The 10 Biggest Dog Breeds in the World

Your dog is big, but these 10 dogs are even bigger! Some dog breeds grow into true giants. Some were even bred to protect flocks of sheep from bears and other large predators. As intimidating as these dogs may appear today, when it comes to interacting with people, the largest dog breeds turn out to be gentle giants. Many large dogs are extremely affectionate and can overwhelm their owners with their endless love (and their weight).*

In this top 10 list, you'll get to know the biggest dog breeds. The ranking is based on height and weight and on the overall appearance of the dogs.

Kangal Shepherd Dog

Height: up to 78 cm (31 in) The Kangal is a dog breed with a pedigree that goes back a long way. They protect flocks of sheep in the mountain regions of Turkey from bears and other predators. They have a very strong protective instinct. A Kangal should only be kept by an experienced owner who can handle the special characteristics of this breed. Kangals are usually very calm, but when a threat appears, they can react in a flash and switch into defence mode.

Irish Wolfhound

Height: up to 79 cm (31 in) The Irish Wolfhound is one of the biggest dog breeds in the world. Although you might think that the Wolfhound is related to the wolf, its genes are no closer to the wolf than those of any other dog. The Irish Wolfhound got its name because it was used for hunting wolves. Later, it was also used for bear hunting. As a result, Wolfhounds possess tremendous strength and endurance.

Landseer

Height: up to 80 cm (31.5 in) The Landseer is a very intelligent and watchful dog breed, but these qualities are only surpassed by their strong bond with their family. They are extremely focused on their owners and rather suspicious of strangers. Because of their high intelligence, Landseers are frequently used as service dogs or in rescue operations. With consistent training, the Landseer can also make an excellent family dog.

Great Pyrenees

Height: up to 80 cm (31.5 in)

The Great Pyrenees, also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, is a very gentle yet watchful giant. It is extremely loyal to its family and would do anything for them. However, when danger threatens, the Great Pyrenees can come down on an attacker like a force of nature.

Leonberger

Height: up to 80 cm (31.5 in) This breed resembles a lion thanks to its mane and dark mask. This fits perfectly with the lion on the coat of arms of Leonberg, where the Leonberger originated. It inherited its friendly nature from its ancestor, the Saint Bernard. This also makes it an ideal family dog. Like the Saint Bernard, it needs plenty of exercise and will shower active owners with its endless love.

Borzoi

Height: up to 85 cm (33.5 in) The Borzoi has a long, flowing coat, belongs to the sighthound family, and can reach some of the highest running speeds of any dog breed. Consequently, they also need plenty of exercise and room to run. Apart from their high need for movement, they are very easy to care for and sociable. This also makes them suitable as family dogs. Their distinctive build, long snout, and long coat make the Borzoi truly special.

Akbash

Height: up to 86 cm (34 in) The Akbash is a dog breed originating from Turkey. Its name means "white head" in Turkish. Fittingly, it has a fluffy, white coat. It has a muscular build and a noble posture. It is often used as a guard dog because of its strong guarding instinct and great independence. In temperament, however, it is very balanced and calm. It only tends to be distrustful of strangers at first.

Great Dane

Height: up to 86 cm (34 in) The Great Dane is just as big as it is affectionate. That is why it is often called the "big lap dog." But its stately appearance and majestic gait also contribute to its popularity. No matter how intimidating the Great Dane may seem, it has a gentle, loving, and affectionate nature. Great Danes quickly build a strong bond with their owners and can literally overwhelm them with love thanks to their enormous size.

Saint Bernard

Height: up to 90 cm (35.5 in) Saint Bernards look like oversized teddy bears at first glance. You fall in love with their loyal eyes and just want to give them a big hug. Because of their gentle and loving nature, a Saint Bernard would love to cuddle with its owners and their children. This breed also has a reputation as a rescuer in times of need. The most famous Saint Bernard was named Barry. He lived in Switzerland and, according to legend, saved as many as 40 people from freezing to death in the Alps.

Mastiff

Height: up to 91 cm (36 in) Mastiffs are an extremely massive breed from Great Britain. They have a broad muzzle and forehead wrinkles. This breed has earned the number one spot in this top 10 through its enormous size, weight, and impressive overall appearance. Its muscular build and dark mask give it a tremendously imposing look. Yet this former guard dog is now a popular family dog, thanks to its calm and friendly temperament.

Bonus: Freddy

Height: 103.5 cm (40.7 in) Freddy was a Great Dane who held the Guinness World Record for the tallest dog in the world from 2016 to 2021. He lived with his owner in Essex, north of London. When Freddy stood on his hind legs, he reached an incredible height of 2.30 m (7 ft 6 in). The gigantic four-legged friend didn't fit in any standard dog bed, so his owner had to convert a double human lounger into a sleeping spot. In such a huge dog bed, even the giant Freddy could feel like a lap dog.

Conclusion

You've now met some truly impressive dog breeds. You've probably noticed that many of these gentle giants make wonderful family dogs. Don't be put off by their size, their hearts are even bigger.