Imagine walking a dog so big that it turns heads wherever you go, not out of fear, but pure admiration. That’s the life of owners of giant dog breeds. These gentle giants, often standing over 30 inches tall, are a stunning mix of power, loyalty, and affection.
Fun Fact: According to the American Kennel Club, the English Mastiff can weigh over 230 pounds, which is more than an adult human. Their immensely strong build may look intimidating, but most are calm, cuddle machines.
In this blog, you’ll explore the heaviest breeds around the world, learn where these giant breeds originated, and what it takes to care for these large family pets.
Whether you’re a dog lover, curious reader, or considering adopting one, this article will give you all the big details on these even bigger dogs.
Heaviest Dog Breeds
1. Old English Mastiff
The massive Old English Mastiff is a massive working dog with a rich history. The Mastiff Club of America (MCA) mentions its history and states that the old English Mastiff was discovered in Britain at the time when the Romans invaded in 55-54 BCE.
After all of the years, the Mastiff is still a very popular big dog breed. An adult mastiff stands 27.5 inches tall; moreover, males can be 30 inches tall or more. They can be 7 to 8 feet tall. This elegant dog can weigh anywhere between 120 to 230 pounds.
Zorba was the largest dog that grew around 345 pounds and broke two Guinness World Records in 1987. It was the longest and heaviest dog in the world.
Mastiffs make excellent family companions thanks to their gentle and calm temperament, especially in households with older children who know how to treat animals respectfully. However, because of their sheer size and strength, they may not be the best fit for homes with infants or toddlers, as accidental bumps or knockdowns can occur.
2. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernard is a large breed of working dogs that originated from the western Alps of Switzerland and Italy. These historical dogs were originally bred by monks in Saint Bernard to help them in their search and rescue mission.
It is a giant dog breed that weighs from 120 to 180 pounds and is 26 to 30 inches tall. Truly, they have a massive buildup, therefore delivering a commanding presence.
They are loving and friendly dogs with a gentle nature, therefore perfect as a family dog. This big dog is highly compatible with kids, but supervision is required. People might get scared when they look at them for first time.
3. Neapolitan Mastiff
This is also a big dog originating from Italy and developed as a family and guard dog. This massive breed is also a famous and gentle giant dog. Fans also refer to them as Neo or Mastino.
For long, they have been used as protectors. The ancient Roman army used them as war dogs, and later they were used as estate guard dogs in Italy. Once fought with deadly animals like a lion and an elephant, but today they are happy as house dogs.
These dogs are among the largest dog breeds, as males can weigh up to 200 pounds and can be 31 inches tall.
4. Caucasian Shepherd
Caucasian Shepherd or Caucasian Ovcharka originated from Eastern Europe. They were bred with the intention to guard livestock and properties from predators. They are also known as the Caucasian Mountain Dog and Russian Bear Dog.
They can be over 100 pounds, reaching 170 pounds. Moreover, they can be 30 inches tall. So, before bringing a Caucasian Shepherd, keep in mind that they need ample space. They have a watchful and protective nature, and early training and early socialization play an important role in reshaping their behavior.
They are active and powerful dogs, so they prefer active owners. At least 1 hour of daily exercise is required in the form of walking, playing fetch, hiking, or other activities.
5. Great Dane
The American Kennel Club calls the Great Dane as Apollo of Dogs, and it’s all joy living with this biggest dog breed. This German-origin breed was developed in 1800 to hunt wild boars and guard estates.
This large dog breed has a strong, muscular build with a balanced body. They are the tallest dog breed that belongs to the working group. Their height is between 28 to 32 inches. According to Guinneee Book of World Records, Zeus, the tallest Great Dane, was 41 inches tall.
Apart from their height, they are also heavy dogs and can weigh up to 170 pounds. Moreover, they grow very quickly and in equal proportion yearly. There are very different colors of these dogs with short coats. These coats do not shed very much, but regular grooming is required.
6. Irish Wolfhound
This giant hound is native to Ireland, is among the tallest dog breeds that can stand up to 7 feet. Their height compared to other breeds is the most astonishing feature. They are huge dogs with a double coat, but they are very muscular. They were bred to hunt deer, boar, and wolves.
These big dogs have a dignified appearance, with long and wiry coats that help them to stay warm in the cold. Moreover, they are not as active dogs compared to other dog breeds. They need a moderate level of exercise.
Personality-wise wise they are very patient and loving. These gentle dogs are good with children. Moreover, they are very calm, so you need not worry much about running around them.
7. Leonberger
It is a lushly coated giant belonging to Germany. These dogs were very popular among European royalty because of their friendly nature. After WWI and WWII, they were about to become extinct. Today, these dogs are working as search and rescue dogs and live with human companions.
Its size is impressive, with height ranging between 25 to 32 inches tall and weighing 170 pounds. They are strong and muscular dogs, and extensive early socialization, training, and positive reinforcement can make them true family friends. Due to high energy and intelligence, they perform well in agility and obedience trials.
8. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Anatolian Shepherd dogs were originally developed in Turkey to guard livestock. They came to the United States in the 1950s. Their ability to defend livestock has made them a very popular working breed. Anatolian Shepherds have also been used to protect threatened cheetahs in Namibia, Africa.
They are also heavyweight dogs as they weigh between 110 to 150 pounds and have an average height of 29 inches in males. However, females have 80 to 120 pounds and they are usually 27 inches tall.
The Anatolian Shepherd’s capability to guard cattle on their own makes them a very important working dog. However, in urban settings, it might be tough to keep them happy.
9. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees is a large dog breed belonging to the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France. The breed’s unique thick white coat provides ideal camouflage in snowy environments. Therefore, they are ideal for protecting sheep from predators such as bears and wolves.
As they protect sheep from powerful predators, the Great Pyrenees’ size is outstanding. They are 25-32 inches tall, and their average weight is 85 pounds for females and more than 100 pounds for males.
Though they are extremely powerful and swift canines, Great Pyrenees are often kind and quiet around their loved ones. They can be great family pets.
Conclusion
Big dog breeds are truly special. They are strong, loyal, and often very gentle with families. Though they need more space, food, and care, they give back lots of love and protection. From the towering Great Dane to the fluffy Great Pyrenees, each giant breed has its charm. If you love big hugs, a giant dog is perfect!
