What Are the Biggest Dog Breeds? A Complete Size & Weight Guide
What are the biggest dog breeds? We rank 12 giant breeds by weight, height, and temperament with a comparison table and decision framework for your lifestyle.
How We Define "Biggest" — Selection Criteria for Giant Dog Breeds
When people ask "what are the biggest dog breeds," they usually mean one of two things: heaviest or tallest. These are not interchangeable. A Great Dane stands taller than an English Mastiff, but the Mastiff outweighs the Dane by 40–80 pounds. For this guide, we evaluate breeds across both dimensions and rank them using a composite approach.
- Minimum adult male weight: 100 lb (45 kg) or more at the breed standard's upper range
- Minimum adult male height: 26 inches (66 cm) at the withers (shoulder)
- Recognized breed status: Must be fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
- Availability: Breed must be obtainable through responsible breeders or rescue organizations in the United States
- Data sources: Weight and height ranges pulled from AKC breed standards and the Merck Veterinary Manual
We excluded breeds that are extremely rare (fewer than 100 registered dogs in the US), breeds still in development without stable size genetics, and mixed breeds like "giant Daniffs" that lack predictable adult sizing. We also separated "tallest" breeds from "heaviest" breeds because the living requirements, health risks, and costs differ significantly between a 180-pound Mastiff and a 140-pound Great Dane.
The 12 Biggest Dog Breeds Ranked by Size
The following breeds are organized into two groups: the heaviest breeds (bulk and mass) and the tallest breeds (height and reach). Within each group, breeds are ranked from largest to smallest by their upper-range adult male weight.
Group 1: The Heaviest Breeds (Mass & Bulk)
Size Class: Super Giant
Key Trait: The heaviest dog breed on Earth — males routinely exceed 200 lb (91 kg).
Profile: The English Mastiff holds the Guinness World Record for heaviest dog (Zorba, at 343 lb / 155.6 kg). Modern males typically range from 160–230 lb (73–104 kg). Despite their massive build, Mastiffs are famously low-energy couch dogs that require surprisingly little exercise — about 30–45 minutes of walking daily. They drool heavily and need wipe-downs after drinking.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: Alpine rescue heritage produces a dense, heavy-boned working dog built for snow.
Profile: Males weigh 140–180 lb (64–82 kg) and stand 28–30 inches (71–76 cm). Originally bred by monks at the Great Saint Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps for search-and-rescue, these dogs carry a thick double coat and a calm, steady temperament. They are strong pullers on leash and need early harness training. Expect 2–4 cups of drool daily from a mature Saint Bernard.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: South African farm guardian with athletic power — more agile than most mastiff-type breeds.
Profile: Males weigh 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) and stand 24–27 inches (61–69 cm). The Boerboel is a working mastiff from South Africa, originally used to protect homesteads from predators. Unlike many mastiff breeds that have become sedentary show dogs, the Boerboel retains significant drive and athleticism. This is not a breed for first-time owners — they require experienced handling, structured socialization from 8–16 weeks, and consistent positive reinforcement training.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: Extreme loose skin and wrinkles — a Roman war dog lineage built for intimidation.
Profile: Males weigh 150–165 lb (68–75 kg) and stand 26–31 inches (66–79 cm). The Neapolitan Mastiff's abundant wrinkles and dewlap are a hallmark of the breed but require daily cleaning to prevent skin fold dermatitis (intertrigo). They are intensely loyal to their family but aloof with strangers. Early, extensive socialization is non-negotiable to prevent overprotective behavior.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: Water rescue specialist with webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat.
Profile: Males weigh 130–150 lb (59–68 kg) and stand 28 inches (71 cm). Known as the "gentle giant" of the dog world, Newfoundlands were bred to haul fishing nets and perform water rescues off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. They are among the most family-friendly giant breeds, patient with children, and eager to please. Their coat requires brushing 3–4 times per week, and they shed heavily in spring and fall.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: German multi-purpose working dog — equally at home in water rescue, draft work, and family life.
Profile: Males weigh 110–170 lb (50–77 kg) and stand 28–31.5 inches (71–80 cm). Created in the 1840s in Leonberg, Germany by crossing Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Great Pyrenees, the Leonberger is one of the most versatile giant breeds. They excel in water rescue, cart pulling, and therapy work. They need 60+ minutes of daily activity and thrive in homes with access to swimming.
Group 2: The Tallest Breeds (Height & Reach)
Size Class: Super Giant (Height)
Key Trait: The tallest dog breed — males regularly stand 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) at the shoulder.
Profile: Males weigh 140–175 lb (64–79 kg) but it's their height that defines them. A Great Dane standing on hind legs can look a human adult in the eye. Despite their imposing frame, Danes are affectionate, people-oriented dogs that often try to be lap dogs. They are prone to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), and owners should discuss prophylactic gastropexy with their veterinarian — a preventive surgery often performed at the time of spay/neuter that tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall.
Size Class: Super Giant (Height)
Key Trait: The tallest of all sighthounds — bred to hunt wolves and elk in medieval Ireland.
Profile: Males stand a minimum of 32 inches (81 cm) and weigh 120–155 lb (54–70 kg). The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed recognized by the AKC, though individual Great Danes may surpass them. Wolfhounds have a rough, wiry coat and a gentle, dignified temperament. They need a securely fenced yard (minimum 6-foot fence) due to their sighthound chase instinct. Lifespan is unfortunately short: 6–8 years.
Size Class: Giant (Height)
Key Trait: A lighter-built sighthound cousin of the Wolfhound, bred to chase red deer across Scottish highlands.
Profile: Males stand 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) and weigh 85–110 lb (39–50 kg). The Deerhound is noticeably leaner than the Wolfhound but still among the tallest breeds. They are quiet, cat-like indoors but need regular opportunities to run in enclosed areas. Their silky, wavy coat needs brushing 2–3 times per week.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: Turkish livestock guardian with independent judgment and powerful protective instinct.
Profile: Males weigh 110–150 lb (50–68 kg) and stand 29 inches (74 cm). One of the oldest livestock guardian breeds, dating back over 6,000 years in Anatolia (modern Turkey). Anatolians are not companion-oriented like Newfoundlands — they are serious working dogs that bond with their flock (or family) and make independent decisions about threats. They require experienced owners, extensive socialization, and large fenced properties. Note: local breed-specific legislation may apply in some jurisdictions — check your city and county ordinances before acquiring this breed.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: Himalayan guardian with a lion-like mane and nocturnal patrol instincts.
Profile: Males weigh 90–150 lb (41–68 kg) and stand 26+ inches (66+ cm). The Tibetan Mastiff's luxurious double coat and imposing mane make them one of the most visually striking giant breeds. Bred to guard monasteries and nomadic camps in the Himalayas, they are naturally nocturnal — expect barking and patrolling at night. They are independent thinkers who do not respond well to repetitive training. Early socialization with diverse people, surfaces, and sounds is critical between 8–16 weeks.
Size Class: Giant
Key Trait: White-coated mountain guardian known for gentle temperament and persistent barking at perceived threats.
Profile: Males weigh 100–160 lb (45–73 kg) and stand 27–32 inches (69–81 cm). Originally bred to guard sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, Great Pyrenees are calm, patient, and deeply bonded to their family. They are notorious barkers — especially at night — and shed profusely. They are one of the more accessible giant breeds for families with children due to their tolerant nature, but their barking makes them a poor fit for apartments or close-quarter neighborhoods.
Breed Comparison Table: Size, Lifespan, Exercise, and Cost
| Breed | Male Weight (lb/kg) | Male Height (in/cm) | Lifespan | Daily Exercise | Puppy Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Mastiff | 160–230 lb / 73–104 kg | 30+ in / 76+ cm | 6–10 years | 30–45 min | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Saint Bernard | 140–180 lb / 64–82 kg | 28–30 in / 71–76 cm | 8–10 years | 45–60 min | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Boerboel | 150–200 lb / 68–91 kg | 24–27 in / 61–69 cm | 9–11 years | 60–90 min | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | 150–165 lb / 68–75 kg | 26–31 in / 66–79 cm | 7–9 years | 30–45 min | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Newfoundland | 130–150 lb / 59–68 kg | 28 in / 71 cm | 9–10 years | 45–60 min | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Leonberger | 110–170 lb / 50–77 kg | 28–31.5 in / 71–80 cm | 7–9 years | 60+ min | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Great Dane | 140–175 lb / 64–79 kg | 30–32 in / 76–81 cm | 7–10 years | 45–60 min | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Irish Wolfhound | 120–155 lb / 54–70 kg | 32+ in / 81+ cm | 6–8 years | 45–60 min | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Scottish Deerhound | 85–110 lb / 39–50 kg | 30–32 in / 76–81 cm | 8–11 years | 45–60 min | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Anatolian Shepherd | 110–150 lb / 50–68 kg | 29 in / 74 cm | 11–13 years | 60–90 min | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Tibetan Mastiff | 90–150 lb / 41–68 kg | 26+ in / 66+ cm | 10–12 years | 45–60 min | $3,000–$7,000 |
| Great Pyrenees | 100–160 lb / 45–73 kg | 27–32 in / 69–81 cm | 10–12 years | 45–60 min | $1,000–$2,500 |
Puppy prices reflect responsible breeder ranges as of 2025–2026. Prices below these ranges often indicate backyard breeders or puppy mills. Always ask for OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) health clearances for hips, elbows, and breed-specific cardiac testing.
Health Risks Unique to Giant Breeds
Owning one of the biggest dog breeds comes with predictable veterinary challenges. Giant breeds share a cluster of health risks that smaller dogs rarely face, and understanding these before you commit is essential for both your dog's wellbeing and your budget.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV / Bloat): Deep-chested giant breeds are at highest risk for bloat — a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), GDV is a surgical emergency with mortality rates of 10–30% even with treatment. Prophylactic gastropexy (stomach tacking) costs $400–$800 when done alongside spay/neuter but can save your dog's life. Breeds at highest risk: Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Irish Wolfhound, English Mastiff.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Rapid growth in giant puppies puts enormous stress on developing joints. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) reports dysplasia rates of 20–50% in several giant breeds. Feed a large-breed puppy formula that meets AAFCO growth standards with controlled calcium (1.0–1.5% on a dry matter basis) and phosphorus to support slower, healthier bone development. Never supplement giant breed puppies with calcium without veterinary guidance — excess calcium causes growth abnormalities.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): Enlarged hearts are disproportionately common in Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and Newfoundlands. Annual cardiac auscultation (listening) by your vet starting at age 2, with echocardiogram screening if a murmur is detected, is recommended. Annual cardiology screening costs $200–$500.
Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer): Giant breeds — particularly Irish Wolfhounds, Great Danes, and Rottweilers — have significantly elevated rates of osteosarcoma compared to smaller dogs. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that dogs over 80 lb have a proportionally higher risk. Amputation plus chemotherapy costs $5,000–$10,000 and offers a median survival of 10–12 months.
Budget $2,500–$5,000 per year for routine care, food, and preventive medications for a giant breed. Food alone costs $100–$200/month (a 150-lb dog eats 6–10 cups of high-quality kibble daily). Emergency GDV surgery can cost $5,000–$10,000. Pet insurance premiums for giant breeds run $80–$150/month but are strongly recommended — one major emergency can exceed a year's worth of premiums.
Decision Framework: Which Giant Breed Fits Your Life?
Choosing between the biggest dog breeds comes down to four lifestyle factors. Use this framework to narrow your top 3, then meet dogs of those breeds in person before committing.
- What is your living situation?
- House with large fenced yard (1+ acre): Anatolian Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Leonberger, Boerboel all thrive with space to patrol.
- House with standard yard: Newfoundland, Great Dane, Saint Bernard, English Mastiff adapt well to moderate yards if exercised daily.
- Apartment or townhome: Great Dane and Greyhound-sized dogs can surprisingly do well in apartments due to their low indoor energy — but you must commit to multiple daily walks. Avoid livestock guardian breeds (Great Pyrenees, Tibetan Mastiff) whose barking will create neighbor conflicts.
- Do you have children or other pets?
- Young children (under 8): Newfoundland, Great Dane, and Leonberger are the most tolerant and gentle. Avoid Boerboel and Anatolian Shepherd — their guarding instincts can misinterpret children's play as threats.
- Small dogs or cats: Newfoundland and Great Dane generally coexist well with smaller pets when raised together. Sighthounds (Irish Wolfhound, Scottish Deerhound) have strong chase instincts and may not be safe with cats or small dogs.
- What is your experience level?
- First-time dog owner: Newfoundland, Great Dane, or Great Pyrenees are the most forgiving of training mistakes. All three are eager to please or at least tolerant of novice handling.
- Experienced owner only: Boerboel, Anatolian Shepherd, Tibetan Mastiff, and Neapolitan Mastiff require confident handlers who understand canine body language and can set consistent boundaries using positive reinforcement methods.
- What is your budget?
- Budget-conscious ($2,000–$3,000/year total): Great Pyrenees (lower purchase price, longer lifespan means fewer years of giant-breed costs).
- Moderate budget ($3,000–$5,000/year): Newfoundland, Great Dane, Saint Bernard — mid-range purchase price with predictable health screening needs.
- Higher budget ($5,000+/year): Tibetan Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff — higher purchase price plus intensive grooming or skin fold care.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Consider Carefully
Honorable Mentions — breeds that narrowly missed the list but deserve recognition:
- Bernese Mountain Dog (80–115 lb / 36–52 kg): Just under our weight threshold for males but one of the most popular large breeds. Exceptional family dogs with a short lifespan of 7–10 years due to high cancer rates.
- Dogue de Bordeaux (99–110 lb / 45–50 kg): A French mastiff with a massive head and loyal temperament. Weight is borderline for our list but their stocky build makes them feel larger than the scale suggests.
- Bullmastiff (110–130 lb / 50–59 kg): A cross between English Mastiffs and Bulldogs, bred to silently apprehend poachers on English estates. More athletic than pure mastiffs.
Breeds to Approach with Caution — not because they are bad dogs, but because they are mismatched with most people searching for "biggest dog breeds":
- Cane Corso (88–110 lb / 40–50 kg): Powerful Italian mastiff with intense drive and guarding instinct. Frequently surrendered when owners underestimate their need for structured training and mental stimulation. Not a casual ownership breed.
- Presa Canario (84–130 lb / 38–59 kg): Spanish mastiff with serious protective instincts. Subject to breed-specific legislation in many jurisdictions. Requires expert-level handling and extensive socialization.
- "Giant" designer mixes (Daniffs, Mastiff-Labs, etc.): Unpredictable adult size, temperament, and health outcomes. Without standardized breeding programs, you cannot reliably predict what you're getting. Choose a well-established purebred or a rescue dog whose adult size and temperament are already known.
Frequently Asked Questions About Giant Dog Breeds
What is the single biggest dog breed in the world?
By weight, the English Mastiff is the heaviest breed, with males reaching 230 lb (104 kg). By height, the Great Dane is the tallest, with males standing 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) at the shoulder. The answer depends on whether you define "biggest" by mass or height.
How much does it cost to own a giant breed dog per year?
Expect to spend $2,500–$5,000 annually on food, routine veterinary care, preventive medications, grooming, and supplies. Giant breed food costs alone run $100–$200/month. Emergency veterinary care for conditions like bloat can add $5,000–$10,000 in a single incident. Pet insurance is strongly recommended and typically costs $80–$150/month for giant breeds.
Are giant dog breeds good with children?
Several giant breeds — particularly Newfoundlands, Great Danes, and Leonbergers — are excellent with children due to their patient, gentle temperaments. However, any dog over 100 lb can accidentally knock over a toddler simply by turning around. Always supervise interactions between giant dogs and young children, and teach children to respect the dog's resting space.
How long do the biggest dog breeds live?
Giant breeds have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs. Most breeds on this list live 7–12 years, with the Irish Wolfhound at the lower end (6–8 years) and the Anatolian Shepherd and Tibetan Mastiff at the upper end (11–13 years). The biological reason is that rapid growth in giant breeds accelerates cellular aging and increases cancer risk.
Do giant breeds need a huge yard?
Not necessarily. Many giant breeds — especially mastiff types like the English Mastiff and Great Dane — are surprisingly low-energy indoors and can adapt to apartments with committed daily walks. Livestock guardian breeds (Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd) and working breeds (Leonberger, Boerboel) do need more space. A securely fenced yard is important for all giant breeds for safe off-leash time, but the size of the yard matters less than the consistency of daily exercise.
What should I feed a giant breed puppy?
Feed a commercial diet specifically formulated for large or giant breed puppies, meeting AAFCO nutrient profiles for growth. These formulas contain controlled calcium (1.0–1.5% dry matter basis) and appropriate calorie density to support slower growth rates. Giant breed puppies should reach adult size over 18–24 months, not 12 months. Never add calcium supplements to a giant breed puppy's diet without veterinary direction — excess calcium causes developmental orthopedic disease. Consult your veterinarian for specific feeding amounts based on your puppy's growth curve.
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
