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Big dogs may seem tough and independent, but many have a surprisingly soft side. These large breeds often think they’re much smaller than they are and love nothing more than curling up in your lap or snuggling on the couch. Despite their massive size, their playful and affectionate nature makes them act like tiny lap dogs, eager to shower you with love and attention. If you’re looking for a big dog with a big heart who craves closeness, these breeds will be your perfect cuddle companion.
Great Dane
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Great Danes are massive dogs, but they’re also among the sweetest and most affectionate of breeds. Despite their towering height, they often act like lap dogs, seeking out cuddles, attention, and affection. They may try to sit in your lap or snuggle up to you as if they’re a small puppy. Their gentle nature and need for companionship make them the ideal breed for anyone looking for a giant dog with a heart that’s just as big as their size.
Saint Bernard
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Saint Bernards are known for their large size, but they have a gentle and loving temperament that makes them believe they’re tiny lap dogs. These gentle giants are incredibly affectionate and love to be around their human family members. They’ll often try to curl up next to you or place their large head on your lap to seek comfort and love. Their need for physical closeness, despite their size, shows that they’re more interested in being cuddled and cared for than maintaining their intimidating exterior.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands are big, gentle dogs with a heart of gold. Despite their size, they are known for their calm, affectionate demeanor and their desire to be close to their human family. They often believe they’re just as small as any lap dog, trying to curl up on the couch or even sit on your lap for some extra attention. Their quiet and loving nature makes them the ideal companion for anyone who loves large, cuddly dogs who are always ready to show affection.
Scottish Deerhound
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The Scottish Deerhound is a large and majestic breed, but their soft, affectionate nature makes them believe they’re much smaller than they are. These dogs have a calm demeanor and often seek affection from their human family members, curling up beside you or laying their head on your lap. Their desire for closeness and warmth leads them to believe they can act like a small lap dog, even though they’re one of the tallest dog breeds around. Their gentle and loving behavior makes them an ideal companion for anyone looking for a giant dog with a big heart.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
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Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are known for their intelligence and hunting ability, but they also have a sweet, loving side that makes them believe they’re small lap dogs. Despite their size, these dogs love to cuddle and be close to their owners. They’ll often try to sit on your lap, rest their head on your lap, or snuggle up to you as if they’re a small dog. Their loyalty and affection make them perfect for anyone who loves large, affectionate dogs that enjoy being near their humans.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for its gentle nature and love of human companionship. Despite their large size, they often act like smaller lap dogs, seeking physical closeness and affection from their family. They may try to curl up in your lap or snuggle beside you on the couch. Their calm and affectionate nature, paired with their tendency to want to be close to their humans, makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a big dog with a soft, cuddly personality.
Alaskan Malamute
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Alaskan Malamutes are big, strong dogs, but they have a playful and affectionate temperament that makes them think they’re small lap dogs. These dogs love spending time with their human family members and will often seek affection by leaning on you or trying to curl up next to you. Their size might prevent them from actually sitting on your lap, but their constant desire for attention and affection proves that they’re big dogs with even bigger hearts.
Leonberger
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Leonbergers are massive dogs with gentle, affectionate personalities. Despite their large size, they love to be near their human family members and will often try to sit on your lap or curl up next to you. Their tendency to seek out physical closeness shows that they believe they’re small enough to snuggle like a lap dog. Their loyalty and desire to be close to their humans make them a great companion for anyone looking for a giant dog with a soft, loving nature.
Akita
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Akitas are known for their strength and loyalty, but they also have a surprisingly affectionate side, especially toward their owners. Despite their large frame, Akitas will often try to get close to you, sitting on your feet or leaning into you. They love to be near their human family and often forget just how big they are when seeking attention. Their need for closeness and affection makes them act like lap dogs, even though they’re far too big to fit. Their love for their family is undeniable, and it shows in their constant need for affection.
Rottweiler
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Rottweilers are known for their protective nature, but they are also incredibly affectionate with their families. These dogs often act like they’re tiny lap dogs despite their larger size, always seeking attention from their owners. They may try to climb into your lap, rest their head on your lap, or follow you around for a chance to cuddle. Their loyalty and need for affection make them believe they’re small enough to be your lap dog, even though they’re clearly too big to fit. Their loving nature makes them an excellent companion for anyone who enjoys a giant cuddle buddy.
Great Pyrenees
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Great Pyrenees are known for their impressive size and calm demeanor, but they also have a soft, affectionate side. These dogs are fiercely loyal and love to be close to their human family members. Despite their size, Great Pyrenees will often try to curl up on your lap or sit beside you for a cuddle. They are gentle giants that want nothing more than to be near you, acting just like a small lap dog with their loving behavior. Their calm nature and affection make them ideal for families seeking a big dog with a soft heart.
Bullmastiff
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Bullmastiffs are large and powerful dogs, but they have a gentle and affectionate nature. These dogs are known for their calm demeanor and tendency to stay close to their families. Bullmastiffs often forget just how big they are and will try to climb onto your lap or curl up beside you. Their devotion to their human companions makes them think they’re small lap dogs, even though their size may leave little room for actual lap cuddles. Still, they are perfect for anyone who enjoys a giant, affectionate companion.
Boxer
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Boxers are known for their energetic personalities and playful nature, but they also love to cuddle. These dogs tend to climb onto your lap or sit as close to you as possible, believing that they’re small enough to be your lap dog. Their joyful energy is contagious, and their desire to be close to their owners is what often leads them to believe they belong in your lap. Despite their size, Boxers love to be around their humans and will do whatever it takes to stay close to you.
German Shepherd
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German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and protective, but they also have a soft spot for their human family members. While they’re often working dogs, they enjoy snuggling just as much as any lap dog. Despite their athletic build, German Shepherds will often crawl into your lap, rest their head on your lap, or sit close to you for comfort. They form deep bonds with their owners, and that bond makes them want to be close and affectionate, just like a small dog would.
Doberman Pinscher
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While Dobermans are known for their athleticism and protective nature, they’re also incredibly affectionate with their families. These dogs can be surprisingly cuddly and often forget how big they are when seeking attention. Dobermans will nuzzle into your lap, curl up beside you, or rest their head in your lap, acting like a small lap dog despite their larger size. Their loyalty and love for their owners often make them behave like the perfect, oversized lap dog, eager for any affection they can get.
The Lap Dog Fantasy
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At the end of the day, big dogs are often just big softies who think they’re small lap dogs. These gentle giants have an unexpected need for affection and comfort. Despite their size, they’ll frequently try to curl up in your lap, seeking love and attention. If you’re ready for a giant dog with a heart as big as their body, these lovable pups will gladly try to fit in your lap—whether it’s physically possible or not! They just want to be close to you.
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