40 Big Dog Breeds We Love to Love

We love big dogs. They want to love us, protect us, play with us and make us happy. Many large dogs were bred as watch dogs, so our safety and security are their top priorities. They’ve got lots of energy but they’re also up for a good snuggle session, too.

From the shaggy Old English sheepdog to the slender greyhound, we think you’ll find the perfect big breed dog for you and your family. Here are 40 of our favorite large dog breeds that hail from all over the world and are eager to be your next forever friend.

The black Russian terrier is a large, working dog that can easily weigh nearly 140 pounds. He’s got history too, dating back to the 1930s when this doggo was genetically concocted as a patrol dog for the Russian army at a secret location in Moscow. That’s according to the American Kennel Club. It comes as no surprise then that this breed is protective and naturally standoffish with strangers, at least at first. With family, he’s as loyal and true as they come.

The Old English sheepdog is unmistakable with his thick, shaggy coat. Underneath all the fluff is a large, athletic dog that can weigh up to 90 pounds. This social dog is smart but also strong-willed at times. He loves a good romp at the local park to burn off energy. This big breed rose in popularity in the 1970s, maybe after the release of the hit film, The Shaggy D.A., in 1976. Groom this breed regularly to keep his shaggy gray and white hair from developing tangles.

The smart and sporty German wirehaired pointer came to be in Germany in the 19th century as a hunting dog. This active breed loves to get outside, especially with family and kids. He’s got loads of energy, so this dog will want to run, jump and play, but he’s also game for a good snooze on the sofa. This pointing dog has a couple of cousins too, including the German shorthaired pointer and the German longhaired pointer.