In a world where dogs are celebrated for their companionship and loyalty, extra-large breeds stand out not just for their impressive size, but for their surprisingly gentle nature and heartfelt devotion. Often referred to as “gentle giants,” these dogs capture the hearts of many with their unique blend of strength and tenderness. From the imposing yet serene Great Dane to the affectionate and protective Saint Bernard, these breeds offer joy, protection, and boundless love. Join us as we explore seven remarkable extra-large dog breeds, each with its own distinct allure, showcasing the profound bond shared between humans and these magnificent animals.
Did you know that approximately 36% of dog-owning households in the U.S. have large dogs weighing over 40 pounds? When it comes to canine companions, bigger often means better—especially for those who adore extra-large breeds. These gentle giants aren’t just massive in size; they also have oversized hearts filled with love and loyalty.
While their majestic appearance and commanding presence may seem intimidating, most extra-large breeds are known for their gentle, friendly, and loving temperaments. They are often great family dogs, protectors, and even therapy animals, thanks to their calm demeanor and strong bonds with humans. However, owning a giant dog comes with unique challenges, from feeding and grooming to training and space requirements.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most iconic extra-large dog breeds, their personalities, and what makes them such extraordinary pets. If you’ve ever dreamed of sharing your home with a giant yet affectionate best friend, one of these breeds might be your perfect match!
Extra-Large Dog Breeds
1. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound holds the title of the tallest dog breed in the world.
These majestic and elegant dogs were originally bred for hunting wolves in Ireland, but today, they are gentle and affectionate pets who love to lounge around with their families.
Despite their gigantic size, they are incredibly gentle, sensitive, and patient, making them excellent pets for families with kids.
Although they may look like ancient warriors, Irish Wolfhounds are calm and easygoing in temperament. They require regular exercise but are surprisingly low-energy indoors. They are happiest when they have a spacious yard to explore and a cozy place to nap.
Their friendly and non-aggressive nature means they don’t make great guard dogs, but their sheer size alone is often enough to deter strangers.
One important thing to consider with Irish Wolfhounds is their short lifespan—typically only 6-8 years. While their time with you may be brief, their unwavering loyalty and gentle presence make every moment deeply rewarding.
If you want a dog with the grace of a lion and the heart of a teddy bear, the Irish Wolfhound is a perfect choice.
2. Great Dane
Few dog breeds are as instantly recognizable as the Great Dane.
Towering over most other dogs (and sometimes even people when standing on their hind legs!), these gentle giants are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities. Despite their massive size, Great Danes are incredibly gentle and love being close to their humans, often thinking they are lap dogs!
They are playful, sociable, and great with families, making them excellent pets. They require consistent training, as their size and strength can be overwhelming if not properly managed.
Luckily, they are eager to please and intelligent, making training relatively easy with positive reinforcement techniques. These dogs perform exceptionally well as rescue dogs!
One thing to keep in mind?
They eat a lot!
Their large bodies require proper nutrition, and they are prone to bloat, a serious condition that requires careful feeding habits. However, their loving nature, protective instincts, and goofy personalities make them one of the most lovable extra-large breeds out there!
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a majestic, tricolor-coated breed known for its sweet temperament and devotion to its family.
Born in the Swiss Alps as farm dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs excel in herding, pulling carts, and serving as loyal family pets.
One of the best traits of this breed is its gentle and affectionate nature. They are great with children, forming strong family bonds, and enjoying activities like hiking, running, and playing outdoors. A lot of their characteristics resemble German shepherds.
They are also eager to learn, making training an enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner.
However, these dogs shed heavily and require regular brushing and grooming. They also have a short lifespan (6-8 years), which can be heartbreaking for owners.
Still, their unwavering loyalty and loving personality make every moment with them priceless.
4. Saint Bernard
Famous for their heroic rescue work in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are one of the most loving and affectionate extra-large dog breeds.
These AKC-recognised gentle giants are known for their calm, patient, and friendly nature, making them fantastic family pets and therapy dogs.
They are great with kids and are often referred to as nanny dogs because of their protective yet gentle demeanor.
This giant breed requires moderate exercise, but their favorite activity is lounging around with their family. Despite their size, they are extremely affectionate and thrive on love.
Be prepared for some drool—they are known for their slobbery kisses! They also require regular grooming due to their thick coats.
However, their loyalty, gentle nature, and big hearts make them one of the best extra-large breeds for families.
5. Mastiff
The Mastiff is one of the oldest and largest dog breeds, known for its imposing size, protective instincts, and deep loyalty.
Originally used as guard dogs, this big dog breed is naturally protective yet gentle with families, as per WebMD.
They are calm, confident, and devoted, making them excellent pets for experienced dog owners. They are not overly aggressive but will instinctively protect their loved ones if needed.
Despite their massive size, they are gentle with children and affectionate with their families.
Training and socialization are key for Mastiffs, as their sheer strength requires an owner who can provide firm but loving leadership.
If you want a majestic, protective, and loving giant, the Mastiff is an excellent choice.
6. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan mastiff is famous for its loose, wrinkled skin and serious expression, but behind that intimidating look is a gentle, affectionate, and devoted pet.
Developed in ancient Rome as a guard dog, Neapolitan Mastiffs are protective but not overly aggressive, making them great family dogs.
Despite their tough exterior, they are deeply affectionate and devoted to their families. They form strong emotional bonds and love being close to their humans. They are known for their gentle and loving nature, especially with children, making them wonderful family dogs.
They require early socialization and training to ensure they grow into well-mannered adult dogs. They are smart and intuitive, making them highly trainable with the right approach. They respond well to positive reinforcement and firm, consistent training.
Because of their protective instincts, early socialization is key, but their eagerness to please makes training an enjoyable experience.
Due to their large size and protective nature, they need an experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent leadership. If you’re looking for a majestic, loyal, and loving protector, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a fantastic choice.
7. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is often called the “Royal Dog of Scotland”, and for good reason.
These tall, elegant dogs were once used for hunting deer, but today, they are gentle, loving mates. Their rich history, noble demeanor, and striking appearance make them a fascinating breed to own and cherish.
This giant is friendly, affectionate, and great with families. Omlet says they have a chilled-out temper!
They are not overly aggressive or territorial, making them ideal for peaceful households. They require regular exercise but are calm and well-mannered indoors.
They may have been bred for hunting, but today, they are known for their calm and relaxed nature. They are often called “gentle giants” because they enjoy lounging around and spending quiet time with their owners.
While they do require exercise, they are not overly hyperactive, making them great pets for those who prefer a laid-back yet active dog.
If you love tall, graceful, and affectionate dogs, the Scottish Deerhound is a great option. Their gentle and devoted nature makes them a wonderful addition to any family.
Conclusion
Extra-large dog breeds are majestic, loving, and loyal pals. Whether you prefer the friendly Great Dane, the fluffy Saint Bernard, or the protective Mastiff, these gentle giants bring unmatched devotion and companionship. Anatolian shepherd, Alaskan malamute, Dogue de Bordeaux, Tibetan mastiff, Great Pyrenees, and Italian mastiffs are also some wonderful large dogs!
If you have the space, time, and love to give, an extra-large dog could be your perfect four-legged best friend!
In conclusion, extra-large dog breeds, often referred to as gentle giants, captivate the hearts of dog lovers with their distinctive blend of imposing size and tender temperament. These breeds, known for their loyalty and affection, often make excellent family pets due to their patient and protective nature. While their size demands specific considerations regarding space, exercise, and nutrition, the rewards of companionship and unwavering devotion are immeasurable. Whether it’s the majestic Great Dane or the noble Newfoundland, these large-hearted dogs remind us that love knows no size, offering a unique and enriching bond to those willing to embrace their grandeur.