Determining which among the many dog breeds is the biggest is actually very tricky. Within breeds, sizes may vary greatly so that on the average the biggest dog may not be from the biggest breed. Whether it’s the height, weight, or overall size that must be considered is also another difficulty. Following the American Kennel Club’s standard measurements, here is a list of ten of the biggest dog breeds:
#1 – Saint Bernard
This loyal, gentle, and friendly breed stands from 25 to 27 inches tall and weigh from 130 to 180 pounds. The Saint Bernard is famous as a rescue dog in the Swiss mountains. Exercise is a must to avoid weight issues in this breed. They also drool very heavily.
#2 – Mastiff
The Mastiff – a massive, muscular, and mighty breed – has an average weight of165 to 225 pounds with a standard height of 30 inches. This breed became popular in England as watchdog that is why it is also called the Old English Mastiff. They make very good guard dogs and are also very gentle, docile, courageous, and loyal.They need much space because of their size but relatively minimal exercise. Like Saint Bernards, Mastiffs also drool quite heavily.
#3 – Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff has a standard height of 26-31 inches tall and an average weight of 150 pounds. They are also a very powerful, large, and massive breed, appearing ferocious because of their size and expression, but generally well-bred and peaceful when properly trained. Originally used by Romans as war dogs, they tend to be protective and loyal to their families making them good guard dogs. They need minimal exercise and similar to the first two on our list, they also drool.
#4 – Newfoundland
Newfoundlands make a great dog for kids despite their enormous size, averaging 100-150 pounds at 26 to 28 inches tall. This is because of their very gentle, loving, friendly, and patient temperament. An instinctive water rescue dog, these lifesavershave very thick fur that protects them from the cold. This means caring for Newfs not only includes daily exercise but also regular brushing of their coat.
#5 – Dogue de Bordeaux
Another mastiff-type dog, the French Mastiff, is trained to guard, hunt, and fight.One of the ancient dog breeds, it is very vigilant but patient, fearless but calm. It weighs a minimum of 99 pounds and stands at a range of 23 to 27 inches tall.
#6 – Great Dane
The largest lap dog and the Apollo of the dog world, the Great Dane is a most gentle, friendly, and dependable breed. Although on the average it has a minimumheight of 30 inches and is the second tallest breed after the Irish Wolfhound, the tallest dog is currently a Great Dane named Giant George. Despite their gigantic height, with paws as large as a man’s hand, the Great Dane is never aggressive and is very well-mannered, making them great family dogs. Just make sure that children are never on their way because they weigh between 145-185 pounds.
#7 – Irish Wolfhound
On the average, the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed standing at 30 to 34 incheswith an average weight of 120 pounds. They are wonderful hunting dogs in the past – so wonderful that they were able to eliminate preys out of Ireland. Friendly, patient, and intelligent as companion dogs, they need much exercise and brushing of their naturally harsh coat.
#8 – Perro de Presa Canario
Originating from the Canary Islands, this breed serves as guard, fighting, and hunting dog. They measure between 23 to 26 inches with a minimum weight of 100 pounds.
#9 – Pyrenean Mountain Dog
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is a very useful companion to the shepherd for their excellent and faithful attitude to guarding flocks. They are very confident and affectionate to their owner, but have the tendency to be territorial. They tend to act independently, thus, obedience training and daily exercise on a leash is necessary. They have very thick coat and weigh around 50 to 4 kilograms and range in size from25 to 32 inches tall.
#10 – Kuvasz
This muscular, agile, and courageous dog breed was developed in Hungary as a companion to its rulers and of other European empires. They are excellent dogs to guard livestock and requires daily activity. Training is necessary at an early age and their size ranges from 26 to 30 inches with an average weight of 70 to 115 pounds.
