Large dogs tend to have more self-control than smaller ones. You were not thinking the opposite, right? It seems difficult to accept, as giant breeds are perceived to be more aggressive. But the truth is that large dogs will be the gentlest companions you’ll ever meet.
Behind their towering frames and heavy footsteps lie quiet hearts and love for stillness. These dogs are not here to overwhelm your life but to slow it down. Who wouldn’t like cozy naps, soulful strolls, and a presence during quiet moments?
These gentle giants are going to bring a sense of peace that no smaller dog could ever! So, go through this list of the seven most affectionate and peaceful breeds. These emotionally grounding dogs will take up more space in your heart than your couch!
7 Relaxed Giant Dog Breeds
1. Newfoundland
In case you didn’t know, there exists a dog that got the title “Dog of the Century”. The Newfoundland got this title for its efforts to save around 23 to 27 people from drowning in Wales in the 1930s, AKC reported.
This bravery is nothing short of legendary. But, beneath this working spirit lies a calm dog with an affectionate temperament.
They stand around 26-28 inches in height and weigh around 150 pounds. They can swim, pull carts, and guard livestock. The Newfoundland might turn heads with this imposing will, but you know what stays with people? The patience, tenderness, and peace it brings to your home!
These webbed feet, thick-coated dog breeds, are known for their serene disposition. They are incredibly good with children and easygoing. It would not be wrong that assume that this large dog breed has the softest hearts.
2. Great Dane
Most of you grew up watching Scooby Doo. Well, then you have probably been seeing a Great Dane from a very young age! Yes, you guessed it right, Scooby was a Great Dane. It is the tallest dog of the working breed. With a height up to 32 inches and an athletic build, it has a gentle and relaxed demeanor.
But behind this mighty giant beats the heart of a couch potato. It is a very calm dog and bonds deeply with their people. It is one of the most loyal dog breeds among others. As for their exercise needs, two brisk walks would be enough to keep them content.
Their calming presence fills a room more than their bodies can. Not to mention, early socialization and solid training can make them the best pets. They are protective companions who intuitively know when to stand guard and when to simply rest their paws by your side!
3. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are brave dogs that also make great family dogs. The Irish Wolfhound had the distinction of accompanying Celtic warriors in Irish wars. They could also bring down wolves in a single combat.
All of these characteristics might make you think of them as a scary dog breed with the fiercest reputation, but the reality is somewhat different. The Irish Wolfhound is nearly 3 feet tall, and the presence of this large breed can be felt.
Irish Wolfhounds are often excellent therapy dogs due to their indispensable loyalty and friendliness. You just need to have ample space in your home to accommodate these large and calm dogs. These gentle giants will pay back with loyalty and a beautiful relationship with you and your children.
So, without further ado, bring an Irish Wolfhound home, as it is one of the best breeds to adopt.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
We bet you have not seen a more talented and intelligent dog than this large dog breed, the Bernese Mountain Dog. Britannica states that they were involved in farming, search and rescue operations, and also as guard dogs. But now, these giants are mostly family dogs.
They have a height of almost 23–27.5 inches and are 70–115 pounds in weight. The sweet temperament of this giant breed is evident as soon as you meet these giant-sized pups. Bernese mountain dogs are very kind and affectionate, and loyal to the people around them, to children, and also to other dogs.
It has kindness wrapped in a thick, tri-colored coat. They are alert when needed and exceedingly serene otherwise. They love to play and can be a good choice for owners who like active pets. But as they grow in age, they will calmly lie down in your lap, lean into your legs, or simply lie down peacefully.
Training and exercising with them is also an easy task. And what’s more? They have a very protective nature, and you would not have to worry about a thing!
5. Scottish Deerhound
If you are an introverted person, you can get a dog who loves socialization to make up for it. The Scottish Deerhound is one option out of all. This dog breed is a vision of both elegance and power. It stands at around 28-32 inches, exuding gentle nobility whenever it moves.
While they have a history of hunting red deer across Scotland, according to Wikipedia, they are a good choice for a calm pet.
They have a rough, wiry coat on the outside and calmness on the inside. They are quiet and gentle and love to snuggle in a cozy place after expending energy. With hearts bigger than their frames, they form profound bonds with their owners.
But, these Scottish Deerhounds do require daily exercise and space to sprint. They effectively switch from energetic pets to a calm dog and then back to the same. So, families who are looking for a dignified and gentle partner to adopt should give this breed a shot!
6. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiffs are nothing short of legendary, like living fortresses wrapped in fur. This alludes to their historical role as guard dogs. Originating in Tibet, these huge animals protected villages and livestock. This gentle giant has a height of 26 inches and weighs well over 100 pounds. The lion-like mane and a commanding presence reflect guardianship, as per PetMD.
While this was all about the appearance and history, how is this dog in temperament? The Tibetan Mastiff is like a devoted and calm dog. They are good with their owners and children around them. However, this breed remains alert during quiet moments, especially at night. They also bark loudly when they hear a noise.
They do need some early obedience and socialization training, but are generally a good choice. They are certainly intelligent, but not very active. But, good for you if you love lying all day. You will have a partner by your side all the time.
7. Leonberger
The Leonberger was originally bred in the early 1800s in Germany to resemble a lion. Some say it was a cross between the Saint Bernards, the Great Pyrenees, and the Newfoundland. It is often referred to as the “Gentle Lion.” It quickly garnered a lot of attention for its majestic size and calm demeanor.
They have a height of about 31 inches and weigh as much as a grown-up man! Despite their large build, they move with ease and grace. Their bodies are covered with a thick double coat that gives them some sort of a kingly look, reinforcing their calm.
It is a very friendly dog and thrives in family settings. But don’t let the friendliness fool you into thinking that the Leonberger is unaware. It is one of the most intelligent dog breeds. So, the greatest strength of this dog breed is its gentle nature, but it possesses a list of other qualities you can’t ignore!
Conclusion
So, it is clear from the blog that the bigger the dog, the bigger the heart. We have explored everything from the quiet strength of Newfoundland to the gentleness of the Leonberger; these relaxed dog breeds are not just about size.
They bring calm, companionship, and unconditional love into your lives. So, if you want a dog that fills your home with peace and presence, one of these majestic breeds might be just the perfect match! They are the relaxed dogs that bring peace and composure to your life.
