Some people adore tiny Chihuahuas, while others dream of having a dog that’s practically the size of a small horse. Giant breeds may look intimidating, but many of them are famous for being calm, affectionate, and incredibly loyal.
In general, a dog is considered large if it stands over 24 inches (60 cm) tall and weighs more than 88 pounds (40 kg). Many of the breeds on this list go far beyond that.
We at AdmiGram.com rounded up 10 of the largest dog breeds in the world—and they prove that the biggest dogs often have the biggest hearts. From towering Mastiffs to giant Newfoundlands, these dogs make devoted, loving companions.
Top 10 Largest Dog Breeds in the World
10. Leonberger
© mo pie / Flickr
The Leonberger was created in Germany in 1846 by breeding Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Great Pyrenees dogs. With their lion-like mane and gentle personality, they’re one of the most impressive family dogs around.
Despite their enormous size, Leonbergers are patient with kids and devoted to their families.
Size
- Height: 28–31 inches (72–80 cm) for males, 26–30 inches (65–75 cm) for females
- Weight: 119–170 lb (54–77 kg) for males, 99–134 lb (45–61 kg) for females
9. Moscow Watchdog
© Jakub Szestowicki / Flickr
The Moscow Watchdog was developed in Russia during the 1950s by crossing Saint Bernards, Caucasian Shepherd Dogs, and Russian Hounds.
These powerful dogs were bred to guard property, but they’re also deeply loyal to their families. With proper training and early socialization, they become confident and dependable companions.
Size
- Height: 30–31 inches (75–78 cm) for males, 28–30 inches (70–75 cm) for females
- Weight: 121–143 lb (55–65 kg) for males, 93–115 lb (42–52 kg) for females
8. Boerboel
© niklasfotografics / Unsplash
Originally developed in South Africa during the 17th century, the Boerboel is a powerful working dog with endless energy.
They need plenty of exercise and consistent training, but they’re also affectionate with their families and protective of their loved ones.
Size
- Height: 25–28 inches (64–70 cm) for males, 23–26 inches (59–65 cm) for females
- Weight: 154–198 lb (70–90 kg)
7. Newfoundland
© Reba Spike / Unsplash
The Newfoundland comes from Canada’s Atlantic coast and is famous for its incredible swimming abilities.
Their thick double coat helps protect them in cold water, and their sweet, calm temperament has earned them the nickname “gentle giants.”
The largest recorded Newfoundland reportedly weighed around 265 pounds (120 kg).
Size
- Height: 27–30 inches (69–75 cm) for males, 25–27 inches (63–68 cm) for females
- Weight: 132–154 lb (60–70 kg) for males, 99–121 lb (45–55 kg) for females
6. Tibetan Mastiff
© Kenneth Cole Schneider / Flickr
The Tibetan Mastiff has guarded monasteries and nomadic camps in the Himalayas for centuries.
With their massive mane and confident personality, they look like living lions. They’re fiercely loyal to their families but tend to be independent thinkers.
Size
- Height: 26–32 inches (66–81 cm) for males, 24–28 inches (61–71 cm) for females
- Weight: 132–181 lb (60–82 kg) for males, 88–132 lb (40–60 kg) for females
5. Great Dane
© George Pagan III / Unsplash
The Great Dane is one of the tallest dog breeds on Earth.
The breed’s most famous giant, Zeus from Michigan, measured an incredible 44 inches (111.8 cm) tall at the shoulder, earning a Guinness World Record.
Even though they’re huge, Great Danes are often affectionate, playful, and surprisingly gentle indoors.
Size
- Height: At least 31 inches (80 cm) for males, 28 inches (72 cm) for females
- Weight: 120–200 lb (54–91 kg) for males, 99–130 lb (45–59 kg) for females
4. Pyrenean Mastiff
© myachikova_natalya via Instagram
The Pyrenean Mastiff comes from Spain’s Aragon region, where it protected livestock from predators.
Today, these calm and balanced dogs are known for their affectionate nature and impressive size.
Some males weigh over 220 pounds (100 kg).
Size
- Height: 30–32 inches (77–81 cm) for males, 28–30 inches (72–75 cm) for females
- Weight: 154–179 lb (70–81 kg), with some males exceeding 220 lb (100 kg)
3. Saint Bernard
© Vlad Rudkov / Unsplash
The Saint Bernard became famous as a rescue dog in the Swiss and Italian Alps.
Behind their enormous size is an incredibly gentle personality, making them wonderful companions for families.
The heaviest Saint Bernard ever recorded was Benedictine, who weighed an astonishing 367 pounds (166.4 kg).
Size
- Height: 28–35 inches (70–90 cm) for males, 26–31 inches (65–80 cm) for females
- Weight: Often exceeds 220 pounds (100 kg)
2. Spanish Mastiff
© spanish_mastiff via Instagram
The Spanish Mastiff has protected livestock from wolves in Spain for centuries.
These intelligent, calm dogs are excellent guardians while remaining devoted to their families.
Size
- Height: 30–35 inches (77–88 cm) for males, 28–35 inches (72–88 cm) for females
- Weight: 176–265 lb (80–120 kg) for males, 154–220 lb (70–100 kg) for females
1. English Mastiff
© honey_mastiffs via Instagram
The English Mastiff takes the crown as the world’s biggest dog breed by weight.
These gentle giants combine immense strength with a calm, affectionate personality, making them beloved family companions.
The breed’s most legendary dog, Aicama Zorba, entered the Guinness World Records after reaching 37 inches (94 cm) tall and weighing 343 pounds (155.6 kg).
Size
- Height: 27–36 inches (69–91 cm)
- Weight: 150–243 lb (68–110 kg) for males, 120–200 lb (54–91 kg) for females
image on top: Giant George via Facebook
