10 Impressive Giant Dog Breeds: Gentle Giants for Loving Families

10 Giant Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets — Katerina/Pexels, Canarian/Wikipedia

While some people prefer small dogs, others feel there’s nothing better than having a giant dog by their side.

Large dogs are not only impressively sized, but they also have big hearts. These gentle giants are often known for their calm, loving temperaments and deep loyalty to their families.

They’re protective, playful, and surprisingly easygoing despite their size.

However, owning a giant dog comes with specific responsibilities. From providing more food to ensuring ample living space, large dogs require more care.

Their veterinary costs also tend to be higher, and unfortunately, many giant breeds have shorter lifespans compared to smaller dogs.

If you’re ready for the challenge and joy of owning a giant breed, here are 10 excellent options for your next companion.

Great Dane

Often compared to small horses, Great Danes are truly gentle giants.

Standing at 28 to 32 inches tall and weighing between 110 to 175 pounds, they are known for their affectionate and playful nature.

Their short coats come in a variety of colors including brindle, fawn, and black, and their majestic size makes them a crowd-pleaser wherever they go.

Despite their imposing appearance, they are incredibly friendly and loyal, making them ideal family pets.

Unfortunately, their life expectancy is relatively short, ranging from six to eight years, which can be a heartbreaking aspect for many owners.

Dogue de Bordeaux

Also known as the French Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux is an impressive breed with a muscular build and a massive head.

Standing 23 to 27 inches tall and weighing over 100 pounds, these dogs have a short, fawn-colored coat and are incredibly loyal to their families.

Despite their fierce appearance, they are gentle and protective, making them great companions and excellent guard dogs.

With a life expectancy of only five to eight years, these lovable giants make a lasting impact on their families during their short lives.

Leonberger

The Leonberger is a breed that impresses not only with its size but also with its kind and intuitive nature.

Standing between 26 to 32 inches tall and weighing from 90 to 170 pounds, these dogs are gentle giants, especially known for their affinity with children and ability to sense human emotions.

Their double coats, which can range in colors from red to brown, require regular grooming to maintain.

Leonbergers are excellent family pets and therapy dogs due to their calm demeanor, and they typically live between seven and ten years.

Bullmastiff

A cross between a bulldog and a mastiff, the Bullmastiff was originally bred to protect estates from poachers. Today, they serve as loyal companions and capable guard dogs.

Despite their intimidating appearance, Bullmastiffs are gentle giants that form strong bonds with their families.

They stand 24 to 27 inches tall and weigh between 100 to 130 pounds.

Their short coats come in fawn, red, or brindle, and their black masks add to their distinct appearance.

These dogs have a life expectancy of eight to ten years and thrive with early training and consistent discipline.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is an ancient breed known for guarding livestock, and they are equally adept at protecting homes.

These dogs stand between 25 to 32 inches tall and weigh at least 85 pounds, making them powerful yet sweet-natured companions.

Their thick double coats are usually white with markings in gray, red, or tan, requiring regular grooming.

They are an active breed that thrives on vigorous exercise and structure, and with proper care, they can live for 10 to 12 years.

Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are known for their natural swimming abilities, thanks to their webbed feet and waterproof coats.

These gentle giants, standing 26 to 28 inches tall and weighing 100 to 150 pounds, have a calm and nurturing nature, especially with children.

They were originally bred to help fishermen and are often employed in water rescue missions due to their strength and loyalty.

Their coats, which are usually black, brown, or gray, require regular grooming. Despite their large size, Newfoundlands are very gentle and live for about nine to ten years.

Neapolitan Mastiff

With its distinct loose skin and wrinkled appearance, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed steeped in history.

These dogs, standing 24 to 31 inches tall and weighing between 110 to 150 pounds, are known for their loyalty and protective nature.

Despite their size, Neapolitan Mastiffs are generally mellow and gentle, making them ideal family dogs. Their short coats come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and mahogany.

Though they have a life expectancy of seven to nine years, their imposing size and lumbering gait require careful management in smaller living spaces.

Saint Bernard

Originally bred for search and rescue in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are large dogs with even bigger hearts.

Standing between 26 to 30 inches tall and weighing from 120 to 180 pounds, they are gentle giants that often get along well with children.

Their coats are dense and can range from brown and white to red and white, and they have a life expectancy of eight to ten years.

Despite their size, Saint Bernards are loving family companions, though early training is crucial due to their powerful build.

Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds have a long history as battle and hunting dogs, but in modern times, they are gentle giants primarily used as companions.

These dogs stand over 30 inches tall and weigh 105 to 120 pounds, making them one of the tallest dog breeds.

Their rough coats come in various colors including black, brindle, and cream.

Though they are sweet and affectionate, they need plenty of space to roam and exercise.

They typically live for six to eight years, and their protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs as well as family pets.

Mastiff

Mastiffs are renowned for their muscular build and massive size, with males standing over 28 inches tall and weighing between 120 to 230 pounds.

While they may appear intimidating, these dogs are calm and softhearted. Mastiffs are loyal, easygoing, and tend to form deep bonds with their families.

Their short coats come in apricot, brindle, and fawn, with a signature black mask.

They can be prone to drooling, but their gentle nature makes them worth the extra care.

Though they have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, these dogs require ample space and regular obedience training.