Some dogs fit in handbags. Others can curl up in your lap. And then there are the ones who take up half the couch and your heart.
These are the heaviest big dog breeds, real giants of the canine world. Towering in height, heavy in build, and packed with personality, they don’t want to be just seen; they were born to impress. It doesn’t matter if they were originally bred to pull carts, rescue people in icy waters, or guard large estates; these giant breeds come with both bulk and bravery.
So if you are into big dogs with even bigger hearts, this list is your dream lineup. Get ready to meet the canines that tip the scale and steal the show.
Most Heaviest Dog Breeds
If you are into keeping pets that look like they can fight fearlessly because of their massive size, this list of the largest dog breeds is for you.
1. Great Dane
Let’s start with a king. Or rather, the tallest dog breed in the world.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Great Dane is called the “Apollo of dogs” because of its elegance, strength, and jaw-dropping height. Some Great Danes have even reached over 44 inches tall, which makes them record breakers in every sense. A great example is Zeus, as mentioned in Guinness World Records.
What makes the Great Dane a sky-scraping sweetheart?
Known as one of the tallest dog breeds in the world
Gentle temperament despite their intimidating size (might reach up to 175 pounds in weight)
Originally bred to hunt wild boar. Yes, wild boar. They were working dogs.
Their size might fool some, but they are a friendly and gentle breed of dogs. But make sure you have space and a reinforced dog bed. They need to stretch their legs.
2. Irish Wolfhound
These powerful dogs are the ancient warriors of the dog world. Their history stretches back centuries.
The Irish Wolfhound has roots tracing back to when they were originally bred to take on wolves and protect estates. They are graceful, tall, and strong, yet soft-eyed and serene around the home.
Both heavy and friendly:
Can weigh up to 120 pounds and stands over 32 inches tall
Long legs and a powerful frame make them one of the tallest dogs
Calm, reserved, and deeply connected and loyal to their families
This is a majestic breed that balances regal looks with a peaceful heart. Literally, a quiet shadow with the strength of a legend. Hills Pet Nutrition notes they are sensitive and easygoing, so you get a heavy dog that has the instincts of a hound and heart of a softie.
3. Leonberger
If a dog and a lion had a baby (don’t ask how), it might just be the Leonberger.
With a lion-like mane, deep chest, and flowing thick double coat, this giant dog breed turns heads on every street and corner. But don’t think they just look majestic. They were born to work like champions.
Their history shows they became popular with the European royalty, and after nearly going extinct after World War II, today they are one of the hardest-working dogs you may find in search and rescue operations.
Why is the Leonberger a massive royalty breed?
Often weighs between 120-170 pounds. Heavy, yes!
Known for a signature thick double coat and powerful build
Sweet, stable temperament, and excellent with kids and families
A Leonberger is a loyal working dog who’s just as happy pulling carts as they are lying by your feet.
4. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is the sailor of the canine community. Yes, they are extreme water-loving dogs who just love to go for a swimming dip.
These large breed dogs have webbed feet, a water repellent outer coat, and a history of pulling fishing nets with Canadian fishermen. And let’s not forget… this breed can weigh over 150 pounds and still swim like an Olympian.
What makes the Newfie a water-loving wonder?
Incredibly powerful working dogs with water-resistant coats
Originally bred to be water rescue dogs and for hard labor
Calm, cuddly, and great with kids
These are gentle giants that live to help and love to snuggle, no matter if it is the icy lakes or your backyard pool.
5. Saint Bernard
Weighing in at up to 180 pounds, Saint Bernards are as massive as they are mushy.
Bred in the Swiss Alps for mountain rescue, these giant dogs were known for saving travelers stuck in snowdrifts. Today, they are more likely to save you from loneliness.
Why is the Saint Bernard a massive mountain of love?
Iconic size, strength, and heart-melting eyes
Thick coat protects them in cold weather
Deeply connected to their families, a pure family dog
As one of the largest dog breeds, the Saint Bernard is a living, drooling teddy bear. Just have towels on standby.
6. Dogue de Bordeaux
Also known as the French Mastiff, WebMD says the Dogue de Bordeaux is a pure power wrapped in loose, wrinkly skin.
With one of the proportionately largest heads in the canine world, this biggest dog breed has a stare that stops intruders, and a snore that shakes walls.
What makes the Dogue de Bordeaux a big, soft brute?
Weighs up to 110 pounds and is low to the ground.
Fearlessly loyal and deeply attached to their people
Known from movies like ‘Turner & Hooch’ but cooler in real life
This dog may look like a tank, but underneath that tough exterior is a loyal heart ready to nap on your lap… if it fits!!
7. Neapolitan Mastiff
Meet the Neapolitan Mastiff, AKA the ancient guardian with wrinkly skin and soulful eyes.
This powerful working dog was used in Roman arenas and later in country estates to protect livestock and families. And with their massive jaws and lower growl, they still know how to send a message.
Why is the Neapolitan Mastiff heavyweight champ?
Can weigh between 110-150 pounds
Extremely protective yet affectionate with trusted people
Needs early socialization and confident leadership
For dog lovers who want a dog with character, history, and enough drool to fill a bucket, the Neao is your guy.
8. Bernese Mountain Dog
Majestic. Mellow. Marvelously fluffy.
The Bernese Mountain dog is a favorite among dog lovers, and it is quite easy to see why. With a thick coat, kind eyes, and a gentle spirit, this mountain dog was made for snowy farms and warm couches.
A heavyweight heartthrob:
Weighs up to 115 pounds, but moves like the breeze
Smart, social, and incredibly loving with family dogs
Thrives with daily exercise and gentle guidance
This is one of the heaviest dog breeds that fits right into family life. They bring joy, loyalty and a tail that could knock over a coffee table. Be careful.
9. Black Russian Terrier
Don’t be fooled by the name. This is no Terrier in size.
The Black Russian Terrier is a giant working dog breed developed by the Soviet army to patrol borders and work in harsh climates of the Siberian steppes. Today, they are strong, serious, and surprisingly snuggly.
What makes the BRT a sleek canine?
Dense, black coat built for cold weather
Muscular frame and deeply intelligent mind
Needs early training and firm direction
Weighs up to 130 pounds
If you want a sleek giant with a working drive and watchful eyes, this is your bodyguard in dog form.
10. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso rounds out our list with elegance, dominance, and undeniable muscle.
This large dog breed has been used to protect livestock, guard homes, and even pull carts through Italian farms. But beyond that strength is a dog that is smart, steady, and loyal to the bone with protective qualities.
Why is the Corso a graceful heavyweight?
Weighs up to 110 pounds of pure height
Calm yet alert, always watching, always protecting
Needs experienced owners and early socialization
If you want a powerful dog with poise and presence, the Cane Corso brings the full package, with just the right amount of swagger.
Final Thoughts
These giant breeds came into existence for strength, but they have evolved into some of the most loyal, gentle, and downright huggable family dogs. Be it the Tibetan Mastiff, Great Pyrenees, or Anatolian Shepherd, or the Scottish Deerhound, each of them offers a unique blend of history and heart.
Just remember! Giant dogs need more space than other dogs and smaller breeds. They need structure, more exercise, and lots of love from confident handlers who understand the breed. And if you are going to share your life and your couch with one of these heavy breeds, they will repay you with a bond that is just as massive.
Because behind every giant is a gentle heart that just wants to be close to yours.
