If you’re drawn to dogs with a commanding presence and impressive size, you’re in the right place. Giant dog breeds that stay big offer a unique charm, with their towering stature and powerful frames making them unforgettable companions.
While many dogs grow to impressive sizes, these breeds continue to maintain their grandeur throughout their lives, making them an excellent choice for those who want a larger-than-life pet. From their distinctive personalities to their loyal nature, these dogs aren’t just about their size—they’re about the bond they create with their families.
Ready to meet the ultimate giants? Let’s dive into some of the most majestic and enduringly large dog breeds that stay big.
Giant Dog Breeds That Stay Big
1. Borzoi
The Borzoi is an elegant, tall breed with a slender, athletic build that belies its size. Standing between 26 and 32 inches tall and weighing anywhere from 60 to 105 pounds, these powerful dogs are built for speed and grace. Their long, flowing coat, which comes in various colors, enhances their noble, almost regal appearance, making them a standout among taller dog breeds.
Despite their striking appearance, Borzois are gentle, calm dogs who carry themselves with confidence. They were originally bred for hunting large game in Russia, which is why they possess a certain independence and boldness. However, they are not naturally aggressive and are known for being affectionate companions with their families. Their quiet and reserved nature makes them great pets for owners who appreciate peace and tranquility.
Interestingly, the Borzoi has a rich history, once favored by the Russian aristocracy for their hunting skills and impressive stature. They were used to chase down wolves at high speeds, which is why their long legs and muscular build are so vital to their success as hunters.
While the Borzoi may not be as outwardly protective as other large breeds, their intelligence and alertness mean they are quick to notice anything unusual. With proper training and socialization, they can make wonderful family pets, gentle with children and other animals.
This breed’s long legs and elegant presence make them a joy to watch as they move. Whether running through open fields or lounging on the couch, the Borzoi’s majestic appearance and calm demeanor make them an excellent addition to homes that have the space for such a giant dog.
2. Tibetan Mastiff
According to AKC, the Tibetan Mastiff is one of the most imposing dogs among the giant breeds. Weighing between 70 and 150 pounds and standing 24 to 30 inches tall, these dogs have a thick, double coat that makes them look even larger. Their coats, often black, gold, or red, add to their commanding presence, especially with their broad heads and deep-set eyes.
These dogs are naturally confident and protective, which makes them excellent guardians for homes and livestock. Tibetan Mastiffs were originally bred in the Himalayan mountains to protect sheep from predators, so their fearless nature comes as no surprise. They are calm and gentle with their families but tend to be reserved or even aloof with strangers.
Their independent nature can sometimes make training a challenge, as they are not always eager to please. However, with a firm, confident owner, they can be well-behaved and loyal. Early socialization is essential to ensure they do not become overly protective or territorial, as their instinct to guard can sometimes lead to overprotectiveness.
A fascinating fact about Tibetan Mastiffs is their historical role as protectors for monks and nomads in Tibet. Their ability to withstand freezing temperatures and high altitudes made them invaluable in such harsh conditions. Today, they are still known for their resilience and ability to thrive in cold environments.
Tibetan Mastiffs are large, loving, and majestic dogs that do best in homes with plenty of space and an owner who can manage their protective instincts. Despite their size, they are incredibly affectionate and can be great companions for the right family.
3. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is a tall, stately breed that showcases the perfect balance of size, elegance, and strength. With males standing 30 to 32 inches tall and weighing between 75 and 110 pounds, this dog has a muscular frame and a rugged, wiry coat, says Britannica. The colors of their coats range from grey to blue or brindle.
These dogs are fearless and confident hunters, originally bred to chase down and capture large game like deer in the rugged Scottish Highlands. They are fast, powerful, and have the stamina to keep up with prey, capable of reaching speeds up to 40 miles per hour. Despite their strong hunting instincts, Scottish Deerhounds are also known for their gentle, affectionate nature with family members.
While they can be aloof with strangers, they are calm and patient with children and other pets in the household. Their protective instincts ensure that they will alert you to any threats, but they are not naturally aggressive. They make excellent companions for owners who have the space for a large, active dog and the time to provide them with regular exercise.
The Scottish Deerhound’s history dates back to ancient Scotland, where they were bred by nobility for hunting. They are considered one of the oldest dog breeds in Scotland and were highly prized by the Scottish royal family for their abilities. Even today, they retain a regal yet approachable demeanor.
These dogs are not overly demanding but do require space to run and exercise. Whether running in a large backyard or enjoying a stroll, the Scottish Deerhound’s combination of size, strength, and calm temperament makes it a wonderful companion for those with the appropriate environment for a giant dog.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a giant dog with a truly imposing presence. Weighing between 110 and 150 pounds and standing 26 to 30 inches tall, this breed is both massive and muscular, says WebMD. Its unique, wrinkled appearance, with loose folds of skin, contributes to its distinct look, while its short, dense coat can be blue, black, or tawny.
These dogs are naturally confident and fearless, often exuding authority and dignity. Originally bred to guard estates and livestock, the Neapolitan Mastiff’s primary role has always been that of a protector. Despite their intimidating size, they are known to be incredibly loyal and affectionate with their families, often forming strong bonds with their owners.
Their protective nature means they can be wary of strangers, making early socialization essential. They are not naturally aggressive but will take immediate action if they sense a threat to their family. With proper training, Neapolitan Mastiffs are calm, well-mannered dogs that are perfect for those who need a giant, yet gentle, protector.
A fun fact about the Neapolitan Mastiff is their connection to ancient Roman times. They were used in battle as war dogs, protecting Roman soldiers. Their imposing size and fearlessness made them highly effective in such roles, and they have carried those traits into modern times.
Although they are large and require plenty of space, Neapolitan Mastiffs are calm and relatively low-energy indoors. With the right training, they are affectionate giants that are well-suited for families looking for a loving and protective dog.
5. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is one of the most iconic giant breeds, famous for its enormous size and gentle nature. These dogs stand 26 to 30 inches tall and weigh between 120 and 180 pounds, making them one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Their thick, dense coat is usually a combination of white and brown, and they have a broad, powerful build that makes them instantly recognizable.
Known for their courage and confidence, Saint Bernards were originally bred to rescue travelers in the Swiss Alps. Their incredible stamina and size made them perfect for searching through snowstorms and treacherous conditions. Despite their fearless nature, they are gentle giants, often described as calm, affectionate, and great with children.
Saint Bernards are patient and friendly with family members, but they can also be protective when needed. Their loving, laid-back demeanor makes them ideal companions for families who have the space for such a giant breed. However, their size means they require a lot of room to move around comfortably, as well as regular exercise to stay healthy.
Interestingly, the Saint Bernard’s history is tied to their role as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps. The famous “Barry” was a Saint Bernard who is credited with saving over 40 lives during his time as a rescue dog, cementing the breed’s legacy as one of the bravest in history.
These dogs are perfect for families who have a large space and the time to care for their massive size. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them loving companions who are sure to leave an impression wherever they go.
6. Leonberger
The Leonberger is a majestic giant, standing between 25 and 32 inches tall and weighing between 90 and 170 pounds. Known for their impressive size and mane-like coat, these dogs have an almost lion-like appearance, with a long, thick coat that can be golden, red, or tawny. Their large, powerful build makes them an awe-inspiring presence, but they are equally known for their sweet and gentle temperament.
Originally bred in Germany as a working dog to pull carts and herd livestock, Leonbergers are calm, patient, and highly confident. They are friendly dogs, particularly with children, making them an excellent choice for families. Their protective nature ensures they will guard their loved ones without being overly aggressive. They are also known for their intelligence, which makes them quick learners with the right training.
Leonbergers are a versatile breed, capable of excelling in various tasks, from search and rescue to therapy work. Their calm, steady demeanor and willingness to please make them ideal working dogs, but they also thrive as family companions. They do require regular exercise and enjoy outdoor activities like swimming or hiking, making them great for active households.
Interestingly, the Leonberger was once bred to resemble the lion, and their lion-like mane is a defining feature of the breed. The combination of their grandeur and gentle nature has made them beloved in homes across the world, especially among those who can accommodate their large size.
While Leonbergers are great family pets, they are not suited for apartment living due to their size and energy levels. They need plenty of space to move around and thrive in homes with large yards. With proper care and attention, these giant dogs are loving, loyal, and protective companions.
7. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the largest dog breeds, with males standing 32 to 35 inches tall and weighing between 115 and 180 pounds. With a rugged, wiry coat in colors like grey, brindle, or red, the Irish Wolfhound’s appearance matches its strong and dignified nature. Originally bred to hunt wolves and other large game, this dog is both powerful and courageous.
Despite their intimidating size, Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants. They are calm, affectionate, and extremely loyal to their families. Known for their sweet temperament, they are often described as being gentle with children and other pets. Their protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs, but they are not aggressive unless provoked.
Their size and history as hunters mean they have a natural confidence and bravery. However, they are not overly energetic and are often content lounging around the house. They do require regular exercise to maintain their health, but a long walk or a play session in the yard is usually enough to satisfy their needs.
A fun fact about Irish Wolfhounds is that they have been around for centuries and were once used by Irish kings to hunt wolves, elk, and even boars. Their status as royal companions gave them a sense of nobility, which they carry to this day. Despite their history as fierce hunters, their current role is mostly that of a loyal companion.
Although they are large and require space, Irish Wolfhounds are not demanding dogs. They are gentle, good-natured, and thrive in a family environment where they are treated with the respect they deserve. They are ideal for homes that have room for such a giant dog but are looking for a calm, loving companion.
8. Pyrenean Mastiff
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a colossal breed, with males typically standing between 29 to 35 inches tall and weighing between 120 and 200 pounds. Known for their massive size and thick, fluffy white coat, these dogs were originally bred to guard flocks in the Pyrenees Mountains, and their protective instincts are deeply ingrained.
These dogs are not only large but also incredibly confident. Despite their imposing size, Pyrenean Mastiffs are known for their calm and affectionate nature. They are generally friendly with their family members and are especially good with children. Their protective instincts ensure they are natural guardians, but they are not overly aggressive, making them excellent companions for families.
Because of their size, Pyrenean Mastiffs need a lot of space to move around. A large yard is necessary for these dogs to feel comfortable, and regular exercise is required to keep them healthy. They are generally low-energy indoors but do need outdoor activities to stay in shape.
An interesting characteristic of the Pyrenean Mastiff is that they were bred to withstand extreme weather conditions. Their thick double coat, which provides insulation against the cold, was essential for guarding livestock in the mountains. These dogs have adapted to harsh conditions and thrive in cooler climates.
Pyrenean Mastiffs are best suited for owners who are familiar with giant breeds and have the space for such a large dog. Their calm and patient demeanor makes them excellent family pets, especially for those who appreciate a protective yet gentle companion.
9. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a giant breed, known for its incredible size, strength, and gentle disposition. Standing between 26 to 28 inches tall and weighing between 100 and 150 pounds, these dogs are built to swim and work in water. Their thick, water-resistant coat comes in black, brown, or Landseer (white with black patches), which helps them thrive in cold, wet environments.
These dogs are confident, courageous, and often exhibit a calm demeanor. Originally bred to work on fishing boats in Newfoundland, their primary role was to rescue fishermen who fell into icy waters. Their natural swimming ability and immense strength made them invaluable as water rescue dogs.
Despite their size, Newfoundlands are affectionate and great with children. They are often described as “gentle giants” because of their sweet, loving nature. They are known to form strong bonds with their families and are protective but not aggressive. Their calm, patient demeanor makes them ideal companions for families and even elderly owners.
A fun fact about Newfoundlands is their remarkable swimming ability. They are strong swimmers who are often used in water rescue operations, and their large paws help them paddle efficiently. They are also known for saving people from drowning, thanks to their instincts and strength.
Although they are large and require significant space, Newfoundlands are not overly energetic indoors. They enjoy a leisurely walk or swim but are generally happy to relax and bond with their family. Their loving, gentle nature makes them ideal companions for those who have the time and space for a giant dog.
Conclusion
When considering giant dog breeds that stay big, it’s essential to understand the full commitment these majestic creatures require. From the Great Dane to the Bernese Mountain Dog, these giant dogs are known for their size, but their gentle hearts and affectionate nature make them the perfect companions. Many of these giant dog breeds are also working dogs, originally bred to perform tasks such as guarding livestock or pulling heavy loads, which means they come with a strong sense of duty and a need for daily exercise.
Breeds like the Neapolitan Mastiff, French Mastiff, and Anatolian Shepherd are among the largest dog breeds, and each of them carries a long history of guard dogs and livestock guardians. Despite their imposing stature, they often have sweet temperaments and form strong bonds with their families.
These big dogs often require more space and early obedience training to thrive. Breeds like the Irish Wolfhounds, English Mastiffs, and Black Russian Terriers can grow to be the tallest breeds or weigh in as the biggest dog breeds, offering both protection and companionship.
