One of the best things about being a canine enthusiast or dog lover is the amount of diversity and history you get to experience when you learn about dogs and understand them. But did you know? Surprisingly enough, you might never meet a Canophile, aka dog person, who can boast in front of you for knowing anything and everything about these mysterious pooches that are called dogs.
Because there will always be some uncharted territory remaining to be roamed and conquered when it comes to these descendants of wolves.
With more than 359 breeds of puppies in the world, you’ll have to opt for a major in your university in everything about pups to remotely reach or even make a dent in the encyclopedia’s worth of information that exists about them, and what is still being researched and recorded.
This fondness for four-legged fur babies will always bring you joy and fulfillment, as even the most experienced dog owners will always have space to remain intrigued and interested.
Hence, on this note, let’s dive into the deep end and know about some unique dog breeds that are lesser known and so rare to be seen that if you fortunately make an acquaintance with these pups, it’ll be like seeing a shooting star falling from the sky. (A literal one in a million moment)
Unique & Little-Known Giant Dog Breeds to Consider
1. Neapolitan Mastiff
These giants are tough to handle, but not tough to love, as they come from an area of Naples, in Southern Italy, and are the best-kept secrets of Italian farmers. Descendants of the Mastiff of Epirus and courageous protectors of the family and estate.
These endlessly wrinkled and strong-headed dogs are challenging to train. But every bit rewarding due to their rich history, sweet protective temperament, and gentle nature. These Neapolitan Mastiffs are much more than just their loose wrinkled skin and imposing presence.
Neapolitans are drooly dogs with large floppy ears that also happen to be massive couch potatoes. Hence are most content with taking naps in the sun and snoring their life away. Thus, a prospective pet parent should take these low-energy pooches out for regular exercise, or they’ll end up having joint problems and face obesity.
Moreover, training and socialization are also key for raising a well-behaved droopy-faced Neapolitan Mastiff.
2. Scottish Deerhound
If you ever make an acquaintance with this tallest dog breeds it would not only be a serendipitous encounter but also an honorable moment, not because you are about to meet Sirius black in the form of an Animagus, or because you have magically transported yourself to the magical realm of Hogwarts and Wizardry.
But because you’ll have met Royalty. Yes, you heard that right, meet the “Royal Dog of Scotland” and the pride of the Scottish Highlands, which are renowned for their hunting bounty.
But did you know? This ancient pup is older than the Scotts themselves and hit popularity as a prized hunting companion who sought out to score and kill the mighty red deer for its impressive antlers and robust build.
Renowned for its gentle nature at home and explosive power in the field. This large sighthound was described as the most perfect creature in heaven. So much so that it earned a place in J.K Rowling’s feature Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
Moreover, PetMD notes that these tall, lanky, statuesque, Scottish Deerhounds look like scruffy, big boned greyhounds and are courageous and fierce hunters that have now found their footing in modern homes as companions.
But you should know that if you are lucky enough to adopt and raise one, then you are a highly auspicious guy, as no one lower than an Earl was allowed to own these intriguing creatures of rare dog breed in the mid 1700s.
(Thankfully, we don’t live in that blingy era anymore, or you might have lost the chance to keep one of these dogs of antiquity at home)
3. Tibetan Mastiff
Have you ever seen a Yeti? No!! Perhaps a dog with the form of a small bear? Still shaking your head, in denial we see. But today is the day, you will meet not Captain Jack Sparrow (you Pirate fans) but this magnificent breed, that is as majestic as the Himalayas, with a towering frame, flowing mane, and nothing that keeps it short of looking like a canine superhero.
It’s no exaggeration—this watchful, alert, and tenacious breed excels as both a protective estate guardian and a loving cuddle companion.
As one of the rare, little-known giant dog breeds, bringing one home is a challenge in itself. Yet their devoted yet aloof nature, combined with a history veiled in mystery, keeps owners endlessly fascinated.
P.S. Beware these Tibetan Mastiffs that seemingly look like huge teddy bears are an ancient breed of working dogs that were originally bred to guard livestock and property, and are such a large breed that is dominant, territorial, and independent-minded when it comes to defending their flock and family. Hence, this thick double-coated fella is only recommended for experienced owners.
4. Leonberger
Tough enough to pull ammunition carts and small cannons and soft enough to win the hearts of fans worldwide. This German breed was created by Heinrich Essig, who seemed to be a fan of dramatic concoctions; hence, he crossed three of the most iconic purebreds, like the Great Pyrenees, the Saint Bernard, and the Newfoundland, to create a large, muscular, and elegant dog.
Alas! If the world wars hadn’t wreaked havoc on these precious pooches, these beloved companions wouldn’t be facing a population bottleneck situation, due to which these striking and surprisingly agile working dogs lost their genetic diversity, which made them one step closer to extinction. Such a beautiful creation, but all in vain.
Active, adoring, and empathetic, these Leonbergers are family dogs for all seasons, make excellent search and rescue operators, and could have been the world’s answer to many trials and tribulations that humans face each day. They would have easily beaten the countless superstars of the canine world due to their excellence in diverse fields.
The impeccable strength and intelligence make it a wonderful farm, family, and draft dog, a capable livestock guardian, an effortless swimmer thanks to the webbed feet, and alsoa great tool for disaster. Not to mention, after considering all the pros, it’s also quite attractive due to its brilliant red lion-like coat. Thus, the main question is what more can you ask for?
5. Estrela Mountain Dog
Who wants a gorgeous, cuddly good boy? Hmm, you’re right there, you’d better zero your attention on what’s coming next, because we have an inkling, you have tirelessly scoured the earth for finding a gentle companion that can give you enough love to fill your heart and home with incomparable love.
Meet the Estrela Mountain Dog, a snuggly teddy bear-like, large dog breed with all the benefits of a tiny lapdog and the demands of a giant breed. But it’s worth the wait, as you won’t find such a rarity that is so lovable and sweet that it’ll give enough tear-jerking moments to last a lifetime.
Know that it is significant in every possible way, be it size, presence, or temperament.
Originally bred to be livestock guardian and drafting dog, Estrelas are quite powerful with a strong head, dark nose, and amber eyes, and round drop ears that are cropped for protection from being torn off by predators. These pups are well-behaved and affectionate with children and other animals. Moreoever these mountain dogs are also stubborn, strong-willed, and very intelligent.
6. Dogue de Bordeaux
Large and drooling, but also protective and brave, this French Mastiff is another rare breed that is captivating both in looks and history. Don’t believe us? These stout, muscular canines can hunt, guard, and work on farms and happen to be one of those pooches who are daunting in flesh yet very lovable when you get to know them up close.
The American Kennel Club states that, equipped with a pumpkin-sized head and low-slung body, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a distinctive brachycephalic breed with a sour mug face, that comes with a sizeable spitting of drool.
But you ought to know that these burly dogs with a loving yet independent personality earned their reputation for ferocity that belies their affectionate attitude, which it reserves for their pack.
Hunters of wild game and protectors of hearth and home. These French gentlemen are admirable due to their rippling muscles, wrinkled skin, and a die-hard vibe. Brought to France by Julius Caesar, these athletic and touchingly loyal dogs are amazingly complex and a gift of the Romans to the French.
Moreover, these snoozing contended piles that starred beside Tom Hanks in Turner and Hooch are now celebrated worldwide for their rare beauty and resilience.
7. Irish Wolfhound
Meet the tallest of all dogs, the Irish Wolfhound that can reach over 32 inches at the shoulder. Might stack up those vet bills and need more food than the other great companions. But is so worth it, due to its fearsome reputation both in wars and in the hunting field.
Believed to be the descendants of Middle Eastern sighthounds and local mastiffs. These Irish pups are rare yet irreplaceable when it comes to raising one. Capable of pursuing the humongous Irish elk and sneaky wolves.
These pups were used by nobility as excellent guard dogs of their territory. But nowadays these Wolfhounds have found their place in modern homes like other breeds and enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle.
Irish Wolfhounds are also one of those pets whose sheer size can terrify a walking stranger or trespasser, but when beside their favorite people, these pups portray a patient nature.
Early training and mental exercise are both necessary for these pullers of men from horses and chariots, or they might lose their health and end up with countless health issues and have an even shorter lifespan than they already are bestowed with.
8. Black Russian Terrier
Ever heard of a sprightly Terrier that can guard military installations?
No, of course not, because this dog with a water-proof double coat, featuring a coarse beard, was created by the Russian military by crossing many reliable, and highly trainable large dog breeds like the Airedale Terriers, Giant Schnauzer, Newfoundland, and Rottweilers.
Wikipedia mentions covered in dark hair like some ghost, this intimidating and dominating big breed with a keen nose requires a strong leader and trainer. As they tend to rule over weak and non-assertive folks.
Moreover, these good-tempered pups also have a sensitive side to them, but will need copious amounts of socialization to subdue their indifference and wariness of strangers.
Black Russian Terriers are true strong hearts that love kids and protect loved ones like it’s the last thing they’ll do on this earth. Comparatively healthier than other dogs, these pups live longer than the giants and large-breed dogs, with an average life expectancy of 10 to 14 years.
This Terrier is not a true Terrier. But it is an impeccable working dog, guarding dog, sporting, and companion dog that was developed in the USSR and is still a rarity in the US.
9. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Hailing from the challenging terrain of the Caucasus mountains that are located between the black sea and the Caspian Sea, these Caucasian Shepherds or Caucasian Ovcharkas are another muscular and well-built dogs packed multi layered fur and enough fearlessness that can bring down the vicious predators of the region.
So burly, and if there were a Clash of the Titans in the Canine form, these giant working dogs, known for their natural guardian instincts and strong-willed temperament, would definitely have won the battle.
Caucasian Shepherds are very watchful and protective, and despite having a strongly devoted and gentle nature, these pups are a challenge to raise for pet parents who are new to the dog world.
Blessed with short triangular ears that are often cropped short, these pups were even used in combat and are fully equipped with strength, confidence, good hearing, and eyesight, along with a heavier body and long coat, which makes them a worthy opponent for bears, wolves, and all the predators present in the Caucasus mountains and southern region of the Russian steppes.
Conclusion
These gentle giants have a larger size than the normally occurring pups, a lower life expectancy, and a long list of genetic health issues, along with susceptibility to chronic illnesses. But just as their bodies are huge, so are their hearts.
They bring an indescribable amount of life and joy into their owners’ lives and a lot to be grateful for. Hence, even though bringing one of these puppies home means a lot of kibble and a lot of effort, it also means a lot of goodness and endless love.
The biggest dog breeds take up a lot of space in your home, but their heartwarming presence is worth all the expenses and pain.
Mighty as a mountain and serene as a lake, these pups make incredible family dogs, and if you can’t find your best big companion here, then there are plenty of more options on the table for you to choose from, like the Great Dane, Maremma Sheepdog, Akbash, Kuvasz, Boerboel, and many other affectionate and courageous breeds.
