Suppose you are living with a roommate who eats a lot, snores louder than any human, and still manages to be the gentlest soul in the house. We’re not talking about your cousin or friend. We’re talking about the largest dog breeds in the world, the massive, fluffy giants that steal hearts with equal charm.
While most dogs fit comfortably into small homes and city apartments, these huge breeds need more space, early socialization, and plenty of exercise. Surprisingly, despite their sturdy build and intimidating size, many of these large breed dogs are calm and affectionate and make excellent companions.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the tallest recorded dog reached over 44 inches at the shoulder.
In this blog, we’ll introduce you to the largest dog breeds in the world, their traits, history, and what makes them the true gentle giants of the canine world.
Largest Dog Breeds In The World
1. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd is a rugged, self-confident, and imposing flock guardian with an ancient lineage. These dogs were specifically created to resemble the size and color of livestock, so that predators would not identify them in the flock.
When considering its appearance, it is a muscular working dog, which got their large size from its forefathers, who were mastiffs. Although they look relaxed, these guard dogs are always active. Plus, they have a calm and smart look that makes you feel safe.
With just one glance, you’ll know this dog is confident and knows what it’s doing.
Indeed, these dogs have exceptional guarding abilities. The dog tends to roam around its area, keeping an eye on everything around it. Even when they are off duty, they are still on patrol; it’s in their protective nature.
2. Broholmer
Often known as the Danish Mastiff, the Broholmer is a large mastiff breed native to Denmark. This large working dog is powerful and known for its impressive bark and dominating walk. In addition, Broholmer is characterized by its sturdy muscular build, height, and majestic appearance.
These dogs have a unique wrinkly face with a broad but expressive muzzle. And their captivating eyes convey their intrinsic loyalty and protectiveness. For centuries, this dog has been an integral part of Danish rural life as a farm or estate protector.
But there is another side to their personality. This giant dog breed is also popular for its friendly and affectionate nature. They are great family dogs, and the reason is their gentle nature and patience.
3. Newfoundland
The American Kennel Club mentions it as a massive, powerful dog with a dignified bearing. These elegant dogs were developed in Newfoundland by crossbreeding native dogs with the Great Pyrenees.
Though Newfoundland dogs, or Newfies, were originally bred to help fishermen, they have also worked as draft animals. However, it is very easy to identify these dogs with their fluffy coats and impressive size. Remember, they have thick coats, so regular grooming is necessary.
These dogs have a sweet temperament, and their sterling character is expressed in their love for kids. No doubt, these gentle giant dog breeds are highly devoted to their family.
One of the defining traits of this breed is its natural love for water. Their physical build makes them excellent swimmers and helps in saving lives as rescue dogs.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
Big, powerful, and true workaholic, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a large working dog from the canton of Bern. It is one of the four Swiss mountain breeds known for its distinctive tricolor coats and Swiss cross on the chest.
Below their captivating coat, a sturdy dog is hidden that is well-suited for heavy jobs. Historically, they have been used as herders and draft dogs, so they were an important part of farm life.
They possess a wonderful nature, and they do well with kids and adults. But they are not a good pick for apartment dwellers. These energetic big dogs are immensely strong, and they need plenty of exercise for their well-being.
5. Saint Bernard
PetMD writes that the Saint Bernards are giant dogs that were primarily bred for rescue work, for locating and rescuing people buried by avalanches. These big dogs can weigh between 120 to 180 pounds, and they may be 30 inches tall.
Their distinguishing feature is their head with wrinkled brows, short muzzle, and dark eyes that give an intelligent and sweet expression. Furthermore, they have a thick double coat that acts as an insulator in cold temperatures.
These massive dogs not only need a lot of space in your house, but they also need space in your heart. They love to live with their family and thrive in companionship.
If you are looking for a great family pet with a strong protective instinct, the Saint Bernard is there. They are popular guard dogs who will bring out their protective instinct if they feel any threat to their family.
6. Leonberger
The Leonberger is a giant breed of German origin known for its unique combination of size, gentle nature, and enthusiasm for water work.
Leonbergers have a medium-long waterproof coat, beautiful triangular ears, a bushy tail, and a black facemask that frames dark-brown eyes. These features are considered as breed trademarks.
These adaptable canines make great companions because they have an innate desire to defend and help people. Importantly, these pups are very intuitive about human emotions; therefore, they tend to make strong bonds with their owners.
To add further, Leonberger is extremely loyal, and it will protect its family at any cost.
7. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenean mountain dog is one of the oldest breeds in the world. Its history goes back to the 10th century when they were bred to protect sheep from wolves and other predators. It is a large, thickly coated, and powerful dog that is highly demanded as a livestock guardian.
Their puppies are very cute and soft like snow, who grow up and stand among the biggest dog breeds. These dogs are not only big, but they also have big hearts and souls.
They are very kind and friendly dogs, often interacting positively with children and other dogs. Plus, they are excessive barkers and possess a keen sense of hearing. So they will immediately inform everyone about any intruder.
8. Great Dane
Great Danes are extra-large working dogs that rank among the tallest dog breeds. Known for their impressive size, these dogs have a commanding presence, fair enough to scare away any potential threat.
Keeping aside their intimidating looks and imposing stature, Great Danes are very gentle and affectionate; therefore, often referred to as “Gentle Giants.” Even though they have a peaceful disposition and caring nature, they still have not lost their courage to hunt wild boars in the past.
You will be amazed to hear that these huge-sized dogs believe they are lap dogs. So they love sitting on their owner’s lap.
9. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound is a large sighthound from Ireland used by coursing hunters who were admirers of their ability to dispatch game animals. Furthermore, the Irish wolfhound is the tallest in the AKC breed that was once capable of dispatching a wolf in a single combat.
In the past, the ownership of these mighty dogs was restricted to kings and noble families. Moreover, the number of dogs an owner can own was also linked to their status and title. But the situation is entirely different nowadays.
Irish Wolfhounds have a great temperament, and they are pretty good with children and other dogs. Moreover, they have high patience, so they can tolerate rough play.
Conclusion
So, who needs a roommate when you can have a giant, fluffy best friend who drools, snores, and still manages to steal your heart? These largest dog breeds may take up more space on your couch and in your car, but they give back tenfold in loyalty, love, and gentle companionship.
Whether you want a quiet guardian, a water-loving buddy, or just someone who thinks your lap is the best place in the world despite weighing over 100 pounds, these dogs have got you covered. Just make sure you have a big heart.
