Imagine walking down the street with a dog so massive, people stop and stare in awe, not out of fear, but pure admiration.
Giant breeds are more than just their impressive size; they’re loyal, gentle, and often have a heart as big as their paws.
These colossal canines bring a sense of majesty to any home they enter. Sure, they might knock over a lamp or two with a happy tail wag, but the unconditional love they offer is worth every clumsy moment. Let’s explore the largest dog breeds that dominate not just in stature, but in spirit.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a four-legged friend that could double as a sofa — or simply want to marvel at these incredible creatures — you’re in the right place. Let’s meet the magnificent giants of the dog world!
Largest Giant Dog Breeds
1. Anatolian Shepherd
Meet the Anatolian Shepherd, a dog so large and noble, you might mistake them for a small horse at first glance. Originally bred to guard livestock in Turkey, these majestic giants are built for strength, endurance, and independent thinking — basically, they were working security before it was cool.
Anatolian Shepherds are serious protectors. They’re not the type to bark at every squirrel — no, these dogs analyze the situation like little canine bodyguards deciding if that squirrel is actually a threat. Calm, confident, and incredibly loyal, they’re guardians by nature and prefer to quietly observe before making a move, but they can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia.
Physically, they’re a sight to behold — massive frame, thick double coat, and a regal expression that practically says, “I’ve got this.” They’re athletic too, capable of sprinting across fields or casually blocking your entire hallway when they decide to nap.
Why You’ll Love an Anatolian Shepherd
✔ Built-in security system — no subscription fee required
✔ Calm, steady, and fiercely loyal, especially with children.
✔ Majestic presence — they’ll make you feel like royalty
As per WebMD, Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are naturally vocal, displaying strong territorial and protective instincts, but with proper training, they can learn when it’s appropriate to bark.
Fun Fact: Despite their size and toughness, Anatolians are giant softies with their families. Expect gentle nudges, soulful stares, and the occasional attempt to sit on your lap… all 150 pounds of their weight.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Now entering the room: the Irish Wolfhound, a dog so tall that they practically come with their own altitude warning. Known as the tallest dog breeds, these hounds are walking, wagging legends.
They were originally bred to hunt wolves (yes, wolves!), but today they are better known for hunting your heart with their sweet, sensitive souls.
Despite their intimidating size, Irish Wolfhounds are famously gentle giants. They’re laid-back, kind-hearted, and have a slow, graceful way of moving — like an elegant, furry giraffe.
They’re the type of giant dog who will happily share your couch, your bed, and your heart (but they may require their own mattress, given their size).
Physically, they’re the tallest breed, lanky, with a slightly scruffy, romantic look — think dog version of a rugged knight in shining armor. Their expressive eyes could melt even the coldest heart.
Why You’ll Love an Irish Wolfhound
✔ Sweetness in an extra-tall package
✔ Calm and patient — they take life in giant, relaxed strides
✔ Loyal companions who will always stand (tall) by your side
Fun Fact: An Irish Wolfhound’s tail alone could clear your coffee table in a single joyful wag. They don’t even mean to — it’s just part of their charm (and your new excuse to redecorate).
3. Leonberger
Imagine a long-haired dog that looks like a lion but acts like a giant teddy bear — that’s the magnificent Leonberger! This largest dog breed hails from Germany and was bred to resemble regal lions. Mission accomplished.
Leonbergers are huge, fluffy, and majestic, but inside, they’re total goofballs. They’re super social, love playing with kids, and think they’re human.
These biggest dog breeds are the kings and queens of affectionate chaos — just watch your toes when they come galloping over to give you a slobbery hug.
Physically, they have a thick double coat (brushing is your new full-time hobby), dark soulful eyes, and paws bigger than your hand. They’re strong enough to pull carts… or simply drag your heart away with their charm.
Why You’ll Love a Leonberger
✔ Big, brave, and the ultimate cuddle buddy
✔ Family-oriented and incredibly affectionate
✔ Looks like a lion, loves like a marshmallow
Fun Fact: Leonbergers are excellent swimmers; they’re lifeguards with fur.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff might just be the most wrinkly, droopy-faced powerhouse you’ll ever meet. If you love dogs that look like grumpy old grandpas but have hearts of pure gold, this is your breed.
These Mastiffs were bred in ancient Italy as guardians, and they take the role very seriously, but be aware that they can be susceptible to heart disease. If you ever wanted a living fortress with fur, here it is. They’re protective, calm, and deeply devoted to their people.
Physically, they’re massive, muscle-packed, and feature so many wrinkles you’ll wonder how they even fit into their skin. But behind that tough look is a sweet, sometimes goofy spirit.
Why You’ll Love a Neapolitan Mastiff
✔ Built like a tank, but loves like a teddy bear
✔ Extremely loyal and protective
✔ Wrinkles for days (and photo ops for life)
Fun Fact: When they walk, all those wrinkles sway and jiggle — it’s hypnotic and adorable at the same time.
5. Newfoundland
Say hello to the Newfoundland, aka the gentle water buffalo of the dog world. These enormous fluffballs are famous for their sweet temperament and natural swimming ability — seriously, some have even rescued people from drowning!
Newfoundlands are big—big — but they’re calm, patient, and so friendly dogs that they could charm the socks off a stone. They’re walking hugs.
Physically, they boast a massive frame, a dense waterproof coat, and a heart so big it deserves its own zip code.
Why You’ll Love a Newfoundland
✔ Gentle, loyal, loving, and patient with everyone (especially kids!)
✔ Incredible swimmers — think Baywatch, but with more fur
✔ So sweet you’ll swear they’re made of pure marshmallow
Fun Fact: Newfoundlands drool… a lot. But hey, it’s just extra love in liquid form, right?
6. Pyrenean Mastiff
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a giant, shaggy protector from the mountains of Spain. These popular dog breeds were bred to guard livestock against wolves and bears—yes, bears—so guarding your home is basically a walk in the park for them.
They are gigantic, but their demeanor is pure Zen. Calm, dignified, and incredibly gentle with their families, they’re like that wise grandparent who doesn’t say much but always knows what’s going on.
Physically, they’re wrapped in a gorgeous, thick coat perfect for cold weather, and they carry themselves with a calm, confident grace.
Why You’ll Love a Pyrenean Mastiff
✔ Quiet strength — they’re the ultimate chill protectors
✔ Massive, cuddly, and majestic
✔ Loyal to the bone (and maybe even beyond)
Fun Fact: Despite their mountain-guarding history, they adapt surprisingly well to family life, as long as you have room for a dog the size of a small couch.
7. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard is the hero dog of the snowy mountains and everyone’s favorite droopy-faced lifesaver! Originally bred to rescue stranded travelers in the Swiss Alps, these fluffy giants are legendary for their bravery, loyalty, calmness, and ability to melt hearts just by existing.
Physically, they’re massive, muscular, and covered in a thick, cuddly coat. They have the kind of face that says, “I’m here to save your life and steal your snacks.”
Why You’ll Love a Saint Bernard
✔ Gentle giants that are absolute sweethearts
✔ Incredible with kids — they’re living teddy bears
✔ Legendary rescuers with a heart of gold
According to PetMD, Saint Bernards are people-oriented dogs and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Fun Fact: In real life, they didn’t carry little barrels of brandy around their necks…but we kind of wish they did.
8. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is what happens when you cross an aristocrat with a couch potato. Known as the “Royal Dog of Scotland,” this breed is tall, slender, and built for speed — but also loves a good nap. Think of them as high-speed gentle giants who enjoy zooming… and then snoozing.
Physically, they’re graceful giants with shaggy, wiry coats and long legs that look like they could outrun a car (spoiler: they kind of can).
Why You’ll Love a Scottish Deerhound
✔ Elegant, sweet, and incredibly chill at home
✔ Loves running — but loves lounging even more
✔ Quiet, noble companions with a soft heart
According to Hill’s Pet, Scottish Deerhounds, like most sighthounds, are sensitive and bond closely with their family. While they are friendly, they tend to be reserved around strangers and are not effective as watchdogs or protection dogs.
Fun Fact: They were once so prized that only nobility could own them. That’s right — your future Deerhound comes with royal credentials.
9. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is basically a fluffy cloud that decided to protect your family. Originally bred to guard sheep in snowy mountains, these dogs are calm, independent, and absolutely stunning to look at.
Physically, they are huge and powerfully built, covered in a beautiful white silky coat that’s thick enough to make you jealous in winter.
Why You’ll Love a Great Pyrenees
✔ Protective without being aggressive — the ultimate peaceful guardian
✔ Calm, patient, and a big fan of family snuggles
✔ Gorgeous and majestic (yes, you will be stopped by strangers)
Fun Fact: They have a booming bark that can scare off predators… or the mailman. Either way, they take their guarding duties very seriously.
Conclusion
When exploring the largest giant dog breeds, it’s impossible to miss powerful dogs. A few other dog breeds that didn’t make it to the list are the Great Danes, who can stand up to 32 inches tall, and English Mastiffs, known for their massive size and wrinkly skin. Other impressive breeds include the Bernese Mountain Dog, Black Russian Terrier, Anatolian Shepherd Dog, French Mastiff (also called Dogue de Bordeaux), Tibetan Mastiff with its lion-like mane, and Cane Corso, an Italian Mastiff known for strength and loyalty.
These large-breed working dogs and livestock guardians, often farm dogs from regions like the Pyrenees Mountains, require experienced owners, plenty of outdoor space, and a securely fenced yard. Early training is crucial, as these strong-willed canines have a strong sense of independence compared to smaller breeds and smaller dogs. While puppies from these breeds grow quickly, their life expectancy tends to be shorter than that of smaller dogs. Whether choosing a rare breed or a more famous one like the “Scooby-Doo” inspired Great Dane, pet owners should be ready for the challenges and rewards that come with sharing life with one of these incredible giants.
