Introduction
When it comes to dogs, size truly does matter, at least for those who adore giant canine companions. Large dog breeds are known for their impressive stature, loyal temperaments, and often surprising gentleness. Whether you are drawn to their majestic appearance or their strong protective instincts, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the world’s largest dog breeds, what makes them special, and how to care for them.
Learn more about: 15 Low Shedding Dog Breeds
Why Choose a Large Dog Breed?
Before diving into the list, it is important to understand what owning a large dog entails. Bigger breeds tend to be:
- Protective and loyal: Often used as guard dogs or working animals.
- Gentle giants: Many are calm and great with kids despite their size.
- Exercise-intensive: They need more space and physical activity.
- Higher maintenance: Food, medical bills, and grooming can be more expensive.
Benefits and Challenges of Owning a Large Dog
✅ Pros:
- Great for protection and deterrence
- Often calm and gentle indoors
- Excellent companions for active lifestyles
- Strong bonds with families and kids
⚠️ Cons:
- Need more space and exercise
- Higher food and healthcare costs
- Shorter average lifespan
- Prone to joint and heart problems
Top 20 Largest Dog Breeds by Weight and Height
Let’s explore the most massive breeds on the planet, including their average size, temperament, and key facts.
English Mastiff
Weight: 120–230 pounds
Height: 27–32 inches
Lifespan: 6–10 years
The English Mastiff is one of the heaviest dog breeds in the world, with a calm and dignified personality. Despite their size, they are affectionate, laid-back, and great with children. They thrive in a family environment but require early training due to their sheer strength. These giants are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and cardiac issues. Because of their weight, proper joint support and a balanced diet are critical.
Great Dane
Weight: 100–200 pounds
Height: 28–34 inches
Lifespan: 7–10 years
Great Danes are recognized as the tallest dog breed, with their long legs and slender frame giving them an elegant, regal appearance. Although they are very large, Great Danes are well-known for their gentle and affectionate nature, which has earned them the nickname gentle giants. Common health concerns include bloat (gastric torsion), cardiomyopathy, and joint issues. They require moderate exercise and a high-quality diet to support their large frames.
Saint Bernard
Weight: 120–180 pounds
Height: 26–30 inches
Lifespan: 8–10 years
Originally bred for mountain rescue, Saint Bernards are powerful yet gentle dogs with patient personalities. They’re excellent with children and families. They commonly face health concerns such as hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and eye problems. Grooming needs are moderate due to their thick coat. Owners should also monitor weight to avoid stress on their joints.
Newfoundland
Weight: 100–150 pounds
Height: 26–28 inches
Lifespan: 8–10 years
Newfoundlands are strong swimmers and are often used in water rescues. They are extremely gentle, loyal, and famously great with kids, earning them the nickname “nanny dog.” They can suffer from subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS), hip dysplasia, and obesity. Their dense coat needs regular grooming, especially in warmer climates.
Leonberger
Weight: 90–170 pounds
Height: 25–32 inches
Lifespan: 7–9 years
A well-balanced breed that combines strength with grace, Leonbergers are known for their calm and affectionate demeanor. They are family-oriented and excellent around children. Health risks include polyneuropathy, hip dysplasia, and osteosarcoma. They thrive in cool climates and need ample exercise and grooming.
Irish Wolfhound
Weight: 105–120 pounds
Height: 30+ inches
Lifespan: 6–8 years
Irish Wolfhounds are often cited as the tallest dog breed in the world, with some reaching up to 3 feet in height at the shoulder. Despite their intimidating size, they are quiet, gentle, and emotionally sensitive. This breed is susceptible to conditions like hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart-related problems. Their lifespan is unfortunately short. They respond best to positive reinforcement training and need a calm, loving environment.
Tibetan Mastiff
Weight: 70–160 pounds
Height: 24–30 inches
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Tibetan Mastiffs are fiercely loyal and naturally protective, but their independent nature makes them better suited for experienced dog owners. They have a thick, luxurious coat and were bred to guard livestock. Tibetan Mastiffs may be at risk for hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and ear infections. They require consistent, firm training and should be socialized from an early age.
Anatolian Shepherd
Weight: 80–150 pounds
Height: 27–29 inches
Lifespan: 11–13 years
Bred to guard livestock, Anatolian Shepherds are alert, intelligent, and reserved around strangers. They are highly territorial and do best in rural or large, fenced properties. This breed may experience conditions like entropion, hip dysplasia, and heightened sensitivity to anesthesia. Although their coat requires minimal grooming, starting training early is crucial.
Boerboel
Weight: 150–200 pounds
Height: 22–27 inches
Lifespan: 9–11 years
A powerful and confident guardian dog from South Africa, Boerboels are intelligent and family-protective. These dogs do best with an experienced owner who can provide consistent, structured training. Common health concerns include bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia, and cardiac issues. Regular exercise and obedience training are crucial to channel their strength and high energy levels effectively.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Weight: 70–115 pounds
Height: 23–28 inches
Lifespan: 6–8 years
Bernese Mountain Dogs are loving, smart, and well-suited for family life. Their striking tri-color coats and friendly demeanor make them popular companions. Health risks include cancer, hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. They require frequent grooming and moderate exercise.
Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff)
Weight: 110–140 pounds
Height: 23–27 inches
Lifespan: 5–8 years
Recognized for its broad head and muscular physique, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a calm and devoted protector that bonds closely with its family. They’re susceptible to heart disease, joint issues, and short lifespans. Regular cleaning of their wrinkled skin is necessary to help prevent infections.
Kuvasz
Weight: 100–115 pounds
Height: 26–30 inches
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Hailing from Hungary, the Kuvasz was originally bred as a royal guard dog and is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and independence. They excel as family protectors but need strong leadership. Health concerns include osteochondritis, hip dysplasia, and skin conditions. Their white double coat needs regular grooming.
Akita
Weight: 70–130 pounds
Height: 24–28 inches
Lifespan: 10–13 years
Akitas are powerful, bold, and reserved with strangers. Originally bred in Japan for guarding royalty, they are clean and cat-like in behavior. They are at risk for autoimmune disorders, bloat, and hypothyroidism. Early training and socialization are essential.
Cane Corso
Weight: 90–120 pounds
Height: 23–28 inches
Lifespan: 9–12 years
Cane Corsos are intelligent, alert, and excellent protectors for families. Their strong physique and confident nature make them well-suited for working roles. They’re susceptible to hip dysplasia, bloat, and entropion. Positive training and regular mental stimulation are key.
Komondor
Weight: 80–100 pounds
Height: 25–28 inches
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Known for their distinctive corded, mop-like coat, the Komondor is a Hungarian livestock guardian with a naturally protective temperament. They need regular, thorough grooming and may be susceptible to hip dysplasia and bloat.
Black Russian Terrier
Weight: 80–130 pounds
Height: 26–30 inches
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Developed by the Soviet military, this breed is fearless, loyal, and intelligent. Black Russian Terriers make excellent guard dogs and companions. Prone to hip dysplasia, allergies, and thyroid issues. Their dense coat requires routine grooming.
Alaskan Malamute
Weight: 75–100 pounds
Height: 23–25 inches
Lifespan: 10–14 years
Alaskan Malamutes are affectionate, strong, and pack-oriented. Bred for hauling heavy loads in Arctic regions, they are energetic and need ample exercise. Common health issues include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and eye conditions. Grooming needs are moderate to high.
Scottish Deerhound
Weight: 75–110 pounds
Height: 28–32 inches
Lifespan: 8–11 years
Scottish Deerhounds are dignified and gentle sighthounds. Their slim frames and noble statures make them graceful runners. They are prone to bloat, osteosarcoma, and cardiac issues. They thrive in quiet homes with access to secure running space.
Great Pyrenees
Weight: 85–115 pounds
Height: 25–32 inches
Lifespan: 10–12 years
The Great Pyrenees is a dignified, calm, and watchful dog breed. Bred to guard sheep in mountainous regions, they are natural guardians. Health risks include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and skin issues. Their thick double coat needs regular brushing.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Weight: 100–200 pounds
Height: 23–30 inches
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Renowned as one of the strongest guardian breeds, the Caucasian Shepherd is brave, loyal, and fiercely protective. Not recommended for inexperienced owners. Health concerns include hip dysplasia, heart problems, and obesity. Early socialization and firm leadership are essential.
Pingback: Havanese Dog Breed Guide: Care, Grooming & Health -