Big Dogs That Think They're Lap Dogs: The Gentle Giants Guide
In This Guide
There's something magical about a 150-pound dog who genuinely believes he belongs in your lap. Giant breeds have a paradox that endears them to everyone: the bigger the dog, the gentler and more affectionate they tend to be. If you have the space (and the budget), a gentle giant might be the most rewarding companion you'll ever have.
Why Giant Breeds Make Great Pets
- Calm temperament: Most giant breeds have surprisingly low indoor energy. They're couch champions.
- Gentle with children: Breeds like Newfoundlands were literally bred as "nanny dogs."
- Low aggression: Giant breeds are generally non-reactive and confident, reducing aggression.
- Deeply bonded: They form intense attachments to their families.
- Impressive presence: Let's be honest — there's nothing like the look on a delivery driver's face when your Great Dane answers the door.
The Gentle Giant Breeds
Great Dane
Size: 100–200 lbs, 28–32 inches tall. Temperament: The "Apollo of dogs." Gentle, affectionate, and surprisingly calm. Great Danes are famous for their low indoor energy — they'd rather lean against you on the couch than run around the yard. Despite their imposing size, they're sensitive souls who don't do well with harsh training. A 20–40 minute walk satisfies most Danes. Life expectancy: 7–10 years.
Newfoundland
Size: 100–150 lbs. Temperament: The ultimate family dog. Newfies are patient, protective, and renowned for their gentleness with children. They were historically used as water rescue dogs and swimming companions. They drool (a lot), shed heavily, and need cooler climates, but their devotion is unmatched. Life expectancy: 9–10 years.
Saint Bernard
Size: 120–180 lbs. Temperament: Patient, watchful, and incredibly sweet. Originally bred for Alpine rescue, Saint Bernards are calm, gentle, and wonderful with families. They drool extensively and need regular grooming, but their loving nature makes up for the mess. Life expectancy: 8–10 years.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Size: 70–115 lbs. Temperament: The happiest giant. Berners are affectionate, playful, and devoted to their families. They love cold weather, moderate exercise, and being wherever you are. They're more active than some giants but still mellow by most standards. Life expectancy: 7–10 years. See our family breeds guide.
Irish Wolfhound
Size: 105–180 lbs, 30–35 inches tall. Temperament: The tallest breed in the world, but one of the gentlest. Irish Wolfhounds are quiet, dignified, and incredibly sweet. They need moderate exercise and a yard, but they're surprisingly calm indoors. Life expectancy: 6–8 years.
Great Pyrenees
Size: 85–120 lbs. Temperament: Originally a livestock guardian, the Pyrenees is calm, patient, and protective. They're independent thinkers (read: stubborn) but deeply loyal to their families. Great for rural properties and families with kids. They can be vocal, especially at night. Life expectancy: 10–12 years.
Leonberger
Size: 90–170 lbs. Temperament: A majestic, lion-like giant that's incredibly gentle. Leonbergers are playful, intelligent, and love water. They're more active than some giants and need regular exercise, but they're wonderfully patient with children. Life expectancy: 8–9 years.
English Mastiff
Size: 120–230 lbs. Temperament: The biggest and one of the gentlest. Mastiffs are calm, dignified, and fiercely loyal. They need minimal exercise (a couple of short walks) and are content to guard the couch. They're not great for apartments due to sheer size but are perfect for homes with space. Life expectancy: 6–10 years.
Is a Gentle Giant Right for You?
Our quiz considers your space, activity level, and budget to determine if a giant breed fits your life.
Take the QuizWhat Giant Breeds Really Cost
Giant breeds cost more than average in almost every category:
| Expense | Average Dog | Giant Breed |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly food | $40–$80 | $80–$150 |
| Crate | $40–$80 | $80–$200 |
| Bed | $30–$60 | $80–$200 |
| Medications (flea/tick) | $15–$25/mo | $25–$50/mo |
| Annual vet care | $200–$500 | $400–$800 |
For a complete budget breakdown, see our adoption cost guide.
Health Considerations
The unfortunate truth about gentle giants: they have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. Common health concerns include:
- Bloat (GDV): A life-threatening emergency common in deep-chested breeds. Feed smaller, more frequent meals and avoid exercise immediately after eating. Discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet.
- Joint issues: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis are common. Joint supplements should start early.
- Heart conditions: Dilated cardiomyopathy affects several giant breeds. Regular cardiac screening is recommended.
- Cancer: Some giant breeds, particularly Bernese Mountain Dogs, have higher cancer rates.
- Shorter lifespan: Most giants live 7–10 years. This is the emotional cost that every giant breed owner must accept.
Living With a Giant Breed
- Space matters. While some giants do fine in apartments (Great Danes), most need a home with room to move. A tail wag from a Mastiff clears a coffee table.
- Vehicle size. You'll need an SUV or larger vehicle. Giant breeds don't fit in sedans.
- Furniture. Giant dogs claim furniture. Accept this or invest in an enormous dog bed.
- Drool. Many giant breeds drool. Keep towels handy. It's part of the charm (eventually).
- Training early. A 150-pound dog who pulls on the leash is uncontrollable. Start leash training and basic obedience as a puppy or immediately upon adoption.
- The love. Giant breeds love with their whole massive bodies. Prepare for epic cuddles, heavy head-resting, and a devoted shadow following you everywhere.
Giant Breed Rescue Organizations
If you've decided a gentle giant is right for you, breed-specific rescues are an excellent resource. These organizations specialize in their specific breeds and provide thorough health evaluations:
- Great Dane Rescue Inc. — National network with regional chapters across the US
- NorthStar Great Pyrenees Rescue — Serving the Midwest and Northeast
- Newfoundland Club of America Rescue Network — Breed club-supported rescue
- Saint Bernard Rescue Foundation — National organization with foster homes nationwide
- Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America Rescue — Regional rescue coordinators across the country
- Irish Wolfhound Club of America Rescue — Dedicated breed rescue with extensive health screening
You can also find giant breeds in general shelters more often than you might think. Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, and Mastiff mixes appear regularly. Check Foredog's breed search to see what's available near you right now.
What to Ask the Rescue
- Has the dog been evaluated for bloat risk? Has a gastropexy been performed?
- What is the dog's current weight and ideal target weight?
- Has cardiac screening been done?
- How does the dog do with stairs? (Important for joint health evaluation)
- What joint supplements is the dog currently receiving?
Browse Giant Breeds Available Near You
Find adoptable Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and more.
Browse DogsFrequently Asked Questions
Are giant dog breeds good with children?
Yes, most gentle giant breeds are exceptional with children. Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are particularly renowned for their patience and protectiveness with kids. Supervision is important due to their size — they can accidentally knock toddlers over.
How long do giant dog breeds live?
Most giant breeds live 7 to 10 years. Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds tend toward the shorter end (6–8 years), while Great Pyrenees can reach 10–12 years. This shorter lifespan is the most significant consideration for potential giant breed owners.
Can giant dogs live in apartments?
Some can. Great Danes are famous for being excellent apartment dogs due to their low indoor energy. Most other giant breeds need more space. If you live in an apartment, a Dane or retired Greyhound is your best bet for a large, calm companion.
How much does it cost to own a giant breed dog?
Giant breeds cost 50 to 100 percent more than average-sized dogs across food, supplies, medications, and veterinary care. Budget $2,000 to $5,000 for the first year and $1,500 to $3,500 annually thereafter.
What is the gentlest giant dog breed?
Newfoundlands are widely regarded as the gentlest giant breed, with an almost legendary patience with children and a calm, devoted temperament. Great Danes and Saint Bernards are close seconds.