There’s something magical about large dogs that completely contradicts their imposing appearance. You might expect a 150-pound canine to be intimidating, yet many of these gentle giants are more likely to knock you over with affection than aggression. These magnificent breeds prove that size truly doesn’t determine temperament.
Despite their massive size, many large breeds are nicknamed “gentle giants” for their calm temperaments and strong nurturing instincts toward kids and families. If you’re considering welcoming one of these loving companions into your home, you’re in for a treat. Let’s explore the sweetest large dog breeds that will steal your heart while barely fitting through your door.
Saint Bernard: The Ultimate Mountain Companion
Known as a classic example of a gentle giant, the Saint Bernard is calm, patient, and sweet with adults, and especially children. Overall, it is a gentle, loyal, and affectionate breed, and if socialized should be very friendly. These magnificent dogs were originally bred for Alpine rescue work, which explains their incredible intuition when it comes to human emotions and needs.
What makes Saint Bernards particularly special is their history of being mountain rescuers. “They have an instinct to nurture,” and this kind dog breed is known to be steady, loving, and never aggressive. Their calm demeanor makes them excellent therapy dogs, though their size means they need plenty of space and understanding owners who can handle their occasional stubbornness.
Great Dane: The Apollo of Dogs
The giant Great Dane is one of the calmest dog breeds. Their gentle, quiet nature makes them good family dogs, but they do need plenty of space to live and play. Despite towering over most humans, these elegant giants have earned their nickname “Apollo of dogs” not just for their height but for their noble character.
While their size might make strangers take a respectful step back, those who know them understand the truth: these colossal canines are actually total softies with hearts made of marshmallow fluff. Despite their grand stature, Great Danes have a famously gentle disposition, affectionate, and loyal. They’ll attempt to be lap dogs, completely unaware that they’re not exactly the right size for the job.
Newfoundland: The Gentle Water Rescue Expert
If ever there were a dog that could double as both a lifeguard and a cuddle buddy, it’s the Newfoundland – or as their fans affectionately call them, the “Newfie.” These enormous, sweet-tempered dogs are living proof that big really is beautiful – especially when it comes with a personality as soft as their fluffy coats. According to the AKC, Newfoundlands are famously patient temperament, and trustworthy temperament, earning them the adorable nickname “nanny dogs” for their natural instinct to protect and comfort children.
Despite their large size, Newfoundlands tend to have extremely calm natures. In fact, they’re often called “nanny dogs.” Sally Grottini, a dog behavior expert with JustAnswer, has had five Newfoundlands, who’ve always been calm and relaxed. Their webbed feet and water-resistant coat make them natural swimmers, but indoors they’re content to be gentle floor huggers who watch over their families.
Bernese Mountain Dog: The Swiss Beauty
Bernese Mountain Dogs are calm and patient. They have a sweet disposition and love being around people. Originally bred as farm dogs in the Swiss Alps, these striking tri-colored beauties combine working intelligence with an incredibly gentle nature that makes them perfect family companions.
The Bernese’s calm temperament makes them a natural for pulling small carts or wagons, a task they originally performed in Switzerland. While they’re slightly more energetic than some gentle giants, they still prefer moderate activities and are happiest when they’re close to their beloved humans. Their gorgeous coat requires regular grooming, but their sweet personality makes every brushing session worthwhile.
English Mastiff: The Gentle Guardian
Known for a combination of grandeur and good nature as well as courage and docility. Domesticated Mastiffs are powerful yet gentle and loyal dogs, but due to their physical size and need for space, are best suited for country or suburban life. These ancient guardians have protected humans for thousands of years, yet modern Mastiffs are surprisingly sensitive souls.
An important aspect of the Mastiff’s temperament is their sensitivity despite their massive size. These dogs respond poorly to harsh training methods, thriving instead on positive reinforcement and gentle consistency. Overall, Mastiffs are gentle giants and tend to do well with other pets, especially when introduced during puppyhood. Their protective instincts remain strong, but they’re more likely to intimidate intruders with their presence than actual aggression.
Irish Wolfhound: The Gentle Giant of Giants
Last, but certainly not least is the Irish Wolfhound. Easily the tallest of all dog breeds, it’s also one of the sweetest. Irish Wolfhounds have a gentle and friendly nature, making them excellent family pets. These ancient sighthounds were bred to hunt wolves, yet their temperament is remarkably peaceful and affectionate.
Despite its towering size, the Irish Wolfhound is known for being a friendly dog with a calm, patient temperament. According to experts, these kind-hearted dog breeds form strong bonds with their families. While they need space to stretch their incredibly long legs, they’re content with moderate exercise and are surprisingly adaptable to indoor living when given proper attention.
Leonberger: The Lion-Hearted Companion
Imagine a dog so big, so majestic, and so gentle that they could double as a living lion plush toy – that’s the Leonberger. Known for their kind and calm temperament, these massive working dogs are as intuitive as they are affectionate, often seeming to understand exactly how their humans feel. These German giants were originally bred to resemble lions, and their golden coats certainly achieve that majestic appearance.
Although they have a kind temperament, Leonbergers enjoy digging, chewing, sloppy eating, and drinking. Therefore, it is crucial to establish boundaries and teach them appropriate behavior from a young age. Despite these minor quirks, their gentle nature and emotional intelligence make them wonderful therapy dogs and devoted family guardians.
Great Pyrenees: The Majestic Protector
These majestic giants have been protecting flocks and homes for centuries, and while their size and power are impressive, it’s their gentle, loyal temperament that makes them truly special. One of the oldest dog breeds, the Great Pyrenees dog was bred to be independent thinkers and fearless protectors. Despite their working-dog heritage, they are incredibly loving with their families, offering calm companionship and a steady, reassuring presence.
What sets Great Pyrenees apart is their remarkable ability to assess situations calmly and respond appropriately. They’re naturally nocturnal, having been bred to guard flocks at night, so they might be more active during evening hours. Their thick, beautiful coat requires regular maintenance, but their serene disposition and unwavering loyalty make them incredible companions for those who understand their independent nature.
Bullmastiff: The Devoted Guardian
Originating in England, Bullmastiffs were originally bred to guard big estates and catch intruders. This makes them, by nature, weary of strangers but kind and loving towards their families. These protective instincts make them a loyal addition to any home. Despite their guardian heritage, modern Bullmastiffs are remarkably gentle with their loved ones.
Bullmastiffs strike a perfect balance between protection and affection. Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, they are large, powerful dogs, with males weighing around 100-130 pounds. While they might appear imposing to strangers, family members know them as devoted couch potatoes who are surprisingly gentle with children and incredibly attuned to their family’s emotional needs.
Golden Retriever: The Gentle Heart in a Large Frame
It’s no wonder the golden retriever is continually in the top 10 of most popular dog breeds. They are easy-going, affectionate and playful, but gentle with children, making them an ideal family dog. While not the largest on our list, Golden Retrievers embody everything wonderful about gentle large dogs with their patient, loving nature.
Their temperament often makes them great service and therapy dogs, and while they can be playful and have a lot of energy in their youth, a 4-year-old golden retriever that’s emotionally and physically satisfied is most likely going to be calmer. Goldens love to learn and to retrieve, and a great way to expend their energy is with obedience, agility or fetch games. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them incredibly adaptable to family life and various living situations.
Conclusion
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but some breeds truly stand out for their impressive stature. These gentle giants, often referred to as “mastiff-type” or “giant” breeds, possess a captivating combination of strength, loyalty, and surprisingly gentle temperaments.
Choosing a gentle giant means committing to a dog whose heart is as big as their body. These breeds require space, proper training, and understanding owners who appreciate their unique needs, but the rewards are immeasurable. Whether you’re drawn to the rescue instincts of a Saint Bernard or the calm presence of a Great Dane, these sweet giants prove that the biggest dogs often have the biggest hearts. What do you think about these amazing gentle giants? Which breed speaks to your heart?
Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
