When it comes to big dogs, many people imagine fierce and intimidating animals, but that’s not always the case. In fact, some of the largest dog breeds are known for their gentle hearts and loving nature. These gentle giants combine impressive size with a calm and affectionate temperament, making them wonderful family pets. From the towering Great Dane to the fluffy Newfoundland, these big breeds are patient, loyal, and surprisingly soft-hearted.
Whether you’re looking for a family companion, a watchful guardian, or just a loving cuddle buddy, these 11 big dog breeds prove that size doesn’t determine temperament. This blog will explore these breeds in detail, helping you understand why they are perfect gentle giants for dog lovers who want the best of both worlds—strength and kindness.
1. Great Dane
Great Danes are often called “gentle giants” because they are so big but are also very calm and friendly. These dogs are very friendly, even though they look scary because they can be up to 34 inches tall and weigh between 100 and 200 pounds. They are known for being calm around kids and other pets, which makes them great family pets.
Even though they are big, Great Danes are sensitive and like to be close to their owners. They often cuddle up on the couch like lapdogs. Because they are loyal and gentle, they can guard without being mean. They do best in homes where they get lots of care and some exercise.
2. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are big, strong dogs that are known for being gentle and loving. They have a thick, waterproof coat and are built to swim and do emergency work. They weigh between 100 and 150 pounds. Being calm, patient, and great with kids makes these dogs often called “nanny dogs” because they naturally want to protect their owners.
Because they are calm, they make great family pets for people who like to relax and play in the water. Newfoundland dogs need to be groomed regularly and should be exercised every day. But what they really love is spending time with their families and becoming a steady, calming presence.
3. Saint Bernard
Though they look big and powerful, Saint Bernards are known for being very gentle and friendly. They got their reputation as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps. They are calm, patient, and very loyal pets that usually weigh between 140 and 180 pounds. Even though they are big and strong, Saint Bernards are generally very tolerant, especially around kids.
They are known for being watchful without being mean. They need to have their thick fur brushed often, and because they are big, they need enough room to move around. Because they are friendly and like to be with their family, this breed does best in homes that are calm.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a big, strong breed that comes from Switzerland. It is known for having a tricolored coat and being friendly. Their weight ranges from 70 to 115 pounds, and they are very devoted and loving to their family. Bernese dogs are known for being calm and friendly. They get along well with kids and other pets and have a natural patience that makes them great pets.
They like doing things outside and need to get regular exercise, but they’re also happy to rest inside. They need to have their thick double coat brushed often, and because they are friendly, they are a great choice for families who want a loving, gentle giant.
5. Mastiff
Massive dogs called mastiffs are known for being intimidatingly big while also being surprisingly friendly. As one of the biggest dog breeds, they weigh between 120 and 230 pounds. They are calm, loyal, and watchful without being mean. Mastiffs are devoted guards who often watch over their family members in silence and are very patient with kids.
Because they are both brave and gentle, they make great family guardians. Because they are so big, they need enough room to move around and light exercise to stay healthy. Mastiffs love being with people and do well with regular, gentle training.
6. Irish Wolfhound
The male Irish Wolfhound can grow to be up to 32 inches tall and weigh up to 120 pounds. They are one of the biggest dog breeds. Even though they look big and lean, they are actually very friendly and gentle. These dogs were originally bred to kill wolves. They are quiet, friendly, and shy around strangers, but they are very loyal to their families.
Irish Wolfhounds are patient and loving, so they get along well with kids and other pets. Some modest exercise is good for them, and they also like spending time alone inside. Their wiry coat doesn’t need much care, and they are very loving, so they are perfect for families who want a calm, gentle giant with a royal personality.
7. Leonberger
Leonbergers are big, muscular dogs that look strong but are calm and friendly. They have thick, waterproof coats and weigh between 90 and 170 pounds. They have friendly faces that match their loving personalities. Leonbergers make great family dogs because they are known for being calm and patient, especially with kids. They like doing things outside, like climbing or swimming, but they also love being together at home.
Their urge to protect is matched by their need to be loved and socialized, which makes them loyal and devoted pets. To keep their beautiful fur in good shape, they need to be groomed often. Their calm personality makes them a good choice for families who have time and space for a big dog.
8. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a big, strong breed that was first used to protect animals in the Himalayas. They are known for having a thick, dense hair and being independent. They weigh between 70 and 150 pounds. Tibetan Mastiffs are big and intimidating, but when they’re with their families, they are calm and shy. They tend to be guarded, but they are kind to people they trust, even kids.
To control their strong personalities, these dogs need to be socialized early on and trained hard. Tibetan Mastiffs like light exercise, but they also need mental activity. Because they are both independent and gentle, they can be very interesting and loyal pets in the right home.
9. Kuvasz
Kuvasz dogs are big and fluffy, and they are from Hungary. They are known for being guard dogs. Kuvasz dogs are calm, loyal, and protective without being mean. They usually weigh between 70 and 115 pounds. They used to be used to protect animals, so they are naturally protective and gentle with their family.
Kuvasz dogs get along well with kids and other pets, but they need to be socialized and trained properly. Their thick fur needs to be brushed often, and they do better when they move and think about new things every day. This breed is known for being brave and loving, and they make close bonds with their owners.
10. Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is a big, strong breed of dog that comes from Turkey and was created to keep animals safe. The hair of these dogs is short to medium and easy to care for. They weigh between 80 and 150 pounds. Anatolian Shepherds are gentle, loyal, and calm with their families, even though they were bred to guard.
They show quiet confidence instead of hostility. They are very protective, especially of kids, and need to be socialized and trained regularly to control their natural instincts. Anatolians need room to move around and some exercise. Their strength, freedom, and gentle dedication make them great guard dogs for families.
11. English Mastiff
One of the biggest dog breeds is the English Mastiff. Males often weigh more than 200 pounds. Even though they are big, they are known for being calm, sweet, and gentle. These dogs are very loyal and patient, especially with kids, which makes them great pets for families. While English Mastiffs are protective, they are rarely violent. Instead, they like to quietly watch their surroundings.
They need a modest amount of exercise and room to move around because they are big. They need to be groomed often to take care of their short hair. Their gentle big personality and huge size make them the perfect combination for a loyal and protected pet.
Bottom Line
Big dogs don’t have to be intimidating. The 11 breeds featured here are perfect examples of gentle giants with calm, loving, and loyal personalities. They make excellent companions for families, children, and individuals looking for a protective yet affectionate pet. Understanding their unique traits can help you choose the right gentle giant for your lifestyle.
FAQs
Are big dog breeds good with children?
Yes, many big dog breeds are known for their patience and gentle nature, making them great companions for children.
Do large dogs require more exercise than smaller breeds?
Generally, big dogs need regular exercise to maintain their health, but the amount varies depending on the breed.
Are gentle giant breeds difficult to train?
Most gentle giant breeds are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques.
How much space do large dog breeds need?
Large dogs typically need more space to move comfortably, so a bigger living area or yard is ideal for their well-being.