Big dogs can be surprisingly gentle, especially when it comes to kids. While their size might seem intimidating at first glance, many giant dog breeds are actually affectionate, calm, and incredibly patient, making them ideal companions for families. These gentle giants often form deep bonds with children, offering protection, love, and a whole lot of cuddles.
If you’re a parent looking for a large, lovable pup that will fit right into your family routine, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Despite their towering presence, many of these dogs have soft hearts and a playful spirit that blends beautifully with a kid-filled home.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best giant dogs that tend to be good with kids—those that balance size with sweetness and offer a loyal, watchful presence. Whether you’re new to pet parenting or expanding your furry family, you’ll love what these big-hearted companions bring to the table.
Giant Dog Breeds Good with Kids
1. Saint Bernard
When talking about giant dogs that are generally good with kids, Saint Bernards easily top the list. Despite their massive size, often weighing between 120 to 180 pounds, they are incredibly gentle, affectionate, and calm, especially around children.
Saint Bernard, with their iconic floppy ears, have long been heroes in search and rescue missions, especially in snowy alpine terrains. Their patience and loving temperament make them ideal family companions. Kids can climb, cuddle, or play with a Saint Bernard without triggering aggression or nervousness, making this breed a trusted playmate and protector.
Britannica states that Saint Bernards are naturally nurturing and empathetic, with a calm presence that suits homes with toddlers or young children. They move slowly and carefully, which reduces the chance of accidental bumps or rough play turning chaotic.
Though large and strong, Saint Bernards are not aggressive or overly territorial. They are quietly protective, always watching over their family and especially the kids. Their loyalty doesn’t come with hostility—instead, they’re more likely to gently intervene in tense situations than act out.
Another reason they’re perfect for family life is their low to moderate energy level. While they enjoy playtime, they don’t require constant activity, which makes them easy to manage in a household with young children. Whether it’s a backyard romp or indoor lounging, Saint Bernards adapt well and help maintain a peaceful environment.
What truly sets Saint Bernards apart is their emotional intelligence. They seem to sense when a child needs comfort and are quick to offer quiet companionship. Their patient and loyal nature forms a lasting bond with kids, making them more than just pets—they become beloved protectors and lifelong friends.
2. Leonberger
Leonbergers are a standout choice among large dog breeds, good with kids, combining power and gentleness in one majestic package. These beautiful dogs have a striking, lion-like appearance and a thick double coat that adds to their charm and warmth. Their average life expectancy is around 8 to 9 years, which is typical for dogs of their size.
Despite their imposing size, they are known for being calm, affectionate, and deeply loyal, making them a perfect fit for families with young kids. Their nurturing nature makes every cuddle session and playtime moment feel safe and joyful.
What makes Leonbergers particularly special is their naturally protective instinct, without being aggressive. They’re intuitive and emotionally in tune with both adult humans and children, which allows them to adjust their behavior based on the energy in the home. They are patient and steady, handling noisy, active environments with grace.
Leonbergers are excellent companions. Their ability to read the room makes them reliable around toddlers and respectful with older children. While they enjoy activity, they aren’t overly hyper, striking a perfect rhythm between playfulness and quiet companionship.
Leonbergers do enjoy outdoor adventures, whether it’s a walk in the park or a dip in the lake. They have a moderate energy level and are up for fun, but just as happy to relax at home with the family. Their size demands space, but their temperament suits both country homes and suburban living, as long as they get the love and attention they need.
3. Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiffs may look intimidating at first glance, but beneath all that loose fur and wrinkled skin lies a deeply affectionate family dog. Known for forming strong bonds with their loved ones, these giants are surprisingly gentle and protective around children.
Their calm, watchful nature makes them a dependable presence in homes with young kids, offering quiet companionship rather than high-energy play. They’re not the type to bounce around the house—they prefer staying close to their family, often acting like a giant lapdog.
Though their massive weight can be a concern in smaller homes, their low-energy personality makes them relatively easy to manage indoors. They don’t require intense exercise, but daily walks and light play keep them healthy and mentally satisfied. Their sluggish movements and relaxed vibe make them especially well-suited to family life, as they don’t easily get overstimulated or reactive in busy households.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies Neapolitan Mastiffs as part of the working group, but they’re far more focused on guarding their home than herding or chasing. They are known to be reserved with strangers, but with their loved ones, they express clear signs of affection, often following them around the house and leaning in for gentle contact.
Their dense fur does require some upkeep, particularly in the folds of their skin, which need to be kept clean and dry. Basic grooming helps prevent skin issues and keeps them comfortable. They are not known for being aggressive, but rather for being loyal and calm, watching over the home like a silent protector.
4. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are among the most trusted giant dog breeds when it comes to kids, thanks to their incredibly calm and affectionate nature. These gentle giants are famously sweet with loved ones, often acting like natural-born babysitters.
Their protective instincts are soft and nurturing rather than dominant, which makes them ideal for homes with young children. Despite their imposing size, they are easygoing and move with surprising gentleness, always mindful of their surroundings and the small humans in their care.
Newfoundlands are deeply people-oriented and happiest when they’re part of everyday life. Their laid-back personality is perfectly suited for families who want a loyal companion. While they enjoy the occasional romp outdoors, their exercise needs are moderate.
Their thick fur is a trademark feature, giving them a bear-like appearance that kids find comforting and huggable. Though grooming takes commitment, the reward is a stunning, soft coat that only adds to their cuddly reputation.
Registered with the AKC as a working breed, Newfoundlands were historically used as water rescue dogs. Today, their sense of duty shows up in how devoted they are to their families. They won’t hesitate to step between a child and any perceived danger, but they do so with calm authority rather than aggression.
Though their size is considerable, their temperament is as peaceful as it gets. They don’t need roughhousing or loud environments to feel at home. A warm spot on the floor and time with their loved ones is all they ask for.
5. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds, one of the most impressive big dog breeds, are gentle giants with an affectionate and calm demeanor, making them an excellent choice for families with children. Despite their towering size, they are known for their gentle nature, especially when it comes to being around puppies or younger family members.
These dogs are patient and tolerant, which helps them get along well with other dogs and adapt to various living situations. Their massive stature may initially be intimidating, but their kind eyes and gentle behavior make them an easy fit into family life.
Though Irish Wolfhounds are independent, they respond well to training and are quick learners when given consistent guidance. They are often very eager to please their owners, which makes the training process smoother. Their calm, reserved temperament means they won’t get easily frustrated or aggressive, making them more predictable and easier to handle as they grow.
These dogs are surprisingly good with children and enjoy being around owners, offering protection without aggression. They tend to bond deeply with their families, becoming loyal companions who enjoy both relaxing and active moments. Their size may mean they require more space than some other dogs, but they are usually content to relax beside their owners on the couch or in their favorite spot.
Due to their size and protective instincts, Irish Wolfhounds are often considered great pets for those willing to provide them with the right care. As they age, they maintain their loving nature, though they can be somewhat sensitive to their environment.
6. Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Deerhounds are one of the best dog breeds for families looking for a large, affectionate companion. Originally bred for hunting, these dogs have an innate calmness and gentleness that make them excellent family pets, especially for those with kids.
Their large breed stature doesn’t hinder their ability to form close bonds with their owners. Instead, they are known for being great companions, providing loyal, loving company in both active and quiet moments.
Despite their size, Scottish Deerhounds are surprisingly gentle and patient, making them a great fit for homes with children. They are calm and respectful, rarely showing aggression, and are known to be very tolerant of rough play. This breed is typically social, enjoying the company of owners, which makes them adaptable in a variety of family settings.
Originally bred for chasing large game, Scottish Deerhounds retain an instinctual drive but are typically more relaxed when settled into a home environment. This makes them easy to train, as they tend to be responsive to positive reinforcement. With the right guidance, they grow into well-behaved, loving members of the family.
Their gentle giant reputation is reflected in their affectionate nature. They thrive on attention from their owners, and despite their size, they enjoy curling up close, always wanting to be near their loved ones. They form strong emotional bonds and make ideal companions for families, especially those looking for a calm, regal presence in the home.
7. Boerboel
The Boerboel, often affectionately called the “African Mastiff,” is a working dog breed known for its strength, loyalty, and protective nature, making it a great choice for families with ample space.
Initially bred to guard farms and livestock, these dogs have a strong sense of duty and are naturally protective of their loved ones. Their imposing size and muscular build demand enough space, but they thrive in homes where they can be active and engaged with their owners.
Boerboels are gentle, especially with children, and will form strong, affectionate bonds with their families. Their strong sense of loyalty and protectiveness makes them excellent guard dogs.
Boerboels are intelligent and responsive, making them easier to train with consistent guidance. However, they do require a firm, experienced owner who can channel their energy and instincts properly. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential, and their natural guarding instinct means they need careful socialization from a young age.
PetMD states that Boerboels are prone to certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, due to their size. Regular vet checkups, along with maintaining a healthy weight, are crucial for keeping them in top form. These health considerations, however, don’t diminish their appeal as loyal family companions—they are worth the effort for families that can provide them the attention they deserve.
A Boerboel’s loving personality and dedication to their family make them one of the most reliable breeds for protective yet loving companionship. With proper care and training, they become dependable, courageous dogs that form lasting bonds with their owners.
Conclusion
While their size may be intimidating at first glance, giant dog breeds are often the most gentle and loyal companions a family can have. Bernese Mountain Dogs, for instance, are not only affectionate but also deeply patient—traits that make them excellent playmates and protectors for little ones.
Though dogs bred for work, like the German Shepherd or Australian Shepherd, may be known for their intelligence and energy, they are also incredibly devoted and gentle with kids when properly trained and socialized.
Then there’s the majestic Great Dane, often called the “Peter Pan of dogs” because they never seem to lose their playful, puppy-like spirit, making them ideal for growing up alongside kids. As any assistant editor with a loyal pup by their side (and maybe a curious cat nearby) will tell you, the love and security offered by these gentle giants can transform a house into a warm, happy home.
