
If you are a dog lover, you must have thought your dog is the biggest, especially if you have a Kangal or Newfoundland breed. But do you know these are not the biggest dog breeds, not even in the top 5? If you wonder what the biggest and largest dog breeds are, I’m gonna discuss the top 10 in the list. Here is a detailed overview.
Top 10 Biggest Dog Breeds
Here is an overview of these breeds.
| Breed | Origin | Max Weight | Max Height (at shoulder) |
| Irish Wolfhound | Ireland | 120–180 lbs | 35 inches |
| Great Dane | Germany | 140–175+ lbs | 32+ inches |
| Scottish Deerhound | Scotland | 110 lbs | 32 inches |
| Leonberger | Germany | 170 lbs | 31.5 inches |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | Italy | 150+ lbs | 31 inches |
| Anatolian Shepherd (Kangal) | Turkey | 150 lbs | 31 inches |
| English Mastiff | England | 230+ lbs | 30+ inches |
| Saint Bernard | Switzerland | 180+ lbs | 30 inches |
| Newfoundland | Canada | 150 lbs | 28 inches |
| Tibetan Mastiff | Tibet (Himalayas) | 150 lbs | 26+ inches |
1- Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound is officially the largest dog breed known. It is the real nightmare even for its forfathers (wolves). Mostly used to hunt wolves and elk. It has a thick, hairy coat and, despite its large size, it is a surprisingly calm and well-behaved dog. They are mostly patient, gentle, and sweet-tempered.
2- Great Dane
The Great Dane is also known as the “Apollo of Dogs” for its large size. They hold the Guinese World Record for the largest individual dog. Remember, the above comparison is breed-based, and the height and size are the breed’s averages. Mostly, they were used to hunt wild boar, but nowadays they are sweet potatoes on the owner’s couch.
3- English Mastiff
The English Mastiff holds the title of heavyweight champion in the canine family. A dog of this breed named “Zobra” once held the world record of the heaviest dog on Earth, weighing about 343 lbs. Instead of their massive size, these are a very docile breed.
4- Saint Bernard
Saint Bernad are famous for their rescue missions. Despite their heavy size, they are very gentle and patient in nature. These dogs are incredibly powerful, with their deep-set eyes and droopy jowls.
5- Scottish Deerhound
As the name indicates, Scottish deerhounds are bred to hunt red wild deer in the Scottish Highlands. It’s an incredible dog breed, tall, but has a lean and powerful body. They are lighter and faster than other dog breeds in the list.
6- Leonberger
This dog breed is the companion of European reality. They were primarily bred to mimic the line on the crown crest of Leonberg. It’s a cross of Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, and Great Pyrenees that imposes a lion-like mane and eagerness in their personality.
7- Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a guard dog with roots deep in ancient Rome. This breed is usually recognized by its aggressive nature, big size, and massiveness. They have large, heavy eyes that enhance their aura, but by nature, they are polite and guard homes.
8- Anatolian Shepherd (Kangal)
The Anatolian Shepherd (Kangal) is also a guard dog that has been used for centuries to protect livestock from wolves, bears, and big cats. They are highly capable, independent, territorial, and athletic, with a top speed of up to 35 mph.
9- Newfoundland
Newfound land also known as “Newfies.” They are often called “water rescue dogs” due to their webbed paws and double-coated, water-resistant skin. They have an incredibly gentle temperament and are mostly recognized as “nannies” for children.
10- Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed used as a guardian due to its thick, heavy coat, which allows it to survive even the freezing temperatures of the Himalayas.
Conclusion
I have compiled the list according to my research and knowledge. If you know any other breed that I forgot to mention, please let me know in the comments.
