12 Large Dog Breeds That Are Total Teddy Bears — Unless You’re a Stranger

Breeds
By Jonas Becker

Some large dog breeds, while imposing in size, are known for their gentle and loving nature. However, their protective instincts can make them wary of strangers. This post explores twelve such breeds that are as cuddly as teddy bears to their family but may show a different side when unfamiliar faces approach.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and patient nature. These giant dogs, often likened to teddy bears, have a thick coat and a sweet disposition. Despite their size, they are incredibly affectionate with their family members.

Their love for children and natural nanny-like instincts make them ideal family companions. However, they are also known to be protective, especially around strangers.

Their loyalty and protective nature ensure they keep a watchful eye on their loved ones, making them both a friend and a guardian.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, affectionate, and good-natured. Known for their tri-colored coat, they are wonderful family companions. These dogs thrive on human interaction and are excellent with children.

Their calm and patient demeanor makes them gentle giants in any household. However, their protective instincts can surface, making them cautious around strangers.

They are loyal and enjoy being part of family activities, always ready to offer a comforting presence. Their watchful eyes and robust build ensure they are protective when it counts.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are renowned for their gentle giant persona. With their large size and fluffy coats, they exude a welcoming presence to those they know.

Their patience and love for families, especially children, make them ideal pets in colder climates. Despite their size, they are gentle and accommodating.

However, when it comes to strangers, their protective instincts can make them wary. They are known to be excellent watchdogs, ensuring their family’s safety while being a loving companion.

Great Dane

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Great Danes are known as gentle giants, boasting a size that is both impressive and intimidating. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent family pets.

Despite their large stature, they are incredibly gentle with children and form strong bonds with their human families. Their playful nature can often be surprising, given their size.

When faced with strangers, their protective instincts may emerge, ensuring they remain vigilant guardians. Their loyalty and gentle demeanor make them a cherished addition to any home.

Bullmastiff

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Bullmastiffs are known for their protective instincts and imposing presence. Despite their size, they are calm and affectionate with their family.

Their loyalty and protective nature make them excellent guardians of the home. They are known to be gentle with children, providing a reassuring presence.

With strangers, they can be reserved, often assessing the situation before reacting. Their watchful eyes and muscular build make them formidable protectors, yet they are truly teddy bears with their loved ones.

Leonberger

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Leonbergers are majestic, large dogs known for their playful and gentle nature. Their lion-like mane and expressive eyes make them stand out in any crowd.

They are known for their affectionate nature and thrive in family environments, often being referred to as gentle giants. Their playful demeanor makes them excellent companions for children.

Despite their friendliness, they are protective and may be wary around strangers. Their loyalty and calm nature ensure they remain vigilant guardians, always looking out for their family’s well-being.

Great Pyrenees

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Great Pyrenees are known for their protective instincts and serene demeanor. With their thick, fluffy coats, they resemble gentle giants.

They are excellent family dogs, known for their calm and patient nature, particularly with children. Their history as livestock guardians makes them inherently protective.

They are vigilant and may be cautious around strangers, ensuring their family’s safety. Their loyalty and gentle approach make them a beloved part of any household, always ready to protect and love.

Tibetan Mastiff

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Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their imposing presence and protective instincts. With their thick coats and strong build, they are natural guardians.

Despite their size, they are gentle and reserved with their family, forming strong bonds with their loved ones. Their ancient lineage as protectors of nomadic tribes is evident in their demeanor.

They are wary of strangers, always on high alert to ensure their family’s safety. Their loyalty and protective nature make them excellent watchdogs, while their affection ensures they are beloved companions.

Irish Wolfhound

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Irish Wolfhounds are known for their tall and imposing stature, often towering over other dogs. Despite their size, they are gentle and loving companions.

These dogs are known for their calm demeanor and are excellent with children, making them ideal family pets. Their history as hunting dogs gives them a protective edge.

They may be cautious around strangers, ensuring their family’s safety. Their loyalty and gentle nature make them cherished members of any household, always ready to provide comfort and protection.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are known for their strength and endurance, often used as sled dogs. Despite their working background, they are affectionate and gentle with their family.

Their thick coats and playful nature make them excellent companions for outdoor adventures. They are known to be gentle with children, always ready for play.

Their protective instincts can make them wary of strangers, ensuring their family’s safety. Their loyalty and love for their family make them cherished members of any home.

Dogue de Bordeaux

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Dogue de Bordeaux are known for their muscular build and gentle nature. With their wrinkled faces and affectionate eyes, they are loving companions.

They form strong bonds with their family, known to be particularly gentle with children. Despite their size, they are calm and patient, often referred to as gentle giants.

Their protective instincts ensure they are wary of strangers, always ready to protect their loved ones. Their loyalty and affection make them a beloved addition to any family.

Komondor

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Komondors are known for their distinctive corded coats and protective instincts. Despite their unusual appearance, they are gentle with their family.

They are loyal companions, known for their calm and watchful demeanor, particularly around children. Their history as livestock guardians makes them naturally protective.

They are cautious around strangers, always on alert to ensure their family’s safety. Their loyalty and unique appearance make them a standout breed, cherished for both their looks and their loving nature.