Many dog lovers can attest to the fact that size does not necessarily determine a dog’s desire to be close to their humans. In fact, some of the largest dog breeds are often the most affectionate and, despite their size, have a strong tendency to think of themselves as lap dogs. These gentle giants often seek close contact with their families, sitting on laps, relaxing on the couch, or simply leaning in for a hug. The combination of their affectionate nature and their impressive size creates an amusing yet endearing dynamic, making them beloved members of their homes. This article explores eight giant dog breeds that believe they are lap dogs, explaining in detail why each breed is suitable for this topic and why they are prized for their loving, though sometimes excessive, affection.
8. Great Dane
Great Danes are often called the “Apollo of dogs” because of their majestic appearance and towering height. Despite their impressive size, often standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder, Great Danes are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs are incredibly sweet and have a strong desire for closeness with their human families. Great Danes often consider themselves lap dogs, wanting to snuggle on the couch or in bed, oblivious to their enormous size. Their calm demeanor and affectionate nature make them excellent companions, providing both physical warmth and emotional comfort. Their gentle giant personality endears them to many, making them a popular choice for families looking for a loving and loyal pet.
7. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are famous for their role as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, but at home, they are known for their affectionate and gentle nature. These giant dogs, often weighing between 140 and 180 pounds, have a calm and friendly temperament that makes them excellent companions. Saint Bernards are incredibly loyal and love to be close to their family, often trying to sit on a lap or cuddle. Their thick, furry coats make them the perfect companions for cuddling, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Despite their size, Saint Bernards are gentle and patient, making them excellent pets for families with children. Their affectionate nature and tendency to think of themselves as lap dogs make them a beloved breed.
6. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are large, powerful dogs known for their swimming abilities and rescue work. At home, however, they are known as “nanny dogs” for their gentle and loving nature. Newfoundlands often weigh between 100 and 150 pounds, but their size doesn’t stop them from forming close connections with their human families. These dogs are incredibly affectionate and love to cuddle, often trying to sit on laps or curl up in bed. Their thick, water-resistant coats make them perfect for cold weather, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Newfoundlands are also known for their patience and gentle demeanor, making them great companions for families with children. Their loving nature and tendency to consider themselves lap dogs makes them a beloved breed.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, sturdy dogs known for their friendly and gentle nature. These dogs often weigh between 70 and 115 pounds, but their size doesn’t stop them from forming close bonds with their families. Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly affectionate and love to cuddle, often trying to sit on a lap or snuggle. Their thick, tricolor coats make them perfect for cold climates, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Bernese Mountain Dogs are also known for their loyalty and eagerness to please, which makes them great companions for families. Their loving nature and tendency to think of themselves as lap dogs make them a popular choice for those looking for a large, affectionate pet.
4. Mastiff
The Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds, often weighing between 120 and 230 pounds. Despite their enormous size, Mastiffs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs are incredibly loyal and love to be close to their human families, often trying to sit on laps or cuddle on the couch. The Mastiff has a calm and quiet temperament, making them the perfect companion for those looking for a gentle giant. Their short, dense coats make them easy to groom, and their loving nature provides emotional comfort to their owners. Mastiffs are also known for their protective instincts, which makes them excellent guard dogs. Their affectionate nature and tendency to think of themselves as lap dogs make them a beloved breed.
3. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are large, furry dogs known for their protective instincts and gentle nature. These dogs often weigh between 85 and 115 pounds, but their size doesn’t stop them from forming close bonds with their families. Great Pyrenees are incredibly affectionate and love to be cuddled, often trying to sit on laps or cuddle in bed. Their thick, white coats make them perfect for cold climates, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Great Pyrenees are also known for their loyalty and patience, making them great companions for families with children. Their loving nature and tendency to think of themselves as lap dogs make them a beloved breed.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are one of the tallest dog breeds, often standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 105 and 180 pounds. Despite their impressive size, Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs are incredibly loyal and love to be close to their human families, often trying to sit on laps or cuddle on the couch. Irish Wolfhounds have a calm and quiet temperament, making them the perfect companion for those looking for a gentle giant. Their shaggy coats and loving nature provide warmth and comfort to their owners. Irish Wolfhounds are also known for their protective instincts, which makes them excellent guard dogs. Their affectionate nature and tendency to think of themselves as lap dogs make them a beloved breed.
1. Leonberger
Leonbergers are large, majestic dogs known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs often weigh between 90 and 170 pounds, but their size doesn’t stop them from forming close bonds with their families. Leonbergers are incredibly loyal and love to cuddle, often trying to sit on a lap or snuggle. Their thick, water-resistant coats make them perfect for cold weather, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Leonbergers are also known for their patience and gentle demeanor, making them great companions for families with children. Their loving nature and tendency to think of themselves as lap dogs make them a popular choice for those looking for a large, affectionate pet.
In conclusion, these eight giant dog breeds are particularly suitable for individuals and families who are looking for a canine companion that loves to cuddle and has a gentle temperament. Each breed offers unique characteristics and traits that make them exceptional pets for people who appreciate warmth and affection. Their playful antics, expressive faces and endearing quirks ensure that they are one of the most charming and entertaining dogs around. Proper care, regular exercise and a loving environment are essential to ensure that these delightful dogs thrive and continue to bring joy and comfort to their homes.