Belle Fortson, a 23-year-old from South Carolina, has captured hearts online by sharing her life with Marlow, her 70-pound “lapdog.” Marlow, a mix between two giant breeds—the Bernese Mountain Dog and Saint Bernard—is proving that size doesn’t matter when it comes to affection. These breeds are known for their massive stature, with Saint Bernards reaching up to 180 pounds and Bernese Mountain Dogs growing as tall as 27.5 inches.
At just five months old, Marlow is already making an impression with his size and clingy personality. “He wants to be touching you at all times,” Fortson shared with Newsweek. Despite his growing weight and her petite 5-foot-4 frame, she’s embraced Marlow’s constant need for love and attention.
A Viral Sensation
Fortson documented her life with Marlow on TikTok (@belle_fortson), calling it her “giant lapdog update.” The video quickly garnered nearly 30,000 likes, featuring Marlow attempting to cuddle on her lap—undeterred by his size. Viewers were charmed as Fortson lifted Marlow onto her lap, showcasing the puppy’s sweet yet overwhelming presence.
A Bond Beyond Challenges
While Fortson admitted to being “slightly allergic” to Marlow, she described their bond as worth the extra care it requires. “Personally, I love it! He is the sweetest, and after a long day, it’s so nice to curl up on the couch with him,” she said. This unconditional love highlights the joys of owning a giant breed despite the unique challenges, such as their size and allergy management.
Marlow’s story is a reminder that big dogs often come with equally big hearts, proving they can be the most lovable companions—even if they think they’re lap-sized.
For tips on caring for large breed dogs, visit American Kennel Club’s guide.
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