6 Best Large Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners: Getting a dog for the first time is a really big step, and it can feel a little scary—especially if you’re thinking about a large dog. Big dogs are tall and heavy, and they might seem hard to take care of if you’ve never had a pet before.
But don’t worry! Some large dog breeds are actually perfect for beginners because they’re nice, calm, and easy to get along with. They won’t make things too hard for you while you’re learning how to be a dog owner.
Here are six large dog breeds that are great for people who are new to having dogs. They’re friendly, not too tricky to handle, and will love you a whole lot.
Also Read: 8 Hypoallergenic Small Dog Breeds You’ll Really Like
Table of Contents
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever, or “Lab” for short, weighs between 55 and 80 pounds, so it’s definitely a big dog. Labs come from a place called Newfoundland, where they used to help fishermen with their work a long time ago. These dogs are super friendly—they like almost everyone they meet, whether it’s kids, adults, or even strangers. That makes them really easy to have around.
They’re also very smart and want to make you happy, so teaching them things like “sit” or “stay” isn’t too tough, even if you’re new at it. Their fur is short and thick, so you don’t have to groom them a ton—just a quick brush now and then. Labs love going for walks, but they’re also happy to sit with you and relax. They’re a great big dog for someone just starting out.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever weighs about 55 to 75 pounds and comes from Scotland, where people used them to help hunt a long time ago. These dogs have pretty, golden fur that’s long and wavy, and they have big, gentle eyes that make you want to hug them. Golden Retrievers are really nice and patient, so they’re good for people who are new to dogs.
They don’t get upset if you make a little mistake while learning how to take care of them. They’re smart and learn commands pretty fast, which is helpful for a beginner. Their fur sheds more than a Lab’s, so you’ll need to brush them a lot, but they’re so calm and sweet that it’s worth it. They’re perfect if you want a big dog that’s easy to love.
Also Read: 5 Small Guard Dog Breeds with Big Attitudes
Boxer
Boxers weigh between 50 and 80 pounds and come from Germany. A long time ago, people used them to guard things and hunt, but today they’re just big, silly dogs who love to play. They look strong with their big muscles, but they’re really goofy and full of love. Boxers have a lot of energy, but not so much that it’s too hard to keep up with them.
They like being close to their owners and will stick by your side. Their fur is short, so you don’t have to brush them all the time—just a little bit keeps them clean. They’re not super hard to train if you practice with them regularly, and they’re great for first-time owners who want a big dog that’s fun and protective.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a really big dog—it weighs between 100 and 150 pounds! It comes from Canada, where it used to help fishermen by pulling nets and even saving people from the water. Even though they’re so huge, Newfoundlands are super calm and gentle. People call them “gentle giants” because they act like big teddy bears.
They’re patient and like to take care of their families, so they’re not hard to handle, even for new owners. Their fur is thick and fluffy, so you’ll need to brush it a lot to keep it nice. Training them is pretty easy because they’re so relaxed. If you’re okay with a really big dog and want one that’s sweet and quiet, a Newfoundland is a wonderful choice.
Greyhound
Greyhounds weigh between 60 and 70 pounds, and they’re known for being super fast because they used to race. They’ve been around for a really long time, even back in ancient days. You might think they need to run all the time, but actually, Greyhounds are pretty lazy inside the house. They love lying on the couch and being quiet, which is great for someone new to dogs.
Their fur is short and smooth, so grooming them is really easy—just a quick wipe or brush. They’re gentle and a little shy, so you have to be kind when you train them, but they’re not wild or crazy. If you want a big dog that’s peaceful and simple to care for, a Greyhound is perfect.
Also Read: 8 Exotic Dog Breeds with Breathtaking Looks
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog comes from Switzerland and weighs between 70 and 115 pounds. A long time ago, these dogs helped pull carts and watch over farms. They have thick, fluffy fur that’s black, white, and brown, and they look really pretty. Bernese Mountain Dogs, or “Berners,” are super nice and love being around people.
They’re calm and don’t get upset easily, so they’re good for first-time owners who are still figuring things out. They’re not too hard to train, and they like having a schedule to follow. Their fur needs a lot of brushing because it’s so thick, but they’re so cuddly and sweet that you won’t mind. If you want a big dog that’s warm and loving, a Berner is a great pick.
