The 11 largest dog breeds in the world
There are quite a few large dogs, but not all of them are among the largest dog breeds worldwide. A dog is only considered a giant on four paws from an impressive shoulder height of 72 cm. Some of these breeds even reach a height of over one meter! If you have plenty of space in your heart and on your sofa, these furry friends are just right for you!
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What you should consider with very large dog breeds
Scottish Deerhound
Size: Male: min. 76 cm; Female: min. 71 cmWeight: Male: 39–50 kg, Female: 34–43 kg
Also known as the Scottish deerhound, the Deerhound was originally bred for hunting deer. Inside its slender, agile body is a true sprinter, ideal for tracking and chasing game. The Deerhound is a gentle, docile companion. Its high need for exercise and unconventional nature make it a dog for experienced hunting owners. It is by no means a pet for casual dog lovers.
The Scottish Deerhound is one of the largest dog breeds in the world. It closely resembles the Irish Wolfhound.
Tibetan Mastiff or Do Khyi
Size: Male: 66–76 cm, Female: 61–71 cmWeight: Male: 41–68 kg, Female: 34–54 kg
In appearance, the Do Khyi, also known as the Tibetan Mastiff, resembles a cuddly teddy bear. Originating from Tibet, this mastiff is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world and has historically protected monasteries, large estates, and even caravans as a guard and protection dog. Although it forms a very emotional and close bond with its owners and is fond of children, it is not a typical family dog. With loving consistency and plenty of canine know-how, the Tibetan Mastiff is a loyal working dog and can even be used as a therapy dog.
The Tibetan Mastiff looks like a giant teddy bear, but is actually a fierce guard dog.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Size: Male: 74–81 cm, Female: 71–79 cmWeight: Male: 50–65 kg, Female: 40–55 kg
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a strong, independent four-legged friend who used to accompany shepherds in Turkey and protected the herds from predators. It is divided into three variants: the Akbash, the Karabash, and the →Kangal, also known as Sivas-Kangal. Although it has a very calm and peaceful nature, this oversized dog belongs only in experienced hands.
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, originating from Turkey, is a confident large dog for experienced dog owners.
Great Dane
Size: Male: 76–86 cm, Female: 71–81 cmWeight: Male: 54–90 kg, Female: 45–59 kg
Don't be fooled by the appearance of the →Great Dane. Inside is a cuddly softie who is very people-oriented and affectionate. Thanks to their friendly and sociable character they are still among the most popular →large dog breeds, which are also suitable for families. So if you have enough space and, above all, enough strength for this XXL lapdog, you will find a loyal friend in the Great Dane.
The Great Dane is a lapdog in an oversized body. Despite its size, it is considered a gentle dog.
A lot of dog, a lot of food! Of course, a Great Dane eats more than a small poodle. That's why it's all the more important to provide your oversized four-legged friend with sufficient nutrients and especially protein-rich meat. With our simple 1-2-3-BARF menus, you give your dog high-quality muscle meat, fresh vegetables, and important vitamins, oils, and minerals.
You'll love to try BARF!
Newfoundland and Landseer
Size: Male: 69–74 cm, Female: 63–69 cmWeight: Male: 60–70 kg, Female: 45–55 kg
Originally used as draft and pack dogs for fishermen and still today as water rescue dogs, these two large breeds are true water lovers. The Landseer originated from the →Newfoundland, which is evident from their similar appearance. Beneath all that fluffy fur and plenty of undercoat are steel-hard muscles, making them perfect working dogs. Due to their good-natured, gentle, and relaxed temperament they are also often kept as →family dogs in a house with a garden and are also happy to have a spot on the sofa.
Large, gentle, and full of love to give – the Newfoundland is a big dog for lovers of fluffy breeds.
Saint Bernard
Size: Male: 70–90 cm, Female: 65–80 cmWeight: Male: 64–82 kg, Female: 54–64 kg
Once used as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, the →Saint Bernard is a true friend and helper in need. Its attentive and gentle nature combined with its robust and resilient character make it the perfect companion dog. Unfortunately, over time, the Saint Bernard has been bred to be increasingly massive, so it can no longer serve as a rescue dog. To avoid breeding for extremes, you should pay attention to good breeding and, in the interest and health of the animal, avoid extreme sizes.
Thanks to the film "Beethoven", the Saint Bernard has a reputation as a large family dog.
Leonberger
Size: Male: 72–80 cm, Female: 65–75 cmWeight: Male: 48–75 kg, Female: 41–59 kg
A cross between the Saint Bernard and the Newfoundland, the →Leonberger. With its thick coat and large, strong build it is also known as the lion among →German dog breeds. If you have room for a large family dog, you can't go wrong with a Leonberger. This shaggy dog truly has a "thick skin" and is very patient with children and unfamiliar stimuli. Its good-natured, friendly temperament combined with its playful nature enriches any family. Thanks to its innate alertness, it knows how to protect house and garden, but is by no means aggressive or fearful.
Alert, yet loyal and affectionate – the Leonberger is a large farm and family dog.
Pyrenean Mountain Dog
Size: Male: 70–82 cm, Female: 65–74 cmWeight: Male: 50–54 kg, Female: 36–41 kg
Also known as Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog is a livestock guardian dog through and through. Independent work and protection are deeply rooted in its genes. Thanks to its sensitive and child-loving nature, it would fit well into a family. However, it should not be forgotten that it is very distant towards strangers and does not like other dogs and sometimes even people entering its territory. A strong leadership and experienced dog owners are certainly an advantage here.
Not a dog for a small garden and everyday family life – this large dog breed needs a job and plenty of space!
A special feature of the large Pyrenean Mountain Dog is its long, white coat. It consists of dense, fine undercoat and coarse, weather-resistant topcoat. The thick mane, which protected the dogs from the extreme climatic conditions of the mountains, requires a lot of →coat care and should be brushed regularly.
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English Mastiff
Size: Male: 70–91 cm, Female: 70–91 cmWeight: Male: 73–100 kg, Female: 54–77 kg
With its massive and powerful body, a Mastiff is impressive even from a distance. Males can weigh up to a proud 100 kg. It's no wonder it is one of the strongest and largest dog breeds in the world. Although it was once used as a war dog or to protect nobility, it is not one of the →aggressive dog breeds. Its temperament is more like a lamb. Its extremely high stimulus threshold and calmness still make it a suitable guard dog. It is important that the owners can handle its enormous strength.
The English Mastiff is a large dog for those who are experienced with guard dogs and know how to appreciate them.
Irish Wolfhound
Size: Male: 81–100 cm, Female: 79–81 cmWeight: Male: 54.5–70 kg, Female: from 40.5 kg
The →Irish Wolfhound reaches up to 1 meter at the shoulder but weighs relatively little. Its elegant and light build was once needed for hunting wolves and large deer. Originating from the British Isles, the "Wolfhound" is now overseen by the German Sighthound Breeding and Racing Association. Although it is one of the largest dog breeds in the world, it is a sensitive and lovable companion. It seeks connection with its human family and displays a high degree of adaptability . Of course, this sprinter with a hunting instinct still wants to pursue its favorite activity, which is why the dog sport "coursing" is recommended for owners of this breed.
