Some giant dogs can weigh as much as an adult human and, when standing on their hind legs, can even tower over one. The breeds featured in our top 10 are among the largest dogs in the world, with some reaching dimensions that can seem closer to those of a small horse than an ordinary dog. Many giant breeds have calm and steady temperaments, although their enormous size and strength mean that responsible training and handling are essential.
Some of you may write in the comments, “My German Shepherd is one meter tall,” but exceptional individual dogs are not representative of the breed as a whole.
1 English Mastiff, up to about 91 cm at the shoulder
The English Mastiff, usually simply called the Mastiff, is one of the heaviest dog breeds in the world. There is no strict maximum height in the modern breed standard; instead, size and substance are highly valued when combined with soundness. Adult males commonly weigh well over 90 kg, with some reaching more than 100 kg. Despite their imposing appearance, Mastiffs are generally calm and affectionate with their families and can also be protective.
2 Great Dane, up to about 81 cm at the shoulder
The Great Dane is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. Under the FCI standard, males should be at least 80 cm at the shoulder, while females should be at least 72 cm. The breed is tall, elegant, muscular and surprisingly light for its height, with adult males commonly weighing around 50–80 kg. Great Danes are generally known for their friendly, patient and dependable temperament.
3 Saint Bernard, up to about 90 cm at the shoulder
The Saint Bernard is famous for its history as a mountain rescue dog in the Swiss Alps. Historically, these powerful dogs were used to locate travelers lost in snow and avalanches and to help rescuers reach them. Today, the breed is also known as a gentle and affectionate family companion. Adult Saint Bernards can weigh more than 80 kg and, in particularly large individuals, considerably more.
4 Leonberger, up to about 80 cm at the shoulder
The Leonberger is a large, muscular breed with a distinctive long coat and a powerful build. Males can reach around 80 cm at the shoulder and may weigh up to approximately 75–80 kg or more. Despite their impressive size, Leonbergers are generally known for their calm, confident and sociable nature. They can make devoted family companions when properly trained and socialized.
5 Irish Wolfhound, at least 79 cm at the shoulder
The Irish Wolfhound is widely recognized as the tallest dog breed. The breed standard specifies a minimum height of 79 cm for males and 71 cm for females, with males ideally averaging around 81–86 cm. Despite their enormous height, Irish Wolfhounds are relatively lean compared with mastiffs, with a minimum male weight of about 54.5 kg. Historically, they were bred to hunt large game, including wolves and deer.
6 Scottish Deerhound, up to about 81 cm at the shoulder
The Scottish Deerhound is another exceptionally tall breed. Males can reach around 80 cm or more at the shoulder, while females are generally somewhat smaller. These athletic and muscular hounds were historically bred for hunting red deer. They are built for speed and endurance rather than the massive body weight of mastiff-type breeds.
7 Tibetan Mastiff, up to about 76 cm at the shoulder
The Tibetan Mastiff is one of the most imposing large guardian breeds. Males can reach around 66 cm or more at the shoulder under the FCI standard, while particularly large individuals can be taller. They have a heavy build and an exceptionally thick double coat, which makes them appear even larger. The breed was traditionally used to guard livestock, homes and monasteries in the Himalayan region.
8 Newfoundland, up to about 71 cm at the shoulder
Newfoundlands are famous throughout the world for their exceptional swimming and water-rescue abilities. Developed to assist fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada, they have webbed feet, a water-resistant coat and tremendous strength. At the same time, they are generally gentle, trainable and devoted family dogs. Adult males can weigh well over 60 kg and sometimes considerably more.
9 Pyrenean Mastiff, at least 77 cm at the shoulder
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a huge Spanish livestock-guardian breed. Under the breed standard, males must be at least 77 cm at the shoulder, while females must be at least 72 cm, with no upper height limit. Large males can weigh well over 70 kg and may approach 90 kg or more. Despite their size, well-socialized Pyrenean Mastiffs are generally calm and affectionate with their families.
10 Caucasian Shepherd Dog, around 68–75 cm at the shoulder
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a powerful livestock guardian originating from the Caucasus region. Depending on the standard and individual, males commonly stand around 68–75 cm or more at the shoulder and can weigh well over 50 kg. These dogs were bred to protect livestock and property from predators and intruders. They are powerful, independent and protective, so experienced handling, early socialization and proper training are particularly important.
Of course, giant breeds require more space, food, exercise and veterinary care than smaller dogs. However, it is not accurate to say that every giant breed is unsuitable for apartment living: some large dogs can adapt to smaller homes if they receive sufficient exercise, enrichment and appropriate care. Their size does, however, make responsible training and adequate living conditions especially important.
