We have all had our heads turned at the sight of a large dog, whether
just in pure awe, appreciation, or intrigue. Some of the largest dog
breeds in the world are recognizable, like the Great Dane or the Saint
Bernard, and others are more obscure. While it seems owning a teacup
size dog that can slip easily into your handbag is all the rage with
celebrities these days, many people prefer the companionship of a large
dog.
All the dogs that make up this list of the world’s largest dog breeds
are over 100 pounds and the ‘shortest’ dog on the list comes in at an
impressive 26 inches at the withers, the highest point of dog’s
shoulders. Regardless of your criteria for determining the world’s
largest dog breeds, all these gentle giants are on average the tallest,
heaviest, and brawniest breeds in the world.
10. Shiloh Shepherd
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Related to the German Shepherd, the smallest of our world’s largest dog
breeds stands 26 to 30 inches and typically weigh up to 140 pounds.
Though not recognized by any major kennel club, they are acknowledged by
rare breed organizations and are known for their intelligence and
stable temperament. Bred as companions, these dogs have a high energy
level and are a great family dog. Their coats come in a multitude of
colors and they often work as therapy or search and rescue dogs. 09 more after the break...
09. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
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Originally bred as a cattle dog, this breed generally reaches 26 to 29
inches tall and weights between 130 and 140 pounds. Boasting a powerful,
muscular body, this breed of dog is sociable, active, calm, and
dignified. These dogs make great family pets and require less exercise
than most dogs their size.
08. Kangal
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Kangals are native to Turkey and have seen a recent increase in
popularization worldwide. With a height of up to 32 inches and weighting
between 110 and 145 pounds, these dogs are excellent family dogs that
are territorial and at times aggressive to strangers. Kangals so said to
be the larger relative of the Anatolian Shepherd, a breed that is more
readily available to those outside of Turkey.
07. Great Pyrenees
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Known for a distinctive white coat, these dogs were originally bred as
sheep dogs and are built to withstand extremely cold temperatures. This
is one of the oldest breeds of dogs in the world, with the first
descriptions of dating as far back as 1407. Great Pyrenees typically
stand at around 32 inches tall and weigh up to 120 pounds. They are
known for their affectionate, confident, and gentle temperament and can
be very protective of their family when necessary.
06. Kuvasz
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Perhaps one of the least recognizable breeds of the largest dogs in the
world, the Kuvasz was nearly extinct during World War II. Originating
from Hungary, these former royal guard dogs stand at about 30 inches
tall and weigh between 75 and 150 pounds. These dogs have a dense white
coat that ranges from wavy to straight in texture and their eyes are
almond shaped. With proper training and socialization these dogs can
make an excellent family dog, often described as having a clownish sense
of humor.
05. Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands are perhaps the most popular or recognizable of the
world’s largest dog breeds. Made for the water, these dogs have webbed
feet and and were originally bred for water rescue. Considered one of
the strongest dogs in the world, they stand at about 26 to 28 inches and
weigh between 130 and 150 pounds. These dogs make excellent family
pets, are extremely laid back, and are one of the easier dogs to
housebreak.
04. Great Dane
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Said to be the tallest dog in the world, the height of the Great Dane
reaches 34 inches and their weight ranges 120 to 200 pounds. A Great
Dane by the name of Zeus is the current world record holder in height,
measuring a staggering 44 inches! The heritage of this breed can be
traced back nearly 3,000 years, just another reason why it is one of the
most intriguing on our list. The coat of this dog ranges in coloring,
from fawn to brindle to blue. Typically well-mannered, Great Danes are
very loving and gentle and, with the proper training, can be great
around children.
03. Irish Wolfhound
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Also one of the tallest breeds in the world, these dogs can reach
upwards of 32 and 36 inches in height and typically weigh around 150
pounds. These dogs are thin in appearance and are described as having
‘great size and commanding appearance’. Originally bred to hunt wolves,
the Irish Wolfhound is extremely friendly, energetic, and even-tempered,
making them a great family pet. While their appearance can be
intimidating (they may reach 7 feet tall when standing on their hind
legs!) these dogs are patient and sweet, but may only live up to 10
years.
02. Saint Bernard
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Another one of the most widely recognized breeds of large dogs, Saint
Bernards are gentle giants and easy going, making them a popular pet
choice. Standing anywhere between 27 and 36 inches, these dogs were
originally bred for rescue and can weigh up to 265 pounds, making them
one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Their coat is typically
redish or mahogany brindle in color with white and they hve black
shading around the face and ears.
01. Mastiffs
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The world’s largest dog breed are members of the mastiff family and if
listed separately, they would dominate this entire list! Some of the
most notable mastiffs include the Neapolitan mastiff (31 inches and 165
pounds), the English mastiff (averaging 250 pounds), the Tibetan mastiff
(31 inches and over 200 pounds), the Spanish mastiff (33 inches and
around 200 pounds), and the Pyrenean mastiff (32 inches and upwards of
220 pounds). Mastiffs are incredibly loyal and distinctive animals, but
they do have a reputation of being aggressive towards other animals and
humans if not properly socialized.
We’ve all heard the old adage, ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’, and
same should be said for large dog breeds. They may seem intimidating and
overpowering, but the majority of these breeds are loyal, loving
animals that will shower you with slobbery kisses as much as they can.
People choose to own one of these giants for many reasons, perhaps the
most common being for their fierce loyalty, mild manners, and guarding
nature. Large dog breeds are also often excellent family dogs, as they
are not affected by kids tugging on their tail and typically have a
loving, patient temperament.
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