Some dog breeds steal the spotlight the moment they walk into a room. Giant dog breeds are exactly that kind; thanks to their massive size and impressive build, they naturally turn heads wherever they go.
Big dogs often make deeply loyal companions and wonderful family pets. They live by the motto “bigger is better,” forming strong bonds with their humans and bringing a calm, loving presence to any home. Many also have natural protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs on top of everything else. True gentle giants in every sense.
When most people think of large breeds, names like Bernese Mountain Dogs and Great Danes tend to come to mind first. But there’s a whole world of lesser-known giant breeds out there, each with their own unique and remarkable traits.
Here are 7 uncommon giant dog breeds with some truly stunning characteristics.
Uncommon Giant Dog Breeds with Stunning Traits
1. Leonberger
Leonbergers are giant dogs with a friendly, playful, and gentle personality. Known for their serene presence, they enjoy the company of the entire family. A medium-length waterproof coat, lush triangular ears, and a black face mask are the hallmarks of the breed.
Leos have an authoritative temperament, according to Omlet. They are surprisingly athletic dogs, unlike some other large dog breeds, and enjoy a good walk with their owners every day. Grown-up Leos possess strong protective instincts and are highly territorial.
Early socialization and consistent training are important to turn them into well-mannered family dogs. Leonbergers are relatively rare dogs. In fact, they almost became extinct during World War I and World War II.
Apart from being loving companions and fierce protectors, Leos are frequently employed in search-and-rescue operations.
2. Black Russian Terrier
Black Russian Terriers are one of the immensely powerful large dog breeds. These heavily boned and well-muscled canines were originally bred as working dogs. Robust and intelligent BRTs are capable of performing a variety of tasks.
Having a confident and calm nature, Black Russian Terriers are highly devoted to their families, but aloof towards strangers. Black Russian Terriers are adaptable dogs capable of thriving in many living environments, according to PetMD.
These rare dogs need moderate daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation. BRTs make excellent family dogs and top-class guardians. They enjoy hiking and swimming with their humans.
Do You Know? Black Russian Terriers were most probably used as military dogs in the past. They are easily capable of a variety of tasks such as pulling small dog cart and competing in agility competitions.
3. Borzoi
The aristocrats of the dogdom, Borzoi are cherished for their charm, grace, and glamor. Speed and stamina are two of the most impressive traits of these dogs. They can run 35 miles per hour for one mile and are among the champion sprinters of the canine world.
Their towering height and regal bearing are a sight to behold. Formerly known as Russian Wolfhounds, Borzoi are highly affectionate to their humans, but tend to be aloof towards strangers. Borzoi are not hyperactive dogs.
They need moderate exercise every day to stay physically and mentally stimulated. Included among the tallest dog breeds, Borzoi are obedient and smart dogs. They respond well to positive reinforcement-based training methods.
Do You Know? Captain Smith of the famous RMS Titanic owned a Borzoi named Ben who was photographed with him on desk before the ship set sail. Thankfully, the dog did not stay for the voyage.
4. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
They are the largest of the four Swiss Mountain Dogs. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are immensely strong workers known for their resounding bark, friendly temperament, and ‘wash and wear’ coat. Their dense coat is black and red with white markings.
Considered rare, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are faithful and dependable canines that will get the job done. According to WebMD, they are vigilant, bold, and alert. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are neither too aggressive nor too shy.
Swissies are strong and agile enough to move a flock across the sloping foot of a mountain. These affectionate and highly trainable dogs make loving companions. They are not hyper and need short bursts of activity.
Swissies want to spend time with their family and like to be involved in all activities, whether it’s hiking or lounging on the couch.
5. Komondor
Strong, loyal, and independent, the next big dog breed on our list is the Komondor. The most stunning trait of these large and powerful dogs is their distinctive white coat. Their coat is patiently split by hand and formed into long cords.
These excellent guard dogs protect their home and loved ones fearlessly. Their sheer size is enough to deter potential intruders. Komondors are independent thinkers. They can be dominating and stubborn. Early obedience training and proper socialization are needed to turn them into well-mannered dogs.
Komondors need at least an hour of daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Additional time should be taken out for training and puzzle-solving exercises. Due to their large size, they do well in spaces where they get plenty of space to roam.
Do You Know? Komondor’s cords reach full length in almost five years. Fully corded Komondor coat can take 24 hours to dry after a bath.
Komondors are fairly common in their country of origin, Hungary. However, they are considered a rare breed in the rest of the world. They became almost extinct during World War II. Today, the worldwide Komondor population is far less than 10,000. These are the dogs that most people have never seen.
6. Dogue De Bordeaux
Dogue de Bordeaux were originally bred as versatile working dogs who assisted in guarding and hunting large game. Also known as Bordeaux Mastiffs or French Mastiffs, Dogues are affectionate, courageous, and calm giants.
Their eye-catching, short coat is richly colored fawn and needs weekly grooming to keep looking good. These large, muscular, and wrinkly dogs are not overly energetic. They enjoy daily walks and playtime with their humans.
Dogues are not suitable for living in very high temperatures due to their flat faces. They are loyal and eager to please canines, but their history as protectors means they require firm and consistent training. Dogues are adaptable to different living situations.
7. Irish Wolfhound
Despite their large size, Irish Wolfhounds are loyal, sweet, and calm dogs who love to spend time with their family. These athletic giants are rare and vulnerable. They are one of the tallest dog breeds in the canine world. Having an imposing size, Irish Wolfhounds were used to hunt wolves in the past.
Irish Wolfhounds love to be around their family and enjoy plenty of affection. Their personality does not match that of a guard dog, but they can deter intruders due to their commanding presence. Like other large dog breeds, Irish Wolfhounds have moderate energy levels.
They are happy to stay home and sleep on the couch, but also need regular exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Their thick double coat protects them from cold climates and requires weekly grooming to stay in ideal condition.
Conclusion
Some giant dog lovers prefer adopting a pooch that is rare and uncommon. Giant breeds are loved for their impressive size and loving personalities. They may look intimidating, but are real softies at heart. These pups are incredibly loyal and highly affectionate.
Many of them are loved for their stunning traits. For instance, Komondors are loved for their distinctive coat, and Borzoi are loved for their speed and regal appearance. Like all other dogs, giant breeds also thrive on love, care, and affection.
