7 Most Affectionate Giant Dog Breeds Worth Knowing

For many dog lovers, the appeal of giant breeds goes far beyond their impressive size. These gentle giants are known for their affectionate temperaments, loyalty, and calm presence, making them some of the most heartwarming companions a family can welcome into their home.

Despite their stature, many of these massive dogs think of themselves as lap pets, eager to cuddle and stay close to their people.

Owning a giant breed does come with unique responsibilities. Their size often means higher costs for food, healthcare, and living space, along with a shorter average lifespan of around 6 to 10 years.

Yet their loving nature, devotion, and protective instincts outweigh these considerations for those who value connection and companionship. With the right care, these dogs flourish in homes that embrace their gentle yet commanding presence.

If you’re looking for a canine companion who can offer both security and endless affection, these breeds deserve a place on your list.

Most Affectionate Giant Dog Breeds Worth Knowing

1. Great Dane

Despite their size, these dogs are known for their affectionate and social personalities. They thrive on human companionship, bonding closely with their families, and are especially patient with children when properly trained and supervised.

AKC says Great Danes stand taller than most other dogs, and when they rise up on their hind legs, they can be taller than many people. Great Danes are highly sensitive and attuned to their owner’s emotions, often offering comfort simply by being close.

This emotional awareness makes them exceptional companions for families seeking both loyalty and affection in one impressive package.

Although their large frame requires consistent training and space to move, their loving nature far outweighs these needs. They fill each moment with unwavering devotion and warmth.

Fun Fact: Scooby-Doo, one of the world’s most famous cartoon dogs, was created as a Great Dane.

2. Newfoundland

Often nicknamed the Newfie, the Newfoundland is a massive working dog with a bear-like appearance and a reputation for sweetness. Originating in Canada, these giants were once prized for their water rescue skills, thanks to their strength and natural swimming ability.

Their calm temperament makes them remarkable family companions. PetMD says Newfoundlands are not only one of the largest dog breeds but also among the most gentle and friendly. They are famously patient, even when toddlers tug at their ears or climb over them, embodying the definition of a tolerant and loyal breed.

Newfoundlands thrive on companionship and show affection through constant closeness. Whether leaning against their owner, curling up on the couch, or quietly following family members around, they are happiest when surrounded by loved ones.

Despite their size, Newfies are moderate in energy and don’t demand excessive exercise, making them ideal for households that appreciate laid-back but affectionate dogs. Their kind nature also makes them excellent therapy animals, spreading comfort wherever they go.

Fun Fact: Newfoundlands are often called “nanny dogs” because of their watchful and protective behavior around children.

3. Bernese Mountain Dog

Also called the Berner Sennenhund, the Bernese Mountain Dog hails from Switzerland, where it was originally used to herd cattle, pull carts, and guard farms. Known for its tri-colored silky coat, broad chest, and warm expression, this giant breed balances strength with gentleness.

These guard dogs are beloved for their affectionate nature. WebMD says Bernese Mountain Dogs are strong and intelligent, and they are a favorite among pet owners. They adore spending time with their people and are often happiest when included in everyday activities, whether indoors or out in the yard.

Their protective instincts are evident, but always softened by a tender heart. While they may be shy around strangers, their devotion to their family shines through, creating a perfect mix of guardian and gentle companion.

With their love for snow, snacks, and belly rubs, Berners bring both joy and reassurance to households. Their patience with children further cements their place among the most affectionate giant breeds.

Fun Fact: The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Bernese Mountain Dog in 1937.

4. Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard, also known simply as St. Bernard, is a massive yet gentle breed with a long history of rescue work in the Swiss Alps. With their burly frames, soulful eyes, and thick coats, these dogs embody both strength and tenderness.

Famed for their calm and patient personalities, these rescue dogs are deeply affectionate companions. Early training and socialization help them grow into loyal family dogs that adore spending time with children and adults alike.

Despite their size, these affectionate dogs aren’t overly energetic and generally require just a few steady walks a day. Their people-pleasing nature means they thrive in family settings, often seeking closeness and showering their loved ones with affection.

Best suited to cooler climates, Saint Bernards are equally at home pulling sleds, comforting their owners, or relaxing indoors. Their reputation as therapy dogs and search-and-rescue heroes proves how devoted and caring they truly are.

Fun Fact: Centuries ago, monks in the Swiss Alps relied on Saint Bernards to locate and save travelers trapped in snowdrifts.

5. Leonberger

The Leonberger, sometimes called the “Leo,” is a massive working dog that combines strength with a gentle heart. Originating in Germany during the 1800s, they were bred to pull carts, herd livestock, and even assist in water rescues, making them versatile giants with noble roots.

Despite their size, Leonbergers are renowned for their nurturing nature. They form deep bonds with their families and seem remarkably attuned to human emotions, often offering comfort when it’s needed most. This sensitivity has made them highly valued as therapy dogs.

Their affectionate temperament makes them excellent family companions. With the right space, they thrive in homes where they can be close to their people, displaying patience and kindness even with children. However, early training is key to guiding their natural tendencies in a positive direction.

Leonbergers can be mischievous without structure, enjoying digging, chewing, and messy play. Consistent boundaries paired with regular exercise and mental enrichment help them channel their instincts constructively.

Fun Fact: The Leonberger breed was nearly wiped out during World War I, but dedicated breeders saved it from extinction.

6. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound, sometimes called the “gentle giant of Ireland,” is the tallest dog breed in the world. With a muscular frame, long legs, and noble appearance, they can weigh between 150 and 180 pounds, yet remain surprisingly graceful.

Despite their imposing size, Wolfhounds have a famously calm nature and are mellow. They thrive in peaceful homes where they can stretch out and enjoy quiet companionship, offering affection without overwhelming energy.

Originally bred for battle and hunting large prey, today’s Wolfhounds are devoted family companions. Their patient, friendly nature makes them excellent with children and adults alike, often earning them the title of “big softies.”

Because of their size, these dogs need space to move comfortably and benefit from a secure yard. Still, their gentle temperament ensures they blend easily into family life, providing warmth and loyalty.

Fun Fact: The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all dog breeds, often standing 28–31 inches at the shoulder, with some towering over their owners when on hind legs.

7. Great Pyrenees

Also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, the Great Pyrenees is an ancient working breed once considered the royal dog of France. With their thick, cloudlike white coats and regal presence, they remain one of the most iconic livestock guardians in history.

These dogs are affectionate yet independent, combining gentleness with a strong protective streak. They are famously patient with children, making them loyal family companions as long as their size and strength are respected.

Because of their working heritage, Great Pyrenees require vigorous daily exercise to stay balanced. Long walks, secure yard play, or even winter sports like skijoring help them channel their energy while reinforcing their role as active, engaged pets.

Their dense double coat also calls for regular grooming. Brushing a few times a week prevents matting and keeps shedding manageable, especially during seasonal changes. Despite the upkeep, their devotion and affectionate nature make every bit of care worthwhile.

Fun Fact: The Great Pyrenees’ powerful build makes them strong enough to pull an adult in skijoring—a winter sport where dogs help propel their owners on skis.

Conclusion

Affectionate giant breeds bring warmth, loyalty, and companionship into homes, proving that big dogs are often the gentlest at heart. While the article highlighted gentle giants like the Great Pyrenees with its thick double coat and the Newfoundland with its webbed feet, it’s worth remembering that other giant breeds and other dogs share these loving traits too. Their patience, devotion, and cuddly dog personalities make them excellent family pets, well-suited for homes with children or even other pets.

Beyond these giants, other breeds also deserve mention. The Golden Retriever, often called the most popular dog breed, is one of the best dog breeds for families and consistently ranked among the most affectionate. Known as friendly, reliable, and playful, they balance an active lifestyle with an eagerness to cuddle, making them a perfect example of dogs that blend size with heart. Together, these large-breed dogs and other breeds prove that love truly comes in every size.