10 Big Giant Dog Breeds: Size, Temperament & Care Guide
10 big giant dog breeds with exact weights, temperaments, health risks, & costs.
What Qualifies as a Big Giant Dog Breed?
When people search for big giant dog breeds, they're usually picturing dogs that tip the scales well past 100 pounds (45 kg) and stand over 27 inches (69 cm) at the shoulder. But size alone doesn't tell the full story. For this list, I've applied specific selection criteria to separate truly giant breeds from merely large ones, and to ensure every breed here is one a realistic owner could manage.
- Minimum adult male weight: 100 lb (45 kg) or more at the upper range per AKC breed standards
- Minimum shoulder height: 26 inches (66 cm) for males
- Recognized breed status: AKC, UKC, or FCI-recognized (no unstandardized mixes)
- Temperament viability: Must be suitable for family life with proper socialization — breeds with extreme aggression or uncontrollable prey drive are excluded
- Availability: Obtainable through responsible breeders or breed-specific rescues in the United States
I've grouped the 10 breeds below into three tiers: Tier 1 — The True Titans (150+ lb / 68+ kg), Tier 2 — The Heavyweights (120–150 lb / 54–68 kg), and Tier 3 — The Lower Giants (100–120 lb / 45–54 kg). This helps you quickly find breeds that match your physical capacity and living space.
Tier 1: The True Titans (150+ lb)
1. English Mastiff
Size class: Titan | Key trait: Heaviest breed on Earth by average mass
The English Mastiff is the undisputed king of big giant dog breeds. Males routinely reach 160–230 lb (73–104 kg), with some individuals exceeding 250 lb (113 kg). Despite their imposing bulk, Mastiffs are famously calm, couch-loving companions who bond deeply with their families. According to the AKC breed standard, they stand 30+ inches (76+ cm) at the shoulder. Expect a gentle, dignified dog that needs only 30–45 minutes of daily walking but requires serious joint support and a budget for enormous food bills — an adult Mastiff eats 8–12 cups of high-quality kibble daily, costing $120–$180/month.
2. Saint Bernard
Size class: Titan | Key trait: Alpine rescue heritage with exceptional cold tolerance
Saint Bernards carry 140–180 lb (64–82 kg) on frames standing 28–35 inches (71–89 cm) tall. Originally bred for Alpine rescue work by Swiss monks, they possess an innate sense of direction and remarkable cold-weather resilience. Their temperament is patient, watchful, and notably gentle with children. The rough-coated variety requires brushing 3–4 times weekly. Health screening for hip dysplasia and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is essential — ask breeders for OFA hip and cardiac certifications before purchasing.
3. Great Dane
Size class: Titan | Key trait: Tallest breed — males reach 32+ inches (81+ cm)
Great Danes combine extreme height with a leaner build than Mastiffs, typically weighing 140–175 lb (64–79 kg) for males. They're known as "gentle giants" for good reason: sociable, people-oriented, and surprisingly graceful indoors. Danes need 45–60 minutes of daily exercise and thrive in homes with space to stretch out. A critical health concern is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV, or bloat), which the Merck Veterinary Manual identifies as disproportionately common in deep-chested giant breeds. Prophylactic gastropexy surgery ($300–$600 when done during spay/neuter) is strongly recommended.
4. Boerboel
Size class: Titan | Key trait: South African farm guardian with athletic power
The Boerboel ("farmer's dog" in Afrikaans) weighs 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) and stands 24–28 inches (61–71 cm). Unlike more sedentary giants, Boerboels are athletic and agile — they can cover ground quickly and need 60+ minutes of structured daily activity. They're confident, territorial, and deeply loyal, making early socialization and positive reinforcement training non-negotiable. This breed suits experienced owners with fenced property. Puppy prices range from $2,000–$4,500 from AKC-registered breeders with health testing.
Tier 2: The Heavyweights (120–150 lb)
5. Newfoundland
Size class: Heavyweight | Key trait: Water rescue instinct and legendary patience with children
Newfoundlands weigh 130–150 lb (59–68 kg) for males and stand 28 inches (71 cm) tall. Their webbed feet, water-resistant double coat, and natural swimming ability made them indispensable to Canadian fishermen. Newfies are among the most patient, nurturing breeds with children — earning the nickname "nanny dog." They drool heavily and shed in seasonal blowouts, so grooming commitment is significant. The Newfoundland Club of America recommends cardiac, hip, elbow, and cystinuria screening for all breeding stock.
6. Leonberger
Size class: Heavyweight | Key trait: Versatile working dog with balanced temperament
Leonbergers weigh 120–170 lb (54–77 kg) for males, standing 28–31.5 inches (71–80 cm). Originating in 19th-century Germany, they were bred to be multipurpose farm dogs — capable of pulling carts, guarding livestock, and serving as family companions. They're more active than Mastiffs but less intense than Boerboels, needing 60 minutes of exercise daily. Leonbergers are prone to Leonberger polyneuropathy (LPN1 and LPN2), a breed-specific neurological condition. Genetic testing for both mutations is available through the University of Minnesota's veterinary genetics lab.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
Size class: Heavyweight | Key trait: Striking tri-color coat with draft-pulling heritage
Bernese Mountain Dogs weigh 80–115 lb (36–52 kg) for males — placing them at the lower edge of our heavyweight tier — but their substantial bone and long coat make them appear far larger. Standing 25–27.5 inches (64–70 cm), they were Swiss draft dogs bred for pulling milk carts. Their temperament is good-natured, affectionate, and eager to please. The breed's major drawback is lifespan: the average is only 6–8 years due to high cancer rates, particularly histiocytic sarcoma. The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America has invested heavily in cancer research through the BMDCA Foundation.
Tier 3: The Lower Giants (100–120 lb)
8. Irish Wolfhound
Size class: Lower Giant | Key trait: Tallest sighthound with gentle, dignified nature
Irish Wolfhounds stand a minimum of 32 inches (81 cm) for males and weigh 120–155 lb (54–70 kg), though they often appear lighter due to their lean sighthound build. They're quiet, reserved, and surprisingly good apartment dogs despite their size — they tend to be couch potatoes indoors. Outdoors, they need a securely fenced area (minimum 6-foot fence) as their sighthound instinct triggers at any running animal. Lifespan averages 6–8 years; DCM and osteosarcoma are the leading causes of death.
9. Tibetan Mastiff
Size class: Lower Giant | Key trait: Ancient Himalayan guardian with independent temperament
Tibetan Mastiffs weigh 90–150 lb (41–68 kg) for males, standing 26+ inches (66+ cm). Bred to guard Tibetan monasteries and nomadic camps, they're nocturnal by instinct (barking at night was their job), fiercely loyal to family, and aloof with strangers. They require a confident owner who understands independent-thinking breeds. Training must be patient and reward-based — force-based methods backfire spectacularly with this breed. Annual shedding is extreme; expect week-long coat blowouts. Purchase price is among the highest for giant breeds: $3,000–$7,000 from reputable US breeders.
10. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Size class: Lower Giant | Key trait: Livestock guardian with low grooming needs
Anatolian Shepherds weigh 110–150 lb (50–68 kg) for males, standing 29+ inches (74+ cm). Unlike fluffy giants, Anatolians have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming — a major practical advantage. They're serious livestock guardians: protective, territorial, and not suited to casual suburban life. They need acreage, a job (even if it's just guarding your backyard flock), and an owner who respects their independent nature. With proper socialization, they're devoted family dogs. They're notably long-lived for giant breeds, averaging 11–13 years.
Big Giant Dog Breeds Comparison Table
| Breed | Male Weight (lb/kg) | Height (in/cm) | Lifespan | Exercise (min/day) | Grooming Level | Family Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Mastiff | 160–230 / 73–104 | 30+ / 76+ | 6–10 yr | 30–45 | Low | Excellent |
| Saint Bernard | 140–180 / 64–82 | 28–35 / 71–89 | 8–10 yr | 45–60 | Moderate–High | Excellent |
| Great Dane | 140–175 / 64–79 | 30–32 / 76–81 | 7–10 yr | 45–60 | Low | Excellent |
| Boerboel | 150–200 / 68–91 | 24–28 / 61–71 | 9–11 yr | 60+ | Low | Good (exp. owner) |
| Newfoundland | 130–150 / 59–68 | 28 / 71 | 9–10 yr | 45–60 | High | Excellent |
| Leonberger | 120–170 / 54–77 | 28–31.5 / 71–80 | 7–9 yr | 60 | High | Very Good |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 80–115 / 36–52 | 25–27.5 / 64–70 | 6–8 yr | 45–60 | Moderate–High | Excellent |
| Irish Wolfhound | 120–155 / 54–70 | 32+ / 81+ | 6–8 yr | 40–60 | Moderate | Very Good |
| Tibetan Mastiff | 90–150 / 41–68 | 26+ / 66+ | 10–12 yr | 45–60 | High (seasonal) | Good (exp. owner) |
| Anatolian Shepherd | 110–150 / 50–68 | 29+ / 74+ | 11–13 yr | 60 | Low | Good (rural/acreage) |
Why Each Breed Made This List
Every breed above was selected because it meets the minimum weight and height thresholds while also being realistically manageable for a committed owner. I excluded breeds like the Caucasian Shepherd and Central Asian Shepherd not because they lack size — they easily exceed 150 lb — but because their extreme protective instincts and handling difficulty place them outside the scope of what most dog owners can safely manage. I also excluded the Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff) despite its 110+ lb weight because its average lifespan of just 5–8 years and brachycephalic airway issues make it a particularly challenging giant breed for all but the most prepared owners.
The 10 breeds above represent the sweet spot: genuinely massive dogs that, with proper socialization, positive reinforcement training, and preventive veterinary care, can be wonderful family companions. Each one has been placed on this list because it offers something distinct — whether that's the Mastiff's unmatched calm, the Newfoundland's water rescue talent, or the Anatolian's low-maintenance coat and exceptional longevity.
How to Choose the Right Big Giant Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle
Choosing among big giant dog breeds comes down to five practical factors. Use this decision framework to narrow your options:
- Apartment/condo: Irish Wolfhound or Great Dane (surprisingly good indoor dogs if exercised outdoors daily)
- Suburban house with fenced yard: Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, or Leonberger
- Rural property with acreage: Anatolian Shepherd, Tibetan Mastiff, or Boerboel
- First-time giant breed owner: English Mastiff, Great Dane, or Newfoundland — these breeds are the most forgiving of training mistakes
- Experienced owner: Boerboel, Tibetan Mastiff, or Anatolian Shepherd — these require confident handling and breed-specific knowledge
- Homes with young children: Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dog, or English Mastiff — the most reliably gentle and patient
- Multi-pet households: Leonberger or Great Dane — generally good with other dogs when socialized early
- Single-person household: Irish Wolfhound or Tibetan Mastiff — they bond intensely and don't need a bustling family
- Lower budget ($1,500–$3,000 purchase + $2,500–$4,000/year care): Great Dane or Bernese Mountain Dog
- Higher budget ($3,000–$7,000 purchase + $4,000–$6,000/year care): Tibetan Mastiff, Boerboel, or Newfoundland
- "I hate dog hair everywhere": English Mastiff, Great Dane, Anatolian Shepherd, or Boerboel (short coats, minimal shedding)
- "I don't mind brushing": Newfoundland, Leonberger, or Tibetan Mastiff (double coats with heavy seasonal shedding)
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Approach with Caution
Honorable Mentions — These breeds narrowly missed the list:
- Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff): 110–145 lb, but brachycephalic health issues and a 5–8 year lifespan make this breed a heavy emotional and financial commitment.
- Cane Corso: 99–110 lb for males — just below our weight threshold, but a capable guardian breed worth considering if you want a large (not giant) dog.
- Neapolitan Mastiff: 150 lb, but extreme skin folds, heavy drooling, and serious health concerns limit its suitability for most homes.
- Bullmastiff: 110–130 lb, a wonderful breed that falls between "large" and "giant" — excellent for those who want a big dog without the extreme size of an English Mastiff.
Breeds to Approach with Caution for the criteria of "giant breed suitable for family life":
- Caucasian Shepherd (Ovcharka): 110–220 lb, but extreme guardian instincts and aggression toward strangers make them unsuitable for suburban or family settings without expert-level handling.
- Central Asian Shepherd (Alabai): Similar to Caucasian Shepherd — powerful, independent, and potentially dangerous without specialized training.
- Presa Canario: 100–130 lb with strong prey drive and dog-aggression tendencies. Subject to breed-specific legislation (BSL) in many jurisdictions — check your local laws before considering this breed.
Ownership Costs for Big Giant Dog Breeds
Owning a giant breed is expensive. Here's a realistic first-year budget breakdown based on 2026 pricing:
| Expense Category | Low Range | High Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (responsible breeder) | $1,500 | $7,000 | Varies by breed rarity and breeder reputation |
| Initial vet visits + core vaccines | $400 | $800 | DHPP series, rabies, bordetella; giant breeds need extended vaccine schedules |
| Spay/neuter + prophylactic gastropexy | $800 | $1,500 | Gastropexy strongly recommended for deep-chested giants |
| Food (annual) | $1,200 | $2,400 | Giant breeds eat 6–12 cups/day; large-breed puppy formula required for first 18–24 months |
| Heartworm/flea/tick prevention | $250 | $500 | Dosage and cost scale with weight — giant breed doses are the most expensive tier |
| Crate (XXL, 54-inch) | $150 | $400 | Must accommodate standing height and full stretch |
| Pet insurance (annual premium) | $600 | $1,200 | Giant breeds have higher premiums; look for plans covering hereditary conditions |
| Total first year | $4,900 | $13,800 |
Annual ongoing costs after the first year typically range from $3,000–$6,000 depending on breed health, insurance, and food requirements. Always consult your veterinarian about breed-specific preventive care plans — early screening for hip dysplasia, cardiac conditions, and cancer can save thousands in emergency treatment later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best big giant dog breeds for families with children?
The Newfoundland, English Mastiff, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Saint Bernard consistently rank as the most patient and gentle giants around children. All four breeds have stable temperaments and low prey drive, reducing the risk of accidental injury. That said, no giant breed should be left unsupervised with small children — a 150 lb dog can inadvertently knock over a toddler simply by walking past.
Which big giant dog breed lives the longest?
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog has the longest average lifespan on this list at 11–13 years — exceptional for a breed over 100 lb. The Tibetan Mastiff follows at 10–12 years, and the Boerboel at 9–11 years. Breeds with the shortest lifespans include the Irish Wolfhound, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Dogue de Bordeaux, all averaging 6–8 years.
Can giant dog breeds live in apartments?
Surprisingly, yes — some of them. The Irish Wolfhound and Great Dane are known for being relatively inactive indoors and can adapt to apartment living provided they receive adequate daily exercise (45–60 minutes of walking plus off-leash time in a secure area). English Mastiffs are also surprisingly good apartment dogs due to their low energy. High-energy giants like the Boerboel and Anatolian Shepherd are poor apartment candidates.
How much does it cost to feed a giant dog breed monthly?
Expect to spend $100–$200 per month on food for a giant breed, depending on the specific dog's weight and the quality of kibble. A 150 lb Mastiff eating 10 cups of premium large-breed kibble daily will cost roughly $150–$180/month. Raw feeding a giant breed is considerably more expensive — typically $300–$500/month. Always use a large-breed growth formula for puppies to prevent rapid bone growth that leads to joint problems; the AVMA recommends working with your veterinarian to select appropriate nutrition.
Are big giant dog breeds good guard dogs?
Most giant breeds on this list are natural deterrents — their size alone discourages intruders — but they are not trained protection dogs. The Boerboel, Tibetan Mastiff, and Anatolian Shepherd have genuine guardian instincts and will actively protect territory and family. Breeds like the Newfoundland, Irish Wolfhound, and Bernese Mountain Dog are more likely to greet a stranger with curiosity than aggression. If you want a giant breed specifically for protection, work with a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT) who uses positive reinforcement methods — never use aversive tools like shock or prong collars, which can create fear-based aggression in powerful dogs.
What health problems are most common in giant dog breeds?
The three most prevalent health concerns across giant breeds are: (1) Hip and elbow dysplasia, affecting an estimated 20–40% of giant breed dogs depending on the breed; (2) Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate surgery; and (3) Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), particularly in Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and Saint Bernards. Orthopedic cancers like osteosarcoma are also overrepresented in giant breeds. Consult your veterinarian about breed-appropriate screening schedules — most giant breeds should have hip/elbow X-rays by age 2 and annual cardiac evaluations after age 4.
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
