Giant Dog Breeds That Are Gentler Than They Look
Big dogs often get a bad rap just for their size, but don’t let the bulk fool you. Behind those massive frames are hearts made of marshmallows. These dogs may look like security systems on legs, but they’re really just oversized snuggle buddies with floppy ears and soft souls. Your next gentle giant might be on this list.
Great Dane
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Great Dane could wrestle a bear, but it’s more interested in lounging on the couch and leaning against your leg. They might be tall in the dog world, but they’re one of the most mellow, patient, and friendly. Scooby-Doo was a Great Dane, by the way, and the breed does match that clumsy, lovable energy.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundland dogs look like walking teddy bears and act like them, too. These dogs are also great with kids—hence the “nanny dog” nickname, but they drool… a lot. Like, bring-a-towel kind of drool. Still, it’s a small price to pay for a dog that’s basically a snuggly lifeguard with paws the size of mittens.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs are the big softies of the Swiss Alps. They’re strong enough to pull carts yet gentle enough to nap beside little kids. They love snow, snacks, and belly rubs, often all at once. They can be a little shy with strangers but are fiercely loyal to their people.
Irish Wolfhound
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Irish Wolfhounds tower over other dogs and some humans, too. But despite their size, they’re as mellow as a Sunday afternoon. These dogs love a peaceful home and a soft place to stretch out. They’re calm, noble, and surprisingly low-key—just make sure your couch is big enough to share.
Leonberger
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Leonbergers act like laid-back babysitters. Their fluffy manes and soulful eyes make them intimidating at first glance, but these dogs are famously gentle and family-focused. They love water, and many Leonbergers naturally take to swimming like pros.
Saint Bernard
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Saint Bernards were initially bred to rescue stranded travelers in the Swiss Alps, so these dogs have a sixth sense for people in need—avalanche survivors or toddlers in time-out. Their massive size means they don’t always know where their feet ends and the coffee table begins. Still, it’s hard not to love!
Tibetan Mastiff
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Tibetan Mastiffs are ancient guardians. They were initially bred to protect livestock in the Himalayas and got serious “don’t mess with me” energy at first glance. But around their family, they’re total softies. They’re independent, calm, and surprisingly quiet indoors, though they’ll definitely alert you if something’s off.
Anatolian Shepherd
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Anatolian Shepherds are big thinkers, fiercely loyal, and not prone to drama. They’ll keep an eye on everything but are not barky or hyper. Just be ready for independence; they like to assess situations on their own terms. Fun fact: their bite force is one of the strongest in the dog world—but they rarely use it.
Great Pyrenees
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These are the giant, cloud-like dogs with a surprising mix of stubbornness and sweetness. Great Pyrenees are patient, especially with children, and they’ve got a strong protective streak without being aggressive. If you like loyalty with a side of fluff, this breed’s a winner.
Komondor
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Komondors are probably the most unforgettable dogs on this list—those long, corded coats make them look like walking mops with opinions. But behind the shaggy curtain is a calm, loyal, and protective dog who takes family duty seriously. Just be prepared: that iconic hair takes serious maintenance—or you’ll end up with dreadlocked tumbleweeds.
Cane Corso
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Cane Corsos might appear to be bodyguards in the dog world with their broad chests and alert gaze, but they’re total love bugs at home. These dogs thrive on structure and love being involved in everything their people do. Cane Corsos are also major snugglers—if they fit, they sit, even if it’s your lap!
Kuvasz
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The Kuvasz may not be overly clingy but form deep bonds with their people. Their independent streak comes from centuries of solo shepherding, so don’t expect instant obedience. But with respectful training, they’re dependable and surprisingly sensitive. They also have a great sense of humor—some owners swear their Kuvasz will fake being asleep to avoid commands.
Scottish Deerhound
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Scottish Deerhounds were trained to chase deer across the Scottish Highlands. Now, they’ve traded speed for sleep and have become perfect companions for lazy afternoons. They were once known as “Royal Dogs of Scotland” and couldn’t be owned by anyone below the rank of earl. These days, they’re just happy to be couch royalty.
Alaskan Malamute
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Alaskan Malamutes are big, fluffy tanks but have the heart of a class clown. They’re super friendly, love people, and often “talk” with dramatic howls and grumbles. They’ve got an independent streak but crave companionship and don’t do well alone. Heads up—these dogs shed like crazy and love to dig!
Swiss Mountain Dog
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The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a big, cheerful buddy wrapped in tricolor fur. Despite their herding roots, they’re incredibly affectionate. They love being part of the family action and tend to follow their people like oversized shadows. While their bark can shake a room, they’re not aggressive—just enthusiastic about announcements.