Large dog breeds often reflect an image of strength and power, but many of these gentle giants are known for their calm and loving personalities. These breeds, despite their enormous size, are often incredibly gentle, affectionate, and great with families, including children and other pets. Their gentle nature makes them wonderful companions for those looking for a large, yet lovable and manageable dog. Here are six giant dog breeds with surprisingly gentle personalities, listed in descending order from least to most gentle.
6. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their impressive size, often weighing between 100 and 150 pounds. Despite their massive bodies, they are renowned for their gentle and sweet temperaments, earning them the nickname “gentle giants.” Originally bred as working dogs for fishermen, Newfoundlands are excellent swimmers with a natural affinity for water. They are incredibly patient and tolerant, making them great companions for children. Their calm and gentle demeanor extends to their interactions with other pets, and they are known for their protective but non-aggressive nature. Newfoundlands require regular grooming due to their thick, water-resistant coat, but their lovable personality is more than worth the effort.
5. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is another large breed that has a gentle and friendly temperament. These dogs can weigh between 120 and 180 pounds and are known for their enormous size and strength. However, they are incredibly gentle and affectionate, making them excellent family pets. Saint Bernards are known for their calm and patient nature, often showing great tolerance with children. They are also known for their protective instincts and have been used in rescue missions in the Swiss Alps due to their strength and stamina. Despite their size, Saint Bernards are surprisingly gentle and can be quite sensitive, requiring positive reinforcement and affection from their owners.
4. Great Dane
Great Danes are often called the “Apollo of dogs” due to their impressive height and graceful appearance. These dogs can grow up to 34 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 100 and 200 pounds. Despite their massive stature, Great Danes are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are affectionate and love to be around people, often seeking attention and affection from their owners. Great Danes are generally good with children and other pets, although their size means they should be supervised around small children to avoid accidental falls. Their calm and patient demeanor makes them excellent companions, and they are known to be surprisingly gentle despite their size.
3. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds, often standing over 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 105 and 180 pounds. Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle and calm nature despite their formidable size. These dogs are incredibly affectionate and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their families. They are known for being patient and tolerant, which makes them great companions for children. Irish Wolfhounds have a relatively calm and quiet nature, preferring a quiet and peaceful environment. They require regular exercise, but are generally low-energy indoors, which makes them suitable for a variety of living situations.
2. Mastiff
Mastiffs are a group of breeds known for their enormous size and strength, including the English Mastiff, Bullmastiff, and others. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 120 to 230 pounds and are known for their powerful build. Despite their size, Mastiffs are incredibly gentle and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their families. They are known for their calm and patient nature, which makes them great companions for children. Mastiffs are also known for their protective instincts and can be wary of strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. However, they are not usually aggressive and prefer to stay calm and composed. Their gentle nature makes them excellent family pets, provided they receive proper training and socialization.
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, sturdy dogs that weigh between 70 and 115 pounds. Despite their size, they are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, which makes them excellent family companions. Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly friendly and social, often seeking affection and attention from their owners. They are known for being good with children and other pets, displaying calm and patient behavior. Bernese Mountain Dogs are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, often forming strong bonds with their families. They do need regular exercise and grooming due to their thick coats, but their sweet personality makes them a joy to have as companions.
In conclusion, these six dog breeds demonstrate that size does not determine temperament. Despite their large and sometimes intimidating appearance, these breeds are known for their gentle and loving nature. They make excellent family pets, offering affection, loyalty, and a sense of security. However, it is important to remember that all dogs, regardless of breed or size, require proper training, socialization, and care to ensure that they are well-behaved and happy companions. For those who have the space and resources to keep a large dog, these gentle giants can bring immense joy and companionship to their lives.