1. Saint Berdoodle
The Saint Berdoodle is a fascinating mix between the massive and affectionate Saint Bernard and the highly intelligent and curly-coated Poodle. This mix results in a dog that can range anywhere from 100 to 180 pounds, standing tall with a coat that varies from wavy to tight curls, according to the PetStaff. One of the most appealing features of the Saint Berdoodle is its potential for a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, thanks to its Poodle parent. However, their fur still requires a lot of maintenance, as it tends to trap dirt and mats easily.
Despite their size, Saint Berdoodles are known for their gentle and loving nature. They are highly social dogs that thrive in family environments, getting along exceptionally well with children and other pets. Their Saint Bernard lineage gives them a natural instinct to protect and nurture, making them one of the best gentle giant companions. However, they do require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and space to roam, as they can become restless if cooped up too long. Training them is usually easy, as they are eager to please, but early socialization is essential to ensure they grow up to be well-mannered and confident companions.
2. Leonberger Shepherd
The Leonberger Shepherd is a magnificent and powerful mix between the majestic Leonberger and the highly intelligent German Shepherd. This hybrid can weigh between 100 and 150 pounds and typically has a thick, luxurious coat that requires regular grooming, according to HillsPet. Their impressive build and keen intelligence make them ideal working dogs, excelling in search-and-rescue, therapy work, and even guarding duties.
One of the biggest advantages of this mix is its trainability. German Shepherds are known for their obedience and quick learning, and when combined with the gentle and affectionate nature of the Leonberger, you get a devoted and highly intelligent companion. However, they do require consistent training, as their strong will and protective instincts can sometimes make them a handful for inexperienced owners. These dogs do best with active families who can provide them with mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a purpose—whether it’s working, playing, or exploring the outdoors.
3. Newfypoo
The Newfypoo is a mix between the water-loving Newfoundland and the intelligent and hypoallergenic Poodle. These dogs are massive, weighing anywhere from 80 to 150 pounds, and they often inherit the curly, low-shedding coat of their Poodle parent, according to DogTime. This makes them a great choice for families who want a giant, affectionate dog with a coat that doesn’t shed as much as other large breeds.
Newfypoos are playful, loving, and deeply devoted to their families. They are natural swimmers and love any opportunity to splash around in the water. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent therapy dogs, and they are often used in emotional support roles due to their gentle temperament. However, because they are a high-energy breed, they need plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and training to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
4. Great Pyredane: Great Pyrenees + Great Dane
The Great Pyredane is the ultimate gentle giant, combining the protective instincts of the Great Pyrenees with the towering height of the Great Dane. These dogs often weigh between 120 and 180 pounds and stand incredibly tall, making them one of the largest mixed breeds out there.
One of the standout traits of the Great Pyredane is its calm and affectionate personality, according to DogTime. Despite their large size, they are incredibly gentle and patient, making them excellent family pets and livestock guardians. However, due to their strong independent streak, training can sometimes be a challenge. Early socialization and firm, consistent leadership are key to helping them grow into well-mannered, confident dogs.
5. Bernese Rottie
The Bernese Rottie is a powerful and majestic hybrid that results from mixing the loyal and affectionate Bernese Mountain Dog with the strong and protective Rottweiler. This mix creates a muscular, large-boned dog that can weigh between 90 and 140 pounds, standing tall with a broad chest and a commanding presence. They often inherit the black-and-rust coloring of the Rottweiler, but some may take on the tricolor coat of the Bernese, making them a strikingly beautiful breed.
One of the best things about the Bernese Rottie is that it balances strength with sweetness. While Rottweilers are known for their protective instincts, Bernese Mountain Dogs are famously gentle and affectionate. This mix results in a dog that is deeply devoted to its family, naturally protective, and highly intelligent. However, they require firm and consistent training from an early age. If not properly socialized, they can become overly cautious around strangers. These dogs thrive in active households and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy.
6. Daniff
The Daniff is a mix of two of the largest dog breeds on the planet—the Great Dane and the Mastiff. This colossal hybrid can easily weigh between 150 and 220 pounds, with some individuals even exceeding those numbers. They are built like tanks, with thick muscles, a deep chest, and an impressively strong frame. Despite their size, they are gentle, affectionate, and deeply loyal to their families.
Daniffs are often called “gentle giants” because of their sweet and easygoing nature. They form strong bonds with their humans and love to be around their family members. While they are naturally protective, they are not aggressive unless provoked. These dogs require a lot of space—apartment living is not ideal unless you’re willing to commit to frequent long walks. Additionally, they tend to be lazy giants, meaning they love lounging around but still need consistent exercise to prevent obesity. Training should start early, as their sheer size can make them difficult to handle if not well-mannered.
7. Alaskan Malador
The Alaskan Malador is an incredibly strong and athletic mix between the hardy Alaskan Malamute and the friendly Labrador Retriever. This mix produces a large, wolf-like dog that typically weighs between 80 and 130 pounds. They inherit the thick, weather-resistant coat of the Malamute, making them well-suited for colder climates, but they also retain the social, people-loving personality of the Labrador.
Alaskan Maladors are high-energy, hardworking dogs that require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They excel in outdoor activities like hiking, running, and even pulling sleds. Because of their strong prey drive and independent streak, training must begin early. Unlike purebred Labradors, who are naturally obedient, this mix may sometimes be stubborn and strong-willed, thanks to the Malamute side. However, with the right training and structure, they make fantastic companions for active individuals and families.
