The largest dogs are not for any owner. They need more space, they eat a lot, and as if that were not enough, many of them tend to drool. But if none of this is a problem, you’ll be more than happy to have one at home. It is said that in the large group of big dog breeds there is a pet for each type of home.

What are the large dog breeds? What characterizes them? At SweetDoggo we leave you a list of some of the most popular largest dog breeds with pictures and names to consider…

Table of Contents

17 Largest dog breeds pictures and names, origin, personality, and characteristics

How big does a dog have to be to be considered a large breed?

Typically, large dogs reach a minimum height of approximately 60 cm and weigh around 30-31 kg. It should be noted that large breeds fall into 2 categories: large dogs and giant dogs. A dog that weighs much more than 45 kg (99 pounds) and has a minimum height of 75 cm is no longer considered large, but giant (extra-large.)

With that said, here are some of the most popular big dogs breeds around the world:

Labrador retriever
Golden retriever

German shepherd
Belgian Shepherd
Rottweiler

Boxer
Doberman pinscher
Bernese Mountain Dog

Cane Corso
Collie
Akita

Bouvier des Flanders
Dalmatian
Weimaraner

English greyhound
Argentine Dogo
Bullmastiff

Let’s see how tall they are, how much they weigh, where they came from, and what makes them unique…

1. Labrador Retriever

Without a doubt, the Labrador is one of the most beloved, not only among large dogs but in the entire canine world.

Labradors are exceptionally intelligent and easy to train. They are known to be able to perform a wide variety of complex tasks. Their versatility has led them to excel in work trials, agility, service, and obedience.

As a pet, the Labrador Retriever is friendly, outgoing, and always eager to please. It is an ideal companion for families with children who are active and enjoy outdoor activities.

Few can resist this big and pretty dog with short hair, floppy ears, and a sensitive look.

Origin: Canada, United States (originally bred to retrieve birds from the water)

Height: 53-61cm
Weight: 25-34kg
Colors: black, chocolate, yellow

Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Temperament: affectionate, friendly, gentle, intelligent, loyal, playful, outgoing

It may interest you: What are the Types of Labrador? Characteristics and Differences

2. Golden Retriever

Very social, energetic, and enthusiastic by nature, the golden retriever has been a favorite of many families. for decades. His cheerful and willing personality makes him an excellent companion; he likes to participate in whatever the owner is doing.

In addition, he is a large, shaggy dog of undeniable beauty. His coat is a unique shiny gold color.

Since the breed was obtained by crossing different dogs, today the golden retriever exhibits traits from each of its parents. He is good as a hunter, tracker and retriever, therapy dog, and guide dog.

Origin: United Kingdom (originally bred to retrieve birds on land and water)
Height: 51-61cm
Weight: 25-36kg

Colors: gold, dark gold, light gold
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Temperament: self-confident, friendly, intelligent, kind, trustworthy

Further on: How Many Types of Golden Retrievers Are There? 3 Varieties + Images

3. German Shepherd

Another of the most popular large and strong dogs around the world is the German Shepherd. They are described by many as the most wolf-like breed of a large dog. This sheepdog is a worker par excellence; he is naturally alert, enthusiastic, and intelligent. He can learn and adapt very quickly to new tasks.

Although many may be intimidated by their sheer size and power, well-bred German Shepherds are obedient, confident, and devoted dogs. Of course, it is noted that he does not usually relate very well to strangers. Not for nothing, the breed has a long history as a military and police dog.

Origin: Germany (originally bred for herding sheep)
Height: 55-65cm
Weight: 22-40kg

Colors: black, black and tan, black and silver, black and red
Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Temperament: alert, self-confident, courageous, intelligent, loyal, obedient, watchful

4. Belgian Shepherd

The Belgian Shepherd or Groenendael is a large and elegant breed of dog, ideal for those seeking an intelligent, inquisitive, and vigilant companion. Originally developed as a herding dog, it still retains traits of great enthusiasm today.

These shepherds are extremely loyal to the people they love and know. He generally behaves in a reserved manner around strangers. He is said to be an exceptional protector and defender.

Although many admire him for his ability to work, others admire the beauty of a large, black dog, with abundant and bushy long hair.

Note. In addition to the Groenendael, there are 3 other very similar types of Belgian Shepherds; they are the Malinois, the Tervuren, and the Laekenois.

Origin: Belgium (bred to graze and protect herds of sheep)
Height: 56-66cm

Weight: 27-34kg
Colors: black
Life expectancy: 12-14 years

Temperament: active, alert, self-confident, hard-working, protective, stubborn, vigilant, intelligent

5. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is one of the largest dogs with the greatest reputation for being dangerous. Although this breed is brave and fearless by nature, the aggressive dog description is not entirely true. When properly trained and socialized, Rottweilers can be very gentle, familiar, and affectionate companions.

His physical power, together with his alert and protective instinct, make him one of the best guard dogs. He tends to be reserved around strangers and can become overprotective if he feels his family is being threatened.

With a long history as a working, service, and therapy dog, the large Rottweiler is happiest when he has something to do.

Origin: Germany (originally bred to drive cattle)
Height: 56-69cm

Weight: 38-59kg
Colors: Black and Mahogany, Black and Rust, Black and Tan
Life expectancy: 8-11 years

Temperament: alert, brave, fearless, kind, independent, intelligent, loyal, protective

Recommended:

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6. Boxers

The Boxer is a large, strong dog with a square, muscular build. It exhibits an exemplary combination of elegance, strength, and agility. The short shiny coat, round eyes, and floppy ears are other of its most striking physical characteristics.

As a pet, the Boxer is playful, curious, attentive, and outgoing; it is said to be the perfect companion for active families. Although he can be stubborn at times, he shows sensitivity and obedience towards his owner.

The breed has a long history as a working dog, especially as a service dog (military and police). Today, Boxers make excellent guardians.

Origin: Germany (bred as a service dog in combat)
Height: 53-63cm

Weight: 24-32kg
Colors: brindle, fawn, white
Life expectancy: 10-12 years

Temperament: brave, cheerful, self-assured, friendly, intelligent, loyal, playful

7. Doberman Pinscher

Another of the best-known and admired large German dogs is the impressive Doberman Pinscher. The breed is among the most intelligent in the canine world, hence it likes mental challenges. Although they can display dominant traits at times, Dobermans are often sensitive and very receptive to their owner’s wishes.

One of the most appreciated facets is that of a guard dog. They are always alert and ready to protect your family or home.

Without a doubt, the Doberman can be the best companion for those who are looking for a dog of great size, elegance, speed, and resistance.

Origin: Germany (originally bred as a guardian and personal protector)
Height: 61-71cm

Weight: 32-45kg
Colors: black, black and tan, blue, brown, red, white
Life expectancy: 10-12 years

Temperament: alert, energetic, courageous, intelligent, loyal, obedient

Further on: How Many Types of Dobermans Are There? Images + Colors of the Breed

8. Bernese Mountain Dog

If you are an outdoor enthusiast who likes to be in contact with nature, the Greater Bernese Mountain dog may be the ideal companion for your lifestyle. This large, sometimes gigantic, shaggy dog combines strength with kindness and beauty.

He is a calm, easygoing, and extremely devoted family companion. At home, he is usually very kind to children.

Being a breed developed for farm work in the cold Swiss mountains, the Bernese Mountain Dog has a long, abundant, and insulating coat, with very striking color patterns.

Origin: Switzerland (originally bred as a farm dog)

Height: 58-71cm
Weight: 36-50kg
Colors: black, white, and tan

Life expectancy: 7-10 years
Temperament: affectionate, faithful, gentle, intelligent, calm

9. Cane Corso

The intimidating Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, is a large Italian dog breed, highly valued as a companion, guardian, and hunter. It usually develops strong bonds of affection with its owner, children, and other members of the household.

This powerful and athletic type of mastiff can make a good family pet but be warned that it needs sufficient exercise, training, and socialization from an early age. It is not recommended for first-time owners or those who do not have much time.

Origin: Italy (originally bred as a hunter and war dog)
Height: 60-68cm

Weight: 40-50kg
Colors: Black, Black Tabby, Chestnut Tabby, Fawn, Gray, Gray Tabby, Red
Life expectancy: 10-11 years

Temperament: lively, courageous, loyal, calm, sociable

10. Collies

Big, hairy, beautiful, and intelligent like few others, the collie is one of the most admired in the group of large breeds. Without a doubt, it is an impressive dog, not only for the beauty of the long fluffy coat but also for its cunning and sensitivity. Collies are quick learners and are very good at understanding human emotions.

They can be the perfect pet for almost any type of family, especially those with children.

Origin: United Kingdom (originally bred as a sheepherder and guardian)
Height: 56-66cm
Weight: 23-34kg

Colors: black, white and tan, blue merle, blue merle and white, sable, sable, and white, white merle
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Temperament: friendly, gentle, intelligent, loyal, protective, willing

It may interest you: What are the Types of Collies? How do differentiate them? [+Photos]

11. Akita

The Akita Inu is the largest dog among the breeds native to Japan. This member of the spitz family is characterized by its heavy and powerful physique, a trait that reflects its past as a hunter of large prey. In addition, the dense bushy hair helps protect it from the cold. Akitas are said to be slightly longer than they are tall.

Like the rest of the spitz dogs, he is bold, independent, stubborn, and tenacious. When it comes to family, he is absolutely devoted and protective of all of his members. He is warned that he displays fairly reserved behavior with strangers and that he can become aggressive with other dogs.

That, together with certain traits of dominance, means that the Akita is not considered a large dog suitable for all types of owners.

Origin: Japan (originally bred for bear hunting)
Height: 61-71cm

Weight: 34-54kg
Colors: black, fawn, red, white
Life expectancy: 10-14 years

Temperament: alert, courageous, dignified, docile, friendly, intelligent, willing

12. Bouvier des Flanders

Looking for a big, furry, hypoallergenic dog? Then consider the majestic Cattle Dog of Flanders. This versatile breed is capable of performing a variety of tasks, from herding to guarding to pulling. Combines great endurance, strength, and agility.

Despite being large, he can be a fairly calm and polite companion indoors. Of course, he is always ready for outdoor adventures.

The Bouvier des Flanders is independent and trusts his own judgment, but at the same time exhibits a docile and accommodating temperament. He is usually very good with children.

Their relatively long, fluffy coat is hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for owners with allergies.

Origin: Belgium (originally bred to drive cattle, herd sheep and pull carts)
Height: 56-71cm
Weight: 27-50kg

Colors: black, brindle, fawn, gray brindle, salt and pepper
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Temperament: familiar, kind, intelligent, loyal, protective, sensible

13. Dalmatian

The black and white pattern on the short coat of Dalmatians makes them one of the most unusual large dogs out there. It is obvious that it is an alert and intelligent dog, whose athletic and slim composition denotes resistance, agility, and efficiency.

Did you know that this breed has a long history as a helper in fire departments? There he has helped protect and educate on fire safety.

In general, the Dalmatian is considered a good pet for family environments. In fact, it can be a great playmate for not-so-young children. Although he is a naturally human-loving dog, be warned that he can be suspicious of strangers.

Origin: the UK, Croatia (formerly used to protect passengers and property on buses)
Height: 50-60cm
Weight: 25kg

Colors: black and white, white and liver brown
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Temperament: active, energetic, friendly, intelligent, outgoing, playful, sensitive

14. Weimaraner

The Weimaraner, another large German Shorthaired Pointer dog, is striking not only because of its size but also because of its unique color. This breed exhibits a grayish-blue hue throughout its body, which extends to the nose and eyes.

It is a dog designed to hunt at high speed, hence it shows resistance, grace, alert instinct, and agility. He has aristocratic features and a gentle expression.

Weimaraners love to run and hunt; they are bold and boisterous. They are generally recommended for very active people who enjoy outdoor activities. They are not the best type of pet to keep indoors.

Origin: Germany (originally bred as a hunter and retriever)
Height: 56-69cm
Weight: 23-32kg

Colors: blue, gray, silver gray
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Temperament: Alert, aloof, energetic, quick, intelligent, stable, stubborn, sociable

15. Greyhound

The greyhound has several characteristics that set it apart from the vast group of large dogs. For starters, he is considered to be the fastest dog in the world. The slender body, long legs, and arched back were designed for speed.

On the other hand, he is a “TV addict”. The greyhound loves to rest on the sofa. This makes him one of the best large dogs for apartment living. Greyhounds are usually very calm, polite, and quiet while indoors.

It is one of the oldest dog breeds.

Origin: United Kingdom (originally bred for hunting rabbits and hares)
Height: 68-76cm
Weight: 27-36kg
Colors: black, blue, gray, red, white
Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Temperament: kind, intelligent, affectionate, agile, even-tempered, calm