There’s big. Then there’s gigantic. And these dogs… let’s just say, your lap might not be ready for them. But your heart totally is!!
From gentle giants who once pulled carts in the snow to mountain dogs who look like walking teddy bears, these gigantic dog breeds are known for their loyal hearts, calm personalities, but yes… some drool.
So if you are dreaming of a giant dog breed that can guard your home, cuddle your kids, and fill your living room (literally), this one’s for you.
Gigantic Dog Breeds
We have compiled ten large dogs that are big in size and spirit. Equally.
1. Irish Wolfhound
Let’s kick things off with the tallest of them all. The majestic and mysterious Irish Wolfhound. Towering and graceful, these giant dogs were originally bred to hunt wolves and guard homesteads in Ireland. They have a wiry double coat and muscular build.
Why Irish Wolfhound stands tall (in every way)?
Known as gentle giants with a calm personality
Among the tallest dog breeds in the world, as per the AKC‘s list
Need space and soft places to stretch those long legs
They have a massive size, but even then, Irish Wolfies are surprisingly sweet and quiet. They are not watchdogs. They are not aggressive. They are just massive love-doggies with a historic past and a deep bond with their family.
2. Great Dane
Ah, Great Dane from Germany!! A dog so big you can practically count them as furniture. These elegant and sweet-natured dogs are often called gentle giants, and honestly… the name fits so perfectly.
According to PetMD, they are nicknamed as “Apollo of the Dogs” because of their towering size and weight.
Why are Great Danes big dog royalty?
Calm and affectionate, even with children and small dogs
Known to be loyal, protective, and sometimes goofy
Need daily exercise and a giant-sized bed
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they were originally bred to hunt wild boars. But now, they would rather hog the bed and rest their massive heads in your lap. Just be prepared for some serious tail whacks and food bills.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is as fluffy as they are friendly dogs. They have thick coats, sweet eyes, and a workhorse spirit, and these large breeds are all about family loyalty and outdoor fun. That thick coat sheds heavily throughout the year, so get ready for some serious grooming.
Why Bernese melt hearts wherever they go?
Gentle with children and other dogs
Thrive in cold climates and love snow
Strong but mellow. True mountain dog energy
Bred in the Swiss Alps, these giants were made for pulling carts and working on farms. They are not super long-lived because of that huge size, about 6-10 years according to Purina, but with proper care, a Berner will fill your life with tail wags, bear hugs, and endless devotion.
4. Saint Bernard
If you have ever seen a Saint Bernard coming at you full speed, don’t panic. They are just bringing the love. These iconic giant dogs are famous for their life-saving history in the Alps, but these days, they are mostly saving people from loneliness. They are efficient service dogs and search and rescue dogs.
What makes Saint Bernard legendary, gentle giants?
Massive, lovabl,e and famously sweet
Great with children and surprisingly calm indoors
Needs space, early leash trainin,g and lots of drool towels
Saint Bernards may look seriou,s but they are really oversized teddy bears. Just keep an eye on their health problems. Hip Dysplasia and other health issues can affect this breed. So, regular vet care is a must.
5. Mastiff
When we say giant, we mean Mastiff. With roots going back to ancient civilizations, the Mastiff manifests mass and mellow vibes. Britannica says they date back to 3000 B.C. They are one of the largest dog breeds by size and heart.
Why Mastiffs are big and beautiful protectors?
Naturally protective but not aggressive
Calm dogs indoors and excellent with their family
Loyal and loving with a side of slobber
These giants may look intimidating, but with early socialization and consistent training, the Mastiff becomes a deeply affectionate family member that thrives on love. Not trouble.
6. Newfoundland
Imagine a bear… that swims!! That is the Newfoundland. Big, gentle, and famously gentle with kids, and on top of that, great swimmers! This gentle dog breed is known as “nanny dogs” because of their bond and attachment with children.
Why Newfies are best big dog babysitters?
Calm and patient with children
Loves water and water work
Thick coat needs regular care and grooming
These gentle giants were originally developed for water rescue and heavy labor in cold climates. But today, they are just as happy rescuing your heart and curling up by the fireplace. Just get ready for a lot of hair. And be mindful of their health problems, they are prone to Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, as noted by PetMD.
7. Leonberger
Fluffy? Yes.
Regal? Definitely.
The Leonberger is actually like having a lion and a Labrador rolled into one giant, affectionate, and trainable pet. According to Hills Pet Nutrition, they can be stubborn sometimes, and though they are not aggressive, they may become reserved with strangers as they grow up.
Why are they majestic gentle giants?
That iconic lion-like mane and confident stance
Friendly with other dogs, kids, and even strangers
Needs daily exercise and firm but loving training
This big dog breed loves the whole family, and their intelligence makes them easier to train than you might think. Just make sure they have enough space and a vacuum. Lots of vacuuming.
8. Black Russian Terrier
Despite the name, the Black Russian Terrier is not a terrier in the traditional sense. This is a big and bold working dog developed in Russia for military uses, but don’t worry… they are all heart once they know you.
Why BRTs are both strong and sweet?
Protective, intelligent, and loyal dogs
Needs early training and strong leadership
Great for active owners who love structured routines
They are not the most cuddly of the giant breeds, but with patience, you will discover a deeply affectionate and devoted puppy under all that fluff. But yes, they are one of the smartest dog breeds.
9. Dogue de Bordeaux
A body full of muscle and a face full of wrinkles. The Dogue De Bordeaux is one of the oldest and most powerful giant dog breeds out there. They look and come across as intimidating, but deep inside, they are real softies, as noted by PDSA.
Why the Dogue is a drooly delight?
Incredibly loyal, sweet, and affectionate
Very protective, but early socialization is key
Calm in the house but stubborn during training
This big breed is not for first-time owners, but in the right hands, they become a loyal protector and a cuddle buddy. Just don’t expect a clean floor with them… ever!!
10. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a living statue. Strong, alert, and deeply bonded to their humans. They hail from Italy, and this breed was once used to guard farms and hunt big game.
Why are they confident and courageous giants?
Very protective and calm
Suitable for experienced dog owners
Sleek coat, easy grooming.
This is not a breed that fits in every home. But for the right family with room to roam, the Cane Corso has all the unmatched loyalty and presence.
Conclusion
Big dogs take up space in your house. On your couch. In your heart. These gigantic dogs are heavy on affection, loyalty, and family love. From Alaskan Malamute to Great Pyrenees to Scottish Deerhound, these dogs bring something unforgettable to the table (and usually under it, too). Prefer to get them from a responsible breeder, male or female.
They may have shorter life expectancy, higher food bills, and a little more hard work but they also offer the kind of love you will never forget. If you have got the time, space, and love to give and teach them the true course of life, these giants will give it all back. TENFOLD!!
