When people imagine giant dog breeds, they often think of intimidating sizes, deep barks, and strong builds.
But many of these large breeds are surprisingly gentle, loyal, and loving, earning them the nickname “gentle giants.”
From calm temperaments to affectionate natures, these giant dog breeds with gentle personalities prove that size doesn't determine personality.
Why People Love Giant Dog Breeds With Gentle Personalities
Giant dog breeds are not just impressive in size—they're often incredibly kind-hearted.
Despite their towering stature, many of these dogs are calm, patient, and affectionate.
Families are drawn to gentle giants for several reasons:
- They are typically good with children and other pets.
- Many are protective without being aggressive.
- Their slow and calm demeanor makes them easy to train.
- They often enjoy lounging around as much as playing.
However, prospective owners should also be prepared for larger food bills, more space requirements, and shorter lifespans in many cases.
1. Great Dane – The Friendly Giant
Overview
- Height: Up to 34 inches
- Weight: 100–200 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 7–10 years
Nicknamed the “Apollo of dogs,” the Great Dane is among the tallest dog breeds. Despite their imposing height, they are affectionate, gentle, and surprisingly sensitive.
Personality
Great Danes are known for their calm and affectionate behavior, especially around their family members.
They love to lean on their humans—a habit that can be funny given their size.
They are often described as “couch potatoes” and adapt well to indoor living if given enough exercise.
2. Newfoundland – The Natural Lifeguard
Overview
- Height: 26–28 inches
- Weight: 100–150 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 9–10 years
The Newfoundland, originally bred for water rescue, is known for its swimming skills and strong work ethic.
These dogs are also sweet-natured, protective, and patient.
Personality
Newfoundlands are gentle with children, earning them the nickname “nanny dog.”
They’re incredibly loyal and have a natural instinct to protect and serve. Their thick coats require regular grooming, especially after water adventures.
3. Saint Bernard – The Mountain Rescuer
Overview
- Height: 25–30 inches
- Weight: 120–180 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 8–10 years
Originating from the Swiss Alps, the Saint Bernard was developed to assist in search-and-rescue missions in snowy conditions.
They are friendly and patient with a calm demeanor.
Personality
Saint Bernards are dependable and gentle with children and other pets. They’re also known for their drooling, due to their large jowls.
With proper socialization and space, they make loyal and loving companions.
4. Irish Wolfhound – The Tall Aristocrat
Overview
- Height: Up to 32 inches or more
- Weight: 115–180 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 6–8 years
One of the tallest dog breeds, the Irish Wolfhound was historically used for hunting wolves.
Today, they are known for their grace, intelligence, and mellow nature.
Personality
These dogs are extremely gentle and reserved, especially indoors. They form close bonds with their families and are rarely aggressive.
Due to their size, they need space and regular exercise, but they’re more likely to nap beside you than chase a ball all day.
5. Leonberger – The Gentle Lion Look-Alike
Overview
- Height: 26–31 inches
- Weight: 100–170 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 8–9 years
Bred in Germany, the Leonberger was designed to resemble a lion and serve as a family and working dog.
Despite their intimidating appearance, they are calm, loving, and eager to please.
Personality
Leonbergers are known for their intelligence and balanced temperament. They enjoy being around people and require consistent training and exercise.
They’re especially suited for active families and homes with large yards.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog – The Loyal Worker
Overview
- Height: 23–28 inches
- Weight: 70–115 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 7–10 years
Hailing from the Swiss Alps, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a strong, working breed.
Despite their size and strength, they are among the most affectionate and gentle family dogs.
Personality
Berners, as they’re affectionately called, thrive in family settings. They are particularly good with children and enjoy socializing.
Their thick tricolor coats need regular brushing, and they are best suited for cooler climates.
7. Tibetan Mastiff – The Watchful Guardian
Overview
- Height: 24–30 inches
- Weight: 75–160 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed used for guarding monasteries and livestock in the Himalayas.
While fiercely protective, they are calm and composed when not provoked.
Personality
Tibetan Mastiffs are independent and strong-willed, making early training essential. They are affectionate with their family but may be wary of strangers.
Their thick coat also makes them better suited to colder climates.
8. Boerboel – The South African Protector
Overview
- Height: 22–28 inches
- Weight: 150–200 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 9–11 years
The Boerboel, originally bred in South Africa to guard homesteads, is a powerful yet stable and affectionate dog.
These giants require firm training but offer unmatched loyalty.
Personality
Boerboels are incredibly devoted to their families and will fiercely protect them. While they need confident owners, they are gentle with those they trust. Socialization is crucial to prevent overprotectiveness.
Considerations Before Adopting a Gentle Giant
Before bringing home a large-breed dog, it’s important to consider the practical aspects of their care.
While their personalities are often loving and loyal, their size comes with responsibilities.
With giant dog breeds with gentle personalities, keep in mind:
- Space: These dogs need plenty of room to stretch and move.
- Exercise Needs: Most giant breeds require daily walks and moderate activity.
- Diet: They eat significantly more than small breeds, impacting your budget.
- Health: Larger breeds are prone to joint issues and shorter lifespans.
- Training: Early and consistent obedience training is essential due to their strength.
Additionally, many of these breeds are prone to health conditions such as hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), and heart issues.
Regular vet checkups, a healthy diet, and responsible breeding can help reduce these risks.
Final Thoughts
Despite their enormous size, giant dog breeds with gentle personalities often display the most tender and devoted personalities in the canine world.
Whether you’re seeking a family companion, a loyal protector, or simply a calm and affectionate pet, these gentle giants might be the perfect fit.
Just remember that their needs are as large as their hearts, so be prepared to offer them the space, care, and love they deserve.
