When it comes to dogs, size really does matter—for some people, at least! There’s something undeniably awe-inspiring about a dog that towers over the average pup, yet has the heart and loyalty of a lifelong companion.
Giant dogs aren’t just big; they carry fascinating histories, unique personalities, and, yes, a surprising gentleness that often catches people off guard.
Believe it or not, some of these gentle giants can weigh more than a full-grown adult, yet still crave cuddles, playtime, and a spot by your side on the couch. They were bred for strength, protection, or work, which shaped not just their muscles but their temperaments.
Owning a giant dog is a commitment—they need room to move, daily exercise, and plenty of attention—but the rewards are unmatched: a loyal companion who’s as majestic as they are loving.
In this article, we will take a look at the ten biggest dog breeds you’ve probably never heard of. From towering titans with surprising personalities to lesser-known giants that could steal your heart, get ready to meet some truly extraordinary canines.
Key Takeaways
Meet rare giants like the playful Otterhound and regal Leonberger.
See breeds built for water, snow, or desert heat: Komondor, Tibetan Mastiff, Azawakh.
Discover loyal protectors and gentle cuddlers, from Neapolitan to Spanish Mastiff.
Explore striking looks, quirky personalities, and fascinating histories.
Remarkable Giant Dog Breeds You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
1. Otterhound
Big, boisterous, and full of life, the Otterhound is a rare dog breed with a fascinating history. Bred in medieval England, these dogs were originally trained for otter hunting—a practice that is now outlawed.
Built to work in water, they have dense, shaggy, waterproof coats and webbed feet, making them expert swimmers. Their powerful shoulders and broad chest let them swim for hours, while their keen black noses can track an otter’s scent even underwater.
A Loving, Fun Companion
Despite their hunting roots, Otterhounds are friendly and affectionate. They have a playful sense of humor and are great with families.
Their boisterous nature means they need consistent training and mental stimulation, especially to avoid knocking over small children. Luckily, Otterhound puppies are eager to please and respond well to high-reward treats during training, as mentioned by PetMD.
Appearance & Personality
Otterhounds are large, rough-coated scent hounds with drop ears and bearded faces. Their shaggy, water-resistant coat comes in all the usual hound colors. When working, their long tail is carried high; when relaxed, it droops naturally.
True to their scent hound instincts, they can get absorbed in a smell and “switch off” their surroundings—but their kind and loving temperament makes them a loyal companion for those ready for a lively, playful, and unique giant.
2. Leonberger
Massive, majestic, and impossibly regal, the Leonberger looks like a lion with a heart just as big. Bred in Germany to resemble the lions on Leonberg’s coat of arms, this giant dog was a favorite among European royalty, from Napoleon III to King Edward VII.
Today, Leonbergers are loving companions who thrive on family life but still enjoy having a “job” to focus on, whether it’s swimming, romping, or helping out in search-and-rescue.
A Loyal and Loving Companion
Leonbergers are famous for their gentle and intuitive nature. They are patient with children, affectionate with family, and often happiest just snuggling on the couch.
Despite their size, they have a calm, friendly temperament, making them excellent family pets. However, their playful energy means they enjoy plenty of exercise and space to move.
Appearance & Care
With a lush, reddish-gold coat, striking black mask, and lion-like mane (especially in males), the Leonberger is a showstopper. Their waterproof coat and strong, nimble build make them skilled swimmers.
Grooming is essential, with daily brushing and regular nail care to keep their coat and paws in top shape. With love, attention, and room to roam, the Leonberger is a truly remarkable giant with elegance, brains, and heart in equal measure.
3. Komondor
The Komondor is one of the most recognizable giant dog breeds in the world, thanks to its profuse white corded coat that covers it from head to tail. This powerfully built Hungarian flock guardian was bred to protect livestock, and its guarding instincts remain strong today.
Large, muscular, and agile, the Komondor moves with long, light-footed strides that make it a formidable presence. Its independent and territorial nature means it requires a firm, experienced hand at training.
A Protector Through and Through
Komondors are calm and quiet at home, devoted to their family, but highly protective of what they consider theirs. Centuries of breeding for guarding livestock have made them distrustful of strangers and prone to territorial behavior.
Early socialization and consistent, reward-based training are essential to help them distinguish friend from foe. Without proper guidance, their powerful instincts can sometimes lead to mistakes that put both dog and pet owner in tricky situations.
Appearance & Care
A large Komondor is impressive: heavy bone, a deep chest, and lots of muscle, yet surprisingly agile. Its unique corded coat demands a lot of attention, from regular cleaning to keeping it sweet-smelling and manageable.
Despite their size and brawn, Komondors are intelligent and devoted companions for families who can meet their needs. They are not suited to city life, but for those with space, time, and experience, the Komondor is a remarkable, unforgettable giant.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
Known affectionately as “knuckleheads,” Neapolitan Mastiffs are massive, wrinkly dogs with a heart as big as their head. Fans of Harry Potter will recognize this breed as Hagrid’s beloved Fang, a testament to their loyal and gentle nature.
These Italian giants were bred to guard estates and even fought alongside the Roman army centuries ago, making them natural protectors with a noble presence.
Gentle, Loyal, and Calm
Despite their imposing size and dramatic wrinkles, Neapolitan Mastiffs are surprisingly calm and steady. They are devoted to their families and especially patient with older children. Though wary of strangers, they rarely show aggression unless provoked.
These thoughtful “couch potatoes” enjoy sunbathing and naps but need regular walks to stay healthy. Their intelligence is quiet and deliberate—they like to think things through before acting.
Appearance & Care
Neapolitan Mastiffs are instantly recognizable with their heavy, loose skin, drooping lips, and profuse facial folds. Their short, hard coat comes in blue, black, fawn, brown, and brindle and is surprisingly weather-resistant. Grooming focuses on cleaning the wrinkles to prevent skin infections.
Though they once fought lions and elephants, today they’re happiest lounging at home, quietly commanding attention with their startling appearance. Majestic, gentle, and protective, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a true Italian giant for experienced owners.
5. Tibetan Mastiff
With a dense, lion-like mane and imposing size, the Tibetan Mastiff is a true giant of the dog world. Originally bred in the Himalayan mountains as a homestead guardian, this breed takes its role seriously.
Alert, watchful, and independent, Tibetan Mastiffs keep a close eye on their territory and their family, blending power with intelligence in every step.
Independent Yet Loyal
Tibetan Mastiffs have a “Don’t call me, I’ll call you” personality, reflecting their independent nature. They form strong bonds with their family but can be aloof and territorial around strangers. These giants are calm and mellow at home but require socialization early to prevent overly suspicious behavior.
Without companionship or a job to focus on, they can find their own ways to entertain themselves—sometimes creating a big mess in the process.
Appearance & Care
These dogs are massive, muscular, and light-footed, with a broad head, expressive brown eyes, and V-shaped ears. Their thick double coat—coarse on top with a soft woolly undercoat—makes them built for cold climates, but they can overheat in warm weather.
Daily brushing is essential to manage shedding and prevent matting. Powerful yet agile, intelligent yet independent, the Tibetan Mastiff is a noble, ancient breed that demands respect—and gives unwavering loyalty in return.
6. Azawakh
Tall, lean, and breathtakingly elegant, the Azawakh hails from the Sahel region of West Africa, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. This ancient sighthound has been hunting gazelle and guarding nomadic tribes for thousands of years.
With a smooth, fine coat that comes in a rainbow of colors—from red and fawn to brindle, black, or blue—the Azawakh is as striking as it is fast. Its deep chest, lean muscles, and aerodynamic build mark it as a natural sprinter and agile hunter.
Loyal and Affectionate
Despite its athletic build, the Azawakh is a devoted family companion. They form incredibly strong bonds with their owners, often preferring constant companionship and struggling with separation anxiety if left alone.
Loyal and loving, they are affectionate with family members but tend to be reserved or cautious around strangers. Omlet mentions that caution is advised at all times when out walking, especially around other animals, since their sighthound instincts may make them chase small, fast-moving objects.
Appearance & Temperament
Azawakhs are built for endurance in the desert heat, with lean frames that show three to five ribs in proper condition. Agile and tough, they combine elegance with durability, capable of running at high speeds for extended distances.
Intelligent but independent, these dogs thrive when given daily exercise and a calm, structured home. Whether sprinting across open spaces or lounging by your side, the Azawakh is a remarkable giant, a blend of grace, loyalty, and desert-hardened resilience.
7. Spanish Mastiff
The Spanish Mastiff is a giant, powerful dog with a noble presence and a keen intelligence reflected in its gaze. Rustic, affectionate, and calm, this breed has spent over 2,000 years guarding livestock across Spain.
Originally, Spanish Mastiffs protected Merino sheep during seasonal migrations, defending flocks against wolves and other predators, as mentioned by the American Kennel Club. One dog could even watch over up to 100 sheep at a time, showcasing both strength and dedication.
Loyal, Brave, and Protective Nature
Spanish Mastiffs are confident and self-assured, fearless in the face of danger. They are devoted to their families and can distinguish between a real threat and a stranger, always ready to defend their flock—or household.
Hardy and intelligent, they excel as property guardians and companion animals, balancing power with a noble, calm temperament.
Appearance & Temperament
These giants are muscular and well-built, with a massive head and medium-length coat in colors including black, fawn, red, gray, yellow, and various brindle or white markings. Their deep, sonorous bark carries far, warning intruders before they get too close.
Whether working with livestock or protecting their home, the Spanish Mastiff is a remarkable, commanding presence: a true guardian that combines beauty, brains, and brawn.
Conclusion
Giant breeds are more than just impressive size—they’re a mix of history, personality, and loyalty that make each one truly remarkable. Their size may be striking, but it’s their heart, intelligence, and devotion that leave a lasting impression.
If you’ve ever dreamed of sharing your life with a dog who’s big in every sense of the word, now’s the time to explore these extraordinary breeds.
Just remember: owning a giant dog comes with responsibility, space, and care—but the reward is a loyal, loving companion who will fill your home and heart with unforgettable moments. Sometimes, the biggest dogs truly leave the smallest pawprints on your soul.
There are other large dog breeds as well that make wonderful companions. These include the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Irish Wolfhound, Bernese Mountain Dog, German Shepherd, French Mastiff, Saint Bernard, Great Dane, Dogue de Bordeaux, and Norwegian Lundehund.
