Top 10 Largest Dog Breeds In The World

All dogs are wonderful in their own way. Some people love tiny Chihuahuas or Yorkies, while others are crazy about giant Mastiffs. What dog can be considered big? Canine experts assert that if it is tall (over 60 cm), has a strong skeleton and well-defined muscles, and weighs more than 40 kg.

However, big doesn’t necessarily mean scary or aggressive. On the contrary, such dogs, when properly trained, are usually very gentle, loyal, and friendly creatures. AdmiGram.com tells about the largest dog breeds that will be your excellent and most faithful friend.

Top 10 largest dog breeds in the world

10th place: Leonberger

The Leonberger is a large breed of dog, developed in 1846 in the German town of Leonberg by crossing Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Pyrenean Mountain Dogs. They are majestic and impressive, and their power is combined with nobility and gentleness of character. These magnificent dogs possess astonishing loyalty to their owners and incredible friendliness towards children, making them excellent companions for the whole family. The height of males ranges from 72 to 80 cm, and weight from 54 to 77 kg. The weight of females is 45-61 kg, with a height at the withers of 65-75 cm.

9th place: Moscow Watchdog

The Moscow Watchdog was developed in the 1950s in Russia by crossing breeds such as the Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Saint Bernard, and Russian Hound. It is a breed of dog with a powerful physique and noble character. Their loyalty and unwavering protective nature make them ideal guardians and loyal companions in the family. Their expressive eyes and majestic posture immediately attract attention and make you fall in love with this breed at first sight. The height of males ranges from 75 to 78 cm, and weight from 55 to 65 kg. The weight of females is 42-52 kg, with a height at the withers of 70-75 cm.

8th place: Boerboel

Boerboel is a breed of working dogs developed in South Africa in the 17th century. Ideal for super active individuals, as they require constant attention and care, which includes not only affection but also regular training and physical exercise. Despite their powerful appearance and character, they can be very affectionate and friendly with family and children. The height at the withers for males is 64-70 cm, females 59-65 cm, and the weight for both sexes ranges from 70 to 90 kg.

7th place: Newfoundland dog

The Newfoundland dog originates from the northeastern coast of Canada. These majestic and friendly dogs have a powerful build and dense coat that protects them from the cold. They are known for their massive size and incredible loyalty to their owners. They excel in swimming and get along well with their owner’s family. Males typically weigh 60-70 kg, females 45-55 kg. The largest recorded Newfoundland dog weighed 120 kg. The height at the withers for males ranges from 69 to 75 cm, and for females from 63 to 68 cm.

6th place: Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs served in the monasteries of Tibet as guard dogs and also accompanied nomads in the Himalayan Mountains. This breed of dog has an impressive appearance, a strong build, and a proud posture. They show loyalty to their family and have a strong character, making them invaluable partners for protection and companionship. Height at the withers: males – 66-81 cm, females – 61-71 cm. The weight of males varies from 60 to 82 kg, females from 40 to 60 kg.

5th place: Great Dane

The Great Dane undoubtedly impresses with its majestic appearance and nobility. These graceful creatures combine grandeur and tenderness, making them perfect companions for an active family. The record holder for this breed is a giant Great Dane named Zeus from Michigan, whose height was 111.8 cm. The minimum height at the withers for males is 80 cm, females 72 cm, with males weighing between 54 to 91 kg, and females 45-59 kg.

4th place: Pyrenean Mastiff

The Pyrenean Mastiff originates from Aragon, Spain. Originally serving as a shepherd dog, it stands out for its power and nobility. Its impressive appearance and balanced character make it an excellent companion and guardian. This breed possesses exceptional loyalty and affection, making it an ideal companion for an active lifestyle. The height for males ranges from 77 to 81 cm, females 72-75 cm. The average weight is 70-81 kg, although males weighing over 100 kg are not uncommon.

3rd place: Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is a true giant with a kind and friendly character, originating from working dogs from the Italian and Swiss Alps, initially bred as rescuers. Known for its huge size and gentle heart, it makes an excellent partner for families with children and an active lifestyle. A Saint Bernard named Benedictine, weighing 166.4 kg, made history as the heaviest dog. The height of the dogs ranges from 65-80 cm for females and 70-90 cm for males. The weight of Saint Bernards can easily exceed 100 kg.

2nd place: Spanish Mastiff

These dogs hail from Extremadura, Spain. Originally used to protect livestock from wolves and other predators, the Spanish Mastiff is known for its loyalty to its owners and high intelligence, making it an excellent companion for family adventures and a protector of the home. The height of a male Spanish Mastiff ranges from 77-88 cm, weighing 80-120 kg, while the height of a female at the withers is 72-88 cm, weighing 70-100 kg.

1st place: English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a majestic representative of the breed, known for its imposing size and noble character. These majestic creatures possess unique dignity and friendliness, making them indispensable family members and amazing companions at every step. The average height of these giants is 69-91 cm, and the weight can range from 68 to 110 kg for males and from 54 to 91 kg for females. The record holder for this breed is an English Mastiff named Aicama Zorba, who made it into the Guinness Book of World Records, standing at 94 cm tall and weighing 155.58 kg.

image on top: Giant George via Facebook