They say the best things come in big packages—and when it comes to dogs, that couldn’t be truer. These gentle giants may tower over you, but their big hearts and soft souls are what truly make them stand out. From their patient cuddles to their unwavering loyalty, these enormous pups have a knack for making any home feel cozier.
Here’s a fun fact you might not know: according to a 2021–2022 APPA survey, 36% of dog-owning households in the U.S. have large dog breeds (over 40 lbs)—a solid chunk of pet lovers are already embracing the big-dog life.
Of course, life with a giant pup comes with unique considerations — from needing more living space to planning daily walks that match their energy. But for families or individuals ready to welcome one, these oversized companions bring unmatched warmth, patience, and devotion.
So if you’ve ever dreamed of a furry best friend who’s big in size but even bigger in heart, you’re in the right place. Let’s meet the gentle giants who’ve earned their place as some of the best big dog breeds around.
Key Takeaways
By the end of this article, you’ll know:
Which gentle giant breeds—like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Newfoundlands, and Great Danes—stand out as the best big dog breeds known for loyalty, patience, and love.
The fascinating history of these dogs, from farm helpers and guard dogs to search-and-rescue heroes in cold weather regions.
What makes them such a popular choice for dog owners today including their devotion to children, families, and loved ones.
How to care for them properly, from raising playful puppies to managing destructive behaviors once they’re fully grown.
Best Big Dog Breeds Known as Gentle Giants
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a giant dog breed that wins hearts with its calm and patient nature. Originating from Switzerland, these fluffy giants can weigh up to 115 pounds, but don’t let their size fool you. They are wonderful companions who love being close to their families and are especially good with children.
These dogs are highly adaptable but thrive best in cooler climates thanks to their thick double coats. Their stunning tricolor fur and striking appearance make them stand out, but their loving personality is what truly makes them special. While they may seem reserved around strangers at first, their loyalty and devotion to their families shine through.
Bernese Mountain Dogs also have a working background. They were once farm helpers in Switzerland, excelling at tasks like cart-pulling and herding.
Today, they still need daily exercise and playtime to stay happy. They’re known to be wonderful therapy dogs, too, thanks to their affectionate and sensitive nature.
Highlights of the Breed:
Thrive in cooler weather and love outdoor time
Naturally affectionate and protective toward children
Sensitive and people-focused, often craving attention
Versatile workers with a history in farming and cart-pulling
2. Leonberger
The Leonberger is a giant breed with a kind and calm nature. Despite their impressive size, these dogs are known for being affectionate, patient, and deeply loyal to their families. They often form strong bonds and are especially intuitive when it comes to human emotions, making them excellent therapy dogs.
Originally bred in Germany in the 1800s, they were used for pulling carts, herding livestock, and even water rescue. Their lion-like mane and noble appearance earned them favor with European royalty, but today, they are better known as loving companions and excellent family pets.
Leonbergers thrive when given regular exercise and early training. Without boundaries, their playful habits like chewing, digging, or messy eating can get out of hand. With proper guidance, they become calm, dependable dogs who balance their powerful build with a gentle, affectionate spirit.
Highlights of the Breed:
Originated in Germany in the 1800s as a working dog
Known for sensitivity and strong emotional intuition
Thrive as therapy and rescue dogs
Require early socialization and consistent training
3. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff may look intimidating at first glance, but behind that powerful frame is a calm and affectionate companion. This big breed forms deep bonds with family and is generally gentle with children. They are known as gentle giants who enjoy lounging more than running, often preferring quiet time with their people.
WebMD mentions that this breed developed in England during the mid-19th century by crossing mastiffs and bulldogs to guard estates and stop poachers. Their protective nature remains today, which makes them loyal guardians. While they can be wary of strangers, they are loving and kind toward their families.
Early training and socialization are very important for Bullmastiffs. With consistent guidance and positive reinforcement, their strength and natural instincts are shaped into confidence and good manners.
Surprisingly, they are relatively low-energy dogs, making them well-suited even for apartment living as long as their exercise needs are met.
Highlights of the Breed:
Originated in England to guard estates and deter poachers
Strong protective instincts but gentle with family
Calm, low-energy temperament despite large size
Require early training and socialization to thrive
4. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large breed dog with a heart as big as its size. These dogs are gentle, patient, and famously affectionate, especially with children. The AKC states that their calm nature and protective instincts have earned them the nickname “nanny dog,” making them excellent companions for kids.
Bred on the Canadian island of Newfoundland, this breed was designed for hard work. With webbed feet and a waterproof coat, they became excellent swimmers, helping fishermen and even taking part in search and rescue operations. They can pull carts, swim with ease, and thrive in tasks that require strength and bravery.
Despite their working background, Newfoundlands are happiest when close to their families. They love snuggling on the couch, leaning against their people, and giving endless affection. Their long, dense coats do need regular grooming, but the love they give in return makes every brush worthwhile.
Highlights of the Breed:
Originated in Newfoundland, Canada, as working and water rescue dog
Gentle and patient with children, often called “nanny dogs”
Require regular grooming due to their thick, long coats
Sweet temperament valued above looks, according to the American Kennel Club
5. Great Dane
The Great Dane is a giant dog breed that often looks more like a small horse than a dog. These pups are known as the “Apollo of dogs,” as per PetMD, and are admired for both their majestic presence and gentle nature. Despite their size, they are playful, affectionate, and incredibly loyal companions who love spending time with family.
This breed has deep roots in Germany and England, where they were originally bred to hunt wild boar. Over time, they transitioned from fierce hunters to loyal family dogs, becoming especially popular on large estates. Today, their goofy personalities, long legs, and plop-anywhere attitude make them endearing pets that bring plenty of laughs and love to the household.
Great Danes are easygoing and relatively low-maintenance, needing little grooming and moderate daily exercise. Because of their enormous size, training and supervision are important from an early age—especially around young children who can easily be knocked over during play.
Highlights of the Breed:
Originated in Germany and England as boar-hunting dogs
Known for towering height (30+ inches) and gentle nature
Affectionate “goofballs” who bond closely with family
Short lifespan (6–8 years), but full of devotion
6. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all dog breeds, often standing over 32 inches at the shoulder. Despite their towering size, these dogs are famously gentle and calm with a commanding presence. They are loyal companions who bond closely with family and are especially patient with children and other pets.
This ancient breed dates back nearly 2,000 years in Ireland, where they were used to hunt wolves and guard homes. With their long legs, sharp eyesight, and speed, they excelled as hunters. Over time, they shifted from fierce protectors to beloved companions, admired for their quiet and even-tempered nature.
Irish Wolfhounds need more space and exercise, making them better suited for large homes with yards. They enjoy long walks and chances to run freely, though they often grow into laid-back adults. Their rough coat requires little grooming, but their lifespan is shorter than many breeds—usually six to eight years.
Highlights of the Breed:
Tallest dog breed, reaching up to 35 inches in height
An ancient Irish breed once used for wolf hunting and guarding
Gentle, calm, and affectionate with children and pets
Thrive in large spaces with daily walks and free runs
7. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is one of the most famous giant dog breeds, loved for both its history and its gentle heart. These dogs may look intimidating, but they are calm, patient, and affectionate with their families. They are especially good with children, often acting as mellow and loyal companions.
The breed’s roots go back nearly a thousand years to the Swiss Alps. Monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice used these dogs to rescue travelers lost in snowstorms and avalanches.
Known for their keen sense of smell and bravery, they could find stranded people, dig them out, and even lie on them to provide warmth until help arrived. Their courage and devotion made them legendary.
In the home, Saint Bernards are affectionate people-pleasers. They need space to move, regular walks, and early training to keep their large size manageable. Their thick coats require grooming, especially the long-haired variety, and they thrive in cooler climates. With love and guidance, these gentle giants become both protectors and cuddle buddies.
Highlights of the Breed:
Famous for search-and-rescue work in the Swiss Alps
Calm, patient, and gentle with children
Thrive in cool climates due to thick coats
Need early training and space to grow into well-mannered companions
Conclusion
Bringing home one of these gentle giants is a big step in the dog world, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. From their history as farm dogs and guard dogs to their role today as loyal family pets, these breeds continue to prove why they’re a popular choice among many dog owners. They offer unmatched devotion, protection, and love, always putting their loved ones first.
Apart from the large dog breeds we have mentioned above, there are other dogs as well that are worth mentioning. These include the Tibetan Mastiff, Great Pyrenees, Golden Retriever, Alaskan Malamute, Afghan Hound, Neapolitan Mastiff, and English Mastiff.
Of course, every giant breed starts out as playful puppies, and proper training is key to preventing destructive behaviors once they’re fully grown. Many of these dogs were bred to thrive in cold weather, so providing the right environment and daily exercise keeps them happy and healthy. With patience and guidance, these towering companions become more than pets—they become family.
