The Complete List of Big Black Dog Breeds

The Complete List of Big Black Dog Breeds features 21 impressive breeds known for their large size and striking black coats. These dogs come from various countries, including Germany, Canada, France, and Tibet, showcasing a rich diversity of origins. Many of these breeds serve as loyal family companions and protectors, combining strength with intelligence and unique temperaments.

Below is a detailed table that presents each breed’s scientific name, height, weight, and country of origin to help you compare and learn more about these big black dog breeds.

What Defines a “Big Black Dog Breed”?

In this list, “big” refers to medium-large to giant dog sizes, generally standing above 55 cm (about 22 inches) tall at the shoulder and weighing upwards of 20 kg (44 lbs). “Black” includes dogs with solid black coats or mostly black coloring, sometimes with subtle markings or patterns. These characteristics ensure the breeds here fit both size and coat color criteria, making them easy to identify for prospective owners or dog enthusiasts.

How Do Temperament and Care Vary Among These Breeds?

Temperament ranges from calm and patient, like the Newfoundland, to alert and protective, such as the Black Russian Terrier. Care requirements depend on size and coat type: many breeds need regular grooming, especially those with thick double coats. Exercise needs also vary—some, like the Labrador Retriever, thrive on abundant activity, while others, such as the Tibetan Mastiff, are more reserved. Understanding these aspects ensures you can provide the best environment and training for each big black dog breed.

Big Black Dog Breeds

Images and Details

Black Russian Terrier

Originally a military dog, the Black Russian Terrier is a calm, confident, and courageous guardian. Despite its imposing size, it’s a loving family member, though often aloof with strangers. Its thick double coat requires regular grooming to stay pristine.

Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, and confident guardian. Known for its robust build and striking black-and-tan coat, this intelligent dog is eager to work. Early socialization and training are key to nurturing its protective instincts into a well-mannered companion.

Doberman Pinscher

Sleek, powerful, and highly intelligent, the Doberman is a famously loyal and alert companion. They are fearless protectors but also gentle family members. This athletic breed thrives on exercise and having a job to do, excelling in various canine sports.

Great Dane

Often called the “Apollo of dogs,” the Great Dane is a true gentle giant. Despite its immense size, it’s sweet-natured, friendly, and patient. They love being part of the family and are surprisingly graceful, though they do enjoy lounging on the biggest sofa.

Newfoundland

Famous for its sweet, patient, and gentle temperament, the Newfoundland is the ultimate “nanny dog.” With a massive build and a thick, water-resistant coat, these dogs are natural swimmers and devoted family members who are especially good with children.

Flat-Coated Retriever

Often called the “Peter Pan” of the dog world, the Flat-Coated Retriever is eternally cheerful and energetic. With a sleek black coat and a constantly wagging tail, this breed is known for its outgoing, optimistic, and friendly nature with everyone it meets.

Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a majestic and intelligent protector. This Italian mastiff is assertive and confident, forming a deep bond with its family. It’s a powerful and athletic dog that requires experienced handling, socialization, and consistent training to thrive as a companion.

Giant Schnauzer

The largest of the Schnauzer breeds, the Giant Schnauzer is a bold, intelligent, and loyal dog. With a distinctive beard and eyebrows, it’s both a formidable guardian and a playful family member who requires plenty of physical and mental exercise.

Bouvier des Flandres

Originally an all-purpose farm dog, the Bouvier des Flandres is a rugged, strong-willed, and intelligent breed. They are calm and steady guardians of their home and family. Their thick, weather-resistant coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting and stay comfortable.

Belgian Sheepdog

Also known as the Groenendael, this is the stunning, solid-black variety of the Belgian Shepherd. They are exceptionally intelligent, athletic, and trainable, forming a strong bond with their owner. This sensitive breed thrives on activity and companionship.

Hovawart

A versatile German working breed, the Hovawart is a devoted and even-tempered family guardian. Often seen in a striking solid black, this intelligent dog is known for its balanced nature, being both a playful companion and a reliable, watchful protector.

Gordon Setter

The Gordon Setter is the heaviest of the setters, known for its handsome, glossy black-and-tan coat. They are bold, confident, and affectionate companions who are loyal to their family. This active breed requires regular, vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Labrador Retriever

One of the world’s most popular breeds, the Labrador Retriever is famously friendly, outgoing, and good-natured. The black Lab is an iconic image of a devoted family dog, eager to please and full of boundless energy for play and adventure.

German Shepherd

Renowned for its intelligence, courage, and loyalty, the German Shepherd is a true jack-of-all-trades. While often seen in black-and-tan, the solid black variety is equally noble. They are confident guardians and loving family dogs that excel with proper training.

Tibetan Mastiff

An ancient and imposing guardian breed, the Tibetan Mastiff is known for its impressive size and thick double coat. They are independent, reserved, and highly protective of their family and territory, often being more active and watchful at night.

Neapolitan Mastiff

A massive dog with an unmistakable wrinkled face, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a powerful and loyal guardian. Despite its intimidating appearance, it is steady and calm with family. Black is a common coat color for this unique and ancient breed.

Curly-Coated Retriever

The tallest of the retriever breeds, the Curly-Coat is distinguished by its coat of tight, crisp black or liver curls. They are intelligent, poised, and smart, with a more independent streak than other retrievers, making them a unique and loyal companion.

Black and Tan Coonhound

Known for its long, velvety ears and mournful bay, the Black and Tan Coonhound is a good-natured and outgoing scent hound. They are relentless on the trail but easygoing and friendly at home, making for a mellow and lovable family pet.

Beauceron

A confident and intelligent French herding dog, the Beauceron sports a short black-and-tan coat. They are known for their loyalty, bravery, and versatility, always eager for a job to do. This athletic breed forms a very strong bond with its family.

Standard Poodle

Don’t let the fancy haircut fool you; the Standard Poodle is an exceptionally smart and athletic breed. They are proud and graceful, excelling in obedience and sports. Their hypoallergenic coat comes in many colors, with solid black being one of the most common and classic.

Dogo Canario

Also known as the Presa Canario, this powerful mastiff-type dog is a confident and formidable guardian. While often brindle, black is an accepted color. They are calm with their family but require an experienced owner who understands dominant breeds.