15 Giant Dog Breeds That Will Smother You with Love (and Drool!)

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If you’ve ever wanted a dog that doubles as a giant, cuddly pillow, these massive breeds are for you. They may take up half the couch (or your entire bed), but their affectionate nature makes them impossible to resist. With their towering size comes an equally big heart, and they’re known for their devotion to their families. Whether leaning in for attention, flopping into your lap like a puppy, or slobbering on your favorite shirt, these gentle giants bring love, loyalty, and drool!

Great Dane

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The Great Dane is often called the “Apollo of Dogs” because of its towering height and regal presence. Despite their intimidating size, they are gentle giants who love nothing more than being close to their humans. They may not always realize how big they are, which explains why they often try to sit on your lap. Danes are affectionate, friendly, and surprisingly goofy, making them wonderful family companions.

Saint Bernard

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Famous for their heroic past as alpine rescue dogs, Saint Bernards are one of the most lovable giant breeds. These fluffy behemoths are known for their kind, patient nature and eagerness to snuggle. While they may be gentle giants, they also come with a drool factor that requires a good stash of towels. Their affectionate nature means they’ll happily lean against you for hugs, often pinning you down with their sheer size.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands, or “Newfies,” are massive, water-loving dogs with hearts as big as their fluffy bodies. Originally bred as working dogs for fishermen, they are excellent swimmers with a natural instinct to save people. Beyond their life-saving skills, they are incredibly affectionate and thrive on human companionship. Their thick fur makes them extra cozy, but it also means they shed… a lot.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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With their tri-colored coat and soulful eyes, Bernese Mountain Dogs are among the most stunning giant breeds. They are affectionate and gentle and love to be part of the family, whether it’s joining outdoor adventures or lounging indoors. Berners are known for their friendly and calm demeanor, making them excellent companions for children. Their love for cuddles and constant need for attention ensure they will always be by your side (or on top of you).

Mastiff

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Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds in the world, both in size and personality. These gentle giants are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and deep love for their families. They may look imposing, but big softies love belly rubs and lounging next to their favorite humans. While they may not be the most active dogs, they make up for it with their unwavering devotion and impressive snuggling skills.

Irish Wolfhound

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The Irish Wolfhound is a breed steeped in history, originally used to hunt wolves and guard homes. Despite their background as fierce hunters, they are among the most affectionate and gentle dogs around. Their calm and easygoing nature makes them excellent family pets, and they thrive on companionship. These tall, shaggy-coated dogs will lean against you for attention and have a way of making you feel safe just by being present.

Leonberger

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The Leonberger is a majestic, lion-like breed with a heart full of love and a coat full of fluff. These gentle giants are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them fantastic family dogs. They are highly intelligent, playful, and eager to please, always looking for ways to be close to their humans. With their thick fur and affectionate personality, they are basically giant teddy bears with paws.

Tibetan Mastiff

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The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed with a striking, thick coat and a commanding presence. While they are independent and protective but also incredibly affectionate with their families. Their fluffy mane gives them a regal, almost lion-like appearance, but underneath all that fur is a dog that loves to cuddle. They form deep bonds with their humans and enjoy leaning on them for extra attention (and possibly just to remind you who’s boss).

Cane Corso

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The Cane Corso is a muscular and powerful guardian breed with a deeply affectionate side. While they take their role as protectors seriously, they are incredibly loving and loyal to their families. They may look intimidating, but deep down, they are big babies who crave affection and closeness. Cane Corsos love to lean into their owners for pets and follow them around the house like giant shadows. While they may not be as drooly as some other giant breeds, their devotion and endless cuddles make them just as lovable.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are powerful working dogs bred to haul sleds in harsh Arctic conditions. Despite their incredible strength, they are playful, affectionate, and enjoy companionship. Their thick, plush coats make them extra cuddly, and they often use their size to nuzzle their way into your lap. Malamutes are known for their expressive faces and lovable, goofy personalities that make them impossible to resist.

Great Pyrenees

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The Great Pyrenees is a gentle giant with a calm and protective nature. Originally bred to guard livestock, they are fiercely loyal and incredibly affectionate with their families. Their thick, fluffy coats make them look like walking clouds, and they love leaning against their humans for comfort. They may be independent thinkers, but when it comes to love, they are as clingy as they come.

Dogue de Bordeaux

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The Dogue de Bordeaux, or French Mastiff, is a giant breed known for its droopy face, stocky build, and deep loyalty to its family. They are affectionate and love being around their humans, often seeking out physical contact. Despite their muscular appearance, they are incredibly sweet-natured and love nothing more than lounging with their favorite people. Be prepared for lots of drool, because these dogs are champion slobberers.

Anatolian Shepherd

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Anatolian Shepherds are large, powerful dogs originally bred to protect livestock. While they are independent and strong-willed, they are also deeply devoted to their families. They may not always be the first to demand cuddles, but once they form a bond, they will show their affection in their own special way—whether it’s through gentle head nudges or simply standing guard by your side.

Kuvasz

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The Kuvasz is a majestic, all-white breed known for its loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature. Originally bred as a livestock guardian, they are fiercely protective of their families. While they may be reserved around strangers, they are incredibly loving with their people and love being close to them. Their thick coats make them extra fluffy, perfect for those who love big, cozy dogs.

Boerboel

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The Boerboel is a powerful South African mastiff known for its loyalty, protectiveness, and affectionate nature. While they are excellent guard dogs, they are gentle with their families and love snuggling. Their devotion to their humans means they’ll follow you everywhere, often leaning into you for attention. Despite their muscular build, they are big softies at heart.

The Giant-Sized Cuddlers You Never Knew You Needed

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If you love giant dogs, get ready for a life full of oversized cuddles, endless love, and a bit of drool. These massive breeds may take up plenty of space, but they make up for it with their unwavering devotion. Whether it’s a gentle Great Dane, a fluffy Newfoundland, or a protective Mastiff, these lovable giants will smother you with affection—sometimes literally. If you don’t mind sharing your couch (and maybe your entire bed), these big-hearted pups are ready to be your ultimate cuddle companions!