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The 8 Most Devoted GIANT Dog Breeds

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| September 8, 2024

In the world of giant dog breeds, devotion is one of their most defining traits. While their massive size might intimidate outsiders, these gentle giants are often some of the most loyal, loving, and protective companions you could ever ask for. Whether bred for guarding, working, or being close to their human families, these dogs exemplify what it means to be devoted. Their steadfast loyalty, patience, and affection make them exceptional companions. Below, we explore giant dog breeds known for their unwavering devotion, highlighting what makes each one special in size, personality, and devotion to their families.

8. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a giant breed known for its calm and steadfast nature. Originally bred to guard livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains, this breed is fiercely devoted to its family. Their natural protective instincts make them reliable guardians of property and people, and they are especially good with children. Despite their imposing size and strength, Great Pyrenees are gentle giants who exhibit patience and kindness, especially around their loved ones. Their loyalty to their family and calm demeanor make them a fantastic companion for those seeking a large, devoted protector.

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7. Leonberger

The Leonberger, with its lion-like mane and majestic appearance, is not only striking in size but also known for its devotion to its human family. Bred in Germany, this gentle giant was originally developed as a companion dog for royalty and aristocrats, and its temperament reflects that of a noble guardian. Leonbergers are incredibly loyal and form deep bonds with their owners. They are also known for their calm, patient nature, making them excellent with children and other pets. Their gentle, affectionate side is complemented by a protective instinct that ensures they remain vigilant and ready to defend their family if needed.

6. Saint Bernard

Famous for their role as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are gentle, devoted companions with a long history of saving lives. Their loyalty and protective instincts make them perfect family dogs, particularly for households with children. Despite their size, Saint Bernards are known for their patience and kindness. They are highly devoted to their human family and have a natural instinct to protect and care for them. Their calm demeanor and sheer size and strength make them an ideal choice for those looking for a giant, loving, and devoted family protector.

5. Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a lesser-known giant breed that excels in loyalty and protective instincts. Bred in Turkey as a livestock guardian, this breed is independent yet deeply attached to its human family. Known for their calm yet alert demeanor, Anatolian Shepherds are incredibly devoted to their families and possess a strong protective instinct, especially toward children. They are intelligent and courageous, always ready to defend their home and loved ones if necessary. Though they may be reserved around strangers, their dedication to their owners is unwavering, making them one of the most loyal and devoted giant breeds.

4. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound, known as the tallest dog breed in the world, has a heart as big as its frame. Bred for hunting wolves and other large game, this ancient breed has a gentle and devoted nature. Irish Wolfhounds are incredibly affectionate with their human families and are often described as “gentle giants” due to their calm, loving demeanor. Despite their towering size, they bond closely with their owners and are especially good with children. Their loyalty is matched by their patience, and they are known to be gentle and trustworthy companions, making them an excellent choice for families seeking a devoted giant breed.

3. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands, with their large, powerful frames and thick coats, are one of the most affectionate and loyal giant breeds. Originally bred as working dogs for fishermen, Newfoundlands are known for their water rescue abilities and protective nature. Their devotion to their families is unparalleled, and they are especially gentle and patient with children. Often called “nanny dogs,” Newfoundlands have a nurturing instinct that makes them incredibly attentive and loving toward their human family. Their size may be intimidating, but their kind and affectionate personality makes them one of the most devoted giant breeds.

2. Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed known for its independence, loyalty, and fierce protective instincts. Bred to guard livestock and monasteries in the Himalayas, this giant breed is deeply devoted to its family and highly protective of its home. Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their strong-willed nature, but they form incredibly deep bonds with their human companions. While they may be aloof with strangers, their loyalty to their family is unmatched. They become devoted protectors and affectionate companions with proper training and socialization, making them a remarkable and loyal breed for those who can handle their strong-willed personalities.

1. Bullmastiff

At the top of the list is the Bullmastiff, a breed known for its exceptional devotion and protective instincts. Bred to guard estates, Bullmastiffs are natural protectors and form deep, loyal bonds with their families. Despite their imposing size and strength, they are incredibly affectionate and gentle with their loved ones, making them ideal companions for families. Bullmastiffs are known for their calm demeanor and ability to sense when their family is in danger, always ready to protect them if needed. Their unwavering loyalty and love for their family make them the most devoted giant dog breed, offering protection and companionship.

Giant Hearts, Giant Loyalty

These giant breeds not only bring size and strength to the table but also an incredible capacity for love, loyalty, and devotion. Their gentle yet protective nature makes them ideal companions for families, especially those seeking a guardian and a loving pet. Whether they’re guarding livestock, rescuing swimmers, or simply lounging with their families, these giant breeds showcase the best traits of loyalty and devotion. Owning one of these gentle giants means welcoming a protector and companion who will stand by you, offering love and loyalty in equal measure.