Some people love pint-sized pups that fit in a purse, but for others, bigger truly is better. Large dog breeds combine heart-melting affection with sheer presence, offering families loyal companions who seem larger-than-life in every way.
These gentle giants often think they’re lap dogs, snuggling up with the same enthusiasm as a tiny toy breed, yet they come with brains, loyalty, and protective instincts that make them truly special.
Whether you’re drawn to their imposing size, their loving temperament, or their remarkable intelligence, large breed dogs have a way of leaving a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to share a home with them.
From playful cuddles to unwavering guardianship, these massive pooches bring joy, laughter, and security in equal measure.
If you’re ready for a big-hearted companion with a big presence, here are the best giant dog breeds to consider welcoming into your family.
Oversized Dog Breeds With the Softest Temperament
1. Saint Bernard
Imagine a dog so big it could practically double as a fuzzy sofa—but one that also saves lives in the Alps. That’s the Saint Bernard for you!
Originally bred by monks at the Great St. Bernard Pass between Italy and Switzerland, these towering pups were trained to rescue travelers lost in snowy mountain passes. As per Wikipedia, today, these farm dogs may not always be trekking through blizzards, but they still carry that legendary gentle spirit.
Saint Bernards are the ultimate embodiment of the “gentle giant” stereotype. They’re calm, patient, and endlessly sweet, especially with kids. If you’ve ever wanted a dog who could lull a toddler into giggles while accidentally sitting on your couch in one fell swoop, this is your breed.
Temperament: Calm, loyal, affectionate
Good with kids: Absolutely—think furry babysitter
Protective instincts: Not naturally, but their size alone is a deterrent
Hidden talent: Still great at scent work; can participate in tracking or rescue
One of the cutest quirks of a St. Bernard is their sheer desire to please. They live to make their humans happy, whether it’s following you around the house, plopping down next to you, or giving those giant, soulful puppy eyes that can melt even the toughest heart.
And yes, they drool. A lot. But can you really hold that against such a noble snuggle monster?
2. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are the water-loving, drool-worthy cousins who moonlight as lifeguards. Originating from Newfoundland, Canada, these massive dogs were bred to haul nets, pull carts, and rescue people from icy waters. Yes, they’re basically excellent swimmers.
Newfies are the definition of sweet temperament. Patient, gentle, and endlessly loving, these therapy dogs have earned the nickname “nanny dog” because of how naturally they watch over kids, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
They’re the kind of dog who will sit calmly while toddlers climb all over them—then wag their tail like it’s the greatest day ever.
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, patient
Social skills: Friendly with other dogs and humans alike
Alertness: Will notify you of strangers, but usually warms up quickly
Energy level: Medium; enjoys a swim or walk, then happily crashes for cuddle time
Despite their size—they can easily tip the scales past 100 pounds—Newfoundlands are incredibly trusting and eager to please. They’re the perfect mix of strong, protective, and soft-hearted.
Plus, their love for swimming is unmatched, so if you ever want a dog who could also be your personal lifeguard at the pool…well, Newfie’s got you covered. Just be ready for the occasional wet, happy mess.
2. Great Dane
Meet the Great Dane: part majestic titan, part lapdog who thinks it’s still tiny. Towering at up to four feet at the shoulder, this working dog group has the elegance of a model and the heart of a teddy bear.
Despite their size, Great Danes are famously easygoing and affectionate, earning them the nickname “gentle giants.” Just don’t be surprised if your enormous couch suddenly has a new occupant…who happens to weigh more than you do.
Great Danes are loyal and loving companions. These calm dogs thrive on human company and are patient with children, making them excellent family dogs.
Temperament: Gentle, loyal, affectionate
Good with kids: Super patient; basically a furry nanny
Guarding skills: Alert, but their friendliness is their real charm
Exercise needs: Moderate; loves lounging as much as walking
Their exercise needs are moderate, so a nice walk or a stretch in the backyard is usually enough to keep them happy. And yes, even though they could probably chase a deer across town, they’d rather nap next to you and get belly rubs.
While their friendly nature means they’re not aggressive, the sheer sight of a Great Dane can make any uninvited guest reconsider their choices. They’re courageous yet calm, sweet yet dignified—a paradox in the best possible way.
They’re living, breathing proof that some of the best things in life come in giant, drool-covered packages.
4. Mastiff
If the Great Dane is the elegant “Apollo of Dogs,” the Mastiff is more like a benevolent, drooling king who rules the kingdom of your living room. Massive, broad-headed, and impossibly loyal, Mastiffs have the kind of personality that matches their size—they’re affectionate, slow-moving, and happiest when surrounded by family, Britannica noted.
Don’t be fooled by their imposing stature. Despite their bulk, Mastiffs are true softies at heart. They love cuddles (sometimes a little too much for their own good), often trying to squeeze onto your lap like a giant, furry pillow.
They’re friendly and demonstrative with family but will keep a dignified distance from strangers, making them natural guardians without ever being aggressive.
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, loyal
Good with kids: Patient and protective
Social skills: Friendly with family; aloof with strangers
Exercise/play: Moderate; short bursts of play, then long lounging sessions
Mastiffs are happiest in spaces where they can stretch out—preferably on a soft bed that can support their royalty-sized frame. It makes a formidable guard dog with a deep, commanding bark and can serve as a reliable protector, though it only barks when there’s a real reason to do so.
Their slow, deliberate pace and calm demeanor make them perfect companions for anyone who wants a dog that’s large in presence but soft in heart. And just like a true king, they’ll tolerate a bit of chaos—but only on their terms.
5. Great Pyrenees
Meet the Great Pyrenees: the fluffy guardian of the night who looks like a walking snow cloud and acts like a noble protector of your household.
Bred in the Pyrenees Mountains to watch over sheep as far back as the 17th century, these giant breeds have brought their “all-night security” skills into family homes—minus the mountains and cold winds, thankfully.
Despite their fearless and protective instincts, Great Pyrenees are surprisingly gentle with their families. They are affectionate, calm, and patient, making them perfect companions for kids, other pets, and anyone who appreciates a dog with dignity (and a tendency to shed enough fur to knit a blanket).
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, protective
Good with kids: Extremely gentle and patient
Guarding skills: Fearless and vigilant, especially at night
Grooming needs: High; long double coat requires regular brushing
But don’t be fooled: this is one breed that takes their guarding duties seriously, often keeping a watchful eye during nighttime hours
The Great Pyrenees is a perfect mix of a devoted guardian and a family cuddler. They’re elegant, fluffy, and imposing yet soft-hearted, ready to lounge by your side or stand guard under the moonlight. Think of them as your family’s own personal snow-white bodyguard—majestic, loyal, and utterly lovable.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
If you thought big dogs couldn’t be both majestic and cuddly, meet the Bernese Mountain Dog. With their striking tricolor coat—black, white, and tan—they look like they just walked out of a painting.
Originally farm and working dogs, Berners are strong, confident, and intelligent, but they’re also easygoing companions who thrive on family life. PetMD noted Bernese Mountain Dogs are calm and patient, making them natural friends for children.
While they might be a little shy around strangers at first, they warm up quickly if introduced properly. These dogs are eager to please, which makes training a joy (as long as you have enough treats to match their charming personalities). They also love to play, though they need regular exercise to keep that massive body healthy and happy.
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, intelligent
Social skills: Shy with strangers but friendly once acquainted
Exercise needs: Moderate; enjoys daily walks and playtime
Grooming needs: High; thick double coat sheds heavily year-round
The Bernese Mountain Dog adjusts fairly well to new situations and minor stress, though they can be a bit reserved or shy when encountering unfamiliar environments.
One thing to keep in mind: Bernese puppies are deceptively small and cuddly, and many people forget just how big they get as adults.
But that’s part of their charm—what starts as a tiny bundle of fur grows into a gentle, loyal, and strikingly beautiful giant who will happily lounge on the couch with you…even if there’s barely enough room.
7. Leonberger
The Leonberger is what happens when a dog decides to combine the size of a bear, the grace of a lion, and the heart of a teddy bear. With its thick double coat and impressive mane, it can look intimidating at first glance—but beneath that majestic exterior lies a playful, loyal, and trainable companion.
Think of it as a giant, furry roommate who loves fetch almost as much as belly rubs. Leonbergers are calm around kids, unfazed by loud noises, and adaptable to a variety of living situations. Their intimidating size and presence might make them seem like a lot of work, but their temperament is pure gold.
They love to be part of the family’s daily life, and their gentle demeanor makes them perfect for households with children or other pets.
Temperament: Loyal, playful, easy to train
Good with kids: Exceptionally gentle and patient
Social skills: Friendly, adaptable, calm under pressure
Grooming needs: High; heavy coat requires regular brushing, especially during shedding season
Leonbergers are living proof that you can have all the majesty of a lion and the heart of a cuddly puppy in one enormous package.
If you’re ready for a dog that turns heads wherever you go—but is just as happy lying at your feet and soaking up love—they might be your perfect gentle giant.
Conclusion
When considering oversized dog breeds with soft temperaments, it’s clear that size doesn’t dictate personality. Many of these dogs were originally developed as working dogs or for guarding livestock, so while they may have a protective nature, their overall demeanor is generally gentle when properly socialized from an early age.
Early training, obedience practice, and mental stimulation are essential to ensure their soft temperament shines, preventing destructive behaviors and supporting an active lifestyle.
These oversized companions require attention to vet bills, health, and proper care, but in return, they offer a loving, loyal, and steady presence that can enrich any home, making them ideal for experienced dog owners seeking calm giants.
Breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Irish Wolfhound, Neapolitan Mastiff, Tibetan Mastiff, and French Mastiff are known for being excellent family pets with gentle temperaments and wonderful companionship.
