogs, mobility assistance dogs, and search and rescue dogs. They are friendly and tend to learn tricks easily. The typical Golden Retriever is calm, naturally intelligent and obedient, with an exceptional eagerness to please. Due to their intelligence, athleticism and desire to please their handlers, Golden Retrievers are exceptionally trainable. Golden Retrievers are noted for their intelligence, they and can learn up to 240 commands, words and phrases. In fact, Golden Retrievers rank 4th in Stanley Coren's “The Intelligence of Dogs,” making them one the brightest dogs ranked. In fact, the first AKC Obedience Trial Champion was a Golden Retriever. Harsh training methods are unnecessary as Golden Retrievers often respond very well to positive and upbeat training styles. Surprisingly, they actually do very well in small living areas, providing they get plenty of outdoor exercise. Their temperament is considered a hallmark of the breed, described as "kindly, friendly and confident". Their trusting, gentle disposition makes them a poor guard dog. They will also seemingly work until collapse, so care should be taken to avoid overworking them.

a great guard dog and a loving conpanion

there the number 1 smartest dog breed and there so beautiful. there also great at herding and love kids.

there just really beautiful and are great guard dogs

Generally extremely affectionate, friendly, quiet dogs that are low maintenance in exercise levels as well as grooming but still enjoy a good romp around the yard or dog park (that's securely fenced) Also they have a very long longevity for a large dog ranging from 12-15years!