Most dog lovers will tell you that good dogs come in sizes.
But there is something endearing about those extremely large breeds that can meet you eye-to-eye but that also consider themselves cuddly lap dogs and act accordingly.
Large dog breeds are usual qualities in the working group of dogs, which means they were originally bred to help people with tasks such as pulling sleds and carts, guarding livestock and protecting homes, and families.
As well as their size and stature, large-breed dogs are prized for their intelligence and strength.
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With a big dog, there are a few things to keep in bear in mind:
Development: Bigger dogs tend to develop more slowly than other breeds, which means they can injure themselves more easily – it’s therefore necessary to exercise caution and exercise with caution.
Space: Big dogs require large beds, toys and food bowls and plenty of space in which to live, sleep.
Expenses: Bigger dogs cost more in terms of food and supplies and vet bills for huge dog breeds will also be higher due to their size and strength, sometimes, propensity to illness. This will mean pet insurance costs are likely to be higher.
Training: Big dogs, simply due to their size, can potentially cause more damage than a minimal animal. That demands training and discipline from an early age.
However, we look at the top 20 largest dog breeds (by weight).
Top 15 Largest Dog Breeds
1. Boerboel
Originating from South Africa, the boerboel is a robust dog known for its athleticism and protective instincts. With a name derived from the Dutch word “Boer,” meaning farmer, it reflects their role as loyal companions to the Dutch and German settlers who arrived in South Africa in the mid-1600s. Through interbreeding, the boerboel blends different large guard dog breeds. Boerboels are use for used for big game hunting and safeguarding homes and families; today, they remain devoted to watching over their loved ones.
2. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a powerful and loyal dog with a strong, muscular build. Bullmastiffs were originally bred to guard country estates, so they are known for their protective nature. They are intelligent, have a calm temperament and can be gentle and affectionate with their loved ones. Bullmastiffs require regular exercise and socialisation to stay healthy and well-behaved; with the right training and care, they can be devoted and loving companions.
3. Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu, or the Japanese mastiff, has a history as a fighting dog originating from Shikoku island. This breed emerged from a crossbreeding programme involving the Shikoku Inu and various western breeds such as mastiffs, bulldogs, Great Danes, and German pointers. In Japan, the Tosa Inu is held in high regard, much like sumo wrestlers, and is treated with utmost respect and ceremony. While displaying a stoic and patient nature, the Tosa Inu exhibits deep affection toward its family, although it may initially appear reserved around strangers. With their vigilant instincts, Tosa Inus are great as watchful guardians of the home.
4. MaBernard
The ultimate gentle giant, the mastiff has a rich history spanning thousands of years. These dogs are known for their obedient and docile nature, as well as their protective instincts toward their beloved families.
Some male mastiffs can grow to a staggering weight of 230 pounds and can reach 30 inches in height. With their broad, muscular build and adorable squished faces, they are both impressive and endearing. Mastiffs are not only loving family members, but they are also staunchly loyal to their families.
5. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a gentle giant among dog breeds. Originating from the Swiss Alps, this breed is known for its imposing size and kind-hearted nature. Saint Bernards have a distinctive appearance with their massive head, deep-set eyes and expressive face framed by droopy jowls. Known for their legendary rescue efforts in the treacherous mountain passes, they have incredible strength, endurance, and an exceptional sense of direction. Their friendly and patient demeanor makes them excellent family pets.
6. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan mastiff is a unique and powerful dog breed that originates from Italy. With its massive size and wrinkled skin, it has quite the distinct appearance. They are known for their calm and protective nature, making them loyal and devoted companions. Neapolitan mastiffs tend to develop a deep bond with their families and have a sweet and loving temperament. Neapolitan mastiffs have low energy levels, which means they enjoy a calm and easygoing lifestyle, with a majority of their time spent lounging around the house.
7. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a friendly and gentle breed that originally comes from Canada. They are known for their large size and thick, water-resistant coat that helps them stay warm even in cold waters. Newfies are excellent swimmers, in part due to their webbed feet, and are strong enough to save people from drowning. They are also very patient and good with children, making them great family pets, and are known for being calm and well-behaved. If you don’t mind lots of drool, Newfoundlands make wonderful members of the family.
8. Leonberger
The Leonberger, a breed originating from Germany, is a handsome dog with a gentle and friendly nature. With a thick double coat and a powerful build, they carry themselves with elegance and strength. Leonbergers can grow to be quite large, with males reaching up to 170 pounds. They are known for their calm and patient nature, making them great family members. Leonbergers are extremely smart and eager to please, and often do well with obedience training, therapy work, and water rescue.
9. Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian shepherd is a strong and protective breed originating from Turkey. They have a sturdy build and a thick coat that helps them withstand different weather conditions. Anatolian shepherds are known for their loyalty and bravery, and have been used for centuries to guard livestock from predators. They are extremely intelligent and independent, making them excellent guardians. While they tend to be more serious than other breeds, they can also be gentle and affectionate with their families.
10. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan mastiff is a strong and striking dog that originally comes from the mountains of Tibet. They have a thick and fluffy coat that keeps them warm in cold weather. Tibetan mastiffs are known for their loyalty and protective nature and a very deep bark, which makes them excellent guard dogs. They’re typically gentle and loving with their families, but tend to be reserved and aloof with strangers.
11. Rottweiler
The rottweiler, originally from Germany, has a sturdy build with a sleek black coat and tan markings. They are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, making them great guard dogs that are very smart and can be easily trained. Despite their outwardly tough appearance, rottweilers can be gentle and loving with their families. They thrive on companionship and enjoy spending time with their human pack. Regular exercise and socialisation are important for their well-being.
12. Akita
The Akita is a loyal and courageous breed originating from Japan. They have a strong and powerful build with a thick, double coat that helps protect them from cold weather. Akitas are known for their independence and intelligence, making them unique and sometimes stubborn family members. They also have a natural protective instinct, which makes them excellent guard dogs. While they can be reserved around strangers, they are devoted and affectionate with their families. Akitas are staunchly loyal and make great lifelong companions.
13. Black Russian Terrier
Originally from Russia, the black Russian terrier is a strong and confident breed with a thick, dense coat that is usually black or dark gray. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them great guard dogs. They are intelligent and easy to train, but they require consistent guidance and socialisation. Black Russian terriers may look tough, but they can be gentle and affectionate with their families. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are important for their well-being.
14. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish wolfhound is a majestic and gentle giant from Ireland. They are one of the tallest dog breeds, with a thin and athletic build. They are famous for their wiry and shaggy coats and are known for their friendly and kind nature, which makes them great family pets. They tend to be calm, good-natured and are known for their loyalty.
15. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a gentle and protective dog breed that comes from the mountains of France. They have a distinctively thick and fluffy white coat that helps keep them warm. Great Pyrenees are known for their loyalty and watchful nature, making them great guard dogs. They are calm and patient, and usually gentle with children and other pets. Great Pyrenees require regular exercise and grooming to stay healthy.
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