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13 Lovable Large Dog Breeds That Will Be Your Forever Friend

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
| February 3, 2025

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Big dogs have an irresistible charm, from their massive paws to their goofy grins and unwavering loyalty. Many large breeds are incredibly affectionate despite their size, forming deep, lifelong bonds with their families. They might steal your bed, take up most of the couch, or accidentally knock over a coffee table, but their devotion makes every moment worthwhile. These gentle giants offer companionship, protection, and endless snuggles—sometimes with a little extra drool. If you’re looking for a forever friend with a giant heart, these lovable large breeds will capture yours.

Labrador Retriever

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Labrador Retrievers are one of the most affectionate and loyal large breeds, known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They thrive on companionship and love nothing more than being part of a family. Labs are incredibly intelligent and easy to train, making them excellent lifelong companions for all types of households. Whether they’re playing fetch, swimming, or simply lying next to you, their joyful spirit makes them impossible not to love. A Lab is a perfect choice if you want a dog that will be your best friend through thick and thin.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are giant fluffballs with hearts of gold. These gentle giants are incredibly affectionate and bond deeply with their families. They are known for their patient and kind temperament, making them excellent companions for children and adults. They are surprisingly gentle despite their size and love to cuddle up close. Their affectionate nature and willingness to please make them a forever friend who will always be by your side.

Great Dane

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Great Danes may be towering giants, but their personalities are as soft as their hearts. These affectionate dogs love their humans deeply and often think they’re lap dogs, despite their massive size. They are incredibly gentle, forming strong bonds with their families and making them excellent companions. While they need space to stretch out, they are relatively low-energy and happy just lounging near their people. If you want a dog that is both regal and affectionate, a Great Dane is a perfect fit.

Golden Retriever

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Golden Retrievers are famous for their loving and devoted nature. These dogs have an endless supply of affection and will happily follow their owners wherever they go. They thrive on human interaction and are always eager to please, making them fantastic lifelong companions. Whether it’s playing, snuggling, or simply being present, a Golden Retriever’s loyalty is unwavering. A Golden Retriever is a surefire choice if you want a dog that will love you unconditionally.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands, or “Newfies,” are massive, fluffy dogs with even bigger hearts. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, often called “nanny dogs” because of how well they get along with children. These water-loving giants are incredibly loyal and will always be there to offer comfort, protection, and companionship. Despite their size, they are calm, patient, and happy to just relax with their family. If you want a gentle giant that will adore you for life, a Newfoundland is a perfect match.

Irish Wolfhound

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Irish Wolfhounds may have a history as hunting dogs, but today, they are gentle, affectionate companions. These tall and lanky dogs are known for their calm and loving personalities, forming deep connections with their families. Despite their towering size, they are gentle giants who enjoy snuggling just as much as they love a good run. They may have a short lifespan, but the love and devotion they give during their time with you are unmatched. If you want a dog that will be fiercely loyal and endlessly loving, an Irish Wolfhound is a great choice.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are enormous dogs with even bigger hearts. These affectionate and gentle giants love their families deeply and are known for their calm, nurturing nature. They are fantastic with kids and have an innate instinct to care for those they love. They are always close by, whether they’re snuggling on the couch (and taking up most of it) or following you around the house. Saint Bernard is the ultimate companion if you’re looking for a dog that will be your giant cuddle buddy.

Great Pyrenees

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Great Pyrenees are majestic in appearance and incredibly gentle and affectionate. Bred to guard livestock, they have a natural instinct to protect their families, but their loving and calm nature makes them wonderful companions. These fluffy giants are incredibly patient and gentle, especially with children, and they form deep, lifelong bonds with their humans. They enjoy lounging around the house just as much as they love patrolling the yard, always watching their loved ones. If you want a devoted, loving, and protective companion, the Great Pyrenees is a perfect choice.

Leonberger

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Leonbergers are not only stunning but also incredibly affectionate and loyal. These large dogs form deep emotional bonds with their owners and love being part of a family. They are gentle and patient, making them excellent companions for children and adults. Despite their thick coats and impressive size, they are surprisingly graceful and love spending time both indoors and outdoors. A Leonberger will make a wonderful lifelong friend if you want a large, lovable dog with a playful yet affectionate personality.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are strong, powerful dogs with a deep love for their families. While they were originally bred for pulling sleds, they have a soft and affectionate side that makes them incredible companions. They are known for their playful and social nature, always eager to be part of the action. Their loyalty is unwavering, and they will always stand by their human side, no matter what. If you want a dog with a big personality and an even bigger heart, an Alaskan Malamute is the perfect choice.

Anatolian Shepherd

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Anatolian Shepherds may be natural guardians, but they are also incredibly devoted and loving. These large, powerful dogs form deep bonds with their families and will go to great lengths to protect them. Despite their independent nature, they thrive on companionship and enjoy being close to their humans. They are calm and intelligent, making them excellent lifelong partners. The Anatolian Shepherd is a great fit if you want a dog that will be both a protector and a loving friend.

Tibetan Mastiff

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Tibetan Mastiffs are massive, fluffy dogs with hearts full of love. These independent yet affectionate dogs form deep connections with their families and are fiercely devoted to them. While they can be reserved with strangers, they are incredibly affectionate with those they trust. They enjoy lounging in a cozy spot and being close to their humans, always keeping a watchful yet loving eye on their family. If you want a majestic and loving companion, a Tibetan Mastiff is an excellent choice.

Dogue de Bordeaux

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The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large and muscular dog with an incredibly affectionate nature. Despite their intimidating appearance, these dogs are loving, devoted, and deeply connected to their families. They are gentle giants who enjoy snuggling, lounging, and simply being near their humans. Their loyalty is unmatched, and they will always be by your side through life’s ups and downs. If you want a dog that is both strong and full of love, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a perfect companion.

The Bigger the Paws, the Bigger the Love

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These large breeds are the perfect match if you want a loyal companion who will stay by your side forever. They may take up most of your couch, shed everywhere, and occasionally knock things over with their wagging tails, but their love makes it all worthwhile. More than just pets, they are devoted family members who will adore you unconditionally. Just be warned—once you bring one of these lovable giants home, personal space will be a thing of the past, especially when you’re eating or trying to use the bathroom!