- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Nothing beats cuddling up with your dog, and many large and giant dogs have even more love to offer! Despite their size, large and giant dog breeds can make some of the gentlest, comforting, and loving pets in the world.
Some large breed dogs may seem like giants, but these are two different classifications. Assuming a dog’s weight falls within a healthy range for their breed, giant dogs typically weigh more than 99 pounds (lbs), or about 45 kilograms (kg). A large breed dog will weigh between 55 lbs (about 25 kg) and 99 lbs.
Read on for details on 25 large and giant dogs!
Akita
As giant dog breeds go, Akitas are on the smaller side. That said, they’re still quite large! This breed originated in northern Japan and has occupied a special place in Japanese culture ever since. In fact, Japan considers Akitas a national monument.
Akitas tend to be wary of strangers, but they’re loyal and affectionate when it comes to their loved ones and celebrated for their courage and loyalty—which you may already know, if you’ve ever heard the story of Hachiko. Just make sure to socialize them from an early age to keep their stubbornness in check.
- Weight: 70-100 lbs (F), 100-130 lbs (M)
- Height: 24-26 inches (F), 26-28 inches (M)
- Personality: Loyal, clever, strong-willed
- Grooming needs: Weekly
- Activity needs: Up to 2 hours of exercise per day
- Trainability: Average
- Barking: Low to medium
- Potential health issues: Akitas are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Screening recommended for eye and thyroid disorders.
- Space needs: Akitas do best in homes with large fenced yards
- Life expectancy: 11-13 years
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are strong, vigorous working dogs bred to pull sleds. They have a wolfish face and a thick coat best suited for colder climates. Alaskan Malamutes get along great with kids and love to be everyone’s friend. However, they need hours of heavy exercise daily, or else they will use their pent-up energy to dig and cause mischief.
- Weight: up to 75 lbs (F), up to 85 lbs (male)
- Height: up to 23 inches (F), up to 25 inches (M)
- Personality: Playful, trusting, energetic
- Grooming needs: Weekly brushing (more during shedding season)
- Activity needs: At least 2 hours of heavy exercise per day
- Trainability: Hard to medium
- Barking: High
- Potential health issues: Generally healthy. Screening recommended for hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, and cataracts.
- Space needs: These sled dogs need lots of outdoor space to roam.
- Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Anatolian Shepherd
Experts believe some variation of this ancient breed are referenced in the Book of Job in the Bible. These giant dogs can weigh as much as 150 pounds! Many of them work as guards to scare away potential predators on ranches and farms. Anatolian Shepherds are loyal, smart, and deeply protective of the people they love. This means they need a leader who can handle a strong and dominating personality.
- Weight: 80-120 lbs (F), 110-150 lbs (M)
- Height: up to 27 inches (F), 29 inches (M)
- Personality: Independent, protective, intelligent
- Grooming needs: Weekly (more during shedding season)
- Activity needs: Up to 2 hours of exercise per day
- Trainability: Hard to medium
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues (if any): Generally healthy with limited medical concerns. Screening recommended for hip and elbow issues.
- Space needs: If you don’t live on a farm, then a large yard with a tall fence is an absolute must.
- Life expectancy: 11-13 years
Belgian Malinois
These strong, intelligent dogs can be trained to perform almost any task, including herding, tracking, and agility work. Their range of abilities make them a good fit for military or police squads. However, this large breed’s temperament means they need constant mental and physical stimulation. In short, a Belgian Malinois needs a partner who will train with them and challenge them every day.
- Weight: 40-60 lbs (F), 60-80 lbs (M)
- Height: 22-24 inches (F), 24-26 inches (M)
- Personality: Intelligent, hard-working, loyal
- Grooming needs: Weekly brushing (more during shedding season)
- Activity needs: At least 2 hours of exercise daily
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: Generally healthy. Screening recommended for elbow and hip dysplasia.
- Space needs: Large fenced yard.
- Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Belgian Tervuren
These dogs were bred in 19th century Belgium to herd livestock and guard homes. Due to their breeding, they remain on high alert for threats to their flock or family, so they can be suspicious of strangers until you give them your approval. They can also be downright clingy with family and often want your attention all to themselves.
They do need plenty of exercise and discipline, but if you care for them, they’ll devote their whole lives to you.
- Weight: 45-80 lbs
- Height: 22-24 inches (F) or 24-26 inches (M)
- Personality: Clever, diligent, possessive
- Grooming needs: Light shedders, but they need brushing multiple times a week
- Activity needs: Up to 2 hours per day
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: Prone to epilepsy. Screening recommended for hip and elbow issues.
- Space needs: Very large yard or farm.
- Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Bernese Mountain Dog
Many people consider the Bernese Mountain Dog one of the most beautiful big dog breeds around. But their silky coats aren’t just for looks—they’re also perfect for keeping these giant dogs cozy in cold weather. These sweet, affectionate dogs enjoy getting outside for plenty of exercise, but they also relish opportunities to hang out with the family.
- Weight: 70-95 pounds (F), 80-115 pounds (M)
- Height: 23-26 inches (F), 25-27.5 inches (M)
- Personality: Calm, friendly, affectionate
- Grooming needs: Weekly brushing
- Activity needs: 1 hour of exercise per day
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Low
- Potential health issues: Prone to a few health concerns. Screening recommended for genetic diseases affecting the hips, elbows, eyes, and heart.
- Space needs: Large fenced yard
- Life expectancy: 7-8 years
Black Russian Terrier
The Soviet Union created the Black Russian Terrier in the mid-20th century as a military “super-dog.” They wanted a dog who was both large and trainable and could survive Russian winters. They used over 17 breeds to create the Black Russian Terrier, including the Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, and Newfoundland. This giant dog can weigh as much as 130 pounds, and they’re known for being smart and dominating—so they need a strong and experienced owner!
- Weight: 80-130 lbs
- Height: 26-30 inches
- Personality: Strong-willed, energetic, protective
- Grooming needs: Weekly
- Activity needs: At least 30-40 minutes per day
- Trainability: Average to easy
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: Screening recommended for heart problems, hip and elbow dysplasia, and kidney stones. These dogs can also develop juvenile laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy, which affects their ability to breathe and swallow.
- Space needs: Black Russian Terriers can adapt to apartment living so long as they get exercise. They will need air conditioning on hot days.
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bloodhound
A bloodhound’s sense of smell is incredibly sensitive, even by dog standards. These giant dogs were originally bred to hunt game, but today search teams often use them to find humans. Their tracking ability is so reliable that it can be used as court evidence!
Once a bloodhound catches an interesting scent, they’ll follow it with single-minded focus and pay little attention to environmental dangers like traffic. Always keep them on a leash during walks.
- Weight: 100 lbs (F), 110 lbs (M)
- Height: 24 inches (F), 26 inches (M)
- Personality: Agreeable, curious, sensitive
- Grooming needs: Daily for eyes and ears, weekly for coat
- Activity needs: Up to 2 hours of exercise per day
- Trainability: Hard to medium
- Barking: Low
- Potential health issues: Due to their wrinkles, they are vulnerable to skin infections and eye problems. They are also susceptible to bloat.
- Space needs: They do best in homes with a large, fenced yard.
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Boerboel
The Boerboel breed traces its roots back to Assyrian war dogs of the 7th century BC. Their ancestors spread across the globe, and the Boerboel we know today comes from South African farms of the 1980s. Boerboels can weigh up to 200 pounds, and these giant dogs make powerful guardians devoted to keeping their families safe. Their watchdog nature also means Boerboels are very devoted to and protective of smaller members of their “pack,” which includes children and house cats.
- Weight: 120-200 lbs
- Height: 22-25 inches (F), 24-27 inches (M)
- Personality: Smart, confident, protective
- Grooming needs: Weekly
- Activity needs: 1 hour per day
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Low
- Potential health issues: Prone to hip dysplasia, heart disease, and Wobbler syndrome.
- Space needs: Does best with large yard
- Life expectancy: 9-14 years
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff breed originated in 19th century England, where they protected estates from poachers who would try to steal game. The Bullmastiff was stealthy and quick enough to catch poachers, but disciplined enough to pin poachers down rather than assault them. This giant dog will defend their family and home with their life, but they need firm discipline to ensure that protectiveness doesn’t go overboard.
- Weight: 100-120 lbs (F), 110-130 lbs (M)
- Height: 24-26 inches (F), 25-27 inches (M)
- Personality: Courageous, confident, reliable
- Grooming needs: Weekly brushing, with daily wiping of drool
- Activity needs: At least 2 hours per day
- Trainability: Average
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: The Bullmastiff’s short muzzle can cause breathing issues. They are also prone to eye problems, hip and elbow dysplasia, and bloat.
- Space needs: As long as they get exercise, they can do well in a home of any size
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, also called the Italian Mastiff, has a lineage that dates back to ancient Rome. These dogs have long been recognized as excellent guardians. Their muscular frames, alert minds, and selfless devotion make them outstanding family protectors. When not working as guards, these giant dogs also make good athletes, herders, or trackers. Your Cane Corso will be happiest with a job that challenges both their body and their mind.
- Weight: 90-110 lbs
- Height: 23.5-26 inches (F), 25-27.5 inches (M)
- Personality: Clever, affectionate, energetic
- Grooming needs: Weekly brushing, nail trim every 2 weeks
- Activity needs: At least 2 hours exercise per day
- Trainability: Easy
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: Prone to bloat, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Screening recommended for epilepsy.
- Space needs: Large secure yard
- Life expectancy: 9-12 years
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a rare guardian breed named after the Caucasus Mountains. They have exceptional senses, strength, and speed to protect their families and flock from predators. However, they need an experienced owner to balance out the strong will and intensity that come with a guardian background. This giant dog also goes by the names Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog, and Caucasian Sheepdog.
- Weight: 99-170 lbs
- Height: 24.5 inches and up (F), 25.5 inches and up (M)
- Personality: Protective, bold, kind
- Grooming needs: Daily if long-haired, weekly if short-haired
- Activity needs: 1 hour exercise per day
- Trainability: Difficult to medium
- Barking: High
- Potential health issues: Susceptible to bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia, slipping kneecaps, and cataracts. They can also develop pulmonic stenosis, a blockage of blood flow from the heart to the lungs.
- Space needs: Ideally a home with a large yard
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Central Asian Shepherd Dog
The majestic Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a livestock guardian dog breed that’s been around for over 4,000 years, though they are rarely seen outside of Asia. These hardy, loyal dogs can survive many challenges, from traveling across harsh climates to fighting off wild predators. These giant dogs are fearless and protective, so they’re ideal for experienced dog parents.
- Weight: 88-110 lbs
- Height: 25.5 inches and up (F), 27.5 inches and up (M)
- Personality: Independent, intelligent, protective
- Grooming needs: Weekly to monthly
- Activity needs: At least 1 hour of exercise per day
- Trainability: Difficult to average
- Barking: Low to average
- Potential health issues: Fewer hereditary diseases compared to many other breeds. Screening recommended for hip dysplasia.
- Space needs: Large yard
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
French Mastiff
The French Mastiff, or Dogue de Bordeaux, enjoyed great popularity with the French aristocracy in the 18th century. They have the largest heads in the canine kingdom, but their kind eyes and furrowed brows make them seem approachable and sweet. These giant dogs are loyal and loving to their family, but they require dedicated training to tame their stubbornness.
- Weight: 99 lbs and up (F), 110 lbs and up (M)
- Height: 23-26 inches (F), 23.5-27 inches (M)
- Personality: Calm, loyal, affectionate
- Grooming needs: Weekly
- Activity needs: At least 1 hour of exercise per day
- Trainability: Easy to average
- Barking: High
- Potential health issues: Their wrinkly face can be prone to dermatitis (skin infection). They are also prone to bloat, cataracts, hip and elbow dysplasia, and heart disease.
- Space needs: A home with plenty of indoor and outdoor space is ideal, but they can adapt to apartment living.
- Life expectancy: 5-8 years
English Mastiff
The English Mastiff can weigh up to 230 pounds and is the largest dog breed by weight. These giant dogs date back to medieval England, when they worked as guardians and war dogs. Mastiffs have since become more of a family dog, and their calm temperaments make them good with kids.
- Weight: 120-170 lbs (F), 160-230 lbs (M)
- Height: 27.5 inches and up (F), 30 inches and up (M)
- Personality: Docile, dignified, protective
- Grooming needs: Weekly, plus cleaning of skin folds around face
- Activity needs: Up to 1 hour per day
- Trainability: Average
- Barking: Average
- Potential health issues: Some health issues unique to English Mastiffs include hypersensitivity to allergens and cherry eye, where their third eyelid swells out. They also have a higher risk of bloat.
- Space needs: As long as they get the exercise they need, they can do well in a home of any size.
- Life expectancy: 6-10 years
Great Dane
Great Danes are one of the most well-known giant dogs, thanks to canine celebrities like Scooby Doo and Marmaduke. These dogs tend to tower over most other canines and even some people, since they reach up to 32 inches in height. However, Great Danes don’t always know their own size, and these friendly dogs love trying to cram their giant bodies into your lap.
- Weight: 110-140 lbs (F), 140-175 lbs (M)
- Height: 28-30 inches (F), 30-32 inches (M)
- Personality: Affectionate, dependable, easygoing
- Grooming needs: Monthly bathing
- Activity needs: Around 1 hour of exercise per day
- Trainability: Average
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: Bloat is the leading cause of death in Great Danes. Other health issues include cataracts, heart disease, hypothyroidism, and hip dysplasia.
- Space needs: Great Danes can manage apartment life if they get enough exercise, but they do best in a home with secure outdoor space.
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are strong, with a waterproof double coat that makes them well-suited to the rough conditions they endured as sheep guardians in the Pyrenees Mountains. These dogs are mellow and patient, except when jumping into action to defend their flock. They were bred to fight off wolves, so they’re often wary of dogs they don’t know—so keep this in mind when socializing your dog.
- Weight: 85 lbs and up (F), 100 lbs and up (M)
- Height: 25 to 29 inches (F) or 27 to 32 inches (M)
- Personality: Confident, calm, affectionate
- Grooming needs: Weekly
- Activity needs: Up to 1 hour of exercise per day
- Trainability: Hard to average
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: Prone to joint issues, including hip dysplasia and slipping kneecaps. They also have a higher risk of deafness, epilepsy, and entropion (inward-turning eyelids).
- Space needs: These dogs are happiest with a large fenced yard, but they can adapt to apartment life with regular exercise.
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
These giant dogs, also called “Swissies,” were originally bred to herd cattle and serve as watchdogs. They need room to wander, so they won’t do well cooped up in an apartment. These dogs have a deep bark to alert their family to anything unusual, like a mailman or raccoon, but they have a loving and affectionate nature. Their alertness and strong work ethic make them ideal for many jobs, from herding to water rescue.
- Weight: 80-110 lbs (F), 100-130 lbs (M)
- Height: 23.5-27 inches (F), 25.5-28.5 inches (M)
- Personality: Cheerful, cheeky, active
- Grooming needs: Weekly grooming
- Activity needs: Up to 1 hour of exercise per day
- Trainability: Average to easy
- Barking: High
- Potential health issues: Urinary incontinence is common among female dogs. This breed also has a higher risk of epilepsy and osteochondrosis dissecans, a bone disorder causing shoulder pain.
- Space needs: Does best with a large fenced yard
- Life expectancy: 8-11 years
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards have plenty of patience and affection. In fact, they’re sometimes called “nanny dogs” because of how well they get along with children. Originally, these giant dogs were bred as companions for monks in the Swiss Alps. Around the 1700s, they helped find lost travelers, dig them out of the snow, and wake them up using their body heat. Their giant, fluffy bodies make them ideal for winter rescues, but they’re sensitive to heat and can’t stay outside on warm days.
- Weight: 120-140 lbs (F), 140-180 lbs (M)
- Height: 26-28 inches (F), 28-30 inches (M)
- Personality: Loving, even-tempered, family-oriented
- Grooming needs: Weekly, with daily grooming during shedding season
- Activity needs: At least 1 hour of exercise per day
- Trainability: Easy to average
- Barking: Medium
- Potential health issues: Saint Bernards are prone to bloat, hip dysplasia, and heart disease. They can also develop skin problems if you don’t clean out their lip folds and ears.
- Space needs: Saint Bernards can handle apartment living with regular exercise.
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Scottish Deerhound
This rare breed is often called the “Royal Dog of Scotland.” They were originally bred to hunt deer, and they have a strong chase instinct and high energy levels. Though their size can be intimidating, Scottish Deerhounds are some of the friendliest and sweetest dogs around. The poet Sir Walter Scott once called this breed “the most perfect creature of heaven.”
- Weight: 75-95 lbs (F), 85-110 lbs (M)
- Height: 28 inches and up (F), 30-32 inches (M)
- Personality: Gentle, dignified, loving
- Grooming needs: Weekly to every 2 weeks
- Activity needs: More than 2 hours of exercise per day, including off-lead running
- Trainability: Hard to medium
- Barking: Low
- Potential health issues: Bladder stones, bleeding disorders, bloat, bone cancer, heart disease, hypothyroidism, and liver shunt.
- Space needs: Scottish Deerhounds love to run, so their home should have a large fenced yard or close access to a beach or dog park.
- Life expectancy: 8-11 years
Frequently Asked Questions About Large And Giant Dogs
A few quick FAQs about large and giant dog breeds:
What is the heaviest breed?
The English Mastiff is a hefty powerhouse of a dog that can weigh as much as 230 pounds.
What is the tallest breed?
The Irish Wolfhound can reach 35 inches, or nearly 3 feet tall.
Which breed has the biggest head?
The Dogue de Bordeaux, or French Mastiff, is said to have the largest head of all dogs.
What are the top 50 largest dogs?
The American Kennel Club’s chart of maximum breed weight lists these dogs as the 50 largest dog breeds, from largest to “smallest”:
- English Mastiff
- Boerboel
- Saint Bernard
- Great Dane
- Leonberger
- Tibetan Mastiff
- Neopolitan Mastiff
- Newfoundlands
- Anatolian Shepherd Dog
- Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Rottweiler
- Bullmastiff
- Akita
- Black Russian Terrier
- Irish Wolfhound
- Wire Fox Terrier
- Otterhounds
- Kuvaszok
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- Bloodhound
- Scottish Deerhound
- Cane Corso
- Beauceron
- Bouvier de Flandres
- Black and Tan Coonhounds
- Borzoi
- Great Pyrenees
- Komondor
- Doberman Pinscher
- Old English Sheepdogs
- Briard
- Dogo Argentino
- Curly-Coated Retrievers
- Weimaraner
- German Shepherd Dog
- Bracco Italiano
- Chinook
- Alaskan Malamute
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Clumber Spaniel
- Giant Schnauzer
- Bergamasco Sheepdog
- Boxers
- Chesapeake Bay Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- English Setter
- Belgian Malinois
- Bluetick Coonhound
- Gordon Setter
