Oh, to have a perfect pup. Something huge, huggable, and happy to flop beside you on the couch (or take up half your bed). There is just something so extraordinary about big, friendly dog breeds, especially the ones that act like oversized teddy bears.
These gentle giants may look intimidating to strangers. Under all that size and fur lies a heart full of affection for their humans. Take snowy mountain guardians or water-loving fluffballs, these dogs were originally bred for work, but now they are all about love, loyalty, and family life.
So if you have got a big yard or just a bigger heart, these large dog breeds win you over all the time and maybe lean on you while they do it.
Big Friendly Dog Breeds
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is the definition of a big dog breed that is more like a sweet-natured fluffy monster. They have tri-color thick double coats that look regal and make them feel like they are coming out of a snowy postcard, and they did!!
Originally bred in the Swiss Alps as working dogs, Bernese were used for pulling carts and helping farmers, as mentioned by the American Kennel Club. That was almost eons ago. Fast forward to today, they are more into pulling their weight with cuddles and companionship.
Key Traits:
Gentle and endlessly patient with kids
Thrive in cold climates and love outdoor adventures
Require moderate exercise, but mostly enjoy being cuddly and snuggly with the family
Bernese Mountain Dogs are total gentle giants. They might shed a bit (read: a lot) and need regular grooming, but what you get in return is a cuddly and affectionate doggy who is incredibly loyal and sweet. If you have enough space and love to give, take one from this large dog breed.
2. Leonberger
This dog is a lion lookalike with a marshmallow heart!! The Leonberger, affectionately called the “Leo,” is known for its lion-like mane. Their males and females have different appearances, as noted by PetMD. Males are powerful and masculine, and females have a regal and elegant appearance.
No matter what gender your Leo is, they are friendly, like anything. Weighing up to 170 pounds as per the American Kennel Club, this is one of the largest dog breeds out there. But despite their size, Leos are calm, well-mannered, and just want to be part of the family.
Key Traits:
Extremely affectionate and loves being around children
Good with other dogs and pets
Strong swimmers and natural-born cuddle buddies
Leos are a dream for families who want a big dog with a good temperament. If you have the room and a steady supply of treats (and drool towels), the Leo is the type of large dog breed that fits effortlessly into your heart and home as a great family dog.
3. Dogue de Bordeaux
Ah, yes, the French Mastiff. Or as the French would like to say, Dogue de Bordeaux. This breed brings the drama in all the best ways.
That wrinkly face – iconic!!
That deep chest and serious stare – intimidating.
But they are big babies at heart! Known for being proactive yet affectionate, they are big on love and loyalty, with one of the biggest heads in all dogs, as noted by WebMD. They have pretty expressive eyes, and their brow has deep folds. Plus, they have sturdy bodies, so they are excellent companions for you.
Key Traits:
Naturally protective and great with their humans.
Low energy, but they still need moderate exercise.
Love loungin,g but are alert and always watching
They don’t ask for much, except your affection, a comfy bed, and maybe a wipe for the drool. This breed is famous for drooling, so get ready to spend time on some high-maintenance grooming stuff. They are one of the most loyal and emotionally tuned-in big dogs you will meet.
4. Great Pyrenees
One look at the Great Pyrenees, and you will swear you are staring at a fluffy cloud with legs. This large dog breed was originally developed to protect livestock in harsh mountain climates, and they have not lost that guardian instinct.
That stoic look might fool you. But let us tell you, the Pyrenees is all about affection, calm presence, and sticking close to their humans.
Key Traits:
Calm and patient, even with kids
Strong protectors but rarely aggressive
Love snow and do best with space to roam
They shed, they bark to alert you, and they may need a bit of training, but a Great Pyrenees is absolutely one of the best big, friendly dog breeds for a family who wants a serene and loving companion.
5. Newfoundland
Newfies are the cuddly giants. They are famous for their love of water, their life-saving instincts, and their propensity to act like giant and slobbery pillows. According to Hills Pet Nutrition, they are large dogs with a heavy coat, and they love to be docile and keep you company.
Ideally, they should have access to a water body, and they prefer having some space to be energetic and do some exercise.
Key Traits:
Incredibly affectionate and loves kids
Can weigh up to 150 pounds, but are surprisingly graceful
Don’t mind a bit of water. They are built for it!
Newfies, the “Nanny Dogs,” are known as excellent buddies and were even rumored to have inspired the dog “Nana” from Peter Pan. They are characterized by a sterling character along with a sweet temperament, as per the American Kennel Club.
They have fur for days and hearts even bigger than their heads. Just be prepared for more food, more drool, and more love than you ever expected.
6. Mastiff
The classic Mastiff is one of the oldest and most famous large dog breeds. Think ancient Rome. Think intimidating stare, and then zoom out to their snoring face on your couch. Yup. That’s the vibe.
They have serious looks (most people are wary of that), but Mastiffs are total lovers. They prefer to stay close to their humans and will protect their family with confidence.
Key Traits:
Calm, cute, quiet, and loyal
Big bark when needed, but mostly soft souls
Love will lean against you like a boulder
They need consistent training and early socialization, but almost all types of Mastiffs are loyal, smart, and affectionate dogs. This large dog breed is not high energy; they are more into the low-key lifestyle. Big couch? Even better.
7. Neapolitan Mastiff
Now, this is the wrinkliest, most ancient-looking, jolliest, gentlest giant you will ever meet in this canine world. The Neapolitan Mastiff looks like it wandered out of a medieval painting, right? But behind those (countless) folds is a dog with a huge heart.
They are dressed in oversized skin that forms the iconic folds and lips this breed is famous for. This breed is protective but not aggressive. And with the right training, they are fabulous with other dogs and children alike.
Key Traits:
Loyal and protective of their owners
Big snorers with even bigger heads
Chill around the house, but need proper socialization
They need grooming every other day, plenty of space, and probably a mop for all that drool, as noted by Purina. But in return, you get a big dog who thinks you are the center of their universe and acts accordingly.
Conclusion
These large dogs are not just big in weight. You should see how big they are in personality, affection, and love for their humans. If you want a couch snuggler, a gentle protector, or a water-loving floof, there is a large breed here for you.
Of course, many large dog breeds need a bit more space, a bit more food, and yes, sometimes more grooming. But if you have the room in your home and heart, these breeds will reward you with loyalty, love, and a whole lot of drool-soaked memories.
You might also explore the Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Golden Retriever, French Mastiff, German Shepherd, or Irish Wolfhound. All are tall in size and big at heart. Think about your lifestyle, your house size, and how much training and exercise you can provide. Then let your giant pup’s life begin.
Because sometimes, the best dogs come in extra-large.
