11 Big Dog Breeds With Even Bigger Hearts

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Some dogs may have massive paws and take up half your couch, but beneath their impressive size lies a heart overflowing with love. These gentle giants may look intimidating to some, but their true nature is all about affection, loyalty, and unwavering devotion. Whether they lean against you for comfort, insist on sitting in your lap (despite weighing more than a full-grown human), or gaze at you with eyes full of love, these big dogs prove that the bigger the dog, the bigger the heart.

Great Dane

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Despite their towering height, Great Danes are some of the sweetest dogs you’ll ever meet. These “gentle giants” may look like they belong in a medieval castle guarding the gates, but they’d rather be curled up next to you, soaking in all the love. Danes thrive on affection and are known for their “lean,” where they gently rest their massive bodies against their favorite humans. Their devotion knows no bounds, and they’ll follow you from room to room just to be close. If you’re looking for a dog that doubles as a cuddly bodyguard, a Great Dane is the way to go.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands are basically giant teddy bears with fur. Originally bred for water rescues, these dogs have an instinct to protect and care for their humans. They’re incredibly patient, great with kids, and have a soft spot for snuggling up with their families. Newfies are known to be incredibly gentle despite their massive size, and they seem to have an unshakable sense of when someone needs extra comfort. If you want a big, fluffy dog that will adore you with every ounce of its oversized heart, a Newfoundland is the perfect match.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are as affectionate as they are beautiful. These giant fluffballs are deeply loyal to their humans and thrive in family environments. They form strong bonds and have a natural instinct to stay close to the people they love, often acting as a furry shadow. Their warm, loving nature makes them excellent therapy dogs, and they always seem to know when you need a little extra love. A Bernese Mountain Dog is up for the job if you’re ready for a dog that will melt your heart daily.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards have a long history of saving lives in the snowy Alps, but today, they’re more likely to rescue you from loneliness. These dogs are famous for their patient and gentle temperament, making them fantastic companions for families and individuals. They love nothing more than being close to their humans, whether snuggling up on the couch or simply keeping a watchful eye on their loved ones. Their giant, slobbery kisses might be unavoidable, but so is their unconditional love.

Irish Wolfhound

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Irish Wolfhounds may be one of the tallest breeds in the world, but they also have hearts just as big as their bodies. Despite their impressive size, they are incredibly gentle and affectionate with their families. These dogs thrive on companionship and are known for their calm and sweet personalities. They’re the type of dog that will stand quietly by your side, offering silent support with their loving gaze. If you’re looking for a tall, graceful, and endlessly loyal dog, an Irish Wolfhound will warmly fill your home.

Leonberger

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Leonbergers are a majestic mix of strength and softness. Often described as “lion-like” in appearance, these dogs have a heart that’s pure gold. They are deeply affectionate and bond closely with their families, always eager to offer comfort and companionship. Despite their size, they are incredibly gentle with children and have a natural instinct to protect and love those around them. A Leonberger is the perfect blend of a cuddly giant and a devoted guardian.

Labrador Retriever

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Labradors may not be the largest dogs on this list, but their hearts are certainly enormous. Labs are known for their boundless enthusiasm and never-ending love for their humans. A Lab’s affection is unwavering, whether greeting you at the door with a wiggling body, following you around the house, or curling up beside you at the end of the day. They’re always up for a cuddle, a game, or simply being by your side, proving that love knows no size.

Mastiff

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Mastiffs are massive in both size and heart. These gentle giants may have an imposing presence, but they’re giant lap dogs at home who want nothing more than to be close to their people. They’re incredibly loyal and have an intuitive sense of when their humans need comfort. A Mastiff’s idea of personal space is nonexistent—they will happily sit on your feet, lean against you, or even try to climb into your lap (good luck stopping them!).

Golden Retriever

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Golden Retrievers are the definition of love wrapped in fur. They may not be as towering as other breeds on this list, but their affection is unmatched. These happy-go-lucky dogs thrive on human interaction and will do anything to make their families smile. Golden’s love is never-ending, whether greeting you with enthusiastic tail wags, offering a comforting paw, or snuggling up beside you. Their hearts are as big as their goofy grins.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are strong, independent, and full of love for their humans. Originally bred as sled dogs, they have an incredible bond with their families and love to be included in all activities. They’re known for their playful and affectionate nature, often “talking” to their owners and leaning in for hugs. Malamutes may be big, but their devotion and loyalty are even bigger. They’ll always be by your side, ready for adventure or a cuddle session.

Rottweiler

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Rottweilers may have a tough reputation, but those who know them understand they’re big softies at heart. These incredibly loyal dogs form deep attachments to their families and will do anything to protect and love them. They may look strong and intimidating, but they’re affectionate, goofy, and always eager for belly rubs at home. Rottweilers love being close to their people and often follow them around the house, proving that even the toughest-looking dogs can be the most loving.

The Bigger The Dog, The Bigger The Love

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These lovable giants prove otherwise if you’ve ever questioned whether big dogs can be affectionate. They might take up half your couch, accidentally knock over your belongings, and believe they’re lap dogs despite their size, but their hearts are just as oversized. Their love is unconditional, their loyalty unmatched, and their cuddles—though sometimes crushing—are warm. Whether leaning on you for comfort or following you everywhere like a giant shadow, these dogs prove that the bigger the paws, the bigger the love!