When it comes to dogs, size matters for some people, whether it’s for companionship, protection, or simply the love of large animals.
Large dog breeds are not only imposing in stature but are often gentle giants with loving temperaments.
From the towering Great Dane to the muscular Mastiffs, these dogs stand out due to their impressive size and strength.
Here’s a look at 15 of the biggest dog breeds in the world, highlighting their height, weight, and personalities.
1. Great Dane
- Height: 28-34 inches (71-86 cm)
- Weight: 110-175 lbs (50-80 kg)
The Great Dane holds the title of the world’s tallest dog breed. Famous for their imposing size and regal demeanor, these dogs are often called “gentle giants.”
Their friendly and affectionate nature makes them great family pets, despite their enormous size.
The Great Dane’s height and build make it a standout breed, and it is often seen in the Guinness World Records for being the tallest dog.
2. English Mastiff
- Height: 27.5-30 inches (70-76 cm)
- Weight: 120-230 lbs (54-104 kg)
The English Mastiff is one of the heaviest and largest dog breeds, with some individuals weighing over 200 pounds.
Despite their size, they are known for being sweet, calm, and gentle. These dogs are protective but typically not aggressive, making them excellent guard dogs and family companions.
3. Saint Bernard
- Height: 26-30 inches (66-76 cm)
- Weight: 120-180 lbs (54-82 kg)
Saint Bernards are large, powerful dogs originally bred for rescue missions in the Swiss Alps.
Known for their sweet, patient, and gentle temperament, they are incredibly friendly and loyal. They can weigh up to 180 pounds, and their thick coats make them well-suited for cold climates.
4. Newfoundland
- Height: 26-28 inches (66-71 cm)
- Weight: 100-150 lbs (45-68 kg)
Newfoundlands are known for their strength and swimming ability. These large, water-loving dogs were originally bred to rescue people at sea.
Their thick coats and webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, and they are often gentle, affectionate, and good with children, making them a popular choice for families.
5. Irish Wolfhound
- Height: 30-34 inches (76-86 cm)
- Weight: 90-150 lbs (41-68 kg)
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, with males often exceeding 32 inches in height.
Originally bred for hunting large game, these dogs are known for their calm, dignified, and friendly demeanor. Despite their intimidating size, Irish Wolfhounds are often gentle and friendly.
6. Tibetan Mastiff
- Height: 24-30 inches (61-76 cm)
- Weight: 70-150 lbs (32-68 kg)
The Tibetan Mastiff is a massive breed with a thick coat designed for cold climates. They are independent, strong-willed, and protective, making them excellent guard dogs.
Tibetan Mastiffs were historically used to protect livestock in the Himalayas, and their calm yet protective nature makes them a unique breed.
7. Leonberger
- Height: 25-31 inches (64-79 cm)
- Weight: 90-170 lbs (41-77 kg)
Leonbergers are large, striking dogs with a long, dense coat. These dogs are known for their friendly, affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets.
Originally bred in Germany as working dogs, Leonbergers are loyal and patient, and they thrive in homes where they can receive plenty of attention and exercise.
8. Pyrenean Mountain Dog
- Height: 25-32 inches (64-81 cm)
- Weight: 85-130 lbs (39-59 kg)
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog, also known as the Great Pyrenees, is a large, fluffy breed originally bred to guard sheep in the Pyrenees mountains.
With their thick, white coats and impressive stature, they are protective yet gentle. These dogs are known for their calm temperament and loyalty, making them great companions for families and farmers alike.
9. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
- Height: 25-30 inches (63-76 cm)
- Weight: 100-220 lbs (45-100 kg)
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a massive breed known for its strength and guarding instincts.
Originating from the Caucasus Mountains, these dogs were used to protect livestock from predators like wolves and bears. They are highly protective, courageous, and fiercely loyal to their families.
10. Bordeaux Mastiff (French Mastiff)
- Height: 23-27 inches (58-69 cm)
- Weight: 110-145 lbs (50-66 kg)
The Bordeaux Mastiff is a powerful, muscular breed with a massive head and thick coat.
Known for their strength and protective nature, these dogs are excellent guard dogs and family companions. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are often affectionate and loyal to their families.
11. Alaskan Malamute
- Height: 23-26 inches (58-66 cm)
- Weight: 75-100 lbs (34-45 kg)
The Alaskan Malamute is a strong, sturdy dog originally bred for hauling heavy loads in Arctic conditions.
They are known for their endurance, intelligence, and independent nature. While they are large and powerful, Malamutes are friendly, good with children, and make excellent working dogs.
12. Kangal
- Height: 30-32 inches (76-81 cm)
- Weight: 90-150 lbs (41-68 kg)
The Kangal is a Turkish livestock guardian dog known for its impressive size and protective nature.
These dogs are extremely strong and courageous, often used to guard flocks of sheep against wolves, bears, and other predators. Kangal dogs are loyal, intelligent, and can be very protective of their families.
13. Akita Inu
- Height: 24-28 inches (61-71 cm)
- Weight: 100-130 lbs (45-59 kg)
The Akita Inu is a large and powerful breed originally from Japan. Known for their loyalty, independence, and courage, Akitas are protective dogs with a calm but confident demeanor.
They are often reserved and aloof with strangers but deeply loyal to their families.
14. Rottweiler
- Height: 22-27 inches (56-69 cm)
- Weight: 85-130 lbs (39-59 kg)
Rottweilers are large, muscular dogs known for their strength and protective instincts.
Originally bred to herd livestock and guard property, they are confident, fearless, and protective of their families. Rottweilers are highly trainable, making them excellent guard dogs and companions for experienced dog owners.
15. Dogue de Bordeaux
- Height: 23-27 inches (58-69 cm)
- Weight: 110-145 lbs (50-66 kg)
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a powerful, muscular breed with a short, dense coat.
These dogs are known for their protective nature and strong guarding instincts. They are loyal and affectionate but require firm training and socialization.
Despite their imposing size, they are often gentle with their families.
Conclusion
While these dog breeds come in all shapes and sizes, the one thing they all have in common is their impressive stature.
Whether you’re drawn to the majestic and calm nature of the Great Dane or the protective instincts of the Mastiffs, these large breeds often make for loyal, loving companions.
However, owning a giant dog comes with responsibility—these dogs need ample space, exercise, and training to thrive in a home environment.
If you’re considering adopting a large breed, make sure you’re prepared for the size, strength, and care these magnificent creatures require.
