10 Most Popular Large Dog Breeds in 2026 (With Info & Pictures)

Many people may dote on toy dog breeds and small dogs, but there are plenty of adorable large dog breeds that have captured people’s hearts. In fact, one of the most popular dog breed happens to be a large dog.

We’ve done our research and compiled a list of the top 10 most popular large dog breeds. Most of our data come from the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) ranking list.¹ While we love all kinds of dogs, we’ll be taking this moment to celebrate large dog breeds and give them the recognition that they deserve.

The 10 Most Popular Large Dog Breeds

1. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever was America’s most popular dog for 31 consecutive years, and with good reason. These lovable large dogs are extremely attentive, loyal, and adaptable. They can accompany you on all sorts of outdoor activities, and they’re also perfectly content laying on the couch and watching TV with you.

While Labrador Retrievers are wonderful companion dogs, many also become very successful service dogs and have admirable careers in helping people with all kinds of jobs. We wouldn’t be surprised if we continue to see this dog breed on the top of the list because of its versatility and ability to form strong bonds with humans.

2. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is another American favorite and is consistently in close competition with the Labrador Retriever. In fact, it was the most popular dog breed in some cities, including Boston, Denver, and Nashville.

Many people love the Golden Retriever for its easygoing attitude and love for people. This dog breed loves attention and knows how to get it from both people and other dogs. They’re extremely charming, and they’re also easy to train. So, it’s no surprise that they’re so popular.

3. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is another popular household pet in the US, and it also ranks high in Canada as well. This dog breed is known for its intelligence and loyalty. While they can become great companion dogs, German Shepherds excel as working dogs. Their bravery and stamina have led them to be the all-time winningest breed of the Awards for Canine Excellence (ACE) with a total of 13 awards.

Although German Shepherds have wonderful characteristics, they do require an experienced owner who can provide firm, fair, and consistent training. These dogs can be willful, so it’s important to develop a strong relationship of mutual respect.

4. Poodle

Poodles come in various colors and sizes. The Standard Poodle is both a showstopper and a sweetheart. This wonderful dog breed is intelligent and eager to please the ones they love. They’re relatively easy to train, so they’re great dogs for first-time dog owners.

While Poodles are often thought of as show dogs, their origin lies in retrieving waterfowl. So, these dogs have a large mental and physical capacity and must have plenty of opportunities to exercise their minds and bodies.

5. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a very capable dog that was originally bred as cattle drivers. You can now find many of them working as police dogs and military dogs. Once you earn a Rottweiler’s trust, you’ll find a lifelong friend with undying loyalty.

These dogs have remarkable protective instincts, and these instincts need to be harnessed to prevent them from becoming possessive and aggressive. Firm and consistent training is a must for this dog breed. Despite their intimidating size and appearance, these dogs can be playful and doting with proper training and socialization.

6. German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers were originally bred for hunting. They still remain as popular hunting dogs because of their ability to retrieve both on land and from water. As their name states, they’re also great at learning to become pointers.

This dog breed is extremely athletic and energetic, and it loves spending time with its humans. So, this dog is perfect for people who live active lifestyles and can take them out regularly for hiking, hunting, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

7. Boxer

The Boxer comes from an ancient line of Assyrian war dogs, but now it’s one of the most popular dogs in the US. A Boxer can be silly and playful around their loved ones and immediately switch to being a fearless guardian and protective watchdog if they sense a threat.

These dogs can also be curious and mischievous. So, it’s important to offer plenty of exercise opportunities and enrichment activities to keep them from boredom. Boxers tend to mature slower than other dogs, so you can expect to have a happy puppy in your life for several years.

8. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is a sleek and regal dog. While they’re often stereotyped as fierce and aggressive dogs, Doberman Pinschers can actually be very gentle and loving. They love being a part of the action and included in family activities.

Doberman Pinschers do require an owner that can invest in proper training, and they also need a lot of exercise. Due to their large size and athletic build, they can easily destroy furniture and rooms if they develop destructive habits due to boredom.

9. Great Dane

Not all dogs are athletic and rambunctious. Great Danes are truly the gentle giants of the dog world. They’re extremely affectionate and aren’t known to be high-energy dogs. Despite their large size, many Great Danes are gentle with children and easily get along with other dogs.

This dog breed is very people-oriented and loves receiving attention. So, don’t be surprised if you find a Great Dane that prefers to be a lap dog and demands pets from you.

10. Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a beautiful dog that’s known for its striking eyes. This dog breed was originally bred as sled dogs, so they’re powerhouses that are capable of doing all kinds of work. Siberian Huskies are also very intelligent and active, so they need a lot of exercise and play sessions. They can also be difficult to train because of their independent streak.

This dog breed rose to popularity due to Game of Thrones. However, many Siberian Huskies were relinquished for adoption or abandoned due to their special care needs. Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog rescue group, saw a 420% increase of Siberian Huskies that came into their care from 2010 to 2018.

Final Thoughts

Large dog breeds may be intimidating in size, but many of them are very sweet and good-natured. A lot of the most popular large dog breeds are wonderful companion dogs and service dogs. So, we’re happy to give them the recognition that they deserve, and we look forward to seeing them continue to achieve high rankings for many more years to come.

See Also:

• 9 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Virginia
• 7 Most Popular Dog Breeds in Arizona: Update (With Pictures)

Featured Image Credit: Glass_Burin P, Shutterstock