8 Large Dog Breeds That Are Big Babies: Gentle Giants Who Think They're Lap Dogs
Why These Large Dog Breeds Are Actually Total Softies
Big dogs often get a bad rap. Their sheer size can be intimidating, but the truth is many of these gentle giants are just oversized teddy bears. According to iHeartDogs, large breeds like Saint Bernards, Great Danes, and Newfoundlands are known for their calm temperament, love of physical contact, and complete lack of personal space. These dogs were developed to work alongside people—guarding livestock, pulling sleds, or rescuing travelers—which fostered deep bonds and emotional intuition. As a result, they often have no idea how big they are and will happily try to sit in your lap. In this article, we'll introduce you to eight large dog breeds that are proof that size doesn't matter when it comes to being a softie.
Quick Size Comparison: The 8 Gentle Giants
Before we dive into each breed, here's a quick look at their average weights and heights, based on data from iHeartDogs:
| Breed | Weight (lbs) | Height (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Bernard | 120–180 | 26–30 |
| Great Dane | 110–175 | 28–32 |
| Newfoundland | 100–150 | 26–28 |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 70–115 | 23–27 |
| Irish Wolfhound | 105–120 | 30–35 |
| Leonberger | 90–170 | 25–31 |
| Great Pyrenees | 85–115 | 25–32 |
| Mastiff | 120–230 | 27–30 |
1. Saint Bernard: The Original Rescue Hero Who Just Wants to Cuddle
The Saint Bernard is a breed that embodies the phrase "gentle giant." Weighing between 120 and 180 pounds and standing 26 to 30 inches tall, these dogs were originally bred by Swiss monks to rescue travelers lost in the Alps. Despite their heroic history, they are notoriously soft with children and are champion droolers. According to iHeartDogs, Saint Bernards are emotionally sensitive to raised voices, making them true softies at heart. They have a nurturing personality and love nothing more than being close to their families. Their massive size means they can easily knock over a small child or adult with a wagging tail, but their intentions are always loving. If you're looking for a dog that will happily cuddle on the couch—and maybe drool a little on your shoulder—the Saint Bernard is your breed. Just be prepared for the fact that they have no concept of personal space and will try to sit in your lap, even at 180 pounds.
2. Great Dane: The Gentle Apollo Who Needs Half Your Couch
The Great Dane is often called the "Apollo of dogs" because of its majestic appearance and towering height. Standing 28 to 32 inches at the shoulder and weighing 110 to 175 pounds, this breed is one of the tallest. But don't let their dignified look fool you—Great Danes have no idea how big they are. According to iHeartDogs, they lean their full body weight against their humans and try to sit in laps. They have moderate exercise needs but want constant family proximity. In fact, they can look an average adult straight in the eye when standing on their hind legs. Despite their size, they are gentle and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets. However, their size means they need plenty of space—and a couch that can accommodate their sprawling frame. If you're considering a Great Dane, be prepared to share your bed, your sofa, and your personal space. They wouldn't have it any other way.
3. Newfoundland: The Nanny Dog With a Bear-Sized Heart
Newfoundlands are the epitome of the gentle giant. Weighing 100 to 150 pounds and standing 26 to 28 inches tall, these dogs were bred to work with fishermen in Canada. Their webbed feet and water-resistant coats made them ideal for cold-water rescues. But their most famous claim to fame might be that J.M. Barrie based the dog Nana in Peter Pan on a Newfoundland. According to iHeartDogs, Newfoundlands are devoted and have a bear-sized heart to match their bear-like appearance. They shed constantly and need regular grooming, as well as a cool environment. Their loving nature makes them excellent with children, earning them the nickname "nanny dog." If you can handle the fur and the drool, a Newfoundland will reward you with unwavering loyalty and affection. Just be warned: they have no sense of personal space and will happily lean their entire body weight against you for a hug. If shedding is a dealbreaker, explore low-shedding dog breeds to understand what hypoallergenic really means.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog: The Cheerful Tricolor Who Lives to Please
Bernese Mountain Dogs are the smallest of our gentle giants, weighing 70 to 115 pounds and standing 23 to 27 inches tall. But what they lack in size, they make up for in cheerfulness. These Swiss working farm dogs have a striking tri-color coat and are highly responsive to training, eager to please their owners. According to iHeartDogs, they have a cheerful personality and a thick double coat that requires regular grooming. Unfortunately, their lifespan is typically only 7 to 10 years, which is a heartbreak for their devoted owners. Despite their shorter lives, Bernese Mountain Dogs pack a lot of love into their years. They are affectionate, loyal, and always up for a cuddle. Their gentle nature makes them great with children and other pets. If you're looking for a dog that will follow you from room to room and always greet you with a wagging tail, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a perfect choice. For more on longevity in large breeds, see 18 large dog breeds built to last.
5. Irish Wolfhound: The Ancient Giant With a Philosopher's Soul
The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed recognized by the AKC, standing up to 35 inches at the shoulder and weighing 105 to 120 pounds. In ancient Ireland, only nobility could own them, and they were sometimes given as royal gifts. According to iHeartDogs, they have a gentle personality, are quiet and laid-back, and are not aggressive or territorial. They do need space to stretch their long legs. Despite their hunting history, they are gentle giants who prefer a calm, peaceful environment. They are often described as having a philosopher's soul—thoughtful, observant, and deeply affectionate with their families. They may not be as demanding as some other breeds, but they still crave human companionship. If you have the space and the patience for a dog that thinks it's a lap dog despite being taller than most people when on their hind legs, the Irish Wolfhound might be your perfect match.
6. Leonberger: The Lion-Maned Gentle Giant Who Loves Everyone
The Leonberger is a majestic breed developed in Germany in the 1800s as a companion for European royalty. They were bred to resemble a lion, with a thick mane and a regal bearing. Weighing 90 to 170 pounds and standing 25 to 31 inches tall, they are truly impressive. But according to iHeartDogs, they are extraordinarily social and get along with other animals. They need significant daily activity and are highly trainable. Despite their lion-like appearance, they are gentle and affectionate, often trying to climb into their owner's lap. Their friendly nature makes them excellent family dogs, and they are known to be patient with children. If you're looking for a dog that will be the center of attention at the dog park and a cuddle buddy at home, the Leonberger is a wonderful choice. Just be prepared for the grooming—their thick coat requires regular attention.
7. Great Pyrenees: The Patient White Guardian Who Operates on His Own Schedule
The Great Pyrenees is a breed that was developed to guard sheep in the Pyrenees mountains, often alone, against wolves and bears. Weighing 85 to 115 pounds and standing 25 to 32 inches tall, they are independent, calm, and confident, with a gentle stubbornness. According to iHeartDogs, they have a patient personality and a thick white double coat that sheds heavily. While they are devoted to their families, they also have a mind of their own and may not always follow commands immediately. They are gentle with children and other animals, but their guarding instincts are strong. If you're looking for a dog that will protect your home and family while also being a loving companion, the Great Pyrenees is a great choice. Just be prepared for the shedding and their independent streak—they operate on their own schedule. For more guardian options, see 7 low-maintenance guard dogs for families.
8. Mastiff: The Steadfast Gentle Giant
The Mastiff is one of the heaviest breeds, weighing 120 to 230 pounds and standing 27 to 30 inches tall. According to iHeartDogs, they have a steadfast personality—loyal, calm, and protective. Despite their massive size, they are gentle giants who love being with their families. They are known for their deep bond with their owners and their calm demeanor. Mastiffs are not overly active, but they do need regular exercise to stay healthy. They are patient with children and make excellent guardians. However, their size means they need plenty of space and a sturdy couch. If you're looking for a dog that will be a loyal companion and a formidable protector, the Mastiff is a wonderful choice. Just be prepared for the fact that they have no idea how big they are and will try to sit in your lap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gentle Giants
Are gentle giant breeds good with children? Yes, most of these breeds—especially Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Bernese Mountain Dogs—are known for their patience and nurturing nature with kids. However, their size means they can accidentally knock over small children, so supervision is always wise.
Do large dog breeds that are big babies need a lot of exercise? Exercise needs vary. Great Danes and Mastiffs have moderate needs, while Leonbergers and Irish Wolfhounds require more daily activity. All of them benefit from regular walks and space to move.
Can these gentle giants live in apartments? It's possible but challenging. Breeds like the Great Dane and Mastiff need ample space. If you're an apartment dweller, check out best dog breeds for first-time owners in apartments before committing.
Are these breeds easy to train? Most are eager to please, especially Bernese Mountain Dogs and Leonbergers. Great Pyrenees can be independent and stubborn, requiring patience. Early socialization and positive reinforcement are key.
How much do they shed? Heavy shedders include Newfoundlands, Great Pyrenees, and Bernese Mountain Dogs. Regular grooming is essential. If shedding is a concern, consider 7 hypoallergenic large dog breeds that don't shed.
Do they make good emotional support dogs? Their intuitive and affectionate nature can make them excellent emotional support animals. Learn more about are emotional support dogs legitimate.
Final Thoughts: Big Dogs, Bigger Hearts
These eight large dog breeds prove that size is just a number. From the nurturing Saint Bernard to the steadfast Mastiff, these gentle giants are all big babies at heart. They love physical contact, have no sense of personal space, and will happily try to sit in your lap. According to iHeartDogs, many large breeds were developed to work alongside people, which led to deep bonding and emotional intuition. If you're considering adding one of these breeds to your family, be prepared for a lot of love, a lot of drool, and a lot of cuddles. But also be prepared for the grooming, the space requirements, and the fact that your lap will never be your own again. These dogs are worth every bit of effort. Before you commit, read what to know before getting a dog to understand the full scope of the journey. And if you love affectionate dogs but need a smaller size, explore 25 affectionate small dog breeds.
Source: iHeartDogs
