There is something majestic about a giant dog. Maybe it is those slow thudding footsteps or the way they stretch across the whole couch like they own the place. But surprise, surprise… many of the big dogs out there are also the easiest to live with.
Forget what you have heard about large dog breeds being hard work. The truth is, some giant breeds are total softies with calm personalities, low energy, and a love for napping rather than yapping and running. The easiest giant dog breeds make great companions even for first-time pet parents or casual dog owners.
Easiest Giant Dog Breeds
If you are looking for a dog that is huge in size but low in drama, this breed list is for you.
1. Great Dane
The nickname “Gentle Giant” fits the Great Dane perfectly. Sure, they are huge. Some even stand taller than most kitchen counters. But they are surprisingly calm, easy to train, and easygoing. Their big size might feel intimidating to some dog owners, but at their core, they are a friendly and affectionate breed.
Why Great Danes are a dream to live with?
Love lounging more than chasing
Friendly with people and other pets
Easy to train with consistency and treats
Despite being one of the largest dog breeds in the world, the Great Dane is often easier to manage than most small dogs. They don’t need endless exercise and are more likely to be spotted napping rather than zooming around the yard. If you are looking for a large dog with a low-key personality, this breed is for you.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound is tall, scruffy, and surprisingly sweet, and this large breed is another big softie that tends to win hearts easily. According to the American Kennel Club, they are the tallest of all AKC breeds. Originally bred to hunt wolves, these days they are more likely to be found curled up on a soft rug.
What makes them so easy?
Calm indoors, even when fully grown
Gentle with children and other dogs
Very laid-back for such a tall breed
The Irish Wolfhound may look like a mythical creature from an old children’s storybook. But their behavior is more “cuddle buddy” than beast.
They have a thick double coat, and they shed a bit throughout the year. So, you might want to keep your grooming brushes ready. They are a great fit for families who want a giant dog with a mellow vibe.
3. Saint Bernard
Meet the classic gentle giant and a fluffy one at that. The Saint Bernard. They are famous for their snow-packed adventures of a path-finder and rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps. Today, Saint Bernards are more about snuggles than adventures. According to Britannica, they are a powerfully built, muscular breed and extremely loyal.
Why Saint Bernard are so chill?
Naturally calm and patient
Great with kids and family dogs
Don’t need loads of exercise to be happy
Their fluffy, thick coats might look like a lot of work, but they are not that high-maintenance. As long as they get regular grooming and a little daily exercise, they are happy to hang around the house. Saint Bernards are best for families who want a well-behaved dog that doubles as a furry rug with moderate exercise needs.
4. Leonberger
Part lion. Part bear. Part best friend. The Leonberger is big, beautiful, and surprisingly gentle. These working dogs love being with their humans and tend to get along well with just about everyone.
Their history, as mentioned by AKC, says they were built for royalty who lined up to add this cutie to their royal courts. They are great swimmers, and that’s why they boast waterproof coats.
Why this big breed is one of the easiest giant dogs?
Friendly and easygoing temperament
Adapt well to family life
Respond well to training and positive attention
Despite their big size, they are not intimidating and not too demanding. But, they do need one hour of exercise daily. And with a little grooming effort, they are one of the easiest giant dog breeds to share a home with (not an apartment, they are huge!).
5. Great Pyrenees
If you want a large dog that acts like a calm guardian, the Great Pyrenees might be exactly what you are looking for. These dogs are known to be patient, loving companions, and extremely loyal at their core. AKC describes them as thickly coated, powerful, and immensely built working dogs.
What makes them low-maintenance giants?
Independent but affectionate
Naturally protective but rarely aggressive
Enjoys moderate exercise and chill outdoor time
The Great Pyrenees was originally bred to guard sheep from wolves, so their protective instinct is strong, but they are not the type to bark unless needed. Their big, fluffy bodies and peaceful presence make them one of the most trusted giant dog companions out there.
6. Boxer
Boxers might be a bit smaller than other giant dog breeds, but they still count as a large dog breed. And they bring a fun, energetic twist to the list. Their goofy faces might fool you, but beware!! Boxers are surprisingly manageable, and they won’t be creating too much fuss in your home, even though they are an active breed.
Why Boxers are a joy to have around?
Loyal and extremely affectionate
Great with kids and always up for a game
Respond well to structure and training
Even though Boxers have more bounce in their step than, say… a Great Dane, but they are still easy to train and easy to live with if you give them enough daily playtime. Their short coat means less grooming, and their fun-loving attitude makes them paw-some family dogs.
7. Neapolitan Mastiff
You might not agree with us, but this dog really looks like it just walked off the set of an ancient Roman movie. The Neapolitan Mastiff is one serious-looking giant breed, but their behavior at home is all about calm and connection. But, it’s best that they have some experienced dog owners.
Why they are one of the most chill big dogs?
Laid back, but don’t like harsh training
Quiet, observant, and very loyal, but equally lazy
Don’t need tons of exercise, moderate physical activity is enough
Yes, they drool. Yes, they snore. But they also love their people deeply and make amazing cuddle buddies, even if they weigh over 150 pounds. They are a bit like the bouncers of the large dog breeds. Quiet, slow-moving, and only react when absolutely necessary.
Conclusion
These easiest giant dogs prove that size does not have to equal stress. If you want a gentle protector, a nap-loving couch potato, or a playful pal… there’s a gentle, active dog on this list that can fit your life and your living room. But remember, big dogs come with big needs too, and these giants are easy breeds but still need enough space to stretch, regular vet care, a little daily exercise to stay healthy, time, love, and positive training.
Aside from this list, you can check Golden Retriever, Bernese Mountain dog, German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, French Mastiff, Rottweiler, Newfoundland, Bulldog, etc. These dogs are also intelligent, not so much high energy levels, full of affection, and smart. But remember to get them from a responsible breeder if you expect a purebred dog with power. All in all, these excellent companions are ready to move in and fill your heart with love.
