Big dogs can feel like living legends, and these seven dogs prove it.
Some giant dogs are famous. You see them everywhere. But the rare ones? They hit different. They turn heads, steal hearts, and make you whisper, “Okay… what is THAT dog?”
Now, giant breeds are not just “big dogs.” They are a whole lifestyle. More food. More space. More grooming. More drool, sometimes.
But wait, there’s more! They also bring more calm, more comfort, and more of that safe, steady presence that makes a home feel fuller.
This blog will walk you through rare, impressive large dog breeds. Not just size stats. We will talk about personality, history, care needs, and the little traits that make each breed feel one-of-a-kind.
Rare and Impressive Giant Dog Breed: A Deep Dive To Help You Choose Right
1. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound looks like a tall, rough-coated piece of history. This breed was shaped for speed and stamina, built to run down deer across harsh land. Sounds crazy, right? They were basically the ancient “elite athletes” of the dog world, only fluffier and way sweeter at home.
Here’s the good part. As per Britannica, despite that powerful build, Deerhounds are often gentle and soft in daily life. Many are calm indoors and love quiet company.
They are not usually loud guard dogs. They are more like peaceful roommates who happen to be tall enough to rest their chins on your kitchen counter.
But why bother with that? Because a Deerhound is rare, and that rarity shows in how special they feel. They do best with space to stretch out and run safely. They also need consistent training. Not harsh. Their sensitive side is real, and they remember how you make them feel.
Important note about their “chase brain.”
Strong prey drive, so a secure yard matters
Best on leash in open areas
Loves sprinting, not nonstop jogging
Gentle handling helps them trust faster
2. Bloodhound
If you want large dogs with superpowers, meet the Bloodhound. This is the legend of scent. Their nose is so serious it can look like magic, but it’s just insane biology and focus. And here’s the best part: they do not “smell” like we do. They read the world through scent trails like a detective reading clues.
Bloodhounds are big, heavy-boned dogs with loose skin, long ears, and that famous wrinkled face. Those features are not just for looks. They help trap scent and guide it toward the nose. Exactly.
They are built for tracking, and once they lock onto a smell, they can become stubborn in the funniest, most stressful way. It gets even worse, though, if you expect instant obedience. A Bloodhound may love you, but they love the scent more.
Training needs patience, snacks, and a sense of humor. The reward is huge, though. They are often gentle, social, and surprisingly affectionate, like a large dog who thinks they are your loyal shadow.
Did you know?
Their tracking drive can override distractions
Loose skin and long ears help with scent work
Needs secure fencing, because “following a smell” is a mission
Great for owners who enjoy training games
3. Leonberger
Leonbergers look like a giant cuddle wrapped in a lion coat. They are rare in many places, which makes spotting one feel like finding a real-life fantasy dog. Big frame, thick double coat, and a warm, steady expression that basically says, “Yes, I am huge, but I am also your friend.”
According to the AKC, this breed was developed to be impressive and useful. Many Leonbergers are known for being family-friendly, people-focused, and calm when raised with good structure.
They often like being near their humans, not far away doing their own thing. So if you want a giant dog who actually enjoys your company, this one can be a strong match.
Now, the coat is no joke. That gorgeous fur means shedding, brushing, and extra care in warm weather. But wait, there’s more! Leonbergers can also be strong swimmers and are often drawn to water.
Their vibe is gentle strength, like a soft giant who still knows they could move a couch if they wanted.
Coat and care reality check
Heavy shedding, especially seasonally
Regular brushing helps prevent mats
Needs shade and cool breaks in the heat
Early training matters because size is power
4. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are tall enough to make you do a double-take. They are famous for height, but still rare enough that many people have never met one in real life. Their build is long, muscular, and athletic, with a rough coat that adds to that rugged, noble look.
Here’s the good part. Many Irish Wolfhounds are gentle, kind, and surprisingly quiet at home. They can be calm couch companions, as long as they get the right exercise and space.
PetMD notes that they often bond deeply with their people and can be sensitive to harsh tones, so calm leadership works best.
But why bother with that? Because their needs are very specific. Due to their size, owners must take growth and joint care seriously, especially when they are puppies.
Fast growth plus big bones can create issues if you overdo exercise too early. Keep it steady, keep it safe, and you can enjoy a giant best friend who feels like a wise old soul.
Fun fact to drop at dinner
Historically used for hunting and guarding
Often gentle with families when socialized well
Needs controlled exercise during puppy growth
Tall dogs need comfy bedding for joints
5. Estrela Mountain Dog
The Estrela Mountain Dog is a rare giant guardian from Portugal. This breed was shaped by mountain life, guarding flocks and property in rough conditions. So yeah, they are not built to be “just a pet.” They are built to protect, think, and decide, sometimes without asking your permission first.
They are big, strong, and serious, but not cold. With their family, many Estrelas can be devoted and affectionate. Still, they often have a strong independent streak.
That means training is not about forcing. It’s about trust, routine, and making your rules feel fair. If you are calm and consistent, they respect you more. Now, it gets even worse, though, if you want a social butterfly dog. Many livestock guardian types are naturally cautious with strangers. That’s part of their job.
Early social time helps them stay steady and polite. But the protective instinct will still be there, and honestly, that’s what makes them so impressive.
What makes them stand out
Natural guarding instinct and alertness
Independent thinker, not a people-pleaser type
Strong bond with family, can be reserved with strangers
Best for pet parents who like structure and leadership
6. Fila Brasileiro
The Fila Brasileiro is a rare giant breed with a powerful presence. This dog is large, muscular, and built for strength, with loose skin and a confident stance.
They were originally bred for demanding work, and that history shows in their intensity and loyalty.
Here’s the best part: if you are the right person for this breed. Filas can form deep, serious bonds with their family. They often want to be close, watching, guarding, and staying aware of what’s happening.
But wait, there’s more! They are not a casual “everyone’s buddy” dog, and that is important to respect.
This is a breed that needs experienced handling, careful socialization, and strong safety habits. Exactly. Their protective nature can be strong, and they require clear boundaries.
If you want a giant dog that feels like a personal bodyguard, this is one of the most intense options on this list, and not a beginner’s choice.
Important note before you fall in love
Needs skilled, confident ownership
Early training and social exposure matter a lot
Strong protective instinct, not usually stranger-friendly
Structure, calm leadership, and safety come first
7. Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiffs look like ancient stone statues that came to life. They are giant, heavy, and famous for loose skin and deep wrinkles. Their body is wide and thick, with a slow, deliberate way of moving. They do not rush. They do not panic. They just exist like a tank with feelings.
Here’s the good part. Many Neos are deeply loyal and steady with their family. They often prefer calm homes and predictable routines. They are not usually the “run five miles” type.
They are more like, “Let’s patrol the house, then nap like champions.” And honestly, that’s a mood. But why bother with that? Because their care is unique. Skin folds need cleaning, drool is common, and their size means you need space and sturdy gear.
Training should start early, because a giant dog who ignores you is not cute; it’s chaos. Still, with the right pet parents, the Neo can be a gentle guardian with a huge heart.
Did you know?
Wrinkles need regular cleaning to avoid irritation
Often calmer indoors than people expect
Can be very protective without being hyper
Early manners training is a must for safety
Conclusion
Living with giant dogs means understanding health problems, respecting their life expectancy, and watching for risks like hip dysplasia, joint problems, or even life-threatening conditions. Many are affectionately called gentle giants for a reason.
Their gentle nature and calm temperament often surprise people, especially when compared to smaller breeds. From the Great Dane, one of the tallest breeds, to the Tibetan Mastiff with its lion-like mane and thick coat, these dogs can be surprisingly gentle with family members and other dogs when raised right.
Some, like the Afghan Hound or French Mastiff, once served as a hunting companion or guard, even during World War II. Others, like the Black Russian Terrier, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Alaskan Malamute, and Great Pyrenees, come from strong working dog roots, including water rescue dogs and even hunting wolves.
But here’s the good part. With proper training and early socialization, these big dog breeds can become truly remarkable companions. Many have an affectionate nature, a keen sense, or a keen nose, along with a dignified demeanor that feels special.
With responsible breeding, care, and time spent forming strong bonds, giant breeds with a fluffy coat, courageous breed spirit, or calm soul can fit beautifully into real homes.
