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Big dogs may take up more space in your home, but they also fill your heart with more love than you ever thought possible. These gentle giants may look imposing, but behind their massive frames are sweet, affectionate, and loyal companions who live to love their humans. They are the dogs that will greet you with a wagging tail (sometimes knocking over furniture), sit beside you like oversized lap dogs, and lean against you to feel close. These breeds will shower you with affection, loyalty, and endless tail wags.
Golden Retriever
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Golden Retrievers are the gold standard (literally) for big dogs with hearts of gold. These affectionate, friendly, loyal companions love nothing but making their humans happy. They are fantastic with kids, gentle with strangers, and always eager to please. Whether they’re wagging their tails excitedly, offering you their favorite toy, or just sitting beside you with a goofy grin, Goldens makes every day brighter. Their patience, intelligence, and happy-go-lucky nature make them perfect family pets and therapy dogs. A Golden Retriever is the ultimate choice if you want a large dog that radiates kindness.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands may be giant in size, but they’re even bigger in heart. Known as the “nanny dogs” of the canine world, these gentle giants are famous for their patience and love for children. Newfies are natural protectors and caregivers, always keeping a watchful eye on their family members. They are affectionate, loyal, and instinctive to comfort those around them, making them excellent therapy dogs. Despite their size, they are incredibly gentle and will lean into you for affection like a giant, furry hug. If you want a dog that will love you unconditionally while also serving as a built-in body pillow, a Newfoundland is the perfect match.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs are walking, tail-wagging teddy bears with hearts as warm as their fluffy coats. These dogs thrive on companionship and are happiest when they’re spending time with their humans. Berners are incredibly patient, affectionate, and gentle, making them wonderful family pets. They love snuggling up next to you, following you around the house, and leaning against you for extra closeness. Despite their large size, they are incredibly sensitive and intuitive, always knowing when you need extra love. A Bernese Mountain Dog is the perfect furry friend if you want a dog that will always be there for you, rain or shine.
Great Pyrenees
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The Great Pyrenees may look like a majestic guardian, but underneath all that fluff is a heart of gold. These gentle giants are incredibly loyal and protective, always watching over their families calmly and patiently. They were originally bred to guard livestock, but today, they are more than happy to keep an eye on their human pack. Despite their size, they have a soft, affectionate side and love spending quiet moments with their loved ones. If you want a dog that is both a devoted guardian and a loving companion, the Great Pyrenees is a perfect choice.
Saint Bernard
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Saint Bernards are massive, fluffy, and full of love. Known for their history as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, they have an instinct to help and protect. These gentle giants are incredibly affectionate and thrive on human companionship. They love to snuggle, lean against you for attention, and rest their big heads in your lap for a cuddle. Saint Bernards are especially patient with children, making them excellent family dogs. Saint Bernard is the way to go if you want a giant, drooling best friend who will always be by your side.
Leonberger
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Leonbergers look like regal lions, but they have the personality of a cuddly teddy bear. These big, fluffy dogs are affectionate, loving, and incredibly devoted to their families. Leonbergers thrive on companionship and love; they love nothing more than being close to their humans. Their thick coats make them extra cuddly, and their calm, patient nature makes them fantastic therapy and family dogs. They are playful, gentle, and always eager to make their humans happy. A Leonberger is an excellent choice if you want a dog that will shower you with love and loyalty while also looking like a majestic beast.
Alaskan Malamute
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Alaskan Malamutes may have been bred to pull sleds, but their true mission in life is to love their humans. These dogs are incredibly social, affectionate, and playful. Malamutes are known for their strong bonds with their families and will happily follow you wherever you go. They have a goofy, fun-loving side but know when to be calm and gentle. Despite their thick coats and rugged appearance, they are absolute sweethearts who love belly rubs and cuddles. A Malamute is a perfect choice if you want a dog that will warm you in the winter—both physically and emotionally.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
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The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a giant sweetheart with a heart of gold. These dogs are affectionate, loving, and incredibly devoted to their families. They were bred as working dogs but are happiest when they are close to their humans. Swissies are known for their gentle nature, loyalty, and desire to be part of every family activity. They love giving hugs, leaning on their humans, and snuggling up for a cozy nap. A Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is an ideal companion if you want a big, loving dog that will be your shadow and best friend.
Irish Wolfhound
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Irish Wolfhounds may be one of the tallest dog breeds, but their hearts are even bigger. Despite their massive size, these dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are incredibly loyal and love being around their families. Irish Wolfhounds form deep bonds with their humans and will always be nearby, ready to offer love and companionship. Their calm and friendly personality makes them great around children and other pets. If you want a dog that will love you endlessly and make you feel like royalty, an Irish Wolfhound is the perfect choice.
Tibetan Mastiff
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Tibetan Mastiffs may look like fierce guardians, but they are just big, fluffy lovebugs with a protective streak. These dogs form deep bonds with their families and are incredibly affectionate with the people they trust. While they are independent, they are also highly devoted and will always watch over their loved ones. Their thick, fluffy coats make them extra cuddly, and their calm, patient nature ensures they are great companions. If you want a dog that will love you fiercely while also being a fluffy guardian, the Tibetan Mastiff is a perfect choice.
Kuvasz
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Kuvasz dogs are known for their loyalty and loving nature. Originally bred to guard livestock, these dogs now dedicate their protective instincts to their human families. Despite their watchful demeanor, they are incredibly affectionate with their loved ones. They enjoy spending time with their humans and will always be nearby, ready to offer comfort and companionship. Their fluffy white coats make them extra huggable, and their gentle temperament makes them fantastic family pets. If you want a dog that will love you unconditionally while also keeping you safe, a Kuvasz is a great choice.
Boerboel
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The Boerboel may have a tough exterior, but underneath that muscular frame is a heart overflowing with love. Originally bred as guardians and farm dogs in South Africa, Boerboels are incredibly loyal and devoted to their families. While they are natural protectors, they are also big cuddle bugs who love nothing more than spending time with their humans. They bond deeply with their owners and will happily lean on you for attention, follow you from room to room, and nuzzle into you for extra affection. Their strength and gentleness make them excellent companions for those who want a loving giant who will always have their back.
Black Russian Terrier
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Black Russian Terriers are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong protective instincts—but they’re also giant, affectionate goofballs with a deep love for their families. These big, fluffy dogs form incredibly strong bonds with their humans and are happiest when they’re nearby. Despite their imposing appearance, they are playful and gentle and enjoy snuggling up with their favorite people. Black Russian Terriers have an affectionate and patient nature, making them fantastic companions for those looking for a big dog with a heart of gold. The Black Russian Terrier is an excellent choice if you want a protective, loving, and snuggly giant.
The Bigger The Dog, The Bigger The Love
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If you’ve ever doubted that big dogs have the biggest hearts, these gentle giants prove otherwise. They may take up more space in your home (and on your couch), but their loyalty, affection, and devotion make every square inch worth it. Whether they’re leaning against you for comfort, offering a giant paw for reassurance, or just staring at you with pure love in their eyes, these dogs will remind you every day that love comes in all shapes—and, in this case, extra-large and extra-fluffy!
Toledo, United States.
