For many dog breeds, large size has been a key factor in the quest for perfection, whether it be to hunt larger prey, to intimidate intruders, or simply to survive in frigid climates. Would you like to know which are the largest dogs in the world?
When we think of extra-large dogs, the Great Dane, the Mastiff, and Saint Bernard are usually the first to come to mind, but the truth is that there are many other breeds that are also included in this extraordinary group.
Discover which are the giants of the canine world, what characterizes them, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of having them as a pet.
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The top 11 largest pet dogs
What measurements must a dog have to be considered “very large”? In general, breeds that weigh more than 100 pounds (45 kg) and are 60 cm or more in height are considered large dogs. These are the breeds that produce incredibly large or giant specimens.
Taking into account the dimensions and volume of their body, here is the list of the 11 largest dogs that exist (from largest to smallest):
- Great Dane
- Spanish mastiff
- Pyrenean Mastiff
- Leonberger
- English mastiff
- Neapolitan mastiff
- Newfoundland
- Caucasian shepherd
- Saint Bernard
- Irish wolfhound
- Tibetan mastiff
Let’s see how big they are and what makes them unique…
Great Dane
Universally considered the largest dog, the Great Dane or German Mastiff can reach over 80 cm in height and weigh up to 90 kg. The Great Dane has often held the title of the world’s tallest dog, but it should be noted that he is not usually one of the stockiest of giants.
According to the Guinness Book of Records, the living dog considered the tallest in the world, at the time of writing this article, was a Great Dane named Freddy (measured 103.5 cm).
Danes are excellent companions. They have a kind and calm personalities while being alert and courageous. Being friendly by nature, many see it as a soft dog, but the truth is that they are powerful, brave, and very good as guardians.
- Origin: Germany
- Life expectancy: 7-10 years
- Height: males (76-86 cm), females (71-81)
- Weight: males (54-90 kg), females (45-59 kg)
- Temperament: friendly, trusting, devoted, intelligent, kind, reserved
- Colors: black, black and white, blue, brindle, fawn, harlequin, merle, white
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding Level: Medium
- Maintenance level: Low
- Energy level: High
Spanish mastiff
The Spanish Mastiff is a true giant dog. In fact, he is the largest among all herding and guarding breeds. These mastiffs can weigh around 90 kg (200 pounds) and measure 83 cm at the withers, although some specimens can exceed this height. As such, there is no size limit in the breed standard.
Spanish Mastiffs are known for their abilities to protect and defend livestock. They are able to take on a wolf or bear without a second thought. Although their heavy body gives them the appearance of a clumsy or lazy dog, at work they move with great dexterity.
When properly trained and socialized, they can also become a great family companion. They tend to be calm but can become protective and even aggressive towards other dogs.
- Origin Spain
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Height: 72-88cm
- Weight: males (90-100 kg), females (52-77 kg)
- Temperament: affectionate, intelligent, determined, self-confident
- Colors: black, brindle, fawn, sable, yellow
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding Level: Medium
- Maintenance level: Low
- Energy level: Low
Pyrenean Mastiff
Possibly related to the Spanish Mastiff, the Pyrenean Mastiff is another of the largest dogs in the world. This hairy giant can grow to almost 80 cm tall and weigh 100 kg. He is a really big and muscular dog.
The Pyrenean Mastiff was developed as a herd guard, hence it does not have a strong prey drive; however, it may still exhibit grazing behavior. These dogs are docile and a bit lazy by nature, but only until it’s time to work.
Unlike other guard dogs, it does not show signs of aggressiveness towards unknown people and other animals. He is usually very affectionate and calm; in fact, he rarely barks. He only shows aggressiveness when given real reasons.
It should not be confused with the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, which is a different breed.
- Origin Spain
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Height: males (73-78 cm), females (71-76 cm)
- Weight: males (80-100 kg), females (70-86 kg)
- Temperament: calm, brave, docile, gentle, protective
- Colors: white and beige, white and cream, white and black, white and brown, white and gold,
- White and grey, white and silver
- Hypoallergenic: –
- Shedding Level: Medium
- Maintenance level: Medium
- Energy level: Low
Leongerber
The impressive Leonberger was obtained by crossing Saint Bernard, Pyrenean Mountain Dog, and Newfoundland breeds. This explains its enormous size, being able to reach 179 pounds and 80 cm high. One of its most admirable traits is its thick, water-resistant coat.
The Leonberger is a good family dog, able to get along well with children and other animals. He is characterized by having a friendly, loyal and playful personality. On the other hand, he exhibits excellent attitudes toward work. The robust, yet agile body helps it excel as a companion during swimming and rescue activities.
Did you know…? The Leonberger breed was almost on the brink of extinction after World War II. It is said that only 8 specimens survived.
- Origin: Germany
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Height: males (74-80 cm), females (61-74 cm)
- Weight: males (59-77 kg), females (45-59 kg)
- Temperament: Adaptable, Companion, Fearless, Affectionate, Loyal, Obedient
- Colors: red, reddish-brown, sand, yellow
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding Level: Medium-high
- Maintenance level: Medium-high
- Energy level: Medium-high
English mastiff
It may surprise you that the Great English mastiff ranks No. 5 in the top largest dogs, especially when the American Kennel Club has named it the largest breed on its registry. Well, English mastiffs are usually the heaviest, but not necessarily the tallest.
There are specimens that become much larger than the average size of the breed, but the true singularity is the weight. These dogs can weigh between 68 and 113 kg, that is, from 150 to 250 pounds.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the record-breaking dog for the heaviest and tallest of all time was an English mastiff named Zorba (343 pounds). Two other of the heaviest dogs on record have been an English mastiff named Hercules and another mastiff named Kell.
It is a giant breed with a patient, friendly and brave character. Even so, it is noted that obedience training and early socialization are essential.
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Height: males (76 cm), females (70 cm)
- Weight: males (68-113 kg), females (54-82 kg)
- Temperament: affectionate, alert, cheerful, courageous, intelligent, loyal, protective
- Colors: apricot, brindle, fawn
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding level: Low
- Maintenance level: Low
- Energy level: Moderate
Neapolitan mastiff
Another of the extra-large dogs is the Neapolitan mastiff, which is considered by many to be the largest dog in the world in terms of the total mass. Originally used as a guard dog, this mastiff can reach an average maximum height of 75 cm and a weight of up to 70 kg.
The wrinkles that hang from his face and neck make him very easy to recognize.
It is described as a brave and protective dog with the family. As a guardian, he tends to be quiet and sneak up on intruders, rather than bark to warn them off. He is not a breed that is recommended for inexperienced or first-time owners.
It thrives best in the hands of a person who is able to provide it with sufficient training and socialization. Also, it is important to keep in mind that it requires love and attention; it is known that it can become aggressive when left isolated and alone.
- Origin: Italy
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Height: males (65-75 cm), females (60-70 cm)
- Weight: 50-70kg
- Temperament: protective, dominant, reckless, stubborn, trainable, dignified, loyal
- Colors: black, blue, mahogany, brown-orange
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding Level: Medium
- Maintenance level: Low
- Energy level: Moderate
Newfoundland
Prominent snout, sweet gaze, and majestic appearance… are some of the most distinctive features of the great Newfoundland. His thick double-layered coat makes him look even bigger. This is not only one of the largest dogs but also one of the hairiest.
A Newfoundland can reach 150 pounds in weight, and measure up to 74 cm in height.
Unlike most extra-large breeds, it did not emerge as a guard dog. Instead, it was used by fishermen on the Canadian island of Newfoundland to carry nets and carry out rescue operations. Not for nothing is one of the most active and skillful dogs in the water.
Newfoundland is very intelligent and affectionate. It is an excellent pet for the whole family, especially children.
- Origin: UK, Canada
- Life expectancy: 9-12 years
- Height: males (69-74 cm), females (63-69 cm)
- Weight: males (59-68 kg), females (45-54 kg)
- Temperament: cheerful, brave, intelligent, loyal, sociable, sweet, gentle
- Colors: black, brown, gray, black, and white
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding Level: Medium
- Maintenance level: Low
- Energy level: Moderate
See below: 29+ Furry Dog Breeds (Small, Medium, Large, White)
Caucasian shepherd
Another great furry one is the impressive Caucasian shepherd. Some males can reach 72 cm in height and weigh almost 70 kg. Variations of this breed are said to exist. The mountain-type dog is large, heavy, and has long hair, while the steppe-type dog is usually lighter, less stocky, and has a short coat.
This serious and powerful dog was bred as a guard. The Caucasian Shepherd should never be taken lightly. He is bold, fearless, confident, and fierce when he feels there is a threat. However, he does not stop being kind, loving, and devoted to those around him.
In any case, it is not the ideal breed for first-time and inexperienced owners. Their upbringing takes a lot of training and socialization to eradicate over-protective behavior and avoid attacks on third parties.
- Origin: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Height: 64-72cm
- Weight: 45-70kg
- Temperament: alert, calm, dominant, powerful, agile, tough, independent
- Colors: black, cream, gray, silver, white and yellow
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding level: Medium-high
- Maintenance level: Medium-high
- Energy level: Low
Saint Bernard
Commonly used as a service animal and as a search and rescue dog, Saint Bernard is a giant dog, not only in body but also in heart. This gentle, affectionate, and naturally familiar companion can reach 70cm in height, with some individuals weighing almost 200lbs.
It is one of the best large dogs for children and usually gets along well with other animals. Of course, sometimes he is not aware of his size. The owner of a Saint Bernard must train him from a young age to keep him under control.
Did you know…? The name San Bernardo comes from a way station for travelers located in the Swiss Alps. This station was founded by a monk named Bernardo de Montjoux, who was later baptized as Saint Bernard.
- Origin: Italy, Switzerland
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Height: 61-70cm
- Weight: 50-91kg
- Temperament: friendly, gentle, independent, intelligent, outgoing, calm
- Colors: black, brown, variegated, red, reddish-brown, tricolor, white
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Shedding Level: Medium
- Maintenance level: Low
- Energy level: Moderate
