If you’ve ever met one of the true giant dog breeds, you know they have a way of winning hearts instantly. These gentle giants might tower over most other dogs, but behind that imposing size is often a gentle nature, a calm temperament, and a knack for becoming wonderful family companions.
The American Kennel Club mentions that in general, giant breeds have significantly shorter average lifespans than smaller dogs — often averaging around 8–10 years, while medium and small breeds typically live 10–13 years.
That’s not to say a giant dog is for everyone. Their enormous size means they need more space, regular exercise, and mental stimulation, and they’re not exactly made for apartment living. But for an active family with room to roam, these massive dogs can be loyal companions, and even devoted companions who bond closely with their humans.
While they can be protective of their human companions, they are generally gentle with children, though it’s wise to supervise playtime, as even a big dog can accidentally knock someone over. With early socialization, these large breeds can be excellent family pets that bring endless companionship and joy.
Gentle Giants Among Obedient Dog Breeds
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, gentle breed with a sweet and patient personality. They love being around their families and are especially good with children. Their calm nature and affectionate temperament make them an excellent choice for families with young kids.
These gentle giants are protective but not aggressive. They may be shy around strangers at first, but they warm up quickly. With their striking looks and beautiful, thick double coat, they stand out in any crowd. This coat also makes them well-suited for cooler climates, though they can adapt to different weather conditions.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are also great therapy dogs. They thrive in active households and enjoy regular exercise. Social by nature, Berners dislike being left alone. They love joining in family activities and often act as watchful guardians. They are intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train with positive reinforcement.
They usually get along well with other dogs and are often fine with cats. Around children, they are loving and patient, but their large size means supervision is important to avoid accidental knocks.
2. Leonberger
They were originally bred for cart-pulling, herding livestock, and water rescue. They are known to bond closely with their families and seem to have a natural understanding of human emotions. This makes them excellent family pets and superb therapy dogs.
Purina says that the Leonberger originated in Germany in the 1800s, and is a cross between the Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard, and Newfoundland.
They get along well with children and other pets, often enjoying cuddle time with family members. Despite their imposing size, they are loving, making them one of the best gentle giant breeds. Their loyal and protective instincts also make them reliable watchdogs without being overly aggressive.
However, early socialization and training are important. Without boundaries, their natural habits like digging, chewing, and messy eating can become a challenge. Regular exercise and mental stimulation keep them happy and healthy. With proper care, they are affectionate, loyal companions who thrive in loving homes.
3. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a working dog that originated in England during the mid-19th century. Breeders crossed the Mastiff and Bulldog to develop a powerful, determined dog capable of stopping poachers.
They were originally bred to guard large estates and private game preserves, and they still excel as dependable guard dogs today. Behind their intimidating size is a dog with a gentle disposition. Bullmastiffs are known to be wonderful companions, forming deep and lasting bonds with their families.
Bullmastiffs are highly intelligent and respond well to obedience training, but they can be stubborn at times. Early socialization is essential to help them become confident and well-adjusted adults. Their protective instincts mean they may be cautious around strangers, but proper training ensures they remain calm and controlled.
Despite their strength and history as working protectors, Bullmastiffs are surprisingly low-energy dogs. They enjoy relaxing alongside their owners and don’t require extensive exercise. Their laid-back personality even makes them suitable for apartment living, as long as they receive daily walks and time with their family.
4. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, often called the French Mastiff, is a massive and muscular breed with a commanding presence. Originating in France, it is considered one of the most ancient French dog breeds, existing even before France became a nation.
They are known for their striking fawn coat, stocky build, and proportionally the largest head in the canine kingdom. While their appearance may be imposing, their personality is far more tender.
These dogs are incredibly loyal and form deep bonds with their families. They are protective by nature, making them dependable guardians, but they are also affectionate and loving with those they trust.
Many see them as gentle lap dogs despite their size, and they are happiest when spending time with their loved ones. Their devotion, patience, and bigger hearts make them wonderful companions for the right home.
To raise a well-balanced Dogue de Bordeaux, consistent training is essential, starting at an early age. Without structure, they can become stubborn or overly dominant. They require an owner who understands their needs and can provide firm, fair leadership.
5. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a large dog with a long history of working alongside people in harsh Arctic conditions. PetMD states that these pups were originally developed by the Malemiut people of Alaska, and were used to pull heavy sleds over long distances, hunt seals, and even scare polar bears.
Their strength and endurance also made them valuable during the Klondike Gold Rush, where they hauled freight through snow and ice.
Despite their power, Alaskan Malamutes are friendly, gentle, and affectionate. They are loyal to their families and enjoy spending time with children. Known for their playful and energetic personalities, they thrive in homes that can match their active lifestyle.
Their thick double coat, erect ears, and plume-like tail are suited to cold climates, but they can adapt to various environments with proper care. Early training is important to manage their independent nature. Without guidance, they may become stubborn or develop unwanted habits.
6. Belgian Laekenois
The Belgian Laekenois is the rarest of the four Belgian shepherd breeds, alongside the Malinois, Tervuren, and Belgian Sheepdog. All share a similar size and build, but the Laekenois is set apart by its rough, wiry coat and tousled look.
This medium-sized herding dog comes from the town of Laeken in Belgium and was originally used to guard livestock and protect property.
They are watchful, protective, and tender with family. With their strong work ethic and alert nature, they make devoted companions for experienced owners. They are wary of strangers but friendly with those they know well. Their intelligence and energy mean they need daily exercise and mental stimulation.
The Laekenois has long legs and a sturdy frame. It has a double coat with a wiry texture, requiring regular brushing to prevent mats. Occasional bathing will keep them looking their best. While known for their herding skills, they are also agile and active, and many excel in activities like swimming.
7. Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, with a history that stretches back many centuries. Renowned for its extraordinary scenting ability, this ancient hound is believed to be the foundation for most scent-hunting breeds we know today.
Britannica mentions that its nose is equipped with around 230 million scent receptors, nearly forty times more than a human. The Bloodhound can track a scent for miles, even days after it was left behind.
Originally bred for trailing both people and animals, the Bloodhound’s skills have been used in hunting, search and rescue, and even law enforcement. Their accuracy and determination in following a trail are so remarkable that their findings have been used as reliable evidence in courts of law.
Despite their impressive working abilities, Bloodhounds are gentle, especially with children. They are known for their calm, friendly nature at home, balancing their professional precision with a loving temperament.
Their combination of history, hunting skill, and kindness makes the Bloodhound not only a master tracker but also a devoted family companion.
Conclusion
Gentle giants prove that in the canine world, size and sweetness can go hand in hand. From loyal protectors to patient family companions, these giant dog breeds bring not only an impressive presence but also bigger hearts full of love. With the right care, early training, and a lifestyle that matches their needs, they can become the most devoted members of any household.
Choosing one of these breeds means committing to their space, exercise, and companionship needs, but the reward is immeasurable. Whether relaxing by your side or joining in on family activities, these dogs offer a rare blend of gentleness, loyalty, and presence that makes them unforgettable and wonderful companions.
