Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and while some large breeds carry themselves with a dignity and presence that belies their size, others seem completely unaware of their considerable size. These big dogs often exhibit behaviors that are more common in smaller breeds, such as wanting to sit on their owner’s lap, curling up in small spaces, or wanting to be carried around. Their endearing unawareness of their size makes them lovable and sometimes humorous companions. This article explores six large dog breeds that are completely convinced that they are small, detailing why each breed fits the bill and why they are beloved by their owners despite their oversized antics.
6. Great Dane
Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their massive size and friendly, affectionate nature. Despite their large stature, which can easily exceed 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 175 pounds, Great Danes often think of themselves as small dogs. They love to curl up with their owners, sometimes trying to sit on their laps or squeeze into spaces that are too small for their size. The breed is known for their gentle and calm temperament, making them great family pets. Great Danes are also very sociable and love to interact with humans, often following their owners around the house and relying on them for attention. Their affectionate and sometimes needy behavior, combined with their enormous size, makes them one of the most charming and entertaining dog breeds despite their small size.
5. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is an unusually large dog breed that often acts much smaller than it actually is. Known for its history of rescuing travelers in the Swiss Alps, these dogs can weigh up to 180 pounds and stand about 30 inches tall. Despite their origins as working dogs, Saint Bernards are extremely gentle and affectionate, often seeking close physical contact with their owners. They have been known to try to crawl into laps, crawl into bed with their owners, and find the smallest spaces possible to curl up in. Their friendly and patient nature makes them great family pets, especially around children. Saint Bernards are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, always wanting to be close to their loved ones, which often leads to adorable but humorous attempts to be “small.”
4. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands, commonly referred to as “Newfies,” are large dogs known for their gentle and loving nature. These dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand about 28 inches tall, but they often act as if they are much smaller. Newfoundlands are known for their sweet temperaments and desire to be close to their owners, often trying to climb onto laps or cuddle on the couch. Their large, soft coats add to their teddy bear-like appearance, making their attempts to be lap dogs all the more adorable. Newfoundlands are excellent swimmers and have a history of water rescues, but when at home, they are calm and affectionate, always seeking physical closeness. The combination of their size and gentle nature makes them a favorite family dog, especially those who appreciate their humorous attempts to act like tiny lap dogs.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy dog breed that was originally bred to work on farms in the Swiss Alps. These dogs can weigh up to 115 pounds and stand about 27 inches tall, but they often think they are much smaller. The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its affectionate and friendly nature, often seeking close contact with its owner. They love to curl up, sometimes trying to crawl into a lap or curl up in a bed. Their gentle and calm demeanor makes them great companions for both families and individuals. The Bernese Mountain Dog is also known for its loyalty and protective instincts, always wanting to be close to loved ones, which often leads to humorous attempts to act like a small dog. Their adorable behavior, combined with their impressive size, makes them a favorite breed among dog lovers.
2. Mastiff
Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds, with some individuals weighing over 200 pounds and standing around 30 inches tall. Despite their enormous size, Mastiffs often act as if they are much smaller, seeking close physical contact with their owners. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, often wanting to sit on laps or cuddle on the couch. Mastiffs are also extremely loyal and protective, always wanting to be near family members. Their calm and laid-back demeanor makes them great companions, and their size combined with their desire for closeness leads to some interesting and endearing behaviors. Mastiffs are often referred to as “gentle giants,” and their efforts to become lap dogs despite their size make them a favorite among dog lovers.
1. Leonberger
Leonbergers are large, majestic dogs that can weigh up to 170 pounds and stand about 30 inches tall. Despite their impressive size, Leonbergers often think of themselves as small dogs. They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, often seeking close physical contact with their owners. Leonbergers are extremely sociable and enjoy interacting with people, always wanting to be close to family members. Their thick, plush coats add to their teddy bear-like appearance, making them even more adorable when they try to act like small dogs. Leonbergers are also known for their calm and gentle personalities, making them great family companions. The combination of their size, beauty, and affectionate nature makes them a favorite among dog lovers, especially those who appreciate their humorous attempts at acting like small dogs.
In conclusion, these six large dog breeds are particularly suited to individuals and families who enjoy a canine companion with a larger-than-life presence and a heart full of love. Each breed has unique traits and personalities that make them exceptional pets for those who enjoy the company of a large dog with the affectionate and cuddly nature of a small dog. Their love of attention, friendly nature, and sometimes humorous attempts to be lap dogs ensure that they stand out as some of the most charming and lovable dogs around. Proper care, regular exercise, and a loving environment are essential to ensure that these gentle giants thrive and continue to bring joy and companionship to their homes.
