Are you ready to meet some of the biggest, blackest pups around? Get ready to fall in love with these big, beautiful black dog breeds!
From the massive Bernese to the elegant and athletic Doberman Pinscher, these pups are sure to steal your heart.
With their striking coats and friendly personalities, it’s no wonder these breeds are so popular. So let’s get to know some of these amazing black dogs a little better, shall we?
Our Top 5 Big Black Dog Breeds
| Family Closeness | Children Friendly | Social | Dogginess Rating | |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | They are affectionate and protective of the family, without being aggressive in most cases. | Known for being patient and good-natured, and they have gentle and loving personality that makes them well-suited for households with children. | Gets along very well with cats and other dogs. | 4.5/5 |
| Black Russian Terrier | They are protective of their loved ones and will often bond closely with their owners. | If socialized correctly, they are great with children and will protect them. | The male Blackies do not do well with other dominant dogs. This makes them unsuitable for dog parks. | 3/5 |
| Greater Swiss Mountain Dog | They are loyal, affectionate and deeply devoted to their families and will do their best to keep them safe. | Although they can weigh well over 100 pounds and may unintentionally hurt tiny children due to their size, they are very gentle with kids. | They are typically good with other people and get along well with other dogs. | 4/5 |
| Doberman Pinscher | They are devoted to their owners and are gentle with children if raised with them; however, some Dobermans form attachments to only one person. | Trustworthy and devoted to their family’s children. | They are friendly towards animals in the home but can be aggressive toward dogs outside of their family if they consider them a threat. | 3.5/5 |
| Rottweiler | They are very loyal and protective of their families, and they are known for their strong bond with their owners. | They are generally good with children, but they may be too energetic for very young kids. | They can do well with other dogs and cats if they are raised with them, but they might have issues with new adult male dogs being introduced to them. | 3/5 |
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
A friendly dog with a lot of energy and love for humans, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also known as the Berner.
The ability to pull carts, herd cattle, serve as watchdogs, and make good family pets led to the selection of Bernese Mountain Dogs as the breed for all-purpose farm dogs in Switzerland.
These majestic pups are the ultimate cuddle buddies, with their soft and fluffy coats and their love of snuggles. Plus, with their striking black, white, and brown coloring, they’re sure to turn heads wherever they go.
But don’t let their good looks fool you – Bernese Mountain Dogs are also intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them the perfect companion for any adventure.
So go ahead, give a Bernese Mountain Dog a belly rub and prepare to fall in love with these big, beautiful pups.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are often considered to be “gentle giants.” They are generally calm and well-behaved, but they also have a playful side and love participating in family activities.
They are also protective of their loved ones and make excellent watchdogs.
Overall, Bernese Mountain Dogs make wonderful family pets for those who have the time and space to accommodate their size and exercise needs.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally friendly and social dogs. They are known for getting along well with other pets and people, and they love to be the center of attention.
These pups are known for being loyal and protective of their loved ones, so they may be initially wary of strangers until they get to know them.
Berners are absolute beauties, with their fluffy coats, striking black, white, and brown coloring, and those dreamy brown eyes.
They are also known for their sturdy and muscular build, thanks to their history as working dogs in the Swiss Alps.
Their head is broad with triangular-shaped ears that are set high on the head. They have a strong jaw and a black nose, and their eyes are typically dark brown.
These fluffy dogs are known for their good-natured and friendly personality, and they love nothing more than cuddling up with their favorite people.
The Bernese mountain dog is also alert and friendly. They appreciate the challenge of learning new things because they come from a working experience.
Their natural impulses to guard and labor on the farm are still present in the breed today.
The Bernese is an excellent watchdog and excels at herding and draft labor. Draft work is displayed in field trails for Bernese mountain dogs and is popular among owners nowadays.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
Bernese Mountain Dogs are generally healthy and robust dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues.
Consult your veterinarian to find out if your dog has hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease.
To help prevent or manage these health issues, it’s important to feed your Bernese Mountain Dog a high-quality diet, provide regular exercise, and schedule regular vet check-ups.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Hip Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
- Von Willebrand’s Disease DNA Test
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
You should know that these fluffy pups require a good amount of grooming to keep their coats looking and feeling their best.
First things first, you’ll need to brush your Bernese Mountain Dog regularly to prevent matting and tangles.
In terms of baths, Bernese Mountain Dogs generally only need to be bathed every few months or as needed.
You’ll also need to keep your Bernese Mountain Dog’s nails trimmed to prevent them from getting too long and causing discomfort.
Finally, don’t forget to brush your Bernese Mountain Dog’s teeth regularly to prevent dental issues.
Exercise
Bernese Mountain Dogs are active and energetic pups that need plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy.
These fluffy pups are known for their stamina, so they can handle long walks and hikes, but they also love to play and have fun.
Training
Bernese Mountain Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them a joy to train. To get the most out of training sessions, it’s important to start early, use positive reinforcement, be consistent, and make it fun.
With a little time and patience, you can train your Bernese Mountain Dog to be well-behaved and obedient. Just remember to keep it positive, be consistent, and have fun!
Nutrition
To keep your Bernese Mountain Dog happy and healthy, it’s essential to feed them a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Choose a brand that uses whole, high-quality ingredients and avoid foods that contain fillers or additives.
Measure out their food, stick to the recommended serving size, and be mindful of how many treats you give.
2. Black Russian Terrier
This breed is a true powerhouse, with a strong and muscular build that is sure to turn heads wherever they go.
Often referred to as Blackies, the Black Russian Terrier was bred as a military and police dog.
But don’t let their tough exterior fool you – these pups are also known for their playful and affectionate nature.
Whether they’re romping around the park or snuggling up on the couch, the Black Russian Terrier is the ultimate companion.
So if you’re looking for a loyal and loving furry friend, look no further! The Black Russian Terrier is here to steal your heart.
These pups are known for being loyal, protective, and devoted to their families. They make excellent guard dogs and will always have your back (literally – they’ll probably follow you around the house all day).
These pups are known for being quite confident and self-assured, which can make them a little aloof with strangers.
However, once they get to know someone, they can be quite friendly and sociable. They’re also known for getting along well with children and other pets, as long as they’ve been properly socialized from a young age.
These pups are known for their strong and muscular build, with a sturdy, rectangular-shaped body and a broad head.
They have a thick, double coat that is usually black (hence the name), but they can also come in shades of steel grey or dark brown.
Their coat is dense and waterproof, which makes them well-suited to cold weather and outdoor adventures.
And let’s not forget about those piercing eyes – Black Russian Terriers have a piercing gaze that can be quite intimidating, but don’t worry, they’re just trying to protect their loved ones.
Black Russian Terriers are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism. They are energetic and playful but also have calm and confident personality.
They are generally good with children and make great family pets, but they do require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
With their strong protective instincts, they can also make excellent guard dogs.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
Like all breeds, Black Russian Terriers are prone to certain health issues. Some of the potential health problems that they may experience include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Hip Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
- JLPP DNA Test
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
You should know that they are a high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. They have a thick, dense coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best.
To get rid of mats and tangles, they should be brushed at least once every week. Their coat should also be cut every few months.
Black Russian Terriers also require regular bathing to keep their coat clean and healthy, and their nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth.
Exercise
Black Russian Terriers are a breed that requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
They are energetic and athletic and love to run and play. It’s essential to give them at least one hour of exercise per day, but they can handle more if you can provide it.
Fetch, frisbee, agility courses, and walks and hikes are all great ways to exercise your Black Russian Terrier and keep them active.
Training
Blackies are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.
They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise, and are quick learners.
Nutrition
It is recommended to feed 3 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals.
They are a large breed and require a diet that is high in protein and nutrients to support their growth and development.
It’s essential to feed them a high-quality, age-appropriate diet formulated for large-breed dogs.
Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity, and follow the feeding guidelines on the back of the bag or can.
3. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Known as the Swissy for short, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a close relative of Bernese Mountain dogs, with the main difference between the two being their coat length.
Swissies have short hair that sheds all year round, in contrast to Berners who have thick, medium-length coats that shed seasonally.
These fluffy giants may be big in size, but they have even bigger hearts. With their striking tri-colored coats and friendly, affectionate personalities, it’s no wonder they’re often referred to as “Gentle Giants.”
So if you’re looking for a furry companion to love and protect you, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog might just be the perfect fit!
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is an all-around family dog. They love nothing more than spending quality time with their loved ones, whether it’s snuggling up on the couch or going on adventures in the great outdoors.
These pups are also incredibly patient and good-natured, making them great with kids.
These pups are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, and they love meeting new people and making new friends.
They’re also quite sociable with other animals, so if you have a multi-pet household, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog should fit right in.
These dogs are sturdy, muscular dogs that can weigh up to 140 pounds and stand over two feet tall at the shoulder.
They have a strong, powerful build and a thick, dense coat that comes in three colors: black, red, and white.
And let’s not forget those adorable floppy ears and soulful brown eyes that will melt your heart.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large, friendly, and intelligent breed known for their affectionate and outgoing personality.
They are loyal and protective of their loved ones, and they are patient and good-natured with children.
They are also highly intelligent and trainable, so they’re always up for learning new tricks or tackling challenging tasks.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
Although the Swissy does not have any breed-specific illnesses, it can experience health issues common to large-breed dogs.
Some of the health issues that Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs may be prone to include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and certain types of cancer.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Hip Evaluation
- Shoulder Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a thick, dense double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance.
They shed moderately throughout the year and require weekly brushing with a slicker brush or shedding blade.
They should be bathed every few months and have their teeth brushed regularly to prevent dental problems. Their nails should be trimmed every few weeks to maintain a healthy length.
Exercise
These dogs love going on long walks, runs, and hikes and they also enjoy playing fetch and other active games.
Just make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks because these pups can keep going and going like the Energizer Bunny!
They may be big, but they have lots of energy to burn, so get ready to get your sweat on with your Swissy pal.
Training
These pups are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement, so it’s important to use treats, praise, and cuddles to reward good behavior.
It’s also a good idea to start training early, as Swissies are large dogs and need to learn how to behave around people and other animals.
It’s important to be patient, consistent, and kind when training a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, as harsh training methods can damage the bond between you and your furry friend.
Nutrition
These fluffy pups need a well-balanced diet that is high in protein to keep their energy levels up.
A high-quality commercial dog food that is specifically formulated for large breed dogs is a good choice.
Just make sure to follow the recommended serving sizes on the package to prevent your pup from overindulging and packing on excess pounds.
4. Doberman Pinscher
These pups are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and fearlessness. With their sleek and athletic builds, Dobermans are always ready for action.
They were primarily bred as guard dogs and were developed in Germany in the late 19th century.
Although their exact origins are uncertain, it is thought that they are a cross between a number of canine breeds, including the Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier, and German Pinscher.
Whether they’re playing fetch in the park or protecting their loved ones, these dogs give their all in everything they do.
So, if you’re looking for a furry companion who will always have your back, look no further than the noble Doberman Pinscher!
These pups are incredibly devoted to their families and will go above and beyond to make sure they are safe and happy.
They are also highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and protection sports. But don’t let their tough exterior fool you – Dobermans are big softies at heart and love nothing more than snuggling up with their favorite humans.
Overall, the Doberman Pinscher is a loving and devoted family member who will bring joy and protection to any home.
Doberman Pinschers are known for their social skills and are generally well-behaved around both people and other animals.
They are outgoing and confident, and they enjoy making new friends. They might become hostile if they perceive a threat to their family.
With their sleek and slender bodies, Dobermans are able to move with grace and speed.
They have short and shiny coat that comes in colors such as black, red, blue, and fawn, and their ears are usually cropped to give them a distinctive look.
Dobermans also have a long and strong neck and a tail that is typically docked.
They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protectiveness. These pups are incredibly devoted to their families and will go above and beyond to ensure they are safe and happy.
They are also highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and protection sports.
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
Some health concerns that have been seen in the breed include hip dysplasia, a common inherited condition in which the thigh bone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint; von Willebrand’s disease, a blood clotting disorder; and thyroid problems.
Dobermans may also be susceptible to certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and mast cell tumors.
It’s important to work with a veterinarian to identify any potential health issues and to get regular check-ups to help ensure your Doberman Pinscher stays happy and healthy.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Hip Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Von Willebrand’s Disease DNA Test
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
When it comes to grooming, the Doberman Pinscher is a breeze to care for! These pups have a short and shiny coat that only requires a weekly brushing session to keep it looking sleek and shiny.
Bath time is also a breeze, as these pups usually only need a bath every few months (unless they happen to roll in something stinky, of course).
Just be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo to keep their skin and coat healthy. As for those lovable ears, be sure to check and clean them regularly to prevent any pesky ear infections.
Exercise
The Doberman Pinscher is a breed that loves to get out and about for some exercise! These athletic pups need daily physical activity to keep them happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
Whether it’s a long walk, a romp in the park, or a game of fetch, Dobermans are always up for some fun.
Training
The Doberman Pinscher is a breed that is known for its intelligence and trainability. These pups are highly devoted to their families and love nothing more than learning new things.
It’s important to start training your Doberman as early as possible to establish good behavior and manners.
Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards-based training, are often the most effective way to teach your Doberman new commands and behaviors.
Nutrition
A typical daily intake is 2.5 to 3.5 cups of quality dry food, split between two meals.
These pups have high energy levels and require a diet that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.
Be sure to choose a commercial dog food that is formulated for large breeds and is appropriate for your Doberman’s age and activity level.
5. Rottweiler
Welcome to the world of Rottweilers! These majestic dogs are known for their powerful, muscular build and fierce loyalty to their families.
Originally bred as working dogs in Germany, Rottweilers have a long history of being used as herders, protectors, and even rescue dogs.
But don’t let their tough exterior fool you – Rottweilers are also known for their loving and affectionate nature. They make great companions and are always eager to please their owners.
So if you’re looking for a big, loyal dog with lots of love to give, a Rottweiler might just be the perfect fit for you.
Rottweilers are generally very loyal and protective of their families, and they make excellent guard dogs.
Rottweilers are also known for being energetic and playful, especially when they are young. They are generally good with children, but they may be too energetic for very young kids.
Well, Rottweilers are generally social animals and they do well in a variety of social situations. They are often very friendly and outgoing, and they enjoy spending time with their families and playing with other dogs.
They can be very affectionate and loyal to their owners, and they are known for their strong bond with their families.
Rottweilers are also known for being confident and self-assured, which can make them a bit of a handful if they are not properly socialized and trained.
Rottweilers are known for their muscular, athletic builds and distinctive black-and-tan coloring.
Rottweilers have strong, powerful jaws and broad heads with a square muzzle. They have large, floppy ears and a medium-length tail that is usually docked.
Rottweilers have a short, thick coat that is easy to maintain, and they shed moderately throughout the year.
Rottweilers are known for being intelligent, confident, and strong-willed dogs. They have a lot of energy and enthusiasm, and they are generally very playful and energetic, especially when they are young.
Rottweilers are also very loyal and protective of their families, and they are known for their strong bond with their owners.
Rottweilers are also known for being very trainable and responsive to obedience training, so if you’re looking for a dog to teach tricks, a Rottweiler might be a good choice!
Things To Keep In Mind
Health
Some health issues that Rottweilers may be more prone to include hip dysplasia, which is a condition that affects the hip joints and can cause lameness or difficulty moving.
Elbow dysplasia, which is a similar condition that affects the elbow joints, and osteochondrosis dissecans, which is a condition that affects the growth plates in the bones and can cause lameness or joint pain.
Rottweilers may also be prone to specific eye problems, such as cataracts and entropion, and skin problems, like allergies.
It’s important for Rottweiler owners to be aware of these potential health issues and to watch for any signs of illness in their dogs.
National Breed Club’s advised health examinations:
- Hip Evaluation
- JLPP DNA Test
- Elbow Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
Rottweilers are pretty low-maintenance when it comes to grooming! Their short, thick coat is easy to care for and only requires regular brushing and brushing to keep it looking healthy and shiny.
They should be bathed monthly or more often if they get particularly dirty.
Rottweilers have large, floppy ears that should be checked regularly for any signs of infection, and their nails should be trimmed to keep them from getting too long.
Exercise
Rottweilers are energetic and playful dogs that need lots of exercise to stay healthy and happy!
They should be taken on daily walks or runs to help them burn off excess energy, and they also love playing fetch or other active games.
Rottweilers are very intelligent and trainable, so they can also benefit from activities that challenge their minds, like obedience training or agility courses.
Training
Rottweilers are intelligent and trainable dogs that can be very responsive to obedience training.
They can be a bit stubborn at times, so it’s important to be patient and consistent in your training approach and to use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to reward good behavior.
It’s also important to start training and socializing your Rottweiler at an early age to help them learn good behavior and prevent any potential behavior problems from developing.
Nutrition
4 to 10 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Rottweilers are energetic dogs that need a high-quality diet to support their active lifestyles.
They should be fed a diet that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients to help them maintain their muscle mass and support their overall health.
It’s important to monitor their food intake and make sure they are getting the right amount of calories to meet their needs, but be careful not to overfeed them – obesity can cause a number of health problems.
And don’t forget to make sure your Rottweiler has access to clean, fresh water at all times to help them stay hydrated!
Owners Also Ask
Are big black dogs more intimidating than other breeds?
Not necessarily. While their size and coloring may make them appear intimidating at first glance, many big black dogs are actually sweet and gentle giants.
Do big black dogs shed a lot?
It really depends on the breed and the individual dog. Some big black breeds, like the Newfoundland and the Great Dane, are known for having thicker coats that shed more.
Others, like the Doberman Pinscher and the Rottweiler, have shorter, smoother coats that shed less.
Are big black dogs high maintenance?
Again, it depends on the breed and individual dog. Some big black breeds may require more grooming due to their long coats, while others may be low maintenance.
Conclusion about the Big Black dog breeds
Overall, big black dogs are some of the most amazing breeds out there. They may be big, but they have big hearts and tons of love to give.
If you’re lucky enough to have one of these pups as a part of your family, you’re in for a whole lot of love and cuddles.
If you’re looking for more dog breeds and information about dog breeds, check out our main page.
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