Imagine a dog so big, you’re not sure who’s walking who. A dog whose head reaches your hip, whose paws could double as oven mittens, and whose presence commands the room without saying a word. These aren’t your average-sized companions—these are giants.
Towering over their canine cousins, these dogs bring a majestic energy into your life that’s matched only by their massive hearts. Their size might be intimidating at first, but beneath the broad shoulders and deep chests lies a gentle spirit that thrives on companionship.
These dogs make excellent guardians, loyal friends, and sometimes, unintentional lap dogs—yes, they still think they’re small. But with great size comes great responsibility. Feeding, exercising, and housing them requires more space, more planning, and more love.
Let’s explore the world of extra-large dog breeds—why people are drawn to them, what it takes to care for them, and what makes living with one feel like sharing your home with a furry bear. If your heart (and your sofa) has room for a gentle giant, read on.
Extra Large Giant Dog Breeds
1. Great Dane
Meet the Great Dane, the dog equivalent of a skyscraper. This breed is known for its impressive height (seriously, they can stand taller than most people when on their hind legs) and their even more impressive heart.
Despite their size, Great Danes are known for being sweet, affectionate, and exceptionally gentle — they’re the big teddy bears of the dog world. They make a great choice for first-time dog parents.
Their loving nature makes them excellent family pets, and they love cuddles — yes, even if that means their giant head is squishing you on the couch. No need for a pillow; they’ll serve as your comfy bed. They also think they’re lap dogs, so prepare for a face full of dog if you sit down.
As per Purina, they make excellent guard dogs, swiftly alerting their family to approaching strangers. However, they can be territorial and may not always be friendly toward other dogs entering their space, and they can also be prone to hip dysplasia.
Why You’ll Love a Great Dane
✔ They’ll make your smaller dog look like a puppy
✔ Huge on affection, low on aggression
✔ So loving, they might just think they’re your new personal bodyguard
Fun Fact: The world’s tallest dog ever recorded was a Great Dane named Zeus, who measured a mind-boggling 44 inches tall at the shoulder — and still thought he was a puppy at heart. Can you imagine him trying to fit on your bed?
2. English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is the Napoleon of the dog world, and by that, we mean: massive in size, with a personality that’s all about chillin’ like a king. These dogs weigh more than most grown adults, and they love to live up to their “lazy, lovable” reputation.
Don’t be fooled, though — while they may love lounging on the couch, they’re incredibly protective and loving to their humans.
If you want a lap dog with an intense snooze schedule, look no further than the English Mastiff. They may prefer napping, but they’ll guard you like a fortress when they’re awake. They also have a surprisingly sweet demeanor, making them excellent family companions.
Why You’ll Love an English Mastiff
✔ Built-in footrest (because they’re too big for your lap)
✔ Protective without being a drama king or queen
✔ Impressive presence without the barking or drama
Fun Fact: English Mastiffs are so big, their snores can be heard from a mile away. (Okay, not really, but their snoring does have some serious bass.)
3. Irish Wolfhound
If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “I wish I could ride a dog like a horse,” the Irish Wolfhound might just make your dreams come true (but please, don’t actually try to ride them). These tallest dog breeds were originally bred to hunt wolves in ancient Ireland, and boy, does it show in their towering frame and imposing stance.
Despite their muscular build and warrior-like past, Irish Wolfhounds are sweet-natured, calm, and affectionate. They’re gentle giants that will happily sit beside you, letting you pet their giant heads while they lazily wag their tails, leaving a trail of fur behind.
Talk about a dog-sized cuddle machine mission. You’ll find them glued to your side, always eager to please and eager to work. They’re a loyal, energetic dog.
Why You’ll Love an Irish Wolfhound
✔ Towering height with a heart bigger than their paws, making them loving companions.
✔ Calm, gentle, and great with kids
✔ Their presence is intimidating, but their love is tender
Purina says Irish Wolfhounds typically get along well with other dogs, though their impressive size may be overwhelming for some, and they can be susceptible to heart disease.
Fun Fact: At their full height, Irish Wolfhounds can be taller than some ponies — but don’t worry, they’ll still let you hold the reins (sort of). They may not be able to pull a carriage, but they can certainly pull you into a deep nap.
4. Saint Bernard
Picture this: a huge, lovable, drooly dog with a barrel of brandy around its neck, saving lost travelers in the Alps. That’s the Saint Bernard — a giant heart wrapped in a lot of fur and love. Originally bred for rescue work in the snow-covered Swiss Alps, this gentle giant is a caring companion and loyal protector.
Saint Bernards are best known for their kind, easygoing nature. They might look intimidating with their enormous size, but they’re just giant teddy bears with a love for snuggling on the couch (or maybe the entire living room). They’re incredibly affectionate, especially with kids, and their gentle demeanor makes them great family pets.
Why You’ll Love a Saint Bernard
✔ Snuggly, laid-back personality — like a giant, furry pillow
✔ Protective without aggressive tendencies
✔ Great with kids, cats, and anything that might want to snuggle them
Fun Fact: Despite their size, Saint Bernards are gentle giants who will let you use them as a footrest — just don’t expect them to get up anytime soon. Also, that legendary “barrel of brandy” — more of a Hollywood thing. They’re far more likely to offer you a sloppy kiss than a drink!
5. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is like a walking cloud with an incredibly serious job — guarding the flock. This breed was originally used as livestock guardians in the Pyrenees Mountains of France and Spain, so they’re built tough. They have a thick, white, fluffy coat that makes them look like snow-covered hills themselves.
But it’s not just their majestic looks that make them special — it’s their calm, dignified demeanor and their devotion to their families. Great Pyrenees are independent thinkers, and while they may not always follow commands, they’ll certainly watch over you like a dedicated protector.
They’re affectionate and gentle, with a calm and patient nature, making them perfect companions for both adults and kids.
Why You’ll Love a Great Pyrenees
✔ Loyal guardians — they’ll watch over your home like it’s their job (because it is)
✔ Soft, fluffy, and hug-worthy
✔ Calm demeanor — their laid-back attitude means they’re as likely to nap as they are to protect
According to PetMD, the Great Pyrenees might be better suited for households without small children, as their large size—often around 100 pounds—could unintentionally knock over a young child.
Fun Fact: Great Pyrenees are known to be “night watch dogs” — they’ll protect you and your property with a truly unmatched vigilance. And while they may look all elegant and regal, don’t be surprised if they try to climb into your lap. They might be big, but they’re also big on cuddles.
6. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is like the swimming champion of the dog world, but with the charm of a giant teddy bear.
Originally bred to work as water rescue dogs, Newfoundlands are strong, gentle, and adorable. Don’t let their impressive size intimidate you — these big dogs are known for their calm, friendly demeanor, making them perfect family companions.
Their thick, waterproof coats are as functional as they are fluffy, allowing them to be great swimmers. They were bred to save lives in the water, so if you need a dog lifeguard, the Newfoundland is your guy!
And when they’re not saving lives or swimming in lakes, you’ll find them lounging and snuggling with their family members.
Why You’ll Love a Newfoundland
✔ Giant dog, gentle soul — they’ll happily share their giant heart with you
✔ Excellent swimmers — a natural water dog with webbed feet ready to jump into action (and maybe into your bathtub)
✔ Family-friendly — they get along with everyone, including kids, cats, and maybe even your pet hamster if they’re feeling adventurous
Fun Fact: A Newfoundland’s paws are webbed! They’re built for swimming, which means they’ll probably love the pool just as much as you do (and may even want to join you for a swim). But don’t worry, they’re also experts at chilling on the couch after a good swim.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is the ultimate family-friendly, majestic breed, known for its friendly disposition and beautiful tri-colored coat.
Originally bred to work as farm dogs in the Swiss Alps, Bernese Mountain Dogs are as hardworking as they are lovable. They were made for the outdoors and are known for their ability to handle tough tasks, but once they’re inside, they’re all about cuddling with the family.
Despite their large frame, they have a calm and laid-back nature, making them excellent companions. Berners are known for their loyalty, and their gentle nature means they are great with kids and other pets. When it’s time for some relaxation, Bernese Mountain Dogs love nothing more than lying by your side and watching the world go by.
Why You’ll Love a Bernese Mountain Dog
✔ Fluffy and friendly — their soft, tri-colored coat is as lovable as their personality
✔ Great with kids — perfect playmate for your little ones
✔ Protective yet gentle — they’re strong and dependable but also soft and sweet with family members
Fun Fact: While Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle, laid-back nature, they still love to play and will happily frolic around your yard. But don’t expect them to chase anything too fast. Their slow, lumbering charm means they’re more likely to give you a “come play with me, but at my own pace” look.
Conclusion
Extra-large giant dog breeds, such as the Anatolian Shepherd Dog, French Mastiff, and Tibetan Mastiff, are among the largest dog breeds in the world. These dogs tend to have a thick double coat that helps them adapt to cold weather, making them well-suited for outdoor life. Known for their lion-like manes and droopy faces, breeds like the Neapolitan Mastiff, Black Russian Terrier, and Dogue de Bordeaux are iconic examples of these majestic creatures.
Giant dogs such as the Scottish Deerhound, Cane Corso, and Italian Mastiff, affectionately called “family dogs,” are known for their imposing size and strength. However, despite their size, these breeds have even bigger hearts, often being loving and gentle with their families. As large, working dogs, they need enough exercise and space to thrive.
Giant dog breeds, like the Mastiffs, Tibetan Mastiff, and the massive Cane Corso, may require more space and exercise than typical dogs, but they make incredible family dogs with a strong sense of loyalty and protection. Early training is essential for these strong-willed breeds, but with the right care and attention, they can become loving and devoted members of the family. For those with enough space and a love for giant dogs, these breeds can make the perfect dream dog, offering unmatched companionship.
