Some dogs seem to have no concept of personal space—especially big ones. Despite their towering height and hefty weight, certain large breeds are convinced they’re meant to be lap dogs. These lovable giants will climb onto their humans at any opportunity, draping themselves across laps, flopping onto couches, and refusing to believe they might be too big for snuggling sessions. They want to be as close to their favorite people as possible, even if it means crushing them under 100+ pounds of love.
Great Dane
Great Danes are one of the world’s largest dog breeds but try telling them that. These gentle giants have no clue they’re massive and will happily plop onto your lap as if they weigh nothing. They are incredibly affectionate and crave close contact with their humans, often leaning against their owners or trying to curl up on the couch (even if their entire body doesn’t fit). Great Danes are also known for their “Velcro dog” tendencies, meaning they follow their people everywhere, always ready for snuggles. If you own a Great Dane, get ready to lose all personal space—you’re now their designated human pillow.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are big, fluffy, and completely convinced they belong in your lap. These giant teddy bears are known for their sweet, affectionate nature and will do anything to be close to their humans. Despite weighing well over 100 pounds, Newfies have no problem trying to curl up on the couch or sit directly on their owner’s legs. Their thick coats make them extra warm, so prepare for a full-body fur blanket whether you want one or not. Newfoundlands thrive on companionship and will gladly smother their owners in love.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, affectionate, and don’t seem to understand their own size. They are incredibly loyal and love to be close to their humans, often squeezing themselves into tight spaces just to cuddle. Berners habitually lean on their owners, using their massive weight as an excuse to get even closer. They will gladly climb onto laps if given the chance, and they don’t seem to care if their human disappears under all that fluff. A Bernese Mountain Dog will happily take the role if you want a dog that acts like a giant, affectionate shadow.
Mastiff
Mastiffs may look intimidating, but deep down, they’re just oversized babies who want to be held. These massive dogs love to sit on laps, lean on their humans, and snuggle as much as possible. Their protective instincts make them incredibly loyal, but instead of standing guard from a distance, they always prefer to be glued to their owners. Mastiffs are also known for their hilarious “puppy eyes,” which they use to guilt-trip their humans into letting them take over the couch. A Mastiff will gladly take the job if you want a dog that doubles as a personal heater.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards may have been bred for mountain rescue, but their real passion in life is being oversized lap dogs. These gentle giants are incredibly affectionate and always want to be as close to their humans as possible. They will try to sit on laps, lean against you for extra cuddles, and sprawl across the couch without a second thought. Their massive size means they take up a lot of space, but that doesn’t stop them from climbing onto their owner’s legs like a tiny puppy. If you don’t mind being flattened by love, a Saint Bernard is the perfect cuddle companion.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers may not be the biggest dogs on this list, but they certainly believe they belong in your lap. Labs are known for their affectionate, playful nature and will take any opportunity to snuggle up with their humans. Whether they’re sitting on your legs, resting their head on your lap, or curling up as close as possible, they have an undeniable need to be near you. Labs are also big-time cuddlers and will happily drape themselves across their owners, completely oblivious to their weight. A Labrador Retriever is a perfect choice if you want a dog that acts like a giant puppy forever.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are large dogs with even bigger hearts, and they love nothing more than being right next to their humans. They are famous for their affectionate and friendly personalities, which means they’ll take any opportunity to climb onto laps, cuddle up on the couch, or press their body against you for extra love. Goldens have no problem squeezing into small spaces just to be close, and they often act like oversized puppies, even as adults. A Golden Retriever will happily fill that role if you want a dog that never outgrows its love for snuggles.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds may be one of the tallest dog breeds, but they have the soul of a lap dog. These gentle giants are incredibly affectionate and love leaning against their humans for comfort. They are known for their sweet, loving nature and have no problem curling up in small spaces, even if their size makes it impossible. Irish Wolfhounds enjoy being as close to their owners as possible and won’t hesitate to flop onto a lap if given the chance. If you want a dog that’s part majestic beast, part oversized cuddle bug, an Irish Wolfhound is a perfect match.
Leonberger
Leonbergers are massive, fluffy dogs with a deep love for their families. They are affectionate, gentle, and completely unaware of how much space they take up. These dogs love to be in their owner’s lap (or at least try), and they will happily sprawl across the couch as if they own it. Leonbergers also habitually press their entire weight against their humans, ensuring they get as much contact as possible. A Leonberger will happily take over your lap (and your entire home) if you want a big dog that treats you like a personal cushion.
The Bigger The Dog, The Less They Understand Personal Space
If you thought having a big dog meant having extra space on the couch, think again! These oversized cuddle monsters refuse to acknowledge their size and will happily take over your lap, bed, and personal space whenever they please. They may be huge, but in their minds, they’re still tiny puppies who want to be close to their humans. So, if you’re looking for a dog that will love you with their whole heart, just be prepared to be flattened by affection. Your lap may never be empty again!
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