Three large dog breeds for those who are after a ‘Real Dog’
If you love large dogs then today’s post is for you. We are going to have a look at three popular large dog breeds and why you should choose them for your new pet!
1. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound
One of the oldest dogs in existence the Afghan Hound is a combination of power and elegance. This regal breed sets some real style and is dubbed the “Aristocrats” of the noble dog world.
It is distinguished by its thick, fine, silky coat and its tail with a ring curl at the end.
This regal look comes with a regal behaviour though. They are independent thinkers who don’t particularly care about pleasing you, they may display passive resistance by bracing their legs and refusing to move. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.
Is the Afghan Hound Right For You?
Afghan Hounds need access to a large fenced area — fenced because these independent dogs have been known to take off and not come back. If there is a dog club in your area, get your Afghan Hound involved in lure coursing (chasing a mechanised lure around a track or across an open field). This is an appropriate outlet for the full-speed galloping behaviours that are “hardwired” into his genes.
See our full Afghan Hound Guide
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever
The devoted and obedient family companion – the Golden retriever is everyones friend. A strong and athletic dog, the golden retriever is capable of carrying heavy game over land and water. It is an apt sporting retriever and yerns to get outside and get active. Ignoring its active nature and powerful physique can lead to behavior problems, and it needs daily physical and mental exercise.
It tends to be overly exuberant and boisterous, and its enthusiasm for everything often distracts it during training; however, it is eager to please and enjoys learning. The golden’s achievements in competitive obedience are remarkable. It especially enjoys games that involve retrieving and loves to carry items in its mouth.
Is the Golden Retriever Right For You?
This active and energetic Sporting breed can adapt to many different living situations but requires daily exercise. His water-repellant double-coat sheds seasonally and needs regular brushing. With his friendly temperament and striking golden color, this breed is both beautiful to look at and a joy to own.
See our full Golden Retriever Guide
3. Great Dane
Great Dane
The Great Dane is gentle, loving, easygoing and sensitive. It is generally good with children (although its friendly overtures may overwhelm a small child) and usually friendly toward other dogs and pets. It is powerful but sensitive and responsive to training. It makes a pleasant, well-mannered family companion.
It is square-proportioned and well-balanced. Its gait is strong and powerful with long, easy strides. These attributes are necessary in a dog required to overtake and then over-power relatively swift but formidable quarry. Its coat is short, thick and glossy.
Is the Great Dane Right For You?
Great Danes have gentle and loving dispositions, making them excellent family companions, but as with all dogs, they should be supervised around young children. Daily exercise is necessary, but their short coats require minimal grooming.
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