If you’re a fan of dogs with a larger-than-life presence, large dog breeds might be just what you’re looking for. These gentle giants are known for their impressive size, commanding stature, and loyal personalities. Despite their imposing appearance, many of these dogs are protective and surprisingly gentle, making them wonderful companions for the right owner.
Whether you’re drawn to their majestic look or their calm demeanor, owning an extra-large dog is an experience like no other. But with their size comes unique responsibilities, from providing ample space to meeting their dietary and exercise needs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of giant dog breeds, helping you understand what it takes to care for one of these extraordinary animals. Ready to meet your new giant best friend? Let’s dive in!
Extra Large Giant Dog Breeds
1. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is prized for its impressive height and dignified presence. Standing at least 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 180 pounds, these dogs are both massive and muscular. Despite their imposing size, Irish Wolfhounds are gentle towards owners, earning the title of “gentle giants.”
These dogs have calm, friendly personalities and are great with families, including children and other pets. Their affectionate nature makes them loyal companions, forming strong bonds with their owners. Though they are easygoing, they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
Irish Wolfhounds are prone to health issues like hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat – conditions more common in large breeds. Their lifespan is typically 6 to 8 years, so regular veterinary check-ups and proper care are essential to their well-being.
While Irish Wolfhounds don’t need excessive activity, they do require daily walks and opportunities to run in a secure yard. However, be careful about too much intense activity can cause joint strain and related health concerns.
Grooming is straightforward, as their wiry coat sheds minimally. Occasional brushing is enough to keep them looking their best. Though they require ample space and proper care, Irish Wolfhounds make loyal, loving companions for those who are ready to manage their size and needs.
2. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a true giant among extra-large dog breeds, known for its impressive size and gentle demeanor. Bred in the Swiss Alps to rescue travelers, they are built to withstand harsh conditions with a thick coat that provides warmth. Standing up to 30 inches tall and weighing as much as 180 pounds, their size is hard to miss, but they are also known for their calm temperament.
Despite their large size, Saint Bernards are friendly and laid-back. They are great with children, other pets, and strangers. Their calm temperament makes them excellent therapy and service dogs, as they are easy to train and eager to please. Saint Bernards are particularly known for their patience and loyalty to their families.
These dogs require plenty of space to move comfortably. They need moderate levels of regular exercise. Daily walks and a large, secure yard are ideal for keeping them fit.
Saint Bernards are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, heart problems, and bloat. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper nutrition are essential to keep them healthy. It’s important to manage their weight and avoid excessive strain on their joints.
Saint Bernards typically live 8 to 10 years. They have relatively low grooming needs but shed year-round, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Regular brushing helps prevent matting, and bathing should be done as needed. Monitoring their skin folds for infections and maintaining good dental care is also crucial for their health.
3. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a remarkable breed, known for its strength and gentle nature. Standing up to 28 inches tall and weighing between 100 to 150 pounds, they are among the heaviest dogs. They have even bigger hearts, forming strong bonds with their owners.
As WebMD states, their calm demeanor allows them to get along well with other dogs, pets, and even kids, earning them the nickname of “nanny dog”. They are happy in homes with space for them to move around. Their gentle nature makes them highly adaptable to various living situations.
Recognized by the AKC, Newfoundlands are exceptional swimmers, with a lion-like mane around their neck, adding to their majestic appearance and enhancing their natural ability for water rescues.
Training a Newfoundland can present some challenges due to their size, but they are generally eager to please. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement are key to helping them mature into well-behaved adults. With patience, Newfoundlands typically respond well to training and enjoy learning.
Newfoundlands are incredibly affectionate and patient with children. They offer both protection and love, whether playing in the yard or lounging on the couch. Their gentle demeanor makes them fantastic with kids, often becoming their best friend and providing a strong bond throughout their lives.
Newfoundlands are dependable, calm, and devoted. While their size makes them susceptible to certain health issues, such as joint problems and heart conditions, they can live a long and happy life with proper care.
With the right diet, exercise, and veterinary care, a Newfoundland’s affectionate nature will shine, making them an ideal addition to any home prepared for the responsibility of raising a giant breed.
4. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is a majestic dog, known for its noble appearance and impressive size. These dogs can stand up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 75 to 110 pounds, making them one of the largest dog breeds.
Despite their imposing size, Scottish Deerhounds are gentle and friendly, often described as having a calm and patient demeanor. Their strong, athletic build and elegant presence make them stand out among giant breeds, yet they remain incredibly loving companions.
A strong sense of loyalty defines the Scottish Deerhound, and they are known for their calm temperament and intelligence. These dogs are typically easy to train, as they are smart and respond well to consistent guidance. However, they can be a bit strong-willed, which means they require an owner who is firm but gentle.
Regular, moderate daily exercise is essential to keep them in shape, as their athleticism and history as hunters make them naturally active. Although not overly energetic indoors, they need ample space to stretch their legs and explore.
Due to their large size, Scottish Deerhounds require more space. Their love for outdoor activities and ability to run at high speeds make them best suited for owners who can provide an environment where they can roam and play safely. Without sufficient room to move around, they may become bored and restless, leading to undesirable behaviors.
As noted by AKC, Scottish Deerhounds have a hearty appetite and require food rich in nutrients to maintain their muscle mass and overall health. Proper nutrition is vital to support their active lifestyle and large frame. It’s important to feed them high-quality food, ensuring they get enough calories without overfeeding.
While they have a droopy face and a somewhat serious expression, Scottish Deerhounds are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. Their calm and loving temperament makes them great companions for families, especially those with older children.
They are generally well-behaved and, with the right training and socialization, can coexist peacefully with other pets. Their combination of intelligence, athleticism, and affection makes them an ideal choice for those ready to care for a giant dog breed.
5. Leonberger
The Leonberger is a striking breed known for its powerful build and gentle, friendly nature. Weighing between 90 to 170 pounds and standing up to 32 inches tall, this powerful dog is built for both strength and agility.
Originally bred as a livestock guardian, the Leonberger is naturally protective and intelligent, making it an excellent companion for families or as a working dog. Their imposing size is complemented by their calm temperament, which makes them well-suited for family environments.
As a powerful breed, Leonbergers have a natural instinct to protect and work. They were historically bred to work alongside shepherds, guarding livestock from predators and performing various tasks on the farm. Their ability to handle these demanding roles speaks to their strength and loyalty.
Purina states Leonbergers are known for being affectionate, gentle, and social with their human family members, making them more than just working dogs.
Leonbergers have waterproof coats, which were originally developed to withstand harsh weather conditions while performing their work. This thick double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it healthy, especially as they tend to shed heavily.
Their coat not only helps them in colder climates but also offers protection from elements when they are working or outside for extended periods. However, owners must be prepared for regular maintenance to keep the coat in good condition.
Being one of the large breeds, the Leonberger requires enough space to move comfortably. They are not ideal for apartment living and thrive best in homes with large yards or access to open spaces where they can run and play. Regular exercise is important to maintain their health and keep them happy.
Leonbergers are generally intelligent and eager to please; they can sometimes be a bit stubborn due to their independent nature. Socialization and positive reinforcement are key to raising a well-behaved Leonberger. With the right training, this powerful dog can be a loyal, loving, and well-mannered companion.
6. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a powerful and majestic giant dog breed, known for its impressive size and protective nature. Weighing between 70 to 150 pounds and standing up to 33 inches tall, they have a commanding presence. Originally bred to protect livestock in the Tibetan mountains, Tibetan Mastiffs are naturally aloof with strangers and have a strong guarding instinct, making them loyal companions for experienced owners.
Due to their size and strength, early training is crucial for Tibetan Mastiffs. While intelligent, they can be stubborn and independent, so consistent, positive enforcement methods are essential. Early socialization helps them become well-rounded and confident, preventing them from becoming overly territorial or aggressive.
Tibetan Mastiffs require more space to move around, making them better suited for homes with large yards. Although they aren’t overly energetic, they still need regular walks and mental stimulation to stay healthy. They can be less active than some other giant breeds, but benefit from having room to roam freely.
Their thick double coat, designed to protect them from harsh climates, requires regular grooming to prevent matting and manage shedding. While their coat keeps them insulated in cold weather, it also contributes to their shorter lifespans compared to smaller dogs, typically living around 10-12 years. Owners should be prepared for the maintenance of their coat, especially during shedding seasons.
Fully grown, the Tibetan Mastiff is a dignified and calm dog with a strong protective instinct. Despite their imposing size, they form strong bonds with their family and are incredibly loyal. With proper training and care, the Tibetan Mastiff makes a devoted and protective companion for those ready for the commitment of a giant breed.
7. Pyrenean Mastiff
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a majestic breed that stands out for its impressive size and noble appearance. Known for its massive frame, this breed can weigh between 110 to 200 pounds and stand up to 32 inches tall.
This ancient breed was originally used as livestock guardians in the Pyrenees Mountains, where they protected sheep from predators. Their calm and protective nature makes them an ideal choice for families and those seeking a dream dog with both size and gentleness.
Pyrenean Mastiffs have a thick, weather-resistant coat that also allows them to withstand harsh environmental conditions, especially in mountainous regions. They are well-suited to colder climates, but their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and manage shedding.
Pyrenean Mastiffs are known for their gentle temperament and laid-back nature. They are not hyperactive and are generally calm indoors, making them well-suited for families. These dogs are great guardians, providing both protection and affection. They thrive in homes with large yards or access to open areas.
Pyrenean Mastiffs are highly intelligent, though they can be independent. Early socialization is key to ensuring they develop into well-behaved adults. While they are calm and good-natured, their protective instincts may require firm, consistent guidance to ensure they are well-mannered. Their loyalty to their family is unparalleled, and they often form strong bonds with their owners.
This breed’s life expectancy typically ranges from 8 to 12 years, which is relatively short for such a large dog. With the right care, including regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet, Pyrenean Mastiffs can be happy and healthy. Their loving, protective nature, combined with their towering size, makes them a standout choice for those who appreciate a loyal guard dog and companion.
Conclusion
Giant dogs, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, Anatolian Shepherd, and Great Pyrenees, stand out for their impressive size and loyal temperament. These breeds are not just about their large stature but also their loving and protective nature, making them ideal companions for families with enough space and commitment to their care.
The Great Dane, among the tallest breeds, and the French Mastiff, with its powerful build, are prime examples of dogs that combine strength with elegance. Similarly, Italian Mastiffs and the Neapolitan Mastiff, including the Dogue de Bordeaux, exemplify the muscular presence of these breeds while offering unwavering loyalty to their owners.
Additionally, breeds like the Anatolian Shepherd and Great Pyrenees often come with webbed feet, adding to their utility as working dogs, particularly for herding or guarding. If you’re considering adopting a giant breed pup, it’s crucial to understand their needs, including proper training, exercise, and space.
