Shutterstock
Regarding cuddling, large dogs are some of the best snuggle buddies around. Despite their impressive size, many big breeds are affectionate, loving, and completely unaware of how much space they occupy. They’ll happily lean against you, curl beside you, or even sprawl across your lap like an oversized, furry blanket. Whether they’re gentle giants who thrive on affection or playful goofballs who think they’re small, these dogs prove that the bigger the pup, the bigger the cuddles—and they wouldn’t have it any other way.
Great Dane
Shutterstock
Despite their towering size, Great Danes firmly believe they are meant to be lap dogs. These gentle giants have an affectionate and loving nature, often leaning against their humans or climbing onto the couch to cuddle. Their calm and friendly temperament makes them excellent companions who seek out human touch whenever possible. Whether it’s a full-body flop or just resting their big head on your lap, a Great Dane will always find a way to be as close to you as possible.
Newfoundland
Shutterstock
Newfoundlands are known for their sweet disposition and thick, fluffy coats, making them perfect cuddle companions. These gentle giants thrive on affection and love, nothing more than lying beside their humans for a good snuggle. Their calm and patient nature makes them fantastic family dogs who enjoy both lounging and giving warm, comforting hugs. If you’re looking for a big, loving dog who doubles as a furry pillow, a Newfoundland is the perfect choice.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Shutterstock
Bernese Mountain Dogs may have been bred for hard work, but they have a soft side that’s all about love and cuddles. These affectionate dogs love being close to their families and happily drape themselves over or nestle into your side. Their thick, plush coats make them extra cozy, and their friendly demeanor ensures they always want to be included in family snuggle time. Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle, affectionate, and always ready for a good cuddle session.
Saint Bernard
Shutterstock
Saint Bernards may be big, but they are also some of the most affectionate dogs. These gentle giants are known for their loving and patient nature, always seeking physical closeness with their humans. Whether it’s leaning on you, resting their massive paws on your lap, or nuzzling their giant heads into your chest, they are always looking for a way to be near you. Just be prepared for a little drool with all that love!
Golden Retriever
Shutterstock
Golden Retrievers are famous for their friendly and affectionate personalities, making them top-tier cuddle buddies. These big, fluffy lovebugs thrive on human interaction and will take any opportunity to snuggle up next to their favorite person. Whether it’s on the couch, in bed, or just on the floor, a Golden will always find a way to be as close to you as possible. Their warm-hearted nature and soft fur make them the perfect dogs for endless snuggle sessions.
Irish Wolfhound
Shutterstock
Despite their impressive size, Irish Wolfhounds are incredibly gentle and affectionate dogs. These towering hounds love nothing more than lounging with their humans, often leaning in for a full-body hug. Their calm and easygoing nature makes them wonderful companions who adore close contact. If you’re looking for a giant dog that will lovingly press itself against you like a furry blanket, an Irish Wolfhound will not disappoint.
Leonberger
Shutterstock
Leonbergers are massive, fluffy dogs with an equally massive love for cuddles. Their thick, luxurious coats make them extra cozy, and their affectionate personalities mean they always want to be close to their humans. These gentle giants are known for their patient and loving nature, often leaning into their owners or stretching out next to them for maximum snuggle coverage. A Leonberger is the way to go if you want a dog that will make every cuddle session feel like hugging a giant teddy bear.
Great Pyrenees
Shutterstock
Great Pyrenees dogs may be natural protectors, but they also have a deeply affectionate side. These large, fluffy dogs love spending time with their families and will happily curl up beside you for some quality snuggle time. Their thick, soft coats make them extra cozy, and their gentle nature ensures they are always up for a good cuddle. If you want a big dog that is both a guardian and a snuggler, the Great Pyrenees is a perfect choice.
Alaskan Malamute
Shutterstock
Alaskan Malamutes were built for cold weather, which means they have thick, warm coats that make them ideal cuddle companions. These large, affectionate dogs love nothing more than snuggling up with their humans, often pressing their bodies against them for warmth and comfort. Their friendly and social personalities make them extra eager for physical contact, ensuring they’ll always be up for a snuggle session.
Labrador Retriever
Shutterstock
Labradors are known for their friendly, affectionate nature, making them excellent cuddle buddies. These energetic dogs love being close to their humans, often jumping onto laps or leaning into them for affection. Despite their size, they don’t seem to realize they aren’t small dogs, and they’ll happily sprawl across their owners just for closeness. A Labrador is a great choice if you want a dog that will shower you with love and affection.
Mastiff
Shutterstock
Mastiffs may look intimidating due to their massive size, but they are actually big softies at heart. These affectionate dogs love nothing more than lying beside their humans and soaking up as much love as possible. They are incredibly gentle and enjoy leaning into their owners or resting their heavy heads on laps. If you’re looking for a giant cuddle buddy who doubles as a personal space heater, a Mastiff is a perfect fit.
Old English Sheepdog
Shutterstock
With their shaggy coats and affectionate personalities, Old English Sheepdogs are made for snuggling. These large, lovable dogs enjoy being close to their families, often curling beside them for warmth and comfort. Their playful and gentle nature makes them fantastic cuddle companions, and their thick fur only adds to the cozy factor. The Old English Sheepdog is the way to go if you’re looking for a dog that will happily be your furry pillow.
Anatolian Shepherd
Shutterstock
Anatolian Shepherds may be known for their guarding instincts, but when it comes to their favorite humans, they’re all about love. These large, powerful dogs form deep bonds with their families and often show affection by leaning into their humans or curling up close for warmth and security. Despite their independent nature, Anatolian Shepherds crave connection and will happily soak up all the cuddles they can get. If you’re looking for a big dog that offers both protection and snuggles, this breed delivers on both fronts.
Boerboel
Shutterstock
Boerboels are massive, muscular dogs with a surprisingly soft side for their loved ones. Originally bred as guardians, these gentle giants are incredibly affectionate with their families and love being close to their humans. Despite their imposing appearance, Boerboels have a warm and loving personality. They often press themselves against their owners or rest their big heads in their laps. They are the perfect combination of strength and sweetness, proving that even the biggest dogs have the biggest hearts for cuddling.
Rottweiler
Shutterstock
While their tough appearance might fool some, Rottweilers are absolute softies regarding their favorite humans. They love nothing more than curling up next to their person and soaking in all the love and affection they can get. Despite their muscular build, Rotties think they’re lap dogs and will happily plop onto your lap for snuggles. Their loyalty runs deep, and they form strong bonds with their families, making them the perfect protective yet cuddly companions.
Dogue de Bordeaux
Shutterstock
Also known as the French Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux may have a droopy face, but their heart is anything but downcast. These gentle giants adore human companionship and love to lean against their people for comfort. They’re incredibly affectionate and enjoy quiet cuddle sessions after a long day of guarding (or just lounging around). Their deep bond with their owners means they’ll always be by your side—whether you want a snuggle or not!
Kuvasz
Shutterstock
This fluffy Hungarian livestock guardian may be independent, but when it comes to their family, they’re giant cuddle bugs. Kuvasz dogs are incredibly loyal and protective, but they also crave affection from their humans. Their thick, soft coats make them perfect snuggle buddies on cold nights, and their affectionate nature means they’ll always be nearby, waiting for belly rubs and ear scratches.
Tibetan Mastiff
Shutterstock
Tibetan Mastiffs may be known as fierce guardians, but they also have a sweet and affectionate side reserved for their trusted humans. These big, fluffy giants love lounging close to their people and will often lean against them for extra comfort. Their thick double coats make them extra huggable, and their devotion ensures they’ll always be around for some love. Just be ready for some heavy-duty shedding when cuddle season arrives!
Black Russian Terrier
Shutterstock
The Black Russian Terrier is a large and powerful dog, but beneath that protective exterior lies a dog who thrives on affection. These big cuddle monsters love spending time with their family and will happily snuggle up whenever given the chance. They form strong attachments to their people and enjoy leaning against them, curling up at their feet, or even trying to sit in their lap despite their size.
Cane Corso
Shutterstock
Cane Corsos may look like intimidating guardians, but to their favorite people, they’re all heart. These affectionate giants are incredibly loyal and love nothing more than pressing their giant heads against their owners for some love and reassurance. Despite their strong protective instincts, they’re total cuddle bugs at home and will gladly melt into a pile of snuggles when given the opportunity.
Standard Poodle
Shutterstock
Standard Poodles may be known for their intelligence and elegance, but they are also incredibly affectionate. These large dogs form deep bonds with their humans and love spending time close to them. Whether it’s lying next to you on the couch or pressing their head against your chest, Poodles are always looking for a way to connect. Their curly coats make them extra soft and warm, delighting every snuggle session.
The Bigger the Dog, the Bigger the Cuddles
Shutterstock
If you thought big dogs were about strength and size, think again—these lovable giants are some of the best cuddlers. Whether leaning into you for affection, stretching out next to you like a warm blanket, or plopping their entire body onto your lap, their love for snuggles knows no bounds. Their size only means there’s more to love, and they wouldn’t have it any other way. In their eyes, no couch is too small, no bed is too crowded, and no cuddle session is too long.
Toledo, United States.
