Say what you will about dog breeds, but there is something particularly endearing about the largest of dogs. Physically imposing and athletically capable, the larger dog breeds often have a disposition that betrays their oversized frames. Though they often require more work and upkeep, many people prefer the largest dog breeds in the world.
Compared to smaller breeds that were created purely for companionship, the largest breeds often have a history of working. Be it as a guardian for flocks of animals or as hunting dogs, the large breeds were made to work, and their large frames prove it. Beyond that, however, especially in the modern age, many of the largest breeds have gained reputations for their fun, playful, puppy-like nature. No matter how much maintenance these big breeds require, the result is often a great companion. In this article, we will explore the largest dog breeds in the world.
To compile a list of the largest dog breeds in the world, 24/7 Tempo consulted a range of animal and entertainment sources including the American Kennel Club. Next, we selected dog breeds that had a notable size, typically over 100 pounds. After that, we confirmed the health and temperament aspects of the breeds using sites like Dogtime and Britannica. (For the priciest pups, discover the most expensive dog breeds in the world.)
Mastiff
No matter how you slice it, mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Males can weigh in at upward of 230 pounds while females can weigh up to 170 pounds. A true gentle giant, mastiffs have historically served as guardian dogs, livestock dogs, and war dogs.
They are also one of the most popular dog breeds. Thanks to their affectionate disposition and good relations with both children and other dogs, the American Kennel Club ranks the mastiff as the 37th most popular dog breed in the United States. Due to their size, however, mastiffs live shorter lives than smaller dogs. Usually, they live between 6 and 10 years.
Boerboel
The boerboel is characterized by its short hair, formidable bone structure, and visible muscles. The average boerboel, both male and female, weighs around 200 pounds. A resolutely South African breed, the dog was created through the cross-breeding of mastiffs and bulldogs.
Historically, boerboels were hunting dogs, used to corner and kill aggressive animals like leopards or baboons. These days, however, boerboels primarily serve as family guard dogs. Known for their fearlessness, by consequence, the breed can be aggressive with strangers unless trained from an early age. Typically, boerboels live between 9 and 11 years.
Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu, also known as Tosa Ken or simply Tosa, can weigh up to 200 pounds. Originally bred in the Tosa province of Japan, it is the only breed still used in Japanese dogfighting. Believed to be a crossbreed between the Japanese Shikoku Inu and European variants like the bulldog, the Tosa is characterized by a short, reddish coat and thick skull.
Compared to other large dog breeds, the Tosa Inu lives quite lengthy lives. On average, the breed can live between 10 and 12 years. Personality-wise, the Tosa shows affection towards their family but is often aloof with strangers. While they rarely show aggression with people, they can be violent upon encountering other dogs.
Saint Bernard
On average, male Saint Bernards can weigh up to 180 pounds while females can weigh up to 140 pounds. Historically, Saint Bernards were working dogs in the Swiss Alps. Due to tales of their bravery and life-saving ability, the Saint Bernard is often depicted with a small barrel around their neck used to relieve trapped climbers.
Despite their bravery, Saint Bernards have gained a reputation for their peaceful, intelligent, and loving nature. As such, they have a natural affinity for both children and adults. For this reason, they are one of the more popular dog breeds, especially amongst the larger variants. On average, the Saint Bernard lives between 8 and 10 years.
Great Dane
The Great Dane is a large, physically imposing dog that can weigh up to 175 pounds. What’s more, they stand tall, reaching over 7 feet when standing on their hind legs. Historically, Great Danes were both a hunting dog and a companion for nobility. Besides their acumen for hunting large game like boar or deer, the Great Dane often acted as an in-bedroom guardian for German royalty.
Don’t be fooled by their size or historic uses, however, as Great Danes are truly gentle giants. Affectionate and playful, the breed flourishes when providing companionship or protection for people. Besides their natural affection for children, Great Danes are known to be lap dogs, despite their imposing size. On average, they live between 8 and 10 years.
Leonberger
Legend has it that the Leonberger was bred as an homage to the coat of arms of its hometown, Leonberg, Germany. That’s perhaps unsurprising, given their appearance. The Leonberger can weigh up to 170 pounds, and feature a thick, water-resistant double coat, a mane akin to a lion, as well as large, droopy ears.
Historically, Leonbergers were drafting or working dogs, often seen pulling carts around their native Bavaria. Due to their natural ability in the water, Canada began importing the breed in the 20th century to act as lifesaving dogs. As for their disposition, Leonbergers are athletic and show a natural affection for children, making them great family pets. On average, Leonbergers live between 7 and 9 years.
Neapolitan mastiff
One of the older dog breeds, the Neapolitan mastiff is said to originate in the Roman Empire. Clocking in at 150 pounds for males and 130 pounds for females, this breed is characterized by their loose, wrinkly skin, especially on the snout, as well as short hair. Historically, the breed serves as catch and guard dogs, particularly in the central region of Italy.
Though smaller than many of the mastiff varieties, the Neapolitan mastiff is no less imposing. They are known to be fiercely protective of their family unit, but by the same token, can often act aloof and wary of strangers. On average, the Neapolitan mastiff lives between 7 and 10 years. The breed is also closely related to the Cane Corso, another Italian mastiff variant.
Newfoundland
Much like the Saint Bernard, tales of Newfoundland bravery and adventure have come down through the history books. A cross between various breeds like the Irish water spaniel and the golden retriever, the Newfoundland was historically used as a working dog for fishermen but also earned a reputation for saving people stuck at sea. Most notably, a Newfoundland dog accompanied Lewis and Clark on their 3-year journey through the United States and is featured in statues across the country commemorating the journey.
As for appearance, the Newfoundland features a long, shaggy coat and webbed feet. On average, the breed weighs up to 150 pounds. Another gentle and naturally happy giant, the Newfoundland is fond of most other creatures, showing affection for children, adults, and other dogs alike. The breed typically lives between 8 and 10 years.
Anatolian shepherd
The Anatolian shepherd is also known as the Kangal shepherd dog, which is its Turkish ancestor. This breed weighs between 120 and 150 pounds and is characterized by its light color, but thick fur, and typically shows more agility than other large dog breeds.
Historically, the Anatolian or Kangal shepherd dog was used to guard livestock, often kept with flocks of sheep to protect them from wolves. Due to their acumen in this department, countries like Namibia and Kenya have imported the breed to successfully protect animal flocks from predators like cheetahs. Compared to other large breeds, the Anatolian shepherd is more aloof and independent, preferring to work instead of socialize. Like other large dogs, this breed lives between 9 and 11 years.
Tibetan mastiff
Not to be confused with previous mastiff entries on this list, the Tibetan mastiff might not technically even be a mastiff. Named incorrectly by the Europeans who first reached Tibet, a more accurate name for this breed might be the Tibetan mountain dog. Either way, it is one of the largest dog breeds in the world, weighing up to 150 pounds and reaching a shoulder height of 26 inches.
An arguably primitive breed, the Tibetan mastiff was bred to guard flocks of animals like sheep. It’s characterized by its long, shaggy coat that requires constant upkeep. What’s more, the breed is known to run up to 20 mph in open settings. Though the original version is relatively independent, western domesticated versions of the breed are more easygoing, though still aloof with strangers. On average, the Tibetan mastiff lives between 10 and 12 years.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is characterized by short coats, wrinkled mugs on a large head, and dramatic eyes. This breed weighs between 100 and 110 pounds on average. Though they can make great family dogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux has a stubborn, independent nature. For that reason, early training and socialization is highly recommended.
Historically, the dog first appeared in the Bordeaux region of France in the 14th century. The genetics of this breed are disputed, however, with some saying it is related to the mastiff while others believe the breed predates other large dogs. Known to be very protective dogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux can have many health problems. For that reason, the breed only lives between 5 to 8 years.
(For other dogs that are naughty by nature, discover 20 of the most stubborn, hard-to-train dog breeds.)
Greater Swiss mountain dog
Not to be confused with Saint Bernards, the Greater Swiss mountain dog is another one of the largest dog breeds in the world that hails from the same region. Also known as “Swissies,” this breed reaches up to 29 inches shoulder height and on average, weighs between 120 and 140 pounds.
Historically, the Greater Swiss mountain dog was bred as a working breed. Characterized by their dense coat and agile speed, the breed was a trusty pasture dog for centuries. Temperament-wise, the breed is affectionate with children and works well in the family unit. While they are relatively agreeable with other dogs, this can be better ensured if trained from a young age.
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is characterized by strong, visible muscles and weighs between 100 and 135 pounds, depending on gender. Said to be descended from the dogs used by the Roman Legions, the Rottweiler is a large, physically imposing dog that has been given an arguably unfair reputation for being aggressive and violent.
The breed is great within the family unit, however, though it does retain a certain aloofness when interacting with other dogs. Nevertheless, in intimate settings, the breed is known to be playful, loving, and even silly. For that reason, early socialization of the breed is encouraged. On average, Rottweilers live between 9 and 10 years.
Bullmastiff
Though not quite as large as its cousin the mastiff, the bullmastiff is a cross between the typical mastiff and the English bulldog. This breed stands up to 27 inches at shoulder height and can weigh up to 130 pounds. Historically, the bullmastiff was bred as a deterrent for poachers in the British Isles.
The breed is characterized by its large frame and even larger head featuring a deep muzzle. A fantastic companion dog and guardian, the bullmastiff is celebrated for its alertness, intelligence, and natural confidence. Though they require less grooming than other large breeds, it is recommended that you begin training them early while they are still small.
Great Pyrenees
Another one of the largest dog breeds in the world is the Great Pyrenees, though they are known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog in their native France. On average, they weigh around 100 pounds but can stand as tall at the shoulder as 32 inches. Appearance-wise, the Great Pyrenees are characterized by their shockingly white fur, which is thick and double-coated. With some variants, however, patches of red or brown can be seen in their fur.
Historically, the Great Pyrenees were used as a livestock guardian breed in the Pyrenees and Swiss mountain ranges. After King Louis XIV was gifted one, he fell in love with the variety and named it the Royal Dog of France. Temperament-wise, this breed is quite affectionate but won’t hesitate to drop this candor and protect loved ones.
They are known as an incredibly smart, calm, and relatively patient dog breed. Though relatively independent, with a bit of a stubborn streak, the Great Pyrenees can be good at taking directions if they are trained from a young age. Typically, the breed lives between 10 and 12 years.
Akita
The Akita, on average, stands at a shoulder height of 26 inches and weighs between 100 and 130 pounds, depending on gender. Though a heavily muscular dog, this is shrouded by their characteristically short but doubled coat. Historically, the Akita was bred as both a guardian dog and a hunter of bears. Arguably one of the older large dog breeds, the Akita has been used in Japan for centuries.
Considered a symbol of happiness and good health in their native Japan, the Akita is a loyal breed. They are usually quite aloof with strangers, and sometimes aggressive with other dogs. The Akita, however, shows great affection and care within their family units. Typically, the breed lives between 10 and 14 years, making it one of the larger dog breeds with the most longevity. (For other breeds that live long lives, discover the longest-living dog breeds in the U.S.)