26 Large Dog Breeds That Are Just Big, Lovable Babies

Discover the heartwarming world of large dog breeds that often surprise with their gentle and affectionate nature. These gentle giants, though towering in size, have hearts as big as their paws. From playful antics to comforting cuddles, each breed brings a unique charm that can melt any heart. Learn about their characteristics and why they make wonderful companions.

Great Dane

Great Danes are known as the ‘Apollo of Dogs’ due to their majestic stature. Males can stand up to 34 inches tall at the shoulder, yet they are gentle and loving. Known for their playful nature, they make excellent companions for families.

Despite their size, they adapt well to indoor living as long as they get regular exercise. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making them low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Their affectionate nature means they love to lean on their owners for attention. With proper training and socialization, they are wonderfully well-mannered dogs.

Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are renowned for their swimming prowess, often described as ‘gentle giants of the sea.’ Their webbed feet and water-resistant coat make them natural swimmers. These dogs are incredibly gentle and patient, especially with children, earning them the nickname ‘nanny dog.’

Weighing up to 150 pounds, Newfoundlands require space to roam and plenty of water where they can swim. Their massive size and thick fur mean they need regular grooming. Their kind eyes and calm demeanor make them a beloved family pet. Despite their size, they are incredibly gentle and friendly.

Mastiff

Mastiffs are one of the oldest and largest dog breeds, known for their strength and courage. Despite their formidable appearance, they are gentle and affectionate companions. These dogs are deeply protective of their families, making them excellent guard dogs.

Their calm demeanor means they are content to lounge around the house, but regular exercise is essential for their health. Mastiffs are known for their loyalty, forming strong bonds with their human companions. With proper training and socialization, they are gentle giants full of love and devotion.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their striking tricolor coats and gentle disposition. Originally bred in Switzerland as farm dogs, they have adapted well to family life. Their love for the outdoors means they’re happiest when hiking or exploring with their humans.

Weighing up to 115 pounds, these dogs are strong yet gentle, often seeking closeness with their family members. Their thick coat requires regular grooming to keep it looking pristine. Despite their size, they are known for their gentle nature and are particularly good with children. Their warm personality makes them a beloved family pet.

Leonberger

Leonbergers are large, majestic dogs that resemble lions with their thick mane-like fur. Known for their gentle and friendly nature, they make excellent family pets. Despite their size, they are incredibly patient and affectionate, especially with children.

Weighing between 90 to 150 pounds, Leonbergers need plenty of exercise and space to roam. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their thick coat. Their confident and calm demeanor makes them excellent therapy dogs. With the right training, they are obedient and well-mannered, making them a joy to have as part of the family.

Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are the tallest of all dog breeds, known for their noble demeanor. Despite their impressive stature, they are gentle and friendly. These dogs have a rich history, once used in Ireland for hunting wolves and other large game.

Weighing up to 180 pounds, they require plenty of space and regular exercise. Their wiry coat needs regular grooming to keep it in good condition. Known for their calm and patient nature, they are excellent companions for families. Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds are incredibly gentle and loving, forming deep bonds with their human companions.

Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are powerful dogs known for their endurance and strength. Originally bred as sled dogs, they thrive in cold climates and love to be active. Their thick, fluffy coat and wolf-like appearance make them stand out.

Weighing up to 100 pounds, these dogs need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Despite their size and strength, Malamutes are gentle and loyal, forming strong bonds with their families. Their friendly and playful nature makes them great companions, but they do require consistent training and socialization to harness their energy positively.

Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their impressive size and regal appearance. Originally bred to guard livestock in the Himalayas, they are independent and strong-willed. Despite their protective nature, they are loyal and devoted to their families.

Weighing between 75 to 160 pounds, these dogs need plenty of space and regular exercise. Their thick, double coat requires regular grooming to maintain. Tibetan Mastiffs are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide firm and consistent training. With proper socialization, they are gentle giants that form deep bonds with their loved ones.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are famously known as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps. Their gentle demeanor hides beneath a massive body that can weigh up to 180 pounds. These heartwarming giants are known for their patience and affection, making them perfect family companions. Despite their size, they are calm and gentle, often earning the title of ‘nanny dog’ for their watchful nature.

Their thick coat requires regular grooming, and they thrive in cooler climates. They love outdoor activities but are equally content lounging with their loved ones inside. Their expressive eyes communicate warmth and trust, ensuring a deep bond with their human families.

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees are majestic dogs known for their protective nature and gentle disposition. Originally bred to guard sheep in the Pyrenees mountains, they are alert and watchful. Despite their large size, they are calm and gentle, making them excellent family pets.

Weighing up to 100 pounds, these dogs need regular exercise and space to roam. Their thick, weather-resistant coat requires frequent grooming. Great Pyrenees are known for their loyalty and strong protective instincts. With proper training and socialization, they are gentle and loving companions that form deep bonds with their families.

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are powerful dogs known for their strength and intelligence. Despite their formidable appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families. Originally bred in Germany as herding and guard dogs, they are loyal and protective.

Weighing up to 135 pounds, Rottweilers require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making grooming simple. With proper training and socialization, they are well-mannered and obedient. Rottweilers form strong bonds with their families, often acting as protective guardians. Their confident and courageous nature makes them excellent companions.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are alert and protective dogs known for their strength and courage. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families. Originally bred as guard dogs, they are loyal and protective companions.

Weighing up to 130 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their short coat is easy to groom, making them low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Bullmastiffs are known for their loyalty and strong protective instincts. With proper training and socialization, they are gentle and loving companions that form deep bonds with their families.

Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large and muscular breed with a distinctive wrinkled face. Despite their formidable appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families. Known for their loyalty, they form strong bonds with their owners.

Weighing up to 110 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. Their short coat is easy to maintain, but their wrinkles need regular cleaning. With proper training and socialization, they are well-mannered and obedient. Their calm and composed nature makes them excellent companions for families.

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are known for their strength and intelligence. Originally bred in Italy as guard dogs, they are protective and loyal companions. Despite their powerful appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 110 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making grooming simple. With proper training and socialization, they are well-mannered and obedient. Cane Corsos form strong bonds with their families, often acting as protective guardians. Their confident and courageous nature makes them excellent companions.

Akita

Akitas are powerful and noble dogs known for their loyalty and courage. Originally bred in Japan as hunting and guard dogs, they are protective and devoted to their families. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their loved ones.

Weighing up to 130 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their thick, double coat requires regular grooming to maintain. Akitas are known for their loyalty and strong protective instincts. With proper training and socialization, they are gentle and loving companions that form deep bonds with their families.

Samoyed

Samoyeds are known for their fluffy white coats and characteristic ‘Sammy smile.’ These dogs are incredibly friendly and gentle, making them excellent companions for families. Originally bred for herding and sledding in Siberia, they thrive in cold climates.

Weighing up to 65 pounds, Samoyeds require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their thick, double coat needs regular grooming to keep it looking pristine. Despite their size, they are playful and energetic, enjoying outdoor activities. With their friendly nature and affectionate disposition, Samoyeds easily form strong bonds with their human companions.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are known for their strength and endurance. Originally bred in Switzerland as farm dogs, they are hardworking and loyal companions. Despite their large size, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 140 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making grooming simple. With proper training and socialization, they are well-mannered and obedient. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs form strong bonds with their families and are known for their friendly and confident nature. They make excellent companions for active families.

Komondor

Komondors are known for their distinctive corded coat, which gives them a unique appearance. Originally bred in Hungary to guard livestock, they are independent and protective. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 100 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their corded coat requires special grooming to maintain, but it provides excellent protection from the elements. With proper training and socialization, Komondors are well-mannered and obedient. Their calm and composed nature makes them excellent companions for families looking for a unique and loyal dog.

Anatolian Shepherd

Anatolian Shepherds are known for their strength and protective instincts. Originally bred in Turkey to guard livestock, they are independent and loyal companions. Despite their powerful appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 150 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making grooming simple. With proper training and socialization, they are well-mannered and obedient. Anatolian Shepherds form strong bonds with their families and are known for their courage and loyalty. They make excellent companions for those who appreciate their unique qualities.

Kuvasz

Kuvasz dogs are known for their protective instincts and regal appearance. Originally bred in Hungary to guard livestock, they are independent and loyal companions. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 115 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their thick, white coat requires regular grooming to maintain. With proper training and socialization, they are well-mannered and obedient. Kuvasz form strong bonds with their families and are known for their courage and loyalty. They make excellent companions for those who appreciate their unique qualities.

Borzoi

Borzois are known for their elegance and graceful movements. Originally bred in Russia for hunting, they are independent and intelligent dogs. Despite their regal appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 105 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their long, flowing coat requires regular grooming to maintain. With proper training and socialization, Borzois are well-mannered and obedient. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their calm and composed nature. Borzois make excellent companions for those who appreciate their unique beauty.

Black Russian Terrier

Black Russian Terriers are known for their strength and intelligence. Originally bred in Russia for military work, they are protective and loyal companions. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 130 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their thick, black coat requires regular grooming to maintain. With proper training and socialization, Black Russian Terriers are well-mannered and obedient. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their courage and loyalty. They make excellent companions for those who appreciate their unique qualities.

Scottish Deerhound

Scottish Deerhounds are known for their noble appearance and gentle nature. Originally bred in Scotland for hunting deer, they are independent and intelligent dogs. Despite their regal stature, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 110 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their wiry coat needs regular grooming to maintain. With proper training and socialization, Scottish Deerhounds are well-mannered and obedient. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their calm and composed nature. Scottish Deerhounds make excellent companions for those who appreciate their unique beauty.

American Akita

American Akitas are known for their strength and confidence. Originally bred in Japan for hunting and guarding, they are protective and loyal companions. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 130 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their thick, double coat requires regular grooming to maintain. With proper training and socialization, American Akitas are well-mannered and obedient. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their courage and loyalty. American Akitas make excellent companions for those who appreciate their unique qualities.

Boerboel

Boerboels are known for their strength and protective instincts. Originally bred in South Africa as guard dogs, they are loyal and devoted companions. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.

Weighing up to 200 pounds, these dogs require regular exercise and space to roam. Their short coat is easy to maintain, making grooming simple. With proper training and socialization, Boerboels are well-mannered and obedient. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their courage and loyalty. Boerboels make excellent companions for those who appreciate their unique qualities.