These Giant Pups Will Steal Your Heart and Probably Your Couch
Let’s face it—there’s just something magical about massive dogs. They’re fluffy, goofy, and somehow manage to combine “gentle giant” with “chaotic clumsy oaf.” But owning a dog the size of a small horse is no joke. You’ll need more than just space and kibble—you’ll need patience, humor, and a vacuum cleaner with industrial-grade suction. From proper training to managing their appetites (they eat like linebackers), here’s everything you need to know about these colossal canines—with plenty of laughs along the way.
1. Great Danes Are Like Having a Horse in Your Living Room
Great Danes are the kings and queens of the canine world, standing up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder. Despite their size, they’re surprisingly gentle and affectionate—just don’t expect to fit both of you on the couch. Their goofy personalities will keep you laughing, but their size requires careful training to keep them manageable.
Expert Tip: Start leash training early—you don’t want to be dragged down the street by your own personal pony.
2. Saint Bernards Are Big, Lovable Babysitters
Famously gentle and protective, Saint Bernards are like the ultimate furry nannies. They’re fantastic with kids but beware: they drool. A lot. These massive fluff balls were originally bred to rescue travelers in the Alps, so they’ve got bravery and sweetness in spades. Just don’t expect to keep a spotless house.
Expert Tip: Keep a drool rag handy and make early grooming part of your bonding routine.
3. Mastiffs Bring a Whole Lot of Loyalty and Drool
Whether it’s an English Mastiff, a Bullmastiff, or a Tibetan Mastiff, these dogs are known for their size and loyalty. They’ll protect their families with their lives but prefer lounging over patrolling. Be ready for heavy snoring and even heavier drooling—it’s all part of the charm.
Expert Tip: Socialize them young to curb any overprotective tendencies as they grow into their intimidating size.
4. Newfoundland Dogs Are Giant Water-Loving Heroes
Newfies are known for their love of water and their lifesaving instincts. With webbed feet and a natural affinity for swimming, they’re basically the Baywatch stars of the dog world. They’re also giant cuddle bugs who adore their families. Warning: their double coat means constant shedding, so invest in a good vacuum.
Expert Tip: Introduce them to water early—you’ll thank yourself during their first swim lesson.
5. Irish Wolfhounds Are Gentle Giants With a Medieval Vibe
Once used to hunt wolves (hence the name), Irish Wolfhounds are now oversized lap dogs who think they’re smaller than they are. These tall, lanky beauties are calm and loving but need a bit of space to stretch their long legs. Apartment living? Probably not ideal.
Expert Tip: Watch their joints—their rapid growth can lead to problems, so provide a joint-friendly diet early on.
6. Bernese Mountain Dogs Will Charm You With Their Sweet Nature
These tri-colored beauties are as sweet as they are striking. Bernese Mountain Dogs are great family pets with a friendly, calm demeanor. They love the outdoors and cold weather, so snow days will become their favorite holiday. Just be ready for some serious grooming—that gorgeous coat doesn’t maintain itself.
Expert Tip: Regular grooming and early training are key to keeping their coat shiny and their manners intact.
7. Leonbergers Are Basically Huge, Friendly Lions
Leonbergers have a regal appearance that’ll make you think they belong in a castle. But don’t let their lion-like looks fool you—these dogs are goofy, loving, and fantastic with kids. They’re big swimmers too, so pool days will be extra fun.
Expert Tip: Focus on obedience training early—their size can make bad habits hard to manage later.
8. Alaskan Malamutes Are Built for Strength and Adventure
With their striking wolf-like appearance, Malamutes are as strong as they are beautiful. These sled dogs thrive on activity and will need plenty of exercise to stay happy. They’re independent thinkers, so training might take some patience, but it’s worth it.
Expert Tip: Give them a job to do—whether it’s pulling a sled or carrying a pack, they love having a purpose.
9. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs Are Large and in Charge
Affectionately known as Swissies, these muscular working dogs are the ultimate blend of strength and gentleness. They’re great with families and love having a job, whether it’s herding or pulling a cart. Their outgoing nature means they’ll charm everyone they meet.
Expert Tip: Keep them busy—a bored Swissy is a destructive Swissy.
10. Pyrenean Mountain Dogs Are Fluffy Protectors
Often mistaken for polar bears, these majestic dogs are natural guardians. Pyrenean Mountain Dogs are independent but loving, making them perfect for families who want a protector and a cuddle buddy. Their double coat is stunning but requires regular grooming to keep it from turning into a giant fur ball.
Expert Tip: Start brushing early to manage their coat and reduce shedding disasters.
11. Komondors Are Massive Dogs With Dreadlocks
Komondors are instantly recognizable thanks to their corded coat, which resembles giant white dreadlocks. Originally bred to guard livestock, they’re fiercely protective and surprisingly agile for their size. Don’t let their unique look fool you—these dogs are serious workers.
Expert Tip: Proper coat care is non-negotiable—those cords don’t maintain themselves.
12. Kuvasz Dogs Combine Beauty With Brains
The Kuvasz is a Hungarian livestock guardian with a fluffy white coat and a sharp mind. They’re independent thinkers but deeply loyal to their families. Their protective instincts are strong, so socialization is a must to keep them friendly and approachable.
Expert Tip: Consistent training will help balance their natural independence with obedience.
13. Tibetan Mastiffs Are Majestic Yet Mischievous
Tibetan Mastiffs look like they belong guarding ancient temples, and their strong-willed nature backs up their regal appearance. They’re highly independent and protective but can be absolute goofballs with their families. Just be ready for their strong opinions on… everything.
Expert Tip: Early training and clear boundaries are a must to keep them from becoming too bossy.
14. Anatolian Shepherds Are Quiet Yet Fierce Guardians
These powerful dogs are bred to protect livestock and will treat your family as their flock. Anatolian Shepherds are independent and reserved with strangers but incredibly loyal to their loved ones. They’re not big on cuddling, but their presence alone is comforting.
Expert Tip: Give them plenty of space and a clear job to do to keep them happy.
15. Cane Corsos Are Giant Guardians With a Gentle Side
Cane Corsos may look intimidating, but they’re incredibly loving with their families. These Italian mastiffs are natural protectors and thrive with consistent training and strong leadership. Their loyalty is unmatched, and they’ll do anything to keep their loved ones safe.
Expert Tip: Socialize them early to ensure they’re well-mannered around strangers.