Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and while some large breeds carry themselves with the dignity and presence befitting their size, others seem blissfully unaware of their substantial dimensions. These big dogs often exhibit behaviors more commonly associated with smaller breeds, such as wanting to sit on their owner’s laps, curling up in small spaces, or expecting to be carried around. Their endearing lack of awareness about their size makes them lovable and sometimes hilarious companions. This article explores six big dog breeds that are absolutely convinced they’re tiny, detailing what makes each breed fit this topic and why they are adored by their owners despite their oversized antics.
6. Great Dane
Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their imposing size and friendly, affectionate nature. Despite their massive stature, which can easily exceed 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 175 pounds, Great Danes often think of themselves as lapdogs. They love to snuggle up with their owners, sometimes attempting to sit on their laps or squeeze into spaces far too small for their frames. This breed is known for its gentle and calm demeanor, making them excellent family pets. Great Danes are also highly social and thrive on human interaction, often following their owners around the house and leaning on them for attention. Their affectionate and sometimes needy behavior, combined with their sheer size, makes them one of the most charming and amusing breeds convinced they’re tiny.
5. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are another large breed that often behaves as if they are much smaller than they actually are. Known for their history of rescuing travelers in the Swiss Alps, these dogs can weigh up to 180 pounds and stand around 30 inches tall. Despite their working dog heritage, Saint Bernards are incredibly gentle and affectionate, often seeking close physical contact with their owners. They are known to try and fit into laps, crawl into bed with their humans, and find the smallest possible spaces to curl up in. Their friendly and patient nature makes them excellent 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 results in endearing yet comical attempts to be “small.”
4. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands, often called “Newfies,” are massive dogs known for their gentle and loving nature. These dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand around 28 inches tall, but they often behave as if they are much smaller. Newfies are known for their sweet disposition and desire to be close to their owners, often attempting to climb into laps or cuddle on the couch. Their large, fluffy coats add to their teddy bear-like appearance, making their attempts to be lapdogs even more endearing. Newfoundlands are excellent swimmers and have a history of water rescues, yet at home, they are calm and affectionate, always seeking physical closeness. Their combination of size and gentle nature makes them a favorite among families, especially those who appreciate their comical attempts to act like tiny lapdogs.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, sturdy dogs originally bred for farm work in the Swiss Alps. These dogs can weigh up to 115 pounds and stand around 27 inches tall, yet they often believe they are much smaller. Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their affectionate and friendly nature, often seeking out close contact with their owners. They love to snuggle, sometimes trying to fit into laps or curl up in bed. Their gentle and calm demeanor makes them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. Bernese Mountain Dogs are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, always wanting to be close to their loved ones, which often results in humorous attempts to act like small lapdogs. Their endearing behavior, combined with their impressive size, makes them a beloved breed among dog lovers.
2. Mastiff
Mastiffs are among the largest dog breeds, with some individuals weighing over 200 pounds and standing around 30 inches tall. Despite their massive 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 trying to sit on laps or cuddle on the couch. Mastiffs are also incredibly loyal and protective, always wanting to be near their family members. Their calm and laid-back demeanor makes them excellent companions, and their size combined with their desire for closeness results in some amusing and endearing behaviors. Mastiffs are often referred to as “gentle giants,” and their attempts to be lapdogs 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 around 30 inches tall. Despite their impressive size, Leonbergers often think of themselves as small lapdogs. They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, often seeking close physical contact with their owners. Leonbergers are incredibly social and thrive on human interaction, always wanting to be close to their family members. Their thick, luxurious coats add to their teddy bear-like appearance, making their attempts to act like small lapdogs even more endearing. Leonbergers are also known for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them excellent companions for families. Their combination of size, beauty, and affectionate nature makes them a beloved breed among dog lovers, especially those who appreciate their humorous attempts to act like tiny lapdogs.
In conclusion, these six big dog breeds are particularly well-suited for individuals and families who appreciate a canine companion with a larger-than-life presence and a heart full of love. Each breed offers unique characteristics and traits that make them exceptional pets for those who enjoy the company of a large dog with the affectionate and cuddly nature of a small one. Their love of attention, friendly nature, and sometimes comical attempts to be lapdogs ensure that they stand out as some of the most charming and endearing dogs around. Proper care, regular exercise, and a loving environment are essential to ensure these gentle giants thrive and continue to bring joy and companionship to their homes.
