There’s something truly special about sharing your home with a big dog.
From their commanding presence to their gentle, loyal nature, large and giant dog breeds often form deep bonds with their families and bring a unique sense of comfort and companionship.
Whether it’s a protective guardian or a laid-back gentle giant, these dogs have a way of filling not just your home—but your heart, too. However, owning a large dog comes with responsibilities that go beyond the basics.
Their size means they require more space, more food, and often more training to ensure they grow into well-mannered companions. Understanding what qualifies as a “large” or “giant” breed—and how their temperament, energy levels, and care needs differ—is essential before committing.
We’ll explore the top enormous dog breeds for dedicated owners, comparing their size, personality, and day-to-day needs. Whether you’re drawn to a powerful protector or a calm, affectionate giant, this list will help you choose the perfect big companion with confidence.
Top Enormous Dog Breeds for Dedicated Owners
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
If giant cuddly fluff balls were people, the Bernese Mountain Dog would be the friend who always brings snacks and a cozy blanket to the party. These gentle giants have a calm, deeply affectionate nature and are absolutely obsessed with family life, as noted by Britannica.
Kids? Check. Cats? Usually check. Your lap? Well… let’s just say it might be a tight squeeze. Originally bred in the Swiss Alps as farm dogs, Berners (yes, that’s the affectionate nickname) were tasked with herding, pulling carts, and generally being strong, dependable companions.
Nowadays, their jobs mostly involve being lovable, four-legged bodyguards for your couch and loyal hiking companions when adventure calls. Despite their impressive size, Berners are surprisingly mellow.
They enjoy lounging around like furry royalty but secretly love the occasional outdoor escapade. Keep in mind, though—they’re thick-coated snow lovers. Hot summer days? Not their favorite. Early leash training is a must; otherwise, you might find your gentle giant dragging you through the neighborhood like a small, furry tank.
With their big hearts, gentle temperament, and occasional goofy grin, Bernese Mountain Dogs are perfect for those ready to commit to a life full of love, hair, and the occasional avalanche of fur.
2. Newfoundland
Meet the Newfoundland: the ultimate combination of gentle giant, superhero swimmer, and professional cuddle monster. These massive fur-coated marvels are basically giant teddy bears with webbed feet—yes, seriously.
Originally hailing from the rugged coasts of Canada, Newfoundlands were bred for hard work: hauling nets, pulling carts, and rescuing people from icy waters.
WebMD says, they’re strong, capable, and heroic… but also has incredibly patient nature and are downright affectionate with their humans. Kids? They’re basically babysitters with paws. Newfies are natural water lovers.
If your family has a lake, river, or even a big backyard pool, you’re basically guaranteed a canine lifeguard who will enthusiastically dive in after any floating stick or stray beach ball. And don’t worry—once the splashing is done, this gentle giant transforms into a snuggle expert.
A long day of swimming and playing? That just means prime couch time, complete with a heavy, warm Newfoundland resting across your lap.
With their easygoing temperament, loyalty, and sheer lovable size, Newfoundlands are perfect for families ready to embrace lots of fur, occasional wet paw prints, and a whole lot of heart. Just make sure you have a comfy sofa that can handle a small bear… because that’s basically what you’re getting.
3. Saint Bernard
Ah, the Saint Bernard—the celebrity of snowy mountains and classic “rescue dog” legends. Picture this: a massive, barrel-chested hero trudging through the Alps, carrying a tiny keg of brandy (okay, maybe just in the stories) and saving stranded travelers.
That’s the Saint Bernard in a nutshell… or should I say, in a giant, fluffy paw? These gentle giants are the ultimate family companions.
Their size alone makes them seem imposing, but their temperament is pure marshmallow: affectionate, patient, and endlessly tolerant of kids, cats, and the occasional squeaky toy shoved in their face. A Saint Bernard in your home is basically a live-in guardian, comfort provider, and clumsy lap dog all rolled into one.
Yes, they do come with a grooming commitment—thick fur doesn’t maintain itself—but the payoff is worth it. Their calm, easygoing personality means they’re happy to lounge by your side for hours, watching over the family or just offering a comforting paw when you need it.
If you’re ready to open your heart (and your couch) to a mountain-sized bundle of love, the Saint Bernard might just be geat companion. Bonus points: they make excellent snow angels, whether intentionally or accidentally.
4. Tibetan Mastiff
Meet the Tibetan Mastiff: the majestic fluff fortress of the dog world. Imagine a massive lion-sized pup wrapped in a cloud of fur, staring at you like it’s silently judging your life choices—yes, that’s basically a Mastiff.
These giant guardians can tip the scales around 150 pounds, and their thick double coat only adds to their “I am both adorable and intimidating” vibe. Snow? Love it. Summer heat? Not so much—think sauna-level fur situation.
Originally bred to guard monasteries and livestock high in the Himalayas, Tibetan Mastiffs are fiercely independent and incredibly smart. They don’t fetch your slippers just because you asked nicely—they prefer a purpose, a job, a role worthy of their ancient lineage.
This independence gives them an air of regal aloofness; strangers might think they’re grumpy, but it’s just selective affection. Earn their trust, and you’ve got a loyal, devoted giant by your side… who will probably sit on your feet, whether you like it or not.
Tibetan Mastiffs aren’t for casual dog owners—they require someone who appreciates brains, boundaries, and a little bit of royal attitude. But for those willing to meet their grandeur with respect, you’re in for a lifetime of love, loyalty, and dramatic fur flares that could easily double as a blanket.
5. Dogue De Bordeaux
Say bonjour to the Dogue de Bordeaux, aka the French Mastiff—the noble slobber machine with a heart bigger than its wrinkles. These massive, wrinkly charmers are the definition of loyalty, often attaching themselves to their humans like velcro… sometimes with drool as the adhesive.
Dogués are affectionate, devoted, and will happily flop next to you for hours of cuddles—but don’t let their sweetness fool you.
They have a streak of independence, which means training requires patience, consistency, and maybe a sense of humor for when your giant furry friend decides your commands are “optional suggestions.”
A word to the wise: drool happens. And lots of it. Their wrinkled faces are cute, yes, but also a drool trap that demands regular cleaning. Keep a towel, grooming wipes, or even a small mop handy—your Dogue will reward your efforts with love, loyalty, and the occasional slobbery kiss that could double as a facial.
If you’re ready for a big-hearted, big-bodied companion who will follow you around with devotion (and occasional puddles), the Dogue de Bordeaux is a French masterpiece of fur, love, and lovable chaos.
6. Irish Wolfhound
Enter the Irish Wolfhound: the skyscraper of the dog world. Imagine standing next to a dog that can easily peer over your shoulder while you’re standing up—yes, these gentle giants can reach up to 3 feet at the shoulder! With a presence this impressive, they’re part dog, part small giraffe, and all heart.
Despite their towering stature, Irish Wolfhounds are the ultimate couch companions… if by “couch” you mean “a sofa big enough to accommodate a small horse.”
These family pets are gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly low-energy for a dog that could probably dunk a basketball with ease. Kids? They’re patient, have a protective nature, and are endlessly tolerant, making them ideal family companions.
Of course, their size comes with some caveats. Health concerns like hip dysplasia and GDV mean that dedicated owners need to stay vigilant, and their average lifespan is shorter than most breeds—6 to 8 years of pure, towering love.
Regular walks are a must to keep them happy and healthy, but beyond that, these wolves of Irish legend are content to lounge, nap, and shower their family with massive amounts of affection.
If you’re ready for a life with a big dog breed and instant conversation starter, the Irish Wolfhound is a majestic choice—with a heart just as enormous as its legs.
7. Neapolitan Mastiff
Say hello to the Neapolitan Mastiff—the Italian cousin in the giant dog family who looks like it was sculpted by a Renaissance artist… if that artist had a thing for wrinkles and drool.
These massive, incredibly loyal dogs might not tip the scales like some of their English cousins, but make no mistake—they’re still the size of a small sofa with legs. Neapolitans are the ultimate chill masters.
Their favorite hobbies include napping in sunbeams, inspecting their humans for pets, and occasionally reminding you that a giant dog in your kitchen counts as “helping.” Walks are important, of course, but mostly so they have an excuse to stretch those huge, wrinkly bodies.
A note for brave grooming warriors: their folds are drool magnets. Regular cleaning with grooming wipes is a must to keep your Neapolitan comfy and healthy—and to prevent those adorable wrinkles from turning into a drooly trap zone.
In short, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a lovable, loyal, and utterly gigantic companion. These giant breeds may demand a little extra care, but the payoff is a devoted, couch-loving, wrinkly giant who’s ready to steal your heart—and maybe your chair.
8. Great Dane
Behold the Great Dane: the Apollo of the dog world. Standing tall, regal, and impossibly elegant, these tallest dog breeds can make you feel like you’re sharing your living room with a friendly horse.
But don’t let their grandeur fool you—they’re basically oversized lap dogs with a love for belly rubs and family cuddles. Great Danes are calm, affectionate, and endlessly patient with kids, making them perfect for households that need a gentle giant to roam the halls.
They don’t require regular exercise, but regular walks and space to stretch those ridiculously long legs are a must—because let’s face it, one wrong turn in a tight hallway can turn into a comedic domino effect.
PetMD noted their size does mean a shorter lifespan—about seven to ten years—but what they lack in longevity, they more than make up for in heart.
If you’ve got the space, patience, and willingness to embrace the occasional paw-to-face greeting (or an unexpected couch takeover), these family dogs will reward you with love, loyalty, and a presence that’s impossible to ignore.
9. Great Pyrenees
Say hello to the Great Pyrenees: the fluffy bodyguard of your dreams. At first glance, they might seem like giant marshmallows content to lounge on the couch all day—but don’t be fooled.
Beneath all that soft, snowy fur is a strong, fast, and highly independent dog built to protect livestock… and, by extension, your home. Great Pyrenees are loyal companions and are affectionate with their families, making them excellent companions for kids.
They’re happiest when they get a mix of quality family time and a good, long walk or hike to stretch those powerful legs.
Early training and proper socialization are key, as their strong will means they think carefully before following commands—basically, they’re polite, but only if it aligns with their grand vision of the world.
If you’re ready for a fluffy, devoted giant who can be both a gentle companion and a four-legged security system, the Great Pyrenees is your perfect match. Just be prepared for lots of fur, occasional stubbornness, and a dog so majestic it might make you feel like you live in a fairytale.
Conclusion
Many large dog breeds are incredible family companions, offering a mix of loyalty, gentle disposition, and protective instincts.
Other dog breeds like the Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever are perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures, while breeds such as the Great Dane or Alaskan Malamute can fit a more relaxed lifestyle at home, provided they receive mental stimulation, daily exercise, and ample space.
Regardless of breed, early socialization, consistent training, and proper care are key to raising a well-adjusted, highly trainable large dog. With attention to their energy levels, physical needs, and family dynamics, these massive dogs can bring years of companionship, protection, and joy to your household.
