18 Big Black Dog Breeds You Will Love

Are you a black dog lover and wish to own one who will steal your heart away?

Of course, all dogs are special, yet there is something special about the big black dog breeds, making them the dominant gene and extremely attractive.

Black canines can give off a variety of impressions: some appear royal and elegant, while others appear during or menacing. In addition, their personalities differ depending on their coat or color. Some may keep to the breed’s broad temperament description, but it all relies on the particular dog’s upbringing and behavior.

We have made a list of top big black dog breeds that will surely melt your heart away. Let’s begin!

Things to Consider When Looking for a Large Dog Breed

Being a dog parent can be one of the most fulfilling experiences in life, but also one that is a big responsibility. Before bringing a dog home, you need to understand its needs and requirements to best provide for your beloved pet.

Here are some factors to consider when looking for a large dog breed.

1. Color

If you specifically want a black color dog, then look for breeds that have black as one of their standard colors.

If the dogs are available in several colors, breeders may opt for unethical means to breed dogs of a specific color. This may lead to dogs having a higher chance of genetic disorders.

2. Health

Large dog breeds are more prone to certain health conditions because of their size. For example, large dogs are more prone to elbow and hip dysplasia than smaller dogs.

Arthritis, hypothyroidism, bloating, entropion, and cherry eye are some of the other common health concerns large dogs may face.

You need to be prepared to maintain their lifestyle, manage symptoms, and keep up with regular vet visits.

3. Diet and Exercise

All dogs depending on their size, breed, health, and age, have certain diet and exercise needs. For example, large dog breeds should consume a minimum of 30% quality protein in their diet.

Another example is in terms of exercise. Labrador Retrievers need 60 to 90 minutes of exercise. Running, playing fetch, and swimming are their favorite activities.

 On the other hand, Great Danes also need good exercise, but the activities should be limited to brisk walks. Avoid rigorous exercise of your canine buddy around mealtimes as they are prone to bloating.

4. Space

Large dogs need enough space to sit, sleep, laze and play around. For example, Newfoundlands are a large breed that will do good for homes with a big yard and ample space to run around.

If you house them in a small apartment with kids, there are chances of the dog accidentally stumbling into the kids, furniture, and other objects.

So, you need to consider the safety of both the pet and your family.

18 Big Black Dog Breeds

Ranking	Name	Height	Weight	Life Span	Breed Size	Temperament	Origin
1	Rottweiler	28 - 32 inches	80 - 135 lbs	9 - 10 years	Medium to Large	Strong, Faithful, Affectionate	Germany
2	Retriever Labrador	23 - 27 inches	55 - 80 lbs	11- 13 years	Medium to Large	Friendly, , Outgoing, Cheerful	Newfoundland
3	Great Dane	21.5 - 24.5 inches	110 - 175 lbs	7 - 10 years	Large	Patient, Trustworthy, Sociable	Germany
4	Black and Tan Coonhound	24 - 28 inches	65 -110 lbs	10 -12 years	Medium to Large	Carefree, Upbeat, Courageous	USA
5	Dutch Shepherd	23.5 - 27.5 inches	42 - 75 pounds	11 - 14 years	Medium to Large	Active, Strong, Intuitive	Netherlands
6	Doberman Pinscher	Over 15 inches	60 - 100 lbs	10 - 12 years	Medium to Large	Faithful, Vigilant, Brave	Germany
7	Giant Schnauzer	26 - 28 inches	55 - 85 pounds	11 - 14 years	Medium to Large	Loyal, Vigilant, Obedient	Germany
8	Poodle	23.5 - 27.5 inches	40 - 70 lbs	12 - 15 years	Small to Medium	Proud, Wise, Kind	France, Germany
9	Newfoundland	22 - 26 inches	100 - 150 lbs	10 -18 years	Large	Calm, Gentle, Loyal	Newfoundland
10	Cane Corso	22 - 24.5 inches	90 - 110 lbs	9 - 10 years	Large	Respectful, Intelligent, Approachable	Italy
11	Belgian Sheepdog	26 - 30 inches	45 - 74 lbs	9 - 12 years	Medium	Sincere, Observant, Proactive	Belgium
12	Flat-Coated Retriever	23 - 27 inches	60 - 70 lbs	12 - 14 years	Medium	Joyful, Confident, Pleasant	United Kingdom
13	Black Russian Terrier	24 - 27.5 inches	80 - 130 lbs	8 - 10 years	Large	Peaceful, Athletic, Intelligent	Russia
14	Gordon Setter	23 - 27 inches	45 - 80 lbs	10 - 12 years	Medium to Large	Bold, Vivacious, Loving	Scotland
15	Beauceron	24 - 27.5 inches	70 - 110 lbs	12 - 13 years	Medium to Large	Faithful, Gentle, Adorable	France
16	Curly Coated Retriever	23 - 27 inches	60 - 95 lbs	10 - 12 years	Medium to Large	Clever, Polite, Confident	United Kingdom
17	Hovawart	23 - 28 inches	65- 90 lbs	10 -1 4 years	Medium to Large	Energetic, Intelligent, Loyal	Germany
18	Briard	22 - 27 inches	55 - 100 lbs	12 years	Medium to Large	Energetic, Intelligent, Loyal	France

1. Rottweiler

Irrespective of size, the Rottweiler is undoubtedly many dog owners’ favorite black dog breed. They’re noted for being powerful working dogs with a high level of intelligence.

Key characteristics

• Strong
• Faithful
• Affectionate

They’re perhaps one of the most popular guards and watchdogs for many families worldwide because of these attributes. As a result, few outsiders will dare to interfere with a faithful Rottweiler, up to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.

Surprisingly, they’re quiet and affectionate dogs. Rottweilers are brave and self-assured, but they aren’t unduly aggressive.

2. Labrador Retriever

Black Labrador Retrievers are great dogs in general. It’s why they top amongst the most popular big black dog breeds for the past 28 years. No one has even come close to matching this record!

Key characteristics

• Friendly
• Outgoing
• Cheerful

As you would know, Labrador Retrievers are among the sweetest dogs around. Labs know nothing except love and fun, thanks to their strong spirits and people-oriented personalities.

If you welcome a Labrador home, you may anticipate the dog soon forming close ties with the rest of the family. They do, however, require a lot of activity, as do other active large dogs.

3. Great Dane

The great Dane has got its name for all the right reasons. First, it is a magnificent dog. These enormous dogs stand 30 inches tall and weigh a whopping 180 pounds. They are, in fact, the world’s most populous dog breed.

Key characteristics

• Patient
• Trustworthy
• Sociable

Great Danes are peaceful and kind dogs, despite their enormous size. They are also excellent nanny dogs since they enjoy playing with children. They occasionally lose sight of their size and behave like lapdogs. Even if they have a kind and gentle demeanor, no one can deny that these dogs are impressive and exquisite. Great Danes with cropped ears appear much rougher and frightening.

They can bear the rowdiness of small toddlers because of their patient attitude. In addition, they can readily tolerate rough play because of their size.

4. Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound is among the big black dog breeds that are extremely versatile. They’re energetic and efficient hunters with strong work ethics on the hunt. They are, however, calm and relaxed dogs at home.

Key characteristics

• Carefree
• Upbeat
• Courageous

The nostrils of Black and Tan Coonhounds are akin to those of the Beagle. As a result, they’re best renowned for being expert trackers.

It’s important to remember that they’re friendly dogs. They enjoy being with their family, so keeping them alone for long periods is not a good idea.

5. Dutch Shepherd

Herding canines, Dutch Shepherds are recognized for their athletic build and lively personalities. In addition, they can be highly independent dogs, despite being multi-purpose farm dogs.

Key characteristics

• Active
• Strong
• Intuitive

They are unquestionably clever dogs who excel at both intuitive and cognitive intelligence. However, they are tough to train because of their independence and stubbornness.

Dutch Shepherds can make great devoted friends with patience, coaching, and socialization. If you give them jobs, they’ll thrive as family dogs.

6. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is a physically exceptional dog. They are not only large, sleek, and strong canines, but they are also among the most intelligent breeds.

Key characteristics

• Faithful
• Vigilant
• Brave

They’re well-known policing and tactical dog breeds, similar to the German Shepherd. Even if they don’t have a higher calling, Dobermanns who don’t have one use their talents to safeguard the home.

These muscular and quick dogs make excellent friends when properly trained and socialized. So it’s no surprise that they’re among the most popular big black dog breeds.

7. Giant Schnauzer

The biggest of the three schnauzer breeds is the Giant Schnauzer. They’re huge, predominantly black, weigh up to 100 pounds, and stand up to 28 inches tall.

Key characteristics

• Loyal
• Vigilant
• Obedient

These dogs are strong and courageous, as one could assume. They aren’t the brightest Schnauzers, but they are ready to please due to their great loyalty.

Today, giant Schnauzers are mostly preferred as companionship and working dogs. The Giant is noted for its rough beards, fluffy eyebrows, and tremendous amounts of activity, just like the other size variations.

8. Poodle

Poodles are highly clever canines. The Standard Poodle, which is larger, is the second smartest dog breed.

Key characteristics

• Proud
• Wise
• Kind

These canines were bred to recover objects in the water. As a result, their hypoallergenic coats seldom shed and protect essential organs from the water’s extreme cold.

Don’t be fooled; the Poodle is a fast and athletic dog breed. They have a strong desire to please others, which is why they perform so well in obedience and working tests.

9. Newfoundland

Another excellent nanny dog, the Newfoundland, is a huge black dog ideal for families with kids. They can grow as tall as 28 inches and weigh up to 150 pounds.

Key characteristics

• Calm
• Gentle
• Loyal

However, not all large dogs are frightening. These dogs may not have a single aggressive bone in their bodies. Instead, they’re recognized for having a calm demeanor and a lot of patience, which is ideal for dealing with children.

Despite their lack of aggression, Newfoundlands can be excellent watchdogs. These devoted dogs will go the extra mile to safeguard the family. These dogs deserve a top place in our list of big black dog breeds for all the good reasons.

10. Cane Corso

There are a lot of characteristics in the Cane Corso breed that make you fall in love with them. They can be traced back to the ancient Roman Empire, used as royal guard dogs.

Key characteristics

• Respectful
• Intelligent
• Approachable

These canines are bright, obedient, and have a regal presence. The Cane Corso is a fearless defender and guardian who is confident by nature. When it comes to safeguarding the family, they’re among the greatest.

Despite their imposing appearance, they’re peaceful and friendly dogs once you get to know them.

11. Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog, one of Belgium’s great herding dogs, is a clever and loyal dog who enjoys working. They do, however, require a lot of exercises to stay in shape.

Key characteristics

• Sincere
• Observant
• Proactive

Not only are these attractive dogs smart, but they are also eager to please their owners. Like many other shepherd dogs, they’ll probably do your bidding for the sake of working.

They have a long black coat with the dog’s collar, which is the fluff around the neck. Please give them a worthwhile task and send them to work!

12. Flat-Coated Retriever

Because of their puppy-like attitude, the Flat-coated Retriever has been affectionately termed the Peter Pan of dogs. They’ll be happy and cheerful dogs no matter what.

Key characteristics

• Joyful
• Confident
• Pleasant

This Retriever has a smooth coat that is normally solid black but can also be liver in color. They do have feathers on their legs, ears, and tail sometimes.

If you’re seeking a big black dog, this is the dog for you yet still enjoys puppies. They are, nevertheless, very active and would benefit from a lot of physical activity.

13. Black Russian Terrier

The Black Russian Terrier is a huge, powerful dog capable of performing the most difficult tasks. They’re well-known for their smartness, and rightly so.

Key characteristics

• Peaceful
• Athletic
• Intelligent

These canines were raised to guard the owner’s home, and they’re among the best. They’re peaceful and pleasant with friends, but they’re always wary of strangers.

They’re not just physically strong; they’ve got the wits to match. Black Russian Terriers are clever dogs who need a dominant pack leader to respect and obey.

14. Gordon Setter

Gordon Setters are one of the most adaptable big black dog breeds in the pointer dog family. They’re recognized for chasing down birds for their owners, who are hunters.

Key characteristics

• Bold
• Vivacious
• Loving

The attitude of the Gordon Setter exudes confidence and assertiveness. They are, nevertheless, sweet-natured and affectionate huge dogs on the inside. They have a good time on the field and at home.

These dogs adore being in the woods. As a result, I believe they are best suited for families or single owners who love an active lifestyle.

15. Beauceron

The Beauceron is a huge, powerful, and fast herding dog. They’re extremely obedient dogs who relish the opportunity to work for as long as they can.

Key characteristics

• Faithful
• Gentle
• Adorable

They can be friendly and compassionate dogs when they’re not on the field. As a result, they’re fierce protectors who also have a sweet disposition. It’s one of the reasons why female owners adore them.

Suppose you socialize and teach your Beauceron properly. In that case, you’ll have a fantastic guardian for your young kids, with whom they get along pretty smoothly.

16. Curly Coated Retriever

The Curly-Coated Retriever looks like the Flat-Coated Retriever but has a curly coat. They’re not only great swimmers, but they’re also some of the best gun dogs around.

Key characteristics

• Clever
• Polite
• Confident

Because of their water-resistant coats and muscular frame, they’re excellent dogs for retrieving aquatic birds. They’re comparable to the Poodle in this sense.

Curly Coated Retrievers, like other retrievers, are affectionate and have a lovely personalities. However, they could be a little obstinate because they’re inherently independent dogs.

17. Hovawart

The Hovawarts are working dogs with a variety of skills and characteristics. They may not be the most hardworking canines, but they have a fantastic sense of smell and excellent instincts.

Key characteristics

• Energetic
• Intelligent
• Loyal

They can do various jobs because of their versatility, including guarding, surveillance, search and rescue, and more. They have a lot of confidence, and that shows on the field.

These dogs take longer to mature, but they make an excellent addition to any family once they do. If properly trained, these intelligent big black dog breeds are highly dependable.

18. Briard

Briards have magnificent long hair that cascades over and hides their faces, and their name sounds strangely like a beard. However, their silly appearance is counterbalanced with a quick body and a sharp mind. Because they demand a lot of activity, this huge and tireless big black dog breed would be best suited to a family who lives on a farm or land.

Key characteristics

• Energetic
• Intelligent
• Loyal

Other Big Black Dog Breeds to Consider

The above list of large black dog breeds is not exhaustive. You can use the list as a starting point to explore dog breeds of your choice.

Here are some more dog breeds that did not make it to the list but can be a good addition to your home.

• Black German Shepherd
• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Neapolitan Mastiff
• Barbet
• Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
• Border Collie
• Afghan Hound
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Australian Kelpie
• Swedish Lapphund
• Airedale Terrier
• Groenendael

Dogs with Black Genes

Black is neither a rare nor a particularly intriguing color. However, most of the world’s most well-known and popular dog breeds are black. But why do dogs have solid black coats or a black base?

In dogs, the default melanin pigment color is black. However, if the dog does not have the genes for liver or dilution, black is the dominant color. As a result, the dog will have a black coat and a black nose but brown eyes.

The dominant black genes will be found in all solid-big black dog breeds. But, in reality, it will be present in most black canines with other markings. What’s more interesting is that this gene can be found in dogs that aren’t black, such as the Greyhound or Weimaraner.

A dog doesn’t need to acquire the dominant black gene to be black. The dilution gene, for example, transforms black into a grayish-blue tone. Both the Greyhound and the Weimaraner have this trait.

So…Which Big Black Dog Breed is Suitable for You?

Black dog breeds come in a variety of sizes and forms. Therefore, your dog’s odds of being all black or mostly black are higher than for any other coat color. The best thing is that the color of the dog’s coat has no bearing on its personality or temperament.

Whether big or small, a black dog will be a wonderful addition to any home and a delightful friend to have. There are also numerous big black dog breeds to pick from.

Which one of the black dog breeds on this list do you think will be the best fit for your family?

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