Meet the Biggest Dogs in the World - Top 10 Breeds

The dogs on this list are nothing short of enormous. While they may appear intimidating on the outside, they are just regular dogs that love to play, spend time with their family, learn new things, and go to the dog park with all of their friends. Many of these large dogs have exciting histories, as their large size and natural power proved to be very useful for their human counterparts. The main difficulty with having a large dog is their below-average lifespan; most of the dogs on the list below will not live longer than 10-12 years. That said, most big pups are gentle giants and will become everyone in the family's new best friend. So, in no particular order, here are 10 really large doggos!

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large stunning breed known for its incredible versatility. It is believed that the Berner, as they are often referred to, was working on the farms of Switzerland over 2000 years ago! The Berner's functions would be pulling heavy carts, herding cattle, and serving as a watchdog. This breed is powerful and can weigh anywhere between 70-115 pounds, which assisted them in the work that they were required to do.

Great Dane

The Great Dane certainly lives up to its name. Growing up to 32 inches and weighing up to 175 pounds, this dog makes its presence known. Initially bred for hunting wild boar, this animal needed all the size it could get to live up to the challenge. What was once a fierce vicious dog, today's Great Danes are more like gentle giants. They enjoy living with the family and making close bonds with their owners.

​​Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is an absolutely stunning animal. They are a large breed, weighing between 85-160 pounds, and their thick white coat can be noticed from a mile away. These working dogs were a prized possession for shepherds in the Pyrenees mountains. They would be ready to guard the flock as though their life depended on it. The Pyr has the mentality that they constantly have a job to do, and you can be sure that you will never catch them napping on the job.

Scottish Deerhound

The Scottish Deerhound certainly fits the description of a gentle giant. They generally weigh between 75-110 pounds; however, they are one of the most affectionate dogs towards friends and strangers. The original purpose of this dog was to bring down Scottish roe deer. These deer were at least twice the size of the Deerhound, and needless to say, they were once fairly aggressive dogs.

Newfoundland

This gentle giant is hard not to love. The Newfoundland is so sweet and friendly towards everyone they meet; they are Canadian, after all. This breed will typically weigh between 100-150 pounds and is just about as strong as any other dog. Not surprisingly, this breed originated in the Canadian province of Newfoundland. They were originally used to haul wood from the forest and pull nets for fishermen.

Mastiff

The Mastiff is considered to be one of the most ancient dog breeds. Their ancestry dates back to 5000 years ago from the now-extinct Molossus. These dogs are certainly capable of defending their territory, and their size alone should be enough to deter any intruder. They are considered the largest dog breed and can weigh up to 220 pounds! In 1989, the Guinness Book of World Records recorded the heaviest dog on the planet as Zorba the Mastiff, weighing in at an astonishing 323 pounds.

Black Russian Terrier

The Black Russian Terrier is an exceptional working dog and is especially well-known for its ability to guard. These dogs have a protective instinct and will not shy away from a confrontation if they feel like they or their family are being threatened. They are massive, muscular dogs weighing 80-140 pounds, so they have no issue defending their territory.

Anatolian Shepherd

This dog breed originated in Anatolia, Turkey, and their ancestors, from which they were created, are believed to have existed more than 6000 years ago. Anatolian Shepherds will not back down from anyone and will do what is necessary to protect their beloved family. Weighing between 80-150 pounds, their bark is deep and loud and is usually enough to deter anyone from even approaching your property.

Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is possibly the most accurate description of a gentle giant. This is the tallest breed in the world, standing at 32-35 inches at the shoulder. These dogs will also weigh anywhere between 115-180 pounds! Despite their massive size, the Irish Wolfhound does not make a great watchdog. While their size alone may deter any intruder from entering your property, they are not big barkers and are extremely friendly to everyone they meet.

Leonberger

The Leonberger is nothing short of a giant breed. These immense dogs weigh anywhere between 120-170 pounds. They have a very distinct lion-like appearance and a deep, loud bark. Their intimidating look, combined with their heavy bark, makes them excellent watchdogs. You can be sure that any intruder will think twice before entering a home with one of these guys roaming around.