15 Largest Dog Breeds in the World
Have you ever walked past a dog so massive that you had to do a double take, wondering how much it eats or where it even sleeps? Big dogs have a way of stopping people in their tracks, and not just because of their size. They exude a unique combination of power, grace, and heartwarming gentleness that’s hard to resist. These colossal canines are more than just their impressive stature—they’re loyal companions with fascinating histories and personalities as big as they are. Let’s dive into the stories and traits of the 15 largest dog breeds in the world—you might even find your next best friend among them!
Great Dane:
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Great Danes are among the tallest dogs, with males standing over 30 inches tall and weighing up to 175 pounds. Despite their imposing size, they are known for their friendly and gentle demeanor, making them excellent family companions. Originally bred in Germany for hunting large game, Great Danes have transitioned into affectionate household pets.
Irish Wolfhound:
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Irish Wolfhounds hold the title for the tallest dog breed, with males reaching at least 32 inches in height and weighing between 140 to 180 pounds. These dogs were initially bred in Ireland for hunting wolves and large game. Known for their gentle and noble demeanor, Irish Wolfhounds make excellent companions.
Saint Bernard:
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Saint Bernards are powerful working dogs that can weigh between 140 to 180 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall. Originating from the Swiss Alps, they were developed to locate and rescue people lost in the snow and avalanches. Their friendly expression and gentle nature have made them popular in film and television.
English Mastiff:
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The English Mastiff is one of the heaviest dog breeds, with males weighing between 160 to 230 pounds and standing about 30 inches tall. Historically used as guard dogs, they are known for their loyalty and protective instincts. Despite their size, English Mastiffs are gentle and affectionate with their families.
Newfoundland:
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Newfoundlands are large working dogs, with males weighing between 130 to 150 pounds and standing up to 28 inches tall. They were originally bred to assist Canadian fishermen, pulling nets and performing water rescues. Known for their gentle temperament and swimming abilities, Newfoundlands are often referred to as “gentle giants.”
Leonberger:
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Leonbergers are robust dogs, with males weighing between 110 to 170 pounds and standing about 30 inches tall. Developed in Germany, they were initially bred as companion dogs for European royalty. Leonbergers are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them excellent family pets.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog:
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Anatolian Shepherds are large and powerful, with males weighing between 110 to 150 pounds and standing about 29 inches tall. Originating from Turkey, they were bred to protect livestock from predators. Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, Anatolian Shepherds are reserved but gentle with their families.
Bernese Mountain Dog:
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Bernese Mountain Dogs are sturdy and muscular, with males weighing between 80 to 115 pounds and standing about 25 to 27.5 inches tall. They were originally used in Switzerland for drafting and driving cattle. Known for their affectionate and good-natured temperament, Bernese Mountain Dogs are excellent family companions.
Great Pyrenees:
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Great Pyrenees are large and majestic, with males weighing between 100 to 120 pounds and standing about 27 to 32 inches tall. They were bred to guard livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains of France and Spain. Known for their calm and gentle demeanor, Great Pyrenees are devoted to their families.
Cane Corso:
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Cane Corsos are muscular and powerful, with males weighing between 90 to 110 pounds and standing about 25 to 27.5 inches tall. Originating from Italy, they were used as guard dogs and hunters. Known for their loyalty and protective nature, Cane Corsos are affectionate with their families but reserved with strangers.
Tibetan Mastiff:
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Tibetan Mastiffs are imposing dogs, with males standing at least 26 inches tall and weighing between 90 to 150 pounds. Originating from Tibet, they were traditionally used as guardians of livestock and property. Known for their independence and strong-willed nature, Tibetan Mastiffs are loyal to their families but can be aloof with strangers.
Dogue de Bordeaux:
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Also known as the French Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful breed, with males weighing between 110 to 140 pounds and standing about 23 to 27 inches tall. They have a rich history in France, serving as guardians and working dogs. Despite their formidable appearance, they are affectionate and loyal to their families.
Scottish Deerhound:
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Scottish Deerhounds are tall and graceful, with males standing about 30 to 32 inches tall and weighing between 85 to 110 pounds. Bred in Scotland for deer hunting, they are known for their gentle and friendly nature. Their wiry coat and dignified appearance add to their unique charm.
Neapolitan Mastiff:
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Neapolitan Mastiffs are massive dogs, with males weighing between 150 to 200 pounds and standing about 26 to 31 inches tall. Originating from Italy, they were used as guard dogs. Their loose, wrinkled skin and imposing presence make them effective protectors, yet they are known to be affectionate with their families.
Kuvasz:
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Kuvasz dogs are large and sturdy, with males standing about 28 to 30 inches tall and weighing between 100 to 115 pounds. Originating from Hungary, they were traditionally used to guard livestock. Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, Kuvasz dogs are gentle with their families but can be reserved with strangers.