he 25 Biggest Dog Breeds in the World: A Definitive Ranking of Gentle Giants

There is an old saying in the canine world: “The bigger the dog, the bigger the heart.” While small dogs certainly have their charms, there is something uniquely awe-inspiring about a giant breed. Whether it’s their commanding presence, their history as ancient guardians of kingdoms, or their surprising reputation as “velcro dogs” who think they are lap-sized, giant breeds occupy a special place in the hearts of dog lovers.

Owning a giant dog isn’t just a commitment; it’s a lifestyle change. You need a bigger car, a bigger couch, and a significantly larger budget for kibble. But for those who have the space and the love to give, these 25 breeds offer a level of companionship that is truly larger than life.

In this comprehensive guide, we rank the 25 biggest dog breeds by a combination of height, weight, and overall mass, moving from the “large” to the truly “colossal.”

25. The Komondor

Often referred to as the “mop dog” due to its distinctive corded coat, the Komondor is a powerful livestock guardian from Hungary. Underneath all those white cords is a muscular, heavy-boned dog designed to blend in with sheep and surprise attacking wolves.

Height: 25–30 inches
Weight: 80–100+ lbs
Defining Trait: Their white cords protect them from extreme weather and predator bites. They are fiercely loyal and incredibly protective of their “flock,” whether that flock is sheep or human children.

24. The Old English Sheepdog

While they look like giant teddy bears, the Old English Sheepdog was originally a “drover,” used to drive cattle and sheep to market. They are famous for their shaggy coat and a unique “pot-casse” bark that sounds like two pans clanging together.

Height: 21–22+ inches
Weight: 60–100 lbs
Defining Trait: Despite their lower weight compared to mastiffs, their sheer volume of fur and sturdy bone structure makes them appear massive. They are known for being playful, bubbly, and incredibly affectionate.

23. The Rhodesian Ridgeback

Hailing from Southern Africa, the “Lion Dog” was bred to track and bay lions while the hunter caught up. They are sleek, athletic, and possess incredible endurance. While they aren’t the heaviest on this list, their height and muscular frame earn them a spot among the giants.

Height: 24–27 inches
Weight: 70–85 lbs
Defining Trait: The “ridge” of hair running down their back in the opposite direction of the rest of their coat. They are independent and dignified, requiring a firm hand in training.

22. The Black Russian Terrier

Created in the late 1940s by the Soviet Union’s “Red Star” kennel for use as military and working dogs, the Black Russian Terrier (BRT) is a powerhouse. They are a complex mix of several breeds, including the Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, and Rottweiler.

Height: 26–30 inches
Weight: 80–130 lbs
Defining Trait: They are “all-purpose” dogs. Brave, highly intelligent, and very protective, they are often described as “black pearls” of the dog world because of their rarity and value as guardians.

21. The Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the four breeds of Sennenhund-type dogs from the Swiss Alps. Known for their striking tri-color coat and “smiling” faces, these dogs were originally used for pulling carts and herding cattle.

Height: 23–28 inches
Weight: 70–115 lbs
Defining Trait: Their temperament is their most famous feature. They are known as “gentle giants” who are particularly patient with children. However, they are heavy shedders and prefer cold climates.

20. The Bloodhound

While most people think of their incredible sense of smell, they often forget just how large a Bloodhound can be. These are thick-boned, heavy dogs with a long, narrow face and loose skin that helps “trap” scents.

Height: 23–27 inches
Weight: 80–110 lbs
Defining Trait: They have the most sensitive nose in the canine kingdom. A Bloodhound can follow a trail that is over 300 hours old. They are docile but can be incredibly stubborn when they catch a scent.

19. The Bullmastiff

Bred by English gamekeepers to guard estates and catch poachers, the Bullmastiff is a cross between the English Mastiff and the now-extinct Old English Bulldog. They are built like tanks—squat, muscular, and intimidating.

Height: 24–27 inches
Weight: 100–130 lbs
Defining Trait: They were bred to pin and hold poachers without biting them. This makes them naturally protective but generally calm indoors. They are notorious droolers!

18. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

The “Swissy” is the oldest and largest of the four Swiss mountain dog breeds. Unlike the Bernese, they have a short, dense coat. They were the “poor man’s horse” in Switzerland, used to haul heavy carts of meat and dairy products through the mountains.

Height: 24–29 inches
Weight: 85–140 lbs
Defining Trait: They possess incredible pulling power and a loud, deep bark. They are social, sturdy, and require plenty of physical activity to keep their heavy muscles toned.

17. The Akita (American)

The Akita comes in two strains: the Japanese Akitainu and the larger American Akita. The American version is a heavy-boned, bear-like dog with a powerful head and a plush tail that curls over its back.

Height: 24–28 inches
Weight: 70–130 lbs
Defining Trait: They are fiercely loyal—exemplified by the famous Hachiko. However, they are also very dominant and can be wary of strangers and other dogs.

16. The Dogue de Bordeaux

Also known as the French Mastiff, this breed became world-famous after the movie Turner & Hooch. They have the largest head-to-body ratio of any dog breed, characterized by a wrinkled, soulful face and a massive, muscular frame.

Height: 23–27 inches
Weight: 99–110+ lbs
Defining Trait: Despite their intimidating appearance, they are incredibly sweet-tempered and devoted to their families. They are “low energy” giants who prefer a nap on the sofa to a long hike.

15. The Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is an Italian breed of mastiff that was traditionally used for guarding property and hunting large game like wild boar. They are more athletic and agile than the English Mastiff, with a sleek, muscular build.

Height: 23–28 inches
Weight: 90–120 lbs
Defining Trait: Their name roughly translates to “bodyguard dog.” They are highly intelligent and require an experienced owner who can provide consistent training and socialization.

14. The Scottish Deerhound

Looking like a shaggy, oversized Greyhound, the Scottish Deerhound was bred to hunt the massive Red Deer of the Scottish Highlands. They are built for speed and endurance but on a much larger scale than your average sighthound.

Height: 28–32 inches
Weight: 75–110 lbs
Defining Trait: They are incredibly tall but lean. Their “wiriness” is deceptive; they are remarkably strong. Indoors, they are “couch potatoes,” but outdoors, they are lightning-fast runners.

13. The Landseer (ECT)

While many consider the Landseer a black-and-white variety of the Newfoundland, in many European countries, it is recognized as a separate breed (European Continental Type). They are slightly taller and more athletic than the standard Newfie.

Height: 26–32 inches
Weight: 110–150 lbs
Defining Trait: Named after the painter Sir Edwin Landseer, who featured them in his work. They are renowned swimmers and have a natural instinct for water rescue.

12. The Anatolian Shepherd

Hailing from the Anatolian plateau of Turkey, this breed has been protecting livestock for thousands of years. They are rugged, powerful, and capable of living outdoors in extreme temperatures.

Height: 27–30 inches
Weight: 80–150 lbs
Defining Trait: They are legendary for their ability to take on wolves and cheetahs. They are not “pets” in the traditional sense; they are working dogs with an independent, protective nature.

11. The Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is the primitive “grandfather” of all mastiff breeds. With a thick mane of hair that makes them look like lions, they were used to guard monasteries in the Himalayas.

Height: 24–30 inches
Weight: 70–150 lbs
Defining Trait: They are one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world. They are famously nocturnal, staying awake at night to guard the home and sleeping during the day.

10. The Leonberger

The Leonberger was bred in Germany to look like a lion—specifically the lion on the town crest of Leonberg. They are a mix of Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Great Pyrenees.

Height: 26–31 inches
Weight: 90–170 lbs
Defining Trait: They are exceptional family dogs. Despite their size, they are remarkably graceful and have been used for water rescue and cart pulling. They are “gentle” is every sense of the word.

9. The Neapolitan Mastiff

With their “melted” skin and heavy jowls, the Neapolitan Mastiff is one of the most distinctive-looking dogs on earth. They are an ancient breed from Italy, used by the Romans as war dogs and estate guards.

Height: 24–31 inches
Weight: 110–150+ lbs
Defining Trait: Their appearance is their primary weapon—their goal was to look so terrifying that an intruder wouldn’t even attempt to enter. They are loyal but can be quite wary of strangers.

8. The Newfoundland

Affectionately called “Newfies,” these dogs are the undisputed kings of the water. They have webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat that allows them to swim in freezing temperatures.

Height: 26–28 inches
Weight: 100–150 lbs
Defining Trait: Their “nanny dog” reputation. They are incredibly patient with children and have a natural instinct to pull people out of the water, making them legendary rescue dogs.

7. The Irish Wolfhound

If we were ranking strictly by height, the Irish Wolfhound would take the #1 spot. They are the tallest of all dog breeds, capable of standing on their hind legs and looking a grown man in the eye.

Height: 30–35 inches (minimum 32 for males)
Weight: 105–150 lbs
Defining Trait: Ancient history. They were used by the Celts to hunt wolves and elk. Despite their size and history, they are “quiet giants” who rarely bark and are very sensitive to their owners’ emotions.

6. The Saint Bernard

Hailing from the Great St. Bernard Hospice in the Swiss Alps, these dogs were bred for mountain rescue. Legend says they carried small barrels of brandy around their necks to warm lost travelers (though this is largely a myth popularized by painters).

Height: 26–30 inches
Weight: 120–180 lbs
Defining Trait: Their massive weight and thickness. They are incredibly powerful and have a very low “boil” point, meaning they are almost impossible to make angry.

5. The Great Pyrenees

The “Patou” is a majestic white dog that has guarded sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains for centuries. They are thick-boned, heavy-coated, and have a zen-like calm about them—until they sense a threat.

Height: 25–32 inches
Weight: 85–160 lbs
Defining Trait: Their double dewclaws on the hind legs, which helped them climb steep, snowy slopes. They are famous for their “Pyrenean Paw,” which they use to swat at you when they want attention.

4. The Great Dane

Commonly known as the “Apollo of Dogs,” the Great Dane is the perfect blend of elegance and sheer size. While the Irish Wolfhound is taller on average, the Great Dane holds the record for the single tallest individual dogs (like the famous Zeus, who stood 44 inches at the shoulder).

Height: 28–34 inches
Weight: 110–190 lbs
Defining Trait: Their “lean.” A Great Dane will often lean its entire weight against your legs as a sign of affection. They are friendly, dependable, and surprisingly energetic for their size.

3. The Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Also known as the Ovcharka, this breed was developed in the Caucasus Mountains to hunt bears and protect livestock from predators. They are one of the most powerful and protective breeds in existence.

Height: 25–30+ inches
Weight: 110–200 lbs
Defining Trait: They are “all-natural” guardians. They are incredibly thick-boned and covered in a dense coat that makes them look even larger than they are. They are not recommended for first-time owners due to their extreme protective instincts.

2. The English Mastiff

In terms of sheer mass and weight, the English Mastiff is often the winner. The heaviest dog ever recorded was an English Mastiff named Zorba, who tipped the scales at 343 lbs. These dogs are the definition of “massive.”

Height: 27–32 inches
Weight: 120–230+ lbs
Defining Trait: Their docility. Despite being capable of knocking over a grown man just by wagging their tail, they are known as “gentle giants” who love nothing more than being close to their families.

1. The Spanish Mastiff

While the English Mastiff often takes the crown for weight, the Spanish Mastiff is a contender for the overall largest dog when you factor in their massive bone structure and historical use as a “heavy-duty” livestock guardian. They are rustic, powerful, and truly colossal.

Height: 28–35 inches
Weight: 140–220+ lbs
Defining Trait: They have a distinctive “dewlap” (loose skin on the neck) and a deep, sonorous bark that can be heard for miles. They are the ultimate protectors of the Iberian Peninsula, capable of defending against wolves and bears with ease.

Life with a Giant: What You Need to Know

While the allure of owning a dog that looks like a small horse is strong, there are several critical factors to consider before bringing a giant breed into your home.

1. The Cost of Living

Everything is more expensive with a giant dog.

Food: A 150-pound dog can easily go through a 30-pound bag of high-quality kibble every two weeks.
Veterinary Care: Medications, flea/tick preventatives, and anesthesia are all dosed by weight. A surgery for a Great Dane will cost significantly more than the same surgery for a Beagle.
Gear: You will need extra-large beds, heavy-duty leashes, and potentially a larger vehicle.

2. Space Requirements

While many giant breeds (like the Mastiff or Great Dane) are actually quite lazy and can live in apartments if given a good daily walk, they still physically take up space. They have a “tail sweep” that can clear a coffee table of glasses and ceramics in a single wag. You need wide hallways and a floor plan that doesn’t feel like an obstacle course.

3. Lifespan and Health

One of the hardest parts of owning a giant breed is their shorter lifespan. Most giant dogs live between 7 and 10 years. They are also prone to specific health issues:

Bloat (GDV): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. Giant, deep-chested breeds are at the highest risk.
Joint Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia are common due to the sheer weight these dogs carry.
Heart Problems: Conditions like Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) are more prevalent in large breeds.

4. Training is Non-Negotiable

A 20-pound dog pulling on a leash is an annoyance; a 150-pound dog pulling on a leash is a safety hazard. Giant dogs must be socialized and trained from puppyhood. They need to know how to walk politely on a leash, how to greet people without jumping, and “leave it” commands.

Why Choose a Giant Breed?

If the costs are high and the lifespans are short, why do people choose these dogs?

The answer lies in their temperament. Giant breeds tend to be more stable, less “yappy,” and more deeply connected to their owners than many smaller breeds. There is a sense of security that comes with having a giant guardian by your side, but even more so, there is the incredible affection they offer.

There is nothing quite like the feeling of a 150-pound Saint Bernard resting its head on your lap, or the dignified presence of an Irish Wolfhound walking beside you. They are living links to our history, and for the right owner, they are the ultimate companions.

Summary Table: Quick Stats for the Top 10

Breed	Avg. Max Weight	Avg. Max Height	Primary Personality
Spanish Mastiff	220 lbs	35 in	Protective & Dignified
English Mastiff	230 lbs	32 in	Docile & Loving
Caucasian Shepherd	200 lbs	30 in	Fearless & Assertive
Great Dane	190 lbs	34 in	Friendly & Patient
Great Pyrenees	160 lbs	32 in	Calm & Independent
Saint Bernard	180 lbs	30 in	Gentle & Playful
Irish Wolfhound	150 lbs	35 in	Sensitive & Easygoing
Newfoundland	150 lbs	28 in	Sweet & Brave
Neapolitan Mastiff	150 lbs	31 in	Watchful & Quiet
Leonberger	170 lbs	31 in	Affectionate & Versatile

Final Thoughts

The world of giant dogs is one of extremes. They bring extreme joy, require extreme care, and offer extreme loyalty. Whether you are drawn to the ruggedness of the Anatolian Shepherd or the goofy charm of the Old English Sheepdog, these breeds remind us that sometimes, bigger really is better.

If you have the space in your home and, more importantly, the space in your heart, a giant breed might just be the best friend you ever have. Just remember to buy a very, very large vacuum cleaner for all that fur!

25 Biggest Dog Breeds Ranked by Size