11 Large Dog Breeds Perfect for First-Time Owners
If you are thinking about becoming a dog parent, congratulations. However, if this is your first dog and you do not have much experience, it is advisable to choose an easygoing breed.
In this article, we will talk about the best 11 large dog breeds that are good for novice owners.
1. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a fancy-looking Scottish gundog with a lustrous golden coat. The breed is exceptionally smart. In fact, the first three dogs to win the AKC Obedience Champion titles were Golden Retrievers. Today, Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds and are used as skilled work dogs and affectionate companions.
Personality Traits: Friendly, Devoted, Intelligent
Trainability: 5 out of 5
Energy Level: 3 out of 5
Barking Levels: 1 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 10-12 years
2. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner hails from Germany and is popularly called “Grey Ghost” due to its coat color. They are also very attached to the owner, hence the moniker ghost - they will follow the owner everywhere. Developed in the early 19th century, the breed is quite young yet well-known and prized.
Personality Traits: Obedient, Friendly, Fearless
Trainability: 5 out of 5
Energy Level: 5 out of 5
Barking Level: 3 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 10-13 years
3. Boxer
The Boxer is an athletic and highly spirited dog. Its ancestors were fighting dogs that lived in the valleys of Tibet and were later used for hunting boars and stag. The modern Boxer is a beloved companion, and because of its always playful nature, it is known as the eternal child of the canine world.
Personality Traits: Bright, Fun-Loving, Active
Trainability: 4 out of 5
Energy Level: 4 out of 5
Barking Level: 3 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 10-12 years
4. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland radiates power and majesty. However, behind the intimidating size, there is a sweet-tempered and gentle dog that adores its human family. The breed was originally used for search and rescue missions in water. Even today, it is considered the most reliable water rescuer.
Personality Traits: Patient, Devoted, Sweet
Trainability: 3 out of 5
Energy Level: 3 out of 5
Barking Level: 1 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 9-10 years
5. Standard Poodle
The Poodle is the national dog of France. And for a good reason - the breed is stylish and a synonym for elegance and dignity. The hallmark of the Poodle is the curly coat. Interestingly, Poodles are considered hypoallergenic, meaning they do not shed much and are unlikely to cause allergies in sensitive people.
Personality Traits: Active, Very Smart, Proud
Trainability: 5 out of 5
Energy Level: 4 out of 5
Barking Level: 4 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 10-18 years
6. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie is a fun-loving, shaggy-coated dog that enjoys outdoor life and activities. The breed hails from Scotland, where it was used as a herding and droving dog. The exact ancestry of the Bearded Collie is unknown, but the theory is that it is descended from the eye-catching Magyar Komondor.
Personality Traits: Charismatic, Smart, Bouncy
Trainability: 3 out of 5
Energy Level: 4 out of 5
Barking Level: 5 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 12-14 years
7. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. This is because of their lovely nature, easy trainability, and cute face. The Lab is also one of the friendliest breeds in the dogdom. The original role of the breed was to retrieve ducks. However, today, it enjoys the status of a pet dog.
Personality Traits: Friendly, Outgoing, Active
Trainability: 5 out of 5
Energy Level: 5 out of 5
Barking Level: 3 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 11-13 years
8. Bernese Mountain Dog
Coming from Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain dog is a sturdy, powerful, and hard-working dog. The hallmark of the breed is the tri-colored coat that features black, white, and rust. Despite the formidable size, the Bernese Mountain dog is gentle and affectionate, especially with children.
Personality Traits: Calm, Strong, Good-Natured
Trainability: 4 out of 5
Energy Level: 4 out of 5
Barking Level: 3 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 7-10 years
9. Great Dane
The Great Dane is the largest breed in the dogdom. This explains the word great in the breed’s name. However, the word Dane is not understood as the breed is from Germany, not Denmark. Because of its physique, the Great Dane is known as the “Apollo of Dogs.”
Personality Traits: Dependable, Friendly, Patient
Trainability: 3 out of 5
Energy Level: 4 out of 5
Barking Level: 3 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 7-10 years
10. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a particularly popular dog breed. Because of its sharp mind and learning skills, it is used to perform many tasks - from service dogs to emotional support dogs. The German Shepherd is a recognizable breed, and the TV character Rin Tin Tin was also a member of this breed.
Personality Traits: Confident, Courageous, Smart
Trainability: 5 out of 5
Energy Level: 5 out of 5
Barking Level: 3 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 7-10 years
11. Mastiff
The Mastiff is a well-muscled and heavy-boned dog that can easily outweigh a fully grown man. However, the size is just a mask, as it is extremely gentle with its humans. Mastiffs also make excellent protectors. The exact history of the Mastiff is unknown, but it is considered to be an ancient breed.
Personality Traits: Dignified, Good-Natured, Courageous
Trainability: 3 out of 5
Energy Level: 3 out of 5
Barking Level: 1 out of 5
Average Lifespan: 6-10 years
Conclusion
All of the above-described breeds are excellent choices for novice owners. They are trainable, responsive, and generally easygoing.
Still, raising a dog can be a challenging task. If you ever find yourself wondering about something or simply having a dilemma, do not hesitate to consult with a veterinarian or dog trainer.
