I’ve always had a thing for big dogs. There’s just something about their size combined with their gentleness that melts my heart.
You know, they may look intimidating at first, but the stories of some famous giant dogs throughout history prove they’re often the most loyal and loving companions you could ever meet.
I remember when I was a kid, our neighbor had a Saint Bernard named Bruno.
He was a gentle giant who used to let all the neighborhood kids crawl all over him like he was a couch. That dog had the patience of a saint and the heart of a hero — he even once alerted the family when their youngest child slipped out the front door unnoticed.
That moment always stuck with me.
So today, I want to share some true stories of big dogs — real giants, in every sense — who made history with their courage, loyalty, and love.
These are the kind of tales that remind us why dogs are truly man’s best friend.
Balto – The Sled Dog That Saved a City
Let’s start with probably one of the most famous big dogs in history: Balto, a Siberian Husky. In 1925, the people of Nome, Alaska, were facing a deadly diphtheria outbreak.
The only way to get the life-saving antitoxin to them was by dog sled — in the middle of a raging blizzard.
Balto led the final leg of the journey, navigating through whiteout conditions, freezing temperatures, and exhaustion.
Thanks to him and his team, the serum made it to Nome in time, saving countless lives.
Today, there’s even a statue of Balto in New York City’s Central Park. I visited it once, and yes — I may have teared up a little.
Hachiko – Loyalty That Lasted a Lifetime
Although not particularly giant in size, Hachiko, the Akita from Japan, has a heart so big it deserved a spot here.
After his owner died unexpectedly, Hachiko kept waiting for him at the train station — every single day — for nine years.
I read this story for the first time in college, and I remember sobbing in my dorm room. It made me look at my own dog differently — like, wow, they really do love us more than themselves.
Hachiko’s loyalty became a national symbol in Japan, and his statue still stands in Shibuya Station, greeting travelers every day.
Sergeant Stubby – The Bravest Dog in WWI
Okay, now let’s talk about Sergeant Stubby, a bull terrier mix who served in World War I. Though he wasn’t a huge dog, his impact was gigantic.
Stubby warned soldiers of gas attacks, located wounded comrades, and even caught a German spy — no kidding!
He became the most decorated war dog of WWI and even met Presidents Wilson, Harding, and Coolidge.
Honestly, if there were a dog version of a superhero movie, Stubby would be the main character.
Giant George – The Tallest Dog in the World
On the lighter side, there’s Giant George, a Great Dane who held the Guinness World Record for the tallest dog.
Standing at over 43 inches tall and weighing 245 pounds, George had to sleep on a queen-sized bed!
I followed his Facebook page back in the day — his family used to post the funniest photos of him trying to fit on the couch or riding in the back of a van.
He wasn’t just tall — he was a sweetheart who helped bring attention to rescue dogs and showed the world how gentle giants can be.
Appollo – 9/11 Search and Rescue Hero
One of the most emotional stories I came across was that of Appollo, a German Shepherd and one of the first canine responders during the 9/11 attacks.
As part of the NYPD’s K-9 unit, Appollo searched tirelessly through the rubble of the World Trade Center, helping locate survivors.
He was later honored with the Dickin Medal, known as the “animal’s Victoria Cross.”
Stories like his remind us how deeply dogs serve and sacrifice — often without us even noticing.
Why We Love Big Dogs
Every time I think about these stories, I feel a mix of admiration and gratitude.
Big dogs often get a bad rap for their size, but they’re usually the first to comfort, protect, and love us unconditionally.
Whether they’re working alongside soldiers, leading rescue missions, or just lying on the couch with kids climbing on their backs, these dogs leave paw prints on history — and on our hearts.
I know one thing for sure: if I ever get another dog, I’ll be looking for a big one with a giant heart — just like the heroes above.
Have you ever had a big dog that changed your life? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear your story.