9 Biggest dog breeds in the world (2024)

Hey there, dog lovers! 

If you’ve ever wondered about the largest dog breeds on the planet, you’ve come to the right place. 

From gentle giants to powerful protectors, these dogs capture our attention with their sheer magnitude and incredible personalities. 

Whether you’re considering bringing home a supersized pooch or simply want to satisfy your curiosity, get ready to meet the biggest dog breeds in the world.

Let’s start our adventure by discovering the dogs that top the charts in terms of size. Are you ready? Let’s go!

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English Mastiff

Origin:	England
Height:	Female: 70–91 cm, Male: 70–91 cm
Weight:	Female: 54–77 kg, Male: 73–100 kg
Life expectancy:	6 – 12 years

Appearance:

English Mastiffs is a Giant dog breed and have a strong and sturdy build with a well-muscled body. They have a large head with a short, broad muzzle and expressive, dark eyes. Their ears are medium-sized and set high on their head, and they have a short, dense coat that comes in various colors, including fawn, apricot, and brindle. They have loose, wrinkled skin, particularly around their face and neck.

Temperament:

English Mastiffs are known for their gentle and calm nature. They are generally affectionate, loyal, and good-natured. They are typically friendly and patient with family members, including children, and they can make excellent family pets. Despite their calm demeanor, they can be protective when needed. Early socialization and training are important to ensure they develop into well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.

Exercise and Care:

English Mastiffs are not overly active dogs and have relatively low exercise needs. They enjoy daily walks and moderate exercise to keep them healthy and prevent weight gain. Due to their large size, it’s important to provide them with a spacious living environment. They are also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and heat sensitivity, so regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper care are essential.

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Saint Bernard

Origin:	Switzerland
Height:	Male: 70–90 cm, Female: 65–80 cm
Weight:	Male: 64 – 82 kg, Female 54 – 64 kg
Life expectancy:	8 – 10 years

Appearance:

Saint Bernards have a massive build with a strong and muscular body. They have a broad head with a well-defined stop, and their eyes are usually brown and gentle in expression. They have medium-sized ears that are set high on their heads. They have a dense, water-resistant coat that is typically white with various combinations of markings, such as red, brindle, or tan.

Temperament: 

Saint Bernards are known for their friendly, gentle, and patient temperament. They are generally good-natured and get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. They are known for their ability to be calm and composed, especially in stressful situations. They are loyal and devoted to their families, making them excellent family pets.

Exercise and Care:

Despite their large size, Saint Bernards have moderate exercise needs. They enjoy daily walks and moderate playtime to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They are not well-suited for hot climates due to their thick coat. Regular grooming is required to keep their coat clean and free of tangles. Saint Bernards are prone to certain health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, so regular veterinary care is important.

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Great Dane

Origin:	Germany
Height:	Female :71–84 cm, Male: 76–90 cm
Weight:	Female: 45–59 kg, Male: 54–90 kg
Life expectancy:	8 – 10 years

Appearance:

Great Danes is a massive dog breed that has a sleek and muscular build. They have a long, elegant neck, deep chest, and a well-proportioned body. Their head is large and rectangular, with a flat skull and a long, tapering muzzle. Their eyes are medium-sized, and their ears can be cropped or left natural, standing upright or folded over. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, brindle, black, blue, harlequin, and mantle.

Temperament: 

Great Danes are known for their friendly and gentle nature. Despite their imposing size, they are often referred to as “gentle giants.” They are generally good-natured, patient, and affectionate. Great Danes are typically good with children and can be loyal and devoted to their families. They may be reserved around strangers, but they should not display aggression or excessive shyness when properly socialized.

Exercise and Care:

Great Danes have moderate exercise needs. They benefit from regular walks and playtime, but they are not overly active dogs. It’s important to provide them with sufficient mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and promote their well-being. Due to their large size, they require a spacious living environment. Great Danes are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart problems. Regular vet check-ups and a proper diet are crucial for their overall health.

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Newfoundland

Origin:	Newfoundland
Height:	Male: 69–71 cm, Female: 63–66 cm
Weight:	Male: 65–80 kg, Female: 55–65 kg
Life expectancy:	8 – 10 years

Appearance:

Newfoundlands are Giant canine built with a lot of muscle. Their eyes are often dark and compassionate, and they have a large head with a soft smile. They have medium-sized ears that are close to their heads. They have a double coat that is both thick and water-resistant and comes in a variety of hues, including black, brown, gray, and Landseer (white with black markings).

Temperament:

Newfoundlands are renowned for their lovely and considerate disposition. In general, they are kind, understanding, and amiable. They are frequently referred to as “gentle giants” and are known in particular for their affection for youngsters. They typically get along nicely with other animals as well. The calm collected nature of Newfoundlands is well known, and they are excellent companions.

Exercise and Care:

Despite their size, Newfoundlands have moderate exercise needs. They enjoy daily walks, but they are not overly active dogs. They are natural swimmers and have a fondness for water, so opportunities for swimming are beneficial for their well-being. They require regular grooming to keep their thick coat in good condition, including brushing to prevent matting. Due to their double coat, they are more suited to colder climates. Newfoundlands are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and obesity, so a balanced diet and regular vet check-ups are important.

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Leonberger

Origin:	Germany
Height:	Female: 65–75 cm, Male: 72–80 cm
Weight:	Female: 41–64 kg, Male: 50–77 kg
Life expectancy:	8 – 9 years

Appearance:

Leonbergers possess a majestic and aristocratic aspect. They have a robust, well-balanced body with a wide chest and deep ribs. Their eyes have a soft look, and their head is broad and expressive. Around their neck and chest, they have a definite mane that resembles a lion’s. They have a double coat that is strong and water-resistant and is available in a variety of hues, including lion-yellow, red, and sand.

Temperament:

Leonbergers are renowned for their kind, serene, and amiable dispositions. They have a caring and patient attitude and are often cheerful. They like to get along well with kids and other pets and are dedicated to their families. Being versatile and typically at ease in a variety of settings and social contexts, Leonbergers are renowned for their adaptability.

Exercise and Care:

Though they are not particularly energetic dogs, Leonbergers love taking daily walks. They like engaging in activities like swimming, hiking, and obedience training as well as spending time with their family. It takes routine maintenance to keep their thick coat in good condition and avoid matting. Although they can adapt to a variety of temperatures, their thick coat should be protected from severe heat. Regular veterinary examinations are crucial for Leonbergers since they are prone to specific health concerns, such as hip dysplasia and cardiac troubles.

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Irish Wolfhound

Origin:	Ireland
Height:	Male: 81-89 cm, Female: 81 – 86 cm
Weight:	64 to 82 kg, Female: 52 to 64 kg
Life expectancy:	6 – 10 years

Appearance:

Irish Wolfhounds have a tall and graceful appearance. They have a long muscular body with deep chest and wide elongated heads. Their eyes are dark and usually have a gentle expression. They have a rough and wiry coat that comes in various colors, including gray, brindle, red, black, white, and fawn.

Temperament:

Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle and friendly temperament. They are generally calm, easygoing, and affectionate. Despite their size, they are often described as gentle giants and are typically good with children and other pets. They have a calm and dignified demeanor. While they may be reserved around strangers, they should not display aggression or excessive shyness when properly socialized.

Exercise and Care:

Irish Wolfhounds tend to be couch potatoes and aren’t really active canines. Due to their size, they demand a roomy living space. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting in their coat. Regular veterinary treatment is crucial for Irish Wolfhounds because they are prone to specific health problems like hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease.

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Tibetan Mastiff

Origin:	Ireland
Height:	Male: 81-89 cm, Female: 81 – 86 cm
Weight:	64 to 82 kg, Female: 52 to 64 kg
Life expectancy:	6 – 10 years

Appearance:

The body type of Tibetan Mastiffs is strong and well-muscled. They have a big head, a wide skull, and a powerful muzzle. Their medium-sized, widely-spaced eyes are typically brown to amber in color. They have a thick, double layer that serves as insulation and defense against bad weather. Coat colors can vary from black, brown, gold, and blue-gray.

Temperament:

Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their protective and independent nature. They are typically reserved and aloof around strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. They are loyal and devoted to their families, often forming strong bonds with their owners. While they can be gentle and affectionate with their family members, they may exhibit dominance and stubbornness if not properly trained and socialized from an early age.

Exercise and Care:

Tibetan Mastiffs require a modest amount of exercise. To keep them active physically and intellectually, they benefit from regular walks and playtime. They are perfectly suited to living in open spaces with sturdy fences. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting in their thick coat, especially during shedding seasons. Although Tibetan Mastiffs are typically robust and healthy, they can be predisposed to certain conditions, including hip dysplasia and specific eye abnormalities.

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Dogue de Bordeaux

Origin:	France
Height:	Male:  60–67 cm, Female:  57–65 cm
Weight:	Male: 54–65 kg, Female: 54–65 kg
Life expectancy:	5 – 8 years

Appearance:

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a big and strong dog breed. They have a wrinkled face and a short, smooth coat. Their coat can be reddish-brown or fawn in color. They have a large head, a strong body, and a short tail. Their eyes are usually a dark color, and they have a serious and determined expression. Overall, they look powerful and muscular.

Temperament:

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a friendly and loyal breed. They are often gentle and protective with their family. They can be calm and patient, but also very brave if needed. They might be cautious around strangers, but they usually get along well with people they know. They can be good with kids if raised together. Training and socialization help them be well-behaved and confident.

Exercise and Care:

The Dogue de Bordeaux doesn’t need too much exercise. A couple of short walks and some playtime each day are usually enough. Because they have short noses, they can get tired quickly in hot weather. Their short coat is easy to care for, just a bit of brushing will do. Be mindful of their wrinkles, as they might need cleaning to avoid infections. Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet keep them healthy. And don’t forget, they love being with their family indoors!

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Boerboel

Origin:	South Africa
Height:	Male: 61–69 cm, Female: 56–64 cm
Weight:	Male: 68–91 kg, Female: 68–91 kg
Life expectancy:	10 – 12 years

Appearance:

The Boerboel is a large and powerful breed of dog known for its muscular build and imposing appearance. It has a well-proportioned body with a broad chest and strong, straight legs. The head is large and square-shaped, with a distinctive wrinkled forehead and a black mask around the muzzle. Boerboels have a short, dense coat that can come in various colors, including fawn, brindle, and black.

Temperament:

The Boerboel is a breed of large, powerful dog originating from South Africa. Its temperament is characterized by loyalty, protectiveness, and confidence. Boerboels are known to be devoted and affectionate toward their families, often forming strong bonds. They are highly protective of their home and loved ones, making them excellent guard dogs. While generally gentle and friendly with their families, they can be wary of strangers and exhibit a territorial nature.

Exercise and Care:

Boerboels need regular exercise like walks and playtime to stay healthy. Feed them a balanced diet, groom their short coat, and clean their ears. Train and socialize them early to ensure good behavior. Regular vet check-ups and vaccinations are essential for their well-being.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, these Giant dog species captivate us with their immense size and gentle nature. These majestic companions require careful consideration and responsible ownership. From the Great Dane to Saint Bernard, these gentle giants leave an indelible mark on our lives, reminding us of the beauty and diversity of the canine world. Let us embrace the joy that dogs of all sizes bring to our lives.

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FAQs