The largest dog breeds in the world encompass unique characteristics and diverse backgrounds—from the Great Dane of German origin to the gentle Saint Bernard and more.
More broadly, the range of shapes, colors, personalities, and purposes for which dogs are bred is jaw-dropping. Over centuries, different dogs in different geographic locations have been honed by humans to play certain roles, from hunter to guardian, from herder to companion.
For some of these breeds, size has been a significant player in the search for perfection, whether that was to hunt bigger or faster game, guard a home with more intimidation, or even just have the mass to survive in freezing locations. Of the hundreds of dog breeds around the world, here are nine of the largest.
1 of 9
Great Dane
The Great Dane is widely recognized as the largest dog breed by the American Kennel Club, at least in terms of height.1 The Great Dane is a breed of German origin and its German name Deutsche Dogge means German mastiff. However, before setting down official roots in Germany, the dogs that eventually became the Great Dane breed came from a crossbreed between English mastiffs and Irish wolfhounds.
Though they aren't the heaviest dogs, reaching around 100–120 pounds, they are among the tallest. The average Great Dane stands around 28–30 inches tall but often they can be taller. The world record holder for tallest dog was a Great Dane named Zeus who stood an astounding 44 inches tall.2 However, these big dogs trade longevity for their size, and live only to be between 6 to 8 years old. Zeus died of old age at just 5 years old.
2 of 9
Neapolitan Mastiff
Mastiff breeds are certainly among the largest dog breeds in terms of sheer mass. The Neapolitan mastiff originated in southern Italy. Used as a guard dog, the average male mastiff stands between 26–31 inches tall and weighs a hefty 150 pounds.3 Females are usually a little smaller, standing a few inches shorter and weighing around 110 pounds.
This breed is known for being fearless and protective of home and family, making it an ideal guard dog—but not an ideal warning system. Mastiffs tend to be quiet and are known for sneaking up on intruders rather than barking to warn them off. Because of the breed's protective nature, you certainly don't want to stand between these dogs and their family, which makes this dog a breed only for owners well versed in dog training and able to put in the extensive time needed for socialization
3 of 9
Scottish Deerhound
Going back to the leggy breeds, the Scottish deerhound gives away its purpose and origin in its name. Originating in Scotland well before recorded history, the breed is a courser, easily chasing down its prey and once used to hunt red deer. They are larger and heavier than greyhounds but are built similarly, with a lanky body meant for speed.4
Deerhounds can stand as tall as 32 inches and weigh as much as 110 pounds. Though they aren't used for deer hunting today, the breed is kept alive by enthusiasts who use them for show and in some places, lure coursing: