15 Large Dog Breeds That Prove Big Can Be Gentle
Large dogs often have a reputation for being intimidating, but many breeds prove that big can indeed be gentle. These gentle giants are known for their friendly demeanor, loving nature, and the ability to become cherished family members.
In this article, we will explore large dog breeds that embody this gentle nature, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. From the loyal Saint Bernard to the playful Great Dane, these dogs demonstrate that size doesn’t always equate to fierceness.
1. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are often remembered as the heroic dogs from the Swiss Alps. Despite their massive size, these dogs are known for their gentle and friendly nature. Many people are surprised to learn how well they interact with children.
Their calm and patient demeanor makes them excellent companions for families. The Saint Bernard’s loyalty is legendary, and their protective instincts are a comforting presence.
Training these big-hearted canines requires patience due to their independent streak. However, with consistent effort, they become well-mannered family members.
2. Great Dane
The Great Dane’s stature is matched only by its loving personality. Known as the ‘Apollo of Dogs,’ these canines are remarkably gentle despite their giant size.
Great Danes are often found leaning against their favorite humans, relishing in affectionate cuddles. Their friendly nature makes them excellent family dogs, often referred to as ‘gentle giants.’
Although their size can be a bit intimidating, their sweet disposition quickly wins hearts. Regular exercise and mental stimulation keep them happy and healthy.
3. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are the epitome of grace and gentle strength. Known for their swimming prowess, these dogs have saved countless lives in water rescues.
Their calm demeanor and patient nature make them wonderful companions, particularly for families with children. Despite their large size, they exhibit a gentle and loving attitude.
Training a Newfoundland is generally straightforward due to their eagerness to please. They thrive on affection and are happiest when they feel included in family activities.
4. Mastiff
Mastiffs are known for their immense size and gentle nature. Often described as ‘gentle giants,’ these dogs are both powerful and sweet.
Their protective instincts are strong, yet they are incredibly affectionate with family members. Mastiffs have a calm disposition that makes them excellent companions.
Training requires consistency, but their loyal nature makes it a rewarding experience. With proper socialization, they become gentle, loving family members.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are renowned for their friendly and calm temperament. These dogs hail from the Swiss Alps, where they were traditionally used as working dogs.
Their affectionate nature and striking appearance make them popular family pets. Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle disposition, especially towards children.
Training them is usually a smooth process, as they are eager to please. Regular grooming keeps their luxurious coat looking its best.
6. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are the tallest of all dog breeds, yet they are gentle and calm by nature. Despite their imposing size, they are known for their sweet and friendly demeanor.
These dogs are particularly loving towards their human companions. Their gentle temperament makes them excellent pets for families with children.
Training an Irish Wolfhound requires patience due to their independent nature. However, their loyalty and loving personality make them rewarding companions.
7. Leonberger
Leonbergers are majestic dogs known for their gentle and friendly nature. Often described as ‘gentle lions,’ they are affectionate and calm.
Their impressive size is matched by their loving temperament, making them ideal family pets. Leonbergers are particularly good with children, offering a protective yet gentle presence.
Training requires patience, as they can be a bit stubborn. However, their eagerness to please makes the effort worthwhile. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their beautiful coat.
8. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are powerful and gentle, with a strong protective instinct. Despite their size, they are known for their affectionate nature.
These dogs are reliable and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their family members. Their calm disposition makes them excellent companions for families.
Training a Bullmastiff requires consistency and patience. Once trained, they become well-behaved and loving family pets, offering both protection and companionship.
9. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a gentle giant known for its calm and patient nature. These dogs were historically used to guard livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains.
Their protective instincts are tempered by a loving and gentle demeanor, making them excellent family pets. Great Pyrenees dogs are particularly good with children.
Training them requires a firm yet gentle approach. With proper socialization, they become loving and loyal family members, always ready to protect their loved ones.
10. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are strong and friendly dogs, known for their endurance and gentle nature. These dogs are loyal and affectionate with their family members.
Despite their size, Malamutes are known for their playful and loving demeanor. They thrive in family environments, forming strong bonds with their human companions.
Training them requires patience and consistency. Their independent nature can be challenging, but their loving personality makes them rewarding pets. Regular exercise keeps them happy and healthy.
11. Samoyed
Samoyeds are known for their friendly ‘smiling’ faces and gentle nature. These dogs are incredibly social and thrive on human companionship.
Their playful and affectionate disposition makes them wonderful family pets. Samoyeds are particularly gentle with children and enjoy being part of family activities.
Training requires patience due to their independent streak, but their eagerness to please helps. Regular grooming is needed to maintain their beautiful coat and keep them looking their best.
12. Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their impressive size and protective nature. Despite their imposing appearance, they are gentle and loyal family members.
These dogs are independent yet form strong bonds with their human companions. Their protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs with a gentle touch.
Training a Tibetan Mastiff requires patience and consistency. With proper socialization, they become loving and devoted family pets, offering both protection and companionship.
13. Komondor
Komondors are known for their unique appearance and gentle nature. Despite their size, these dogs are calm and affectionate with their families.
Their protective instincts are strong, yet they exhibit a gentle demeanor towards their loved ones. Komondors are particularly good with children, offering both protection and companionship.
Training them requires patience and consistency. Once trained, they become well-mannered family members, thriving on love and affection from their human companions.
14. Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian Shepherds are large, powerful dogs known for their protective instincts and gentle nature. These dogs have been used to guard livestock for centuries.
Despite their size, they are known for their calm and loving demeanor towards their families. Anatolian Shepherds are particularly good with children, providing both protection and companionship.
Training requires patience and consistency. With proper socialization, they become loyal and loving family pets, always ready to protect their loved ones.
15. Borzoi
Borzois are known for their elegance and gentle temperament. Despite their size, these dogs are calm and affectionate with their families.
Their independent nature is balanced by their loving disposition, making them excellent family pets. Borzois are particularly gentle with children, often forming strong bonds.
Training a Borzoi requires patience and consistency. Regular exercise keeps them happy and healthy, allowing them to thrive in family environments.