7 Dog Breeds With Largest Heads Proportionate To Body

Top 7 Dog Breeds With Largest Heads Proportionate To Body

Have you ever seen a dog whose head seems almost too big for its body?

Some dog breeds are built with massive heads that perfectly match their strong frames. These dogs were often originally bred to guard, pull, or herd, so their size and strength had a real purpose.

Research has shown that the size and structure of the dog skull do play a significant role in amplifying bite force, particularly in medium and large dogs. This implies that breeds with large and wide heads tend to have a strong bite and powerful jaw muscles.

In this article, we will explore the list of dog breeds with the largest head proportionate to body. These are smart, loyal, and strong dog breeds.

Dog Breeds With Largest Heads Proportionate to Body

Being passionate about them, what can be special about them? Well, let us find out for you!

1. Dogue De Bordeaux

Dogue De Bordeaux

The Dogue De Bordeaux is also referred to as the French Mastiff. It is a large, strong breed with a bulky chest, a very thick neck, and tail. But the most interesting is its huge head that makes it among the best dog breeds with the most significant head proportion to its body length.

Dogue De Bordeaux Profile

These giant dogs were initially bred for guarding homes, pulling carts, and even protecting castles. They are fearless, but they are also fond of hugging family members. They are calm, gentle, and good with kids despite their tough appearance.

They require early training and daily exercise, but they have a strong attachment to their owners. The AKC reports that their head size is not just for show, as it is indicative of the breed’s strength and work history.

2. English Bulldog

english bulldog

This breed is not difficult to identify because of its broad skull, drooping face, and muscular, compact body. Being one of the shorter dog breeds, however, it also has one of the widest head-to-body proportions.

Historically, these dogs were bred to be used in bull-baiting, but they have emerged later as lazy companions. Bulldogs are low-energy, love to lounge around indoors, and are extremely friendly towards children and other dogs

They tend to have breathing problems with a short nose, so they require a calm environment and physical exercise. Responsible breeders focus on improving the health of this breed, especially its breathing and joint strength.

With such a courageous appearance and loyalty, coupled with their calmness, they are one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. English Bulldogs are calm, loving, and nurturing in a caring environment.

3. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a powerful and heavy dog and has a broad head, a thick neck, and a strong and muscular body. It is also a 19th-century breed, created to hunt poachers and protect country estates in England. Unlike other dogs, the Bullmastiff was specifically bred to guard estates without barking excessively, making it a silent protector.

These are natural guarding dogs. They are courageous and composed, particularly when it comes to family. They do not bark but are always exceptionally watchful. Bullmastiffs are also family pets.

Bullmastiff Profile

They are suitable for children, and this makes them a good and loyal pet for families that are capable of taking care of their size. The average weight of a Bullmastiff can reach up to 130 pounds, supported by its solid frame and strong muscles.

Believe it or not, some Bullmastiffs enjoy living with a cat if introduced early and raised together. They do not require that much exercise compared to other large breeds, but they require frequent walks and training. They are perfect home guard dogs with their colossal heads and placid character.

4. Neapolitan Mastiff

Neapolitan Mastiff

It is hard to forget about the Neapolitan Mastiff. It is one of the most distinctive of all dog breeds with its hanging skin, saggy eyes, and a huge head, and a body length that gives it a low, ground-hugging appearance. This breed was initially reared in Italy to be a guard dog used to protect property.

Neapolitan Mastiff

Neapolitan Mastiffs are affectionate and form strong attachments to their owners, although they have a serious demeanor. They are peaceful at home, but they will ruthlessly defend their families. They have a wrinkled face with heavy shoulders made of power.

Such dog breeds require a confident owner and early socialization. This dog breed is protective, smart, and is an ideal breed in a home with space.

5. Cane Corso

Cane Corso is a muscular dog with a large, square-shaped head and a sleek, athletic body. It had been raised and used by hunters in Italy to hunt wild animals and protect livestock. This dog is very intelligent, faithful, but it requires physical exercise every day.

Cane Corsos have a strong-willed personality. They are not ideal among first-time dog owners, but they are easily trained. They are active, quick, and enjoy family life. They are very alert, keeping a close eye on their surroundings and ready to respond to any unusual movement.

They require spaciousness to run around and defined regulations to abide by because of their generous size and protective nature. PetMD says that Cane Corsos are very strong, loving, and eager to help their owners at any time.

6. Saint Bernard

One of the best-known giant dog breeds is the Saint Bernard. This breed is constructed to be strong and enduring with its broad head, thick neck and tail, and large feet.

They were initially bred to save the lives of stranded travelers along snow-covered mountain passes. While Saint Bernards aren’t known for speed, their ancestors were strong enough to chase down lost travelers in deep snow.

Bernards are gentle, loving, and wonderful with children. It is also one of the rare breeds that remain composed under pressure, which is why they were fantastic rescue dogs. Some Saint Bernards even have slightly webbed feet, which help them move better through snow and rough terrain.

These giant dogs breed require a medium exercise, a cool environment, and plenty of attention. Their massive size and gentle demeanor make them ideal family pet choices, especially for those seeking a gentle dog.

7. Rottweiler

Rottweiler is an assertive and fearless dog having a broad head, thick neck, and heavy chest. They were popular farm dogs, initially raised by the Germans to herd cattle and drag heavy carts. It is one of the best dog breeds today and is known to have an intelligent and fearless personality.

During World War II, Rottweilers were used by the military for guarding, tracking, and carrying messages, proving their working strength and loyalty. They are also very fond of their family, and they get along with children when raised well.

The breed requires a good amount of exercise, socializing, and firm leadership daily. Rottweilers are fearless, faithful, and high-energy.

Conclusion

When you picture a strong, loyal, and protective dog, one of these breeds likely comes to mind. All these are dog breeds having the biggest heads in comparison to their bodies; they are not only good in appearance, they are powerful, loyal, and their heart is filled with love.

Compared to other breeds, these dog breeds are bold, broad-headed, and are loved all around the world for their loyalty, power, and unique look. They also have big heads, and they tend to have big personalities.

One of these breeds may be your perfect match the next time you are looking to welcome in a loyal, bold, and protective friend. All you have to do is remember that large dogs require space, training, and commitment. They will provide you with boundless affection, security, and devotion in exchange.

So, which of these big-headed beauties would you like to have in your house?

Ellis
Ellis Brooke is a writer and experienced dog trainer with more than a decade of hands-on work with dogs. Her journey began in college when she took a job as a community coordinator at a local animal shelter — a role that quickly sparked her passion for dog care and training. Since then, Ellis has dedicated herself to learning about canine behavior and sharing helpful advice through her writing. She lives with her playful rescue dog, Miso, who reminds her every day of the power of patience and second chances. Whether she’s researching new pet products or planning a dog’s care routine, Ellis is always focused on one goal: making sure pets get the love and care they deserve.