W. R. Purche

The basics, what makes them unique and why they fit into your lifestyle.
Big Dog’s Blog is for all Big Dog Breeds, all Big Dog Lovers.
For single or multiple breed families, whether Gotcha Day is at a Breeder’s facility or shelter and covers puppyhood to senior care.
We love purebreds, we love mutts, we’re simply in love with Big Dogs!
(we also like small dogs, cats, donkeys, goats, chickens…….)

Loyal, muscular bodyguards at around 100-150lbs. will protect family, children, even other pets. They are extremely independent, doing their job- guarding livestock- without needing supervision or interference. Because of this, the ESA used them to deter endangered predators preventing them from needing to be put down.

Berners are big, 75-115lbs. and built for hard work. Farm dogs for thousands of years, pulling carts and working the land beside their owners. The other side of them is an affectionate, intelligent, gentle, beautiful character. A striking, silky, tri color double coat needs regular brushing and will shed. Berners are active, want to be with their family 24/7 and need gentle training.

Incredibly athletic, confident and dominant, these hunting dogs were turned to guardians. Loyal to their owners and children in the family and not many others.

A Bulldog and Mastiff cross, imposing yet loving, they are masters of contradictions. Incredibly kind and patient but large and muscular at around 100lbs. Bred to guard - without barking or biting, their job was to quietly track and control. Despite their size, they only have a moderate energy level and easy upkeep.

With stunning looks and a physically commanding size, the Cane Corso

The oldest of the French dog breeds, they are deeply devoted to their owners, courageous, protective and affectionate. Just how they were portrayed in the role that brought them to the attention of Americans - Turner & Hooch.

Considered the father of the majority of the giant breeds. The English Mastiff is largest combining height and weight, averaging over 200lbs. With this heavy sturdy body, many were used as guard dogs, war dogs and hunters.

Imposing size, 100 - 175lbs./sweet, affectionate/elegant, guard dog/good with children, Danes have it all! They are goofy people pleasers with the looks to match but big enough to hunt wild boar and easily guard their families. Easy grooming, moderate exercise levels.

Immensely powerful livestock guardians, these “dogs of the mountains” fit in best on snow caps with their thick white coats. Today they are calm yet protective, independent, energetic and nurturing family members. 100lb. nocturnal guards.

Today’s dignified, kind, sweethearts were once big game hunters capable of putting down wolves. Tallest of all dog breeds, they also weigh in at a hefty 150lbs average. Loving, loyal companions that are very athletic.

These gorgeous giants are true family dogs, loving their people religiously. Called “lean on bergers“ for a reason! Around 150lbs with beautiful coats, athletic bodies and the sweetest of temperaments. Webbed feet for serious swimming, but any activity you suggest will be met with enthusiastic fervor.

Massive, muscular and mopey, their surge in popularity came again after Harry Potter introduced Fang to a new generation. Though bestial is even in their standard, these beasts are docile, loving and loyal to their family, especially children. All 200lbs will be in your lap as much as possible!

Newfies are both sweet tempered nannys and
150lb working dogs. Meant for water with webbed feet, an oily, double coat, a large lung capacity and a special talent for choppy waves rescues. High energy levels with a love for water and land sports and activities.

As a guardian breed, they have a low prey drive and love families, children, other pets, livestock and cautiously, strangers! 120-170lbs. these gentle, Mastiff giants are independent but loyal.

Known as the rescue dog of the Swiss Alps, these genial giants were a welcome sight for snow stranded or buried travelers. They are watchful, gentle and careful around children. Their muscular body and weight of 120 to 180lbs. belies the friendly nature of this monstrous dog.

The royal dog of Scotland, is among the tallest dog breeds. Though in looks it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between the Deerhound and Irish Wolfhound, the Deerhound is similar to the greyhound. A dignified, gentle companion but quicker-witted. Enjoys their humans and plays somewhat like they hunt.

Another of the massive Mastiffs, at around 200lbs., their rustic beauty includes intelligence, affectionate, kind, noble and fierce protectiveness. Whether they are guarding home or herd, they are sure of themselves and their enormous power.

Seemingly the largest of the giant breeds, this aloof and intimidating ancient Mastiff is gentle and loving in the home. Wary and suspicious outside of it. Their long, dense double coat belies their actual size of 100-150lbs., making them seem twice their size.

Stunningly beautiful, but behind their regal appearance, their coats were important to protect against harsh mountainous climates. Huge paws serve as shock absorbers on the terrain. They are known for their deep loyalty, independent thinking and downright silliness.

70 - 130lbs of profound loyalty, dignity and courage. In their native country of Japan, they stand for happiness, long life and good health.
Though wary of strangers and other dogs, they are silly and affectionate with family and friends, loving human companionship.

Under the Northern Lights is one of the oldest sled dog breeds, the Mal. With powerful shoulders, a deep chest and weatherproof coat, they are ready for and enjoy hard work. After work, they love their family time. Playful, friendly and gentle with children.

The Sherlock Holmes of K-9’s, they are the best at using their nose and an unstoppable force on a scent. Off leash they are droopy, docile droolers. Although around a hundred pounds and powerful, they are also sensitive and loyal.

Majestic, smart and powerful, Dobermans are at the top of all the lists. A great family dog, loyal protectors, good with children and fearless. And energetic- they need lots of exercise and room to run and play.

It’s been written so many times “Bold and valiant“, it’s in their standard. Striking should be included also, with prominent eyebrows and beard, the breed’s largest body at close to a hundred pounds and the traditional coloring of black or salt and pepper. Loving with family.

One of America’s most popular dog breeds, the retriever works and plays hard. Obedience, rescue, retriever and service dog are some of their talents and all around good family dogs their benefits. Add in loyalty, good looks and happy go lucky!

Obviously known for their speed, they are noble, gentle and sweet tempered. Independent and intelligent. Loving to family and other family pets. The lightest and quickest of all large breeds, bred to chase down and retrieve game in Egypt and sit beside royalty for their form and beauty.

Not officially considered a large breed, but at their weight and head size, should be!