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Big dogs are often seen as strong and independent, but some large breeds think they’re much smaller than they are. Despite their size, these dogs crave attention and physical closeness, often believing they belong on their owner’s lap. This endearing trait leads to amusing moments as these gentle giants try to cuddle, unaware of how much space they occupy. Their loving nature and desire to be close make them lovable companions, even if they occasionally steal the entire couch or bed.
Great Dane
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Known as the “Apollo of dogs” for their regal stature, Great Danes are among the largest breeds in the world, yet they are often blissfully unaware of their size. Despite their towering height and weight, these gentle giants love physical closeness with their owners and frequently attempt to sit in laps or stretch across a couch as though they were much smaller. Their affectionate nature and desire to be near their family make them prime candidates for lap dog behavior, even if their sheer size makes the idea a bit impractical. Still, few things are more heartwarming than a Great Dane attempting to snuggle.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, fluffy breed known for its friendly and affectionate temperament. Originally bred as a working dog in the Swiss Alps, the Bernese is strong and sturdy, but it has a soft side that craves attention and affection. Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs often think they belong on their owner’s lap and will attempt to cuddle whenever they get the chance. Their thick, soft coat makes them perfect cuddle companions, but their need for closeness can quickly take over a couch or bed, leaving little room for anyone else.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands are massive dogs known for their gentle and calm nature, often referred to as “gentle giants.” Despite their immense size and strength, Newfoundlands are known for their love of human companionship, and many exhibit behaviors typically associated with smaller lap dogs. Newfoundlands will often climb onto their owner’s lap, trying to cuddle as closely as possible. Their sweet and affectionate nature makes it difficult to turn down these cuddle sessions, even if they take up all the available space. Newfoundlands are especially protective and nurturing, adding to their strong desire to always be close to their loved ones.
Bullmastiff
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The Bullmastiff is a large, muscular breed that was originally bred for guarding estates, but despite their strong and imposing appearance, they are known for their affectionate nature. Bullmastiffs are incredibly loyal to their families and often seek physical closeness, regardless of their size. They will happily try to fit themselves into a lap or sprawl across a couch to be near their owners. Bullmastiffs are calm and gentle, making them wonderful companions, but their tendency to act like a lap dog often results in them overwhelming smaller spaces in their quest for cuddles and affection.
Irish Wolfhound
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Irish Wolfhounds are the tallest of all dog breeds, but their towering stature doesn’t stop them from wanting to curl up with their owners. These gentle giants have a calm and laid-back personality, but they also crave affection and physical closeness. Despite their immense size, Irish Wolfhounds will often attempt to sit in their owner’s lap or rest their head on their body for comfort. Their docile nature and deep bond with their family make them eager to be near their humans, and their desire to be a lap dog often results in amusing, heartwarming moments.
Leonberger
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The Leonberger is a massive, fluffy breed known for its affectionate and playful nature. Originally bred as a working dog, the Leonberger is strong and capable, but it also has a soft spot for cuddles. These dogs love to be close to their families and often think they belong on laps, regardless of their large size. Leonbergers are particularly attached to their owners and will often follow them from room to room, always seeking opportunities for physical closeness. Their gentle and patient nature makes them excellent family companions, and their need for affection is what drives them to act like lap dogs.
Saint Bernard
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Saint Bernards are famously large dogs with a reputation for their gentle and friendly demeanor. Despite their size, Saint Bernards often see themselves as lap dogs, craving physical closeness and affection from their owners. Known for their role in rescue work, Saint Bernards are deeply connected to their human families and will often attempt to curl up on a lap or snuggle on the couch. Their calm and patient temperament makes them excellent companions for families, but their need for constant affection means they will often take up more space than intended during cuddle sessions.
Big Hearts, Bigger Cuddles
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These large dog breeds may not realize how big they are, but their desire for affection and physical closeness makes them all the more lovable. Despite their size, they crave the comfort of a good snuggle and will happily curl up in a lap or squeeze onto a couch for some quality time with their humans. While sharing space with these gentle giants can be a challenge, their loving and affectionate nature makes every cuddle worth the extra room they take up.
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