Big dog breeds are more than just impressive in size; they’re gentle giants with fiercely loyal hearts to match. Naturally protective, these dogs are known for their deep bonds, devotion, courage, and an unwavering loyalty that runs far deeper than mere companionship.
It is these very protective instincts and gentle temperament of theirs that make them the most dependable friends you could have.
Large dogs have a way of blending strength with sensitivity. They stand by your side, they’re with you through every moment, whether it’s staying alert when you need protection or calm when you need comfort. This is a lifelong guardian who will give their all.
In this guide, we will be exploring these big dogs that also happen to be the most loyal dog breeds. They make wonderful family pets and are great companions that form strong bonds with their human family. With proper training and love, you may just find your perfect pick.
Popular Big Dog Breeds Known For Their Loyalty
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
One of the large dog breeds, weighing up to 100 pounds, the Bernese Mountain Dog are known as a gentle giant. This is due to their generally friendly nature and gentle temperament. Their coat is gorgeous, with a tri-colour hue.
Temperament
Affectionate and great family dogs.
Loyal dogs, very much devoted to their family.
Intelligent, making training easy and a fun activity, you can involve the kids in.
Patient with kids who want to climb all over them.
Because of their calm and patient nature and sweet temperament, this is a dog you can trust even around rowdy kids. They may not be aggressive, but they are still protective dogs who will always look out for the family.
With half an hour of moderate exercise every day, you are opting for a family companion that gets the vibe for the day.
2. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux has an imposing presence and looks like it’s dangerous, but looks are deceiving with this one. Their wrinkly skin and sharp gaze hide a real softie.
Their independent streak makes them a little difficult to handle at times. That, coupled with their size, requires an experienced owner for them, PDSA states.
Temperament
Laid back, good family dogs despite their large size.
Loyal companions that form really strong bonds with their families.
Intelligent and respond really well to positive reinforcement training.
Easy to train and likely to be vocal.
They are not couch potatoes, so their owner needs to be committed to catering to their exercise needs. With a low-maintenance coat, they do tend to drool a little, likely because of their droopy face. They get along with other dogs and pets, and kids, too. However, due to their size, they need to be trained and monitored.
3. Saint Bernard
One of the world’s most beloved and famous dogs, the Saint Bernard is a gentle giant from the Swiss Alps. They are really charming with their inquisitiveness. They like to play as well with their family members and be on their feet. AKC says their popularity comes from their said fondness for kids.
Temperament
Imposing and muscular presence with a friendly expression.
Intelligent Bernards are the happiest when doing something with their owners.
Can’t be left alone for long periods.
Watchful of their families, making them good guard dogs too.
Originally bred as rescue dogs to locate lost or deceased travellers in the Swiss Alps. Equipped with a thick double coat for the harsh climate of the mountainous region. They are good with families, lively, and a very loyal breed.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
With a short coat that doesn’t shed much and a very distinctive wrinkly face, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a massive breed. They need a wipe down their wrinkles to prevent any skin infections from occurring. They are very loving and gentle, looking out for their loved ones and being wary of strangers.
Temperament
Loyal and protective, excellent companions.
They are homebodies who enjoy an occasional walk, as per PetMD.
Lazy dogs that need exercise and mental stimulation.
They can be welcoming of new people and other breeds with proper socialisation.
They were bred to be a little “ugly”, to deter intruders. They are strong-willed and have an independent nature that can make training a little difficult. They enjoy obedience training and puzzle toys too, due to their intelligence and desire for a cognitive challenge.
5. Newfoundland
This dog will take any opportunity it gets to go for a swim. They also enjoy staying in bed and taking a nap in bed. Hill’s Pet says this is a docile dog that is watchful and also very trustworthy. They are super patient and tolerant, even with hyperactive and energetic kids.
Temperament
Affectionate and driven.
They are intelligent and very loyal.
Working nature with good manners and a strong drive to protect.
Generally calm and sweet.
They are protective of their family and extremely loyal. Their protective instincts make them sharp and very effective when it comes to looking after the family. So much so, you can trust a Newfoundland to put itself between family and danger.
6. Great Dane
This joy of living with a dog is rightly named Great, but it is not a Dane. Originating from Germany in the 1800s, they were bred as hunting dogs, Purina notes. One of the tallest breeds in the world today, they require consistent training, especially when around little kids, smaller dogs and other small animals
Temperament
Famously friendly, greeting loved ones and strangers alike.
Remarkable patience allows them to stay calm and composed.
Dependable, always watching over its family.
Despite its towering size, it is a true gentle giant.
Being one of the biggest breeds in existence, they are nicknamed “Apollo of dogs”. They may have a guardian history, but enjoy the calm family life just as much. If you’re looking for a calm pet that shows affection and is devoted, this is a great pick.
However, they do come with some health issues that owners must be aware of before bringing the breed home.
7. Scottish Deerhound
The “Royal Dog of Scotland”, the Scottish Deerhound, is a large dog breed that is dignified and polite. They can be quite speedy and need an hour of exercise daily. This can be a task because they love to lounge and are quite laid-back and even lazy sometimes.
Temperament
Friendly, the Scottish Deerhound has an easygoing temperament.
Lazy, but still eager to please you at the end of the day.
They are athletic and have hunting instincts, so you need to keep an eye on them.
Sensitive and affectionate, forming strong bonds.
One-person dogs, or one-family dogs, these dogs are super affectionate and loyal. They make wonderful family pets. They don’t prefer to be left alone. Due to their gentle and friendly nature, they make great therapy dogs too. They respond well to strangers, too, so it is definitely not a guard dog.
Conclusion
Most of us are now open to the idea that devotion can come in the form of a big heart and mighty presence. The dogs discussed embody what it means to be strong, affectionate, and a dependable protector. Forming bonds that last a lifetime, these breeds look out for their families like no other.
Their loyalty and love are an instinct, almost an automatic behaviour. It doesn’t need to be trained or taught; through every challenge in life, they will remain steadfast and confident by your side. They may take up space, but they fill our lives with peace and serenity like no one else.
