The World’s 15 Biggest Dog Breeds

Often misunderstood due to their size, larger dogs are loved for their unique personalities and crucial roles in various areas of life. These gentle giants can pull their weight with ease, providing emotional support or participating in search-and-rescue missions. No two dogs are the same, but the strength of these breeds lies in their resilience, loyalty, and remarkable training receptivity.

English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a massive breed that often exceeds 200 pounds. However, in contrast to their size, they are calm and gentle creatures, making them surprisingly good as family-friendly pets. Their love for companionship, combined with their protective instincts, make this breed an excellent choice for families with plenty of space.

Great Dane

These towering dogs often stand over 32 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh upwards of 150 pounds. But contrary to their imposing physique, Great Danes are big softies, and are often described as the world’s largest ‘lap dogs.’ Their friendly, outgoing nature and love of play make them a favorite among large breed enthusiasts, especially because they look goofy when they get the zoomies. 

Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are among the tallest breeds in the world (up to 35 inches at the shoulder), and they were bred to hunt wolves in ancient Ireland, hence the name. Although they were historically used as fierce hunters, today’s Irish Wolfhounds have a reputation for being gentle, friendly, and especially good with children. They thrive on companionship and do best in homes where they’re considered part of the family, though you would have to invest in good dog grooming equipment since they’re very hairy. 

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard’s are perhaps most famous for their role as alpine rescue dogs. These large, sturdy animals, often weigh more than 150 pounds. Despite their substantial size, Saint Bernards are gentle-natured and highly dedicated to their families. Their intelligence and keen sense of direction make them excellent rescue and work dogs, although they’re just as happy to lounge around the home with those they love. 

Newfoundland

Affectionately known as “Newfies,” these dogs are powerful swimmers and often make appearances in water rescue operations. They can weigh anywhere between 130 to 150 pounds, but it’s their physical strength that makes them stand out. Newfoundlands are loyal, loving, and patient, making them wonderful family pets. Newfies also enjoy the company of other dogs and can sometimes religiously want to play with them even if the other dogs aren’t interested.

Neapolitan Mastiff

This giant breed can be easily recognized by their distinctive wrinkled skin and droopy facial appearance. They originate from Italy and can weigh anywhere between 110 and 150 pounds. The Neapolitan Mastiff may look intimidating, but these dogs are very protective and deeply devoted to their family. They might be a bit reserved with strangers, but give them a little time and they’ll warm right up to you. 

Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a dog breed that originates from Turkey. This breed was, and still is, used for guarding livestock in rural areas. You’ll find Anatolian Shepherds weighing between 110 and 150 pounds. The loyal and protection-oriented Anatolian Shepherds are a popular choice both as working dogs and family pets. However, their independent nature can prove a challenge and may require expert training as they can be quite stubborn. 

Leonberger

Leonbergers are named after the city of Leonberg in Germany and can tip the scales at a hefty 120 to 170 pounds. They are intelligent, gentle, and incredibly good-natured. These colossal canines make excellent family dogs and are famous for their unique love of water. Whether it’s a pond, pool, or just a good old-fashioned puddle, if there’s water around, a Leonberger will likely be close by! 

Scottish Deerhound

Noted for their height more than their weight, Scottish Deerhounds are truly majestic dogs that can reach up to 32 inches at the shoulder and 75-110 lbs in weight. In the past, the Scots used deerhounds for deer hunting in the Scottish Highlands. While you may think that these dogs are dangerous or energetic based on appearance alone, the truth is that modern deerhounds probably prefer lounging to hunting, but will religiously defend their family and owners if threatened.

Caucasian Shepherd

Caucasian Shepherds have large heads and body frames, making them more akin to small bears than dogs if you look at them from a distance. Weighing anywhere between 100 to 170 pounds, they’re a big hurdle for any dangerous animal that threatens the livestock they’re guarding. These dogs are fearless, protective, and remarkably strong, giving them an edge over virtually anything that comes their way.

Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is more than a typical lap dog. They can weigh up to 150 pounds and have an assertive and independent demeanor. Originating from Tibet, the primary ‘job’ of these dogs is protecting sheep from predators like wolves and leopards. This breed is a wonderful combination of agility, strength, and endurance. They are unwaveringly loyal to their caregivers, provided they’re given the respect they feel entitled to. As such, they can be dismissive and on alert around strangers. 

Dogue de Bordeaux

Also called the French Mastiff, the Dogue De Bordeaux is a strong and muscular breed that can weigh up to 145 pounds. They sport a unique and appealing appearance with their wrinkled faces and dark, expressive eyes. However, like most other large breeds, their size doesn’t mirror their character because they’re affectionate, patient, and loyal dogs.

Kangal

The Kangal, another Turkish breed, is a large, tough mass of fur that can tip the scales at 130 pounds. Kangals are working dogs that guard livestock against big predators like bears and wolves. They are capable of standing their ground against anyone and anything due to their size and fearlessness. Being naturally protective, they make excellent guard dogs. However, their gentle disposition with families, especially children, reveals a softer side to their character. 

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, lovable furballs, typically weighing 70 to 115 pounds. While they are on the smaller side compared to some other breeds, they make up for this with their high intelligence, strength, and agility. Originally bred for farm work in Switzerland, beneath their spotted black-and-white (and sometimes brown) fluffy exterior lies a friendly, patient, and affectionate temperament. They’re great with children and enjoy being included in all family activities. 

Pyrenean Mastiff

The Pyrenean Mastiff from Spain is a giant dog breed that can weigh up to 240 pounds. Their thick skin and a heavy coat are powerful defensive features and deterrents against predators. They make brilliant watchdogs and are extremely patient and protective with children. However, due to their large size, they require plenty of open space and daily exercise to maintain good health.

19 Signs Your Dog Is Absolutely in Love with You

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