8 Best Giant Dog Breeds for Kids: Gentle Giants Perfect for Families
Are you considering a giant dog breed for your family? Many large breeds are surprisingly gentle, affectionate, and protective, making them fantastic companions for kids. Here’s our list of the eight best giant dog breeds for families with children, highlighting their temperaments, care needs, and why they’re great for kids.
Table of Contents
- Great Dane
- Newfoundland
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Saint Bernard
- Irish Wolfhound
- Leonberger
- Mastiff
- Tibetan Mastiff
Comparison Table: Giant Dog Breeds for Kids
| Dog Breed | Size (Height & Weight) | Temperament | Kid-Friendly Traits | Care Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Dane | 28-34 inches, 110-175 lbs | Friendly, gentle, patient | Calm demeanor, affectionate | Low grooming, moderate exercise |
| Newfoundland | 26-28 inches, 100-150 lbs | Gentle, protective, loyal | "Nanny dog," enjoys water | High grooming, moderate exercise |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 23-27 inches, 80-115 lbs | Affectionate, loyal, calm | Friendly, loves family time | High grooming, moderate exercise |
| Saint Bernard | 26-30 inches, 120-180 lbs | Gentle, friendly, protective | Very patient, calm with kids | Moderate grooming, low exercise |
| Irish Wolfhound | 30-34 inches, 110-180 lbs | Calm, gentle, friendly | Affectionate, easygoing | Moderate grooming, moderate exercise |
| Leonberger | 25-31 inches, 90-170 lbs | Playful, friendly, loyal | Loves kids, gentle yet protective | High grooming, high exercise |
| Mastiff | 27-32 inches, 120-230 lbs | Loyal, gentle, protective | Calm indoors, devoted to family | Low grooming, low exercise |
| Tibetan Mastiff | 24-26 inches, 75-160 lbs | Independent, protective | Alert with kids, very loyal | High grooming, moderate exercise |
1. Great Dane
Alt text: Gentle giant Great Dane dog playing with children in the yard.
Why They’re Great for Kids: Known as the "gentle giant," Great Danes are famously affectionate and calm, despite their imposing size. They have a soft spot for kids and love being close to family, making them a fantastic choice for families seeking a large, loyal dog.
- Size: 28-34 inches tall, 110-175 pounds
- Temperament: Friendly, patient, gentle
- Exercise Needs: Moderate – daily walks and occasional playtime
- Living Space: Spacious homes with room to move
Care Tips: Great Danes benefit from gentle, consistent training and early socialization to prevent shyness around strangers. Routine vet visits are crucial due to potential joint and heart issues common in giant breeds.
2. Newfoundland
Alt text: Large Newfoundland dog swimming with kids, showing its love for water.
Why They’re Great for Kids: Nicknamed the “nanny dog,” Newfoundlands are famously gentle and protective around children. They’re strong swimmers and love water, making them a great fit for families who live near lakes or pools.
- Size: 26-28 inches tall, 100-150 pounds
- Temperament: Gentle, protective, affectionate
- Exercise Needs: Moderate – daily walks and swimming
- Living Space: Needs ample indoor and outdoor space
Care Tips: Their thick coats need regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons. Newfoundlands are also known to drool, so keep towels on hand. Their protective nature means early socialization is essential.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Alt text: Bernese Mountain Dog resting with children, displaying calm temperament.
Why They’re Great for Kids: Known for their friendly and calm demeanor, Bernese Mountain Dogs are affectionate and gentle with family members, making them ideal companions for kids. They are often eager to join family activities without being overly excited.
- Size: 23-27 inches tall, 80-115 pounds
- Temperament: Calm, affectionate, loyal
- Exercise Needs: Moderate to high – daily exercise recommended
- Living Space: Needs space to roam; ideal with a yard
Care Tips: Regular brushing is required for their double coat. They’re prone to health issues like hip dysplasia, so provide joint support supplements and regular vet visits.
4. Saint Bernard
Alt text: Saint Bernard lying calmly beside children, showing its gentle side.
Why They’re Great for Kids: Saint Bernards are iconic gentle giants, known for their love and patience with children. They’re exceptionally calm and make loyal, gentle protectors of their family.
- Size: 26-30 inches tall, 120-180 pounds
- Temperament: Gentle, friendly, protective
- Exercise Needs: Moderate – daily walks
- Living Space: Requires indoor and outdoor space
Care Tips: Saint Bernards need regular grooming due to their thick coat, and they’re prone to drooling. They benefit from daily walks to maintain fitness.
FAQ: Common Questions About Giant Dog Breeds and Kids
Are Giant Dog Breeds Safe for Kids?
Yes, many giant breeds like Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Great Danes are known for their gentle nature and compatibility with kids. Supervision and early training help maintain a safe and comfortable environment.
Do Giant Dog Breeds Require a Lot of Space?
Most giant breeds do need ample space to accommodate their size, though some adapt well to smaller spaces as long as they get sufficient exercise.
How Much Do Giant Dog Breeds Eat?
Large breeds typically consume more food, which can be a budget consideration. Consult with a veterinarian to ensure their diet meets all nutritional needs.
Conclusion
Bringing a giant dog breed into your family can offer years of loyalty, love, and protection. Each of the breeds on this list is known for its gentle temperament and family-friendly nature, especially with children. With the right care, training, and space, a giant breed could be a perfect addition to your household!
For more guidance on giant dog breeds and family pet choices, check out resources like the AKC website or connect with local pet rescues to find your family’s ideal gentle giant.
