Many dog lovers can attest that size does not necessarily determine a dog’s desire to be close to its owner. In fact, some of the largest dog breeds are often the most affectionate, and despite their size, they tend to consider themselves lap dogs. These gentle giants often seek close contact with their families, curling up on laps, lying on the couch, or simply leaning in for a cuddle. Their affectionate nature combined with their massive size creates a dynamic that is both funny and endearing, making them beloved family members. This article explores eight large dog breeds that believe they are lap dogs, detailing why each breed fits the bill and why they are beloved for their affection, albeit sometimes excessive.
8. Great Dane
The Great Dane is often referred to as the “Apollo of Dogs” because of its majestic appearance and towering height. Despite its impressive size, often standing over 30 inches at the shoulder, the Great Dane is known for its gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs are extremely affectionate and crave closeness with their human families. Great Danes often consider themselves lap dogs, loving to curl up on the couch or curl up in bed, oblivious to their enormous size. Their calm demeanor and affectionate temperament make them excellent companions, providing both physical warmth and emotional comfort. Their large, gentle personalities endear them to many, making them a popular choice for families looking for a loving and loyal pet.
7. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are best known for their role as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, but at home they are known for their affectionate and gentle nature. These large dogs, typically weighing between 140 and 180 pounds, have a calm and friendly temperament that makes them excellent companions. Saint Bernards are extremely loyal and love to be around their family, often trying to sit on laps or snuggle up for a cuddle. Their thick, soft coats make them perfect cuddle companions, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Despite their large size, Saint Bernards are gentle and patient, making them great pets for families with children. Their affectionate nature and tendency to be lap dogs make them a popular breed.
6. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large, sturdy dog breed known for its swimming abilities and rescue work. However, at home, they are known as “nanny dogs” because of their gentle and loving nature. Newfoundlands typically weigh between 100 and 150 pounds, but their size does not prevent them from seeking close contact with their human families. These dogs are extremely affectionate and love to cuddle, often seeking to sit on laps or lie on beds. Their thick, water-resistant coat makes them perfect for cold climates, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Newfoundlands are also known for their patience and gentle temperament, making them great companions for families with children. Their loving nature and tendency to be lap dogs make them a popular breed.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy dog breed known for its friendly and gentle nature. These dogs typically weigh between 70 and 115 pounds, but their size does not prevent them from seeking close contact with their families. The Bernese Mountain Dog is extremely affectionate and loves to cuddle, often trying to sit on laps or snuggle up for a hug. Their thick, tri-colored coat makes them perfect for cold climates, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. The Bernese Mountain Dog is also known for its loyalty and eagerness to please, making them great family companions. Their loving nature and tendency to be lap dogs make them a popular choice for those looking for a large, affectionate pet.
4. Mastiff
The Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds, typically weighing between 120 and 230 pounds. Despite their massive size, the Mastiff is known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs are extremely loyal and love to be around their owners, often trying to sit on laps or lie on the couch. The Mastiff has a calm and laid-back demeanor, making them the perfect companion for those looking for a gentle giant. Their short, thick coat makes them easy to groom, and their loving nature provides emotional comfort to their owners. The Mastiff is also known for its protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs. Their affectionate nature and tendency to be lap dogs make them a popular breed.
3. Greater Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a large, shaggy dog breed known for its protective instincts and gentle nature. These dogs typically weigh between 85 and 115 pounds, but their size does not prevent them from seeking close contact with their families. Great Pyrenees are extremely affectionate and love to cuddle, often seeking to sit on laps or lie on beds. Their thick, white coats make them perfect for cold climates, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Great Pyrenees are also known for their loyalty and patience, making them great companions for families with children. Their loving nature and tendency to be lap dogs make them a popular breed.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are one of the tallest dog breeds, typically standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 105 and 180 pounds. Despite their impressive size, Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs are extremely loyal and love to be around their owners, often trying to sit on laps or cuddle on the couch. Irish Wolfhounds have a calm and laid-back demeanor, making them the perfect companion for those looking for a gentle giant. Their fluffy coats and loving natures provide warmth and comfort to their owners. Irish Wolfhounds are also known for their protective instincts, making them excellent watchdogs. Their affectionate nature and tendency to be lap dogs make them a popular breed.
1. Leonberger
Leonbergers are large, majestic dogs known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs typically weigh between 90 and 170 pounds, but their size does not prevent them from seeking close contact with their families. Leonbergers are extremely loyal and love to cuddle, often trying to sit on laps or snuggle up for a hug. Their thick, water-resistant coat makes them perfect for cold climates, providing warmth and comfort to their owners. Leonbergers are also known for their patience and gentle demeanor, making them great companions for families with children. Their loving nature and tendency to be lap dogs make them a popular choice for those looking for a large, affectionate pet.
In conclusion, these eight large dog breeds are particularly suited to individuals and families looking for a cuddly, gentle canine companion. Each breed has its own unique characteristics and personalities that make them exceptional pets for people who enjoy warmth and affection. Their playful antics, expressive faces, and adorable habits ensure that they stand out as some of the most charming and entertaining dogs around. Proper care, regular exercise, and a loving environment are essential to ensure that these adorable dogs thrive and continue to bring joy and comfort to their homes.
