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15 Gentle Giant Dog Breeds That Will Be Your Most Loyal Friend

By: Ejay Camposano
A college graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ejay has a diverse background that combines technical expertise with a passion for pets and is now one of the content writers at IHD. Read more
| February 4, 2025

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Some dog breeds may be massive, but their hearts are even more significant. These gentle giants prove that being big doesn’t mean being aggressive—most are affectionate, patient, and intensely loyal to their humans. Whether they’re leaning on you for extra cuddles, plopping onto your lap despite weighing over 100 pounds, or simply following you everywhere, these dogs take companionship to the next level. Many of them were bred as working or guardian dogs, which means their loyalty is built into their DNA.

Great Dane

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The Great Dane may be one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, but deep down, they’re just oversized cuddle bugs. Despite their towering presence, Great Danes are affectionate, playful, and incredibly gentle with their families. They love being around their humans and will happily lean on them or attempt to curl up in their laps (without realizing they’re crushing half the couch). They are known as “Velcro dogs” because they always want to be close to their people, following them from room to room like a giant, shadowy best friend. With their goofy personalities and unwavering loyalty, Great Danes are among the most lovable, gentle giants.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands, also known as “Newfies,” are the ultimate gentle giants. Originally bred as water rescue dogs, these massive fluffballs have a natural instinct to care for and protect their loved ones. Newfoundlands are famous for their sweet, calm temperament and love for human companionship. They adore children and often act like self-appointed babysitters, ensuring everyone is safe and happy. They may drool but make up for it with their affectionate nature and devotion to their families. Newfoundland will be your perfect match if you want an enormous and endlessly loving dog.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, affectionate, and full of charm. These fluffy giants are known for their easygoing personalities and deep attachment to their humans. They love nothing more than being part of the family and will follow you everywhere just to stay close. Berners are also highly intelligent and eager to please, making them excellent companions for those who want a big dog that’s easy to train. Their expressive faces and affectionate nature make them impossible to resist. A Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent choice if you want a dog that will be both a loyal friend and a giant cuddle bug.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are famous for their work as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, but they’re just as happy being oversized lap dogs in a cozy home. These massive, gentle souls are incredibly affectionate and love being around their humans. Saint Bernards are exceptionally great with children, often acting like big, furry babysitters. They have a calm demeanor but also enjoy playing and goofing around when given the chance. Just be prepared for a little (or a lot) of drool—these lovable giants aren’t exactly tidy! Saint Bernard is a fantastic choice if you want a big, lovable dog that will always be by your side.

Mastiff

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Mastiffs are massive in size and even bigger in heart. Despite their imposing appearance, these dogs are incredibly gentle and affectionate with their families. They are naturally protective, but their first instinct is to love rather than intimidate. Mastiffs are known for their deep attachment to their humans, often leaning on them for comfort (and sometimes knocking them over in the process). They have a calm, laid-back personality but will always stand by their loved ones when needed. A Mastiff is an excellent choice if you want a dog that’s both a loving companion and a quiet protector.

Leonberger

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Leonbergers are giant, fluffy dogs with a heart of gold. These massive pups are affectionate, patient, and incredibly devoted to their families. They have a calm temperament but also enjoy playing and being active with their humans. Leonbergers are known for their intelligence and are often used as therapy dogs due to their gentle nature. Despite their size, they are incredibly graceful and move with regal confidence. If you’re looking for a dog that combines beauty, brains, and boundless loyalty, the Leonberger is a top contender.

Irish Wolfhound

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Irish Wolfhounds may be one of the tallest dog breeds, but their personalities are as soft as can be. These gentle giants are known for their kind and affectionate nature, often forming deep bonds with their owners. They may look majestic and powerful, but they have a goofy, playful side that makes them even more lovable. Irish Wolfhounds are incredibly loyal and will always be by your side, even if they take up half the room while doing it. If you want a dog that’s both a noble protector and a big, lovable softie, an Irish Wolfhound is a perfect choice.

Anatolian Shepherd

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Anatolian Shepherds are large, strong, and intensely loyal to their families. Originally bred as livestock guardians, these dogs have a natural instinct to protect their loved ones. Despite their protective nature, Anatolian Shepherds are incredibly gentle with their humans and form deep emotional bonds. They are intelligent and independent, often making their own decisions about how to keep their family safe. While they may not be as cuddly as some other breeds, their unwavering devotion makes them one of the best gentle giants you could ask for.

Tibetan Mastiff

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Tibetan Mastiffs are massive, majestic, and full of personality. These ancient guardian dogs are known for their strong protective instincts, but they are also incredibly affectionate with their families. Tibetan Mastiffs are independent thinkers, meaning they don’t always follow commands blindly—but when they love someone, they love deeply. They are known for their dramatic expressions and ability to make their owners laugh with their stubborn antics. If you want a big dog that’s both a loyal guardian and an entertaining companion, a Tibetan Mastiff is a great choice.

Great Pyrenees

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Great Pyrenees dogs are gentle giants with a strong sense of loyalty and protection. Originally bred to guard livestock, these dogs have a calm and patient temperament, making them excellent family pets. They are incredibly affectionate with their humans and love nothing more than being part of the family. Great Pyrenees dogs are also known for their thick, fluffy coats, which make them look even bigger than they already are. A Great Pyrenees is an excellent choice if you want a dog that will be both a loving companion and a devoted protector.

Boerboel

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Boerboels are strong, confident, and incredibly devoted to their families. These massive dogs were originally bred as guardians, but they have a soft, affectionate side when they’re around their loved ones. Boerboels form deep bonds with their owners and will always be nearby, whether that means standing watch or simply lounging at your feet. They are intelligent and protective, making them excellent watchdogs. If you want a powerful and loving dog, a Boerboel is the perfect mix of protector and gentle giant.

Kangal

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Kangals are large, powerful dogs known for deep loyalty to their families. These Turkish guardians have been used for centuries to protect livestock, but they also form strong attachments to their human families. Kangals are calm, gentle, and incredibly intelligent, often assessing situations before taking action. Despite their size and strength, they are affectionate with their loved ones and will go to great lengths to keep them safe. A Kangal is a perfect choice if you want a dog that’s both a protector and a loving companion.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are large, powerful, and incredibly affectionate. These fluffy giants are known for their playful and outgoing personalities, often greeting their humans with enthusiastic tail wags and “talking” noises. They form deep bonds with their families and love being involved in everything, whether hiking, playing, or just lounging around. Malamutes are highly social dogs and don’t do well when left alone for long periods—they thrive on companionship and will happily snuggle up next to you (or on top of you). If you want a dog that’s strong, loving, and full of energy, an Alaskan Malamute is the perfect fit.

Black Russian Terrier

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Despite their intimidating appearance, Black Russian Terriers are gentle, affectionate, and incredibly loyal to their families. These large dogs were originally bred as military and police dogs, but at home, they are significant, lovable companions. They are intelligent and protective but love being part of the family, forming strong bonds with their humans. Black Russian Terriers have a calm and confident demeanor, making them excellent watchdogs without being overly aggressive. The Black Russian Terrier is a fantastic choice if you want a dog that’s both a fearless protector and a gentle giant.

Dogue de Bordeaux

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The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a massive, drooly, and incredibly loving breed. These gentle giants are known for their deep loyalty and attachment to their families. Despite their muscular build, they are sweet, affectionate, and love being close to their humans. They have a calm demeanor but can be quite protective when needed. Dogues are known for their expressive faces, often giving their owners hilarious “judgmental” looks when they want attention. If you want a big, lovable dog with a heart of gold (and a little slobber), the Dogue de Bordeaux is a perfect choice.

The Bigger They Are, The More Love They Give

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These gentle giants may take up extra space but fill your life with endless love, devotion, and laughter. Whether they’re leaning on you for comfort, attempting to curl up in your lap despite their size, or following you from room to room, these big dogs have even bigger hearts. Their loyalty is unmatched, and they’ll stand by your side through thick and thin. Just be prepared for a little (or a lot) of fur, some drool, and a lifetime of unconditional love from your oversized best friend!