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Some people prefer a dog that will provide not only affection but also protection. Large dog breeds have long been known for their loyal, loving nature and their ability to make their owners feel safe. These dogs often combine strength and gentle affection in a way that ensures both emotional and physical security. If you’re someone who wants a loyal companion that will keep you feeling loved and protected, there are many big dogs to choose from. These breeds offer the best of both worlds—companionship and protection.
Great Dane
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Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds, and their size alone can offer a sense of security. Despite their imposing stature, they are often gentle giants, known for their affectionate nature and calm demeanor. Their loyalty is unmatched, and they bond deeply with their family members. Great Danes are excellent guard dogs due to their sheer size, yet they have a sweet and loving disposition, making them fantastic companions for families. Their protective instinct is strong, making them a breed that will not hesitate to protect their loved ones when needed.
Leonberger
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The Leonberger is a gentle giant known for its friendly and loving nature. With their thick, luxurious coats and calm demeanor, Leonbergers make excellent family dogs that offer both comfort and protection. They are loyal and patient, making them great companions for children. Their calm nature means they’re not prone to aggression, but they will fiercely protect their family when needed. Despite their size, Leonbergers are incredibly gentle and affectionate, which makes them the perfect balance of a loving companion and protective guard dog.
Rottweiler
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Rottweilers are often associated with protective instincts due to their history as guard dogs. This breed has been used as a working dog for centuries, known for its strength and intelligence. Rottweilers are fiercely loyal to their families and will do whatever it takes to protect them. They are also surprisingly affectionate and gentle with those they love. Rottweilers thrive when they feel they have a job to do, whether it’s guarding the home or simply providing companionship. Their protective nature makes them a great option for those who want both love and security.
Dogue de Bordeaux
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The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large, muscular dog known for its calm temperament and loyalty. Despite their size, they are affectionate and gentle with their families. These dogs are known for their excellent guarding instincts, making them a great choice for those who need a protective companion. The Dogue de Bordeaux is fiercely devoted to its family, and while they have a calm and laid-back nature, they are not afraid to step in when they sense a threat. This breed’s loving personality, combined with its protective instincts, makes them an excellent choice for families seeking both security and affection.
Saint Bernard
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Saint Bernards are another breed that combines large size with an incredibly sweet and loving personality. These dogs are known for their natural protective instincts and their ability to watch over their family. While they are often used as search-and-rescue dogs due to their excellent sense of smell, Saint Bernards are also known for being extremely affectionate with their owners. Their calm and laid-back nature makes them great for families, and they are particularly good with children. A Saint Bernard will offer love and protection in equal measure, making them the perfect family companion.
Belgian Malinois
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The Belgian Malinois is a working dog that excels in both protection and loyalty. Often used in police and military work, these dogs are incredibly intelligent, agile, and protective. While they have a high energy level and require regular exercise, they are also deeply attached to their families. Belgian Malinois dogs are known for their trainability, making them not only great protectors but also excellent companions. They form strong bonds with their owners, and their natural protective instincts ensure that they’ll keep their loved ones safe from harm.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their strength and their gentle, affectionate nature. They are excellent family dogs, providing both protection and love in equal measure. These dogs are often calm and easygoing, making them perfect companions for families with children. Their protective instincts kick in when they sense danger, but they are also incredibly loyal and loving towards their families. Bernese Mountain Dogs are particularly great for those who want a laid-back companion that will also provide a sense of security in their home.
Alaskan Malamute
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Alaskan Malamutes are large, strong dogs that were originally bred for heavy pulling work in harsh environments. These dogs are highly intelligent and independent, yet they form strong bonds with their families. While they are known for their strength and work ethic, they are also incredibly loyal and affectionate. Malamutes may not be as aggressive as other breeds, but they are still protective and will defend their loved ones if they sense a threat. With their loving nature and strength, they make excellent companions for those looking for both protection and affection.
Irish Wolfhound
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The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds, known for its imposing size and noble appearance. Despite their large frame, these dogs are gentle and affectionate, making them perfect for families. Irish Wolfhounds have a calm demeanor and are often very patient with children. While their size alone can be intimidating to potential threats, they are not overly aggressive. Their loyal and loving nature makes them excellent companions, and their protective instincts ensure that they will always have your back when you need them.
Chinese Shar-Pei
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The Chinese Shar-Pei is a unique breed known for its distinctive wrinkles and calm, protective nature. Despite their somewhat reserved demeanor, Shar-Peis are deeply loyal to their families and have a natural guarding instinct. These dogs are highly protective of their loved ones and are known to be devoted companions. Their independent nature means they won’t demand constant attention, but they are always there when their family needs them. Shar-Peis offer the perfect balance of love, loyalty, and protection, making them ideal for those looking for a calm, yet protective, large dog.
Hovawart
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The Hovawart is a strong, intelligent breed originally used as a working dog for guarding and search-and-rescue purposes. They are known for their loyalty, calm demeanor, and protective instincts. Hovawarts are deeply bonded with their families and are always ready to offer protection when needed. Their gentle nature and affection toward their family members make them an ideal companion. While they are protective and alert, Hovawarts are also loving and affectionate, making them perfect for those seeking both security and a loving, loyal dog.
Great Pyrenees
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Great Pyrenees are large, majestic dogs that have been used for centuries as guard dogs for livestock. Their calm and dignified nature makes them perfect for families, and they are known for their loyalty and protectiveness. Great Pyrenees form strong bonds with their family members and will go to great lengths to keep them safe. These dogs have a natural instinct to protect, and their gentle nature makes them excellent companions for those who want both security and love. They are calm, loving, and always ready to offer protection when needed.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands are known for being gentle giants with a calm, affectionate demeanor. These dogs are great for families, offering both protection and love. Despite their large size, Newfoundlands are typically calm and patient, especially with children. They have a natural protective instinct and will watch over their family members without hesitation. Whether they’re providing comfort or defending their home, Newfoundlands are a reliable breed that will always make you feel safe and loved.
The Big Love Squad
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Big dogs often get a bad reputation for being difficult to manage, but the reality is that many of them are incredibly loving and devoted to their families. These breeds offer the perfect balance of strength, protection, and affection. Their gentle nature means they are excellent with children, yet their size and instincts make them formidable protectors when needed. If you’re looking for a dog that will keep you safe while also offering unconditional love, these big breeds are more than up to the task.
The post 13 Large Dog Breeds That Will Make You Feel Safe And Loved appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.