Big dogs have an even bigger place in our hearts. They’re affectionate, loyal, and often much gentler than their size suggests. Despite their impressive stature, most giant breeds are calm, loving, and thrive when surrounded by family. It’s no wonder so many people believe that when it comes to canine companions, bigger really can mean better.
Choosing a large-breed dog does take some thought, though. These pups grow fast, eat plenty, and need enough space and exercise to stay healthy and happy. But in return, they offer unmatched devotion and a sense of comfort that smaller breeds just can’t match.
In fact, a survey revealed that nearly 36% of U.S. dog owners own large or giant breeds, highlighting the growing popularity of these gentle giants among families.
So, if you’re ready for more fur, more fun, and a whole lot more love, these large dog breeds might be the perfect addition to your home.
Key Takeaways
Discover the biggest dog breeds with the softest hearts — gentle giants made for family life.
From mountain rescuers to loyal couch buddies, meet seven massive dogs that redefine “lap dog.”
Learn why these towering pups are calm, kind, and perfect playmates for kids.
Explore breeds that protect your home and melt your heart.
Find out what it really takes to care for dogs who bring strength, serenity, and endless affection.
Largest Giant Dog Breeds That Are Family-Friendly
1. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, or “Newfie,” is a strong and muscular giant with a calm heart. Originally developed in Canada, this breed worked alongside fishermen—pulling heavy nets from icy waters and performing heroic rescues.
With their webbed feet and water-resistant coats, they are natural swimmers and water rescue dogs around the world today. AKC says that the Newfoundland has earned the nickname “nanny dog” for its patience and protective nature around children.
They are gentle, loyal, and eager to please, making them ideal family dogs. Their sweet, soulful expression and calm personality win hearts wherever they go. The breed standard even describes a sweet temperament as the most important trait—a perfect reflection of their loving spirit.
Why They’re Great:
Exceptionally gentle and patient with kids
Natural swimmers and excellent working dogs
Loyal, trusting, and easy to train
Things to Keep in Mind:
Thick, double coat needs regular grooming
Large size means more space and a bigger food budget
Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and hypothyroidism—choose a responsible breeder
2. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog, affectionately called the “Berner,” is a calm and affectionate dog with an even bigger heart. Originally bred in the snowy farmlands of Switzerland, Berners were hardworking farm dogs—pulling carts, herding cattle, and guarding pastures.
Today, they’re known more as loving family companions but still enjoy outdoor adventures and cool weather. Their thick, tricolored coats and bright, expressive eyes give them a noble yet gentle appearance.
Berners are playful, loyal, and great with their loved ones, especially children and other pets. They’re happiest when they’re around family and thrive on human companionship. Despite their size, they’re not intimidating; in fact, they’re often described as affectionate, steady, and sensitive.
They do well with space to roam and plenty of love and attention from their people. However, they can get restless or bark a lot if they’re not given enough exercise or mental stimulation.
Why They’re Great:
Calm, affectionate, and family-oriented
Gentle and friendly with kids and other pets
Thrive in cooler climates and love outdoor activities
Things to Keep in Mind:
Thick coats shed heavily and need regular grooming
Can be prone to hip dysplasia and other health problems
Have a shorter life expectancy (around 7–10 years)
3. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a calm, dignified, and gentle giant with a kind heart. Originally bred in Ireland to hunt wolves and big game, this breed is now cherished as one of the most affectionate and loyal companions.
Despite their imposing presence, they are known for their peaceful nature and deep bond with their families. They love nothing more than being close to their people and thrive on affection and companionship.
These graceful dogs are athletic yet sensitive. They respond best to positive training methods, especially when encouragement and treats are involved. While not fierce guard dogs, their sheer size is often enough to deter strangers.
WebMD mentions that the Wolfhounds are incredibly patient with children, but due to their strength, they should always be supervised around smaller kids. With their calm and steady nature, they bring quiet comfort and loyalty to any home.
Why They’re Great:
Gentle, affectionate, and calm-natured
Deeply loyal and loving toward family members
Dignified and patient, especially with children
Things to Keep in Mind:
Sensitive and respond best to gentle, positive training
Prone to hip dysplasia and bloat (GDV)
Short lifespan (typically 6–8 years) and require committed care
4. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is one of the world’s most famous giant breeds, known for its gentle heart and heroic past. Originally bred by monks in the Swiss Alps for avalanche rescue missions, these dogs saved countless travelers trapped in the snow.
Today, they’re beloved family companions, adored for their affectionate, loyal, and calm nature. Their expressive eyes and kind faces make them a comforting presence in any home.
Saint Bernards are known for their loving temperament and patience, especially with children. They’re people-oriented dogs who thrive on companionship and enjoy being part of family activities. Their low prey drive makes them gentle around other pets, and they respond well to positive training.
However, their history as rescue dogs means they still love to dig, so outdoor playtime may need a bit of supervision.
Why They’re Great:
Affectionate, loyal, and gentle with kids
Famous for their patience and protective instincts
Adaptable, people-loving, and eager to please
Things to Keep in Mind:
Enjoy digging, a habit from their rescue dog roots
Require regular grooming for their dense coats
Thrive on companionship and shouldn’t be left alone for long periods
5. Dogue de bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is one of the oldest and most powerful dog breeds in France. Originally developed to hunt wild boar, wolves, and even bears, this breed combines great strength with a surprisingly gentle heart.
With its muscular build and famously massive head—the largest in proportion to body size of any breed—the Dogue de Bordeaux commands attention wherever it goes.
Despite its impressive appearance, this breed is calm, affectionate, and deeply loyal to its family. Dogues are known for their quiet confidence and sensitivity, often forming strong bonds with those they love.
They are protective without being aggressive, making them excellent family pets and guardians. However, they can be stubborn at times, so early, patient training and socialization are essential to help them become well-mannered companions.
Why They’re Great:
Loyal and protective with a calm temperament
Affectionate and gentle with family members
Excellent watchdog with a noble, confident presence
Things to Keep in Mind:
Can be stubborn—needs consistent, positive training
Prone to drooling; regular cleaning helps prevent skin issues
Works best with patient, experienced dog owners
6. Great Dane
The Great Dane, often called the “Apollo of Dogs,” is one of the most recognizable and majestic breeds in the world, according to PetMD. Originally bred in Germany to hunt wild boar, these dogs are powerful yet graceful, known for their tall stature and elegant presence.
Despite their size, Great Danes are affectionate, loyal, and deeply devoted to their families. They’re gentle giants with joyful spirits, always eager to be close to their people.
Great Danes are friendly and calm, making them wonderful companions for families. They’re patient with children, social with other pets, and tend to bond closely with their human pack.
While they may look imposing, these big dogs are actually sweet-natured and love to relax indoors after a good walk. Their calm demeanor makes them adaptable to apartment living—provided they get daily exercise and plenty of attention.
Why They’re Great:
Affectionate, gentle, and great with kids
Loyal and protective without being aggressive
Friendly, people-loving, and easy to train
Things to Keep in Mind:
Need consistent early training to develop good manners
Require space and regular exercise to stay healthy
Prone to certain health issues, including heart conditions like DCM.
7. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a calm and powerful breed that originated in the snowy Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. These beautiful white-coated giants were bred to guard livestock and protect mountain farms from wolves and predators.
Today, they’re known for their gentle nature, loyalty, and calm confidence. With their thick, weatherproof coats and serene expressions, they truly live up to their “majestic” reputation.
Despite their relaxed appearance, Great Pyrenees are strong, alert, and always aware of their surroundings. They’re devoted to their families and make wonderful companions for those who have plenty of space for them to roam.
These dogs enjoy peaceful homes but are quick to act when they sense a threat. They’re independent thinkers with a strong will, so early socialization and consistent training are important to bring out their best behavior.
Why They’re Great:
Gentle, calm, and deeply loyal to family
Excellent watchdogs with natural protective instincts
Majestic appearance and affectionate nature
Things to Keep in Mind:
Need daily exercise and regular obedience training
Thrive best in spacious homes or yards
Strong-willed and may be stubborn without patient guidance
Conclusion
Bringing home one of these giant dog breeds is more than just adopting a pet—it’s gaining a loyal companion who will fill your days with love and laughter.
These gentle giants may look imposing, but their calm temperaments and affectionate nature make them truly suitable for families who value loyalty and warmth. Whether you want a playmate for your kids or a peaceful friend by your side, there’s always one thing you can count on—a big heart that matches their size.
To make the most of life with a large dog, ensure they have the space, care, and exercise they need to thrive. Many of these dogs enjoy an active lifestyle and love spending time outdoors, learning new tricks, and showing off how smart they are.
With patience, consistency, and a strong connection, your giant pup will reward you with unwavering devotion and endless joy for years to come.
