The Biggest Dog Breed in the World? Giants Ranked by Size
What is the biggest dog breed in the world? We rank 10 giant breeds by height, weight, and mass, with costs, health data, and a lifestyle decision framework.
How We Ranked the Biggest Dog Breeds
When readers ask what is the biggest dog breed in the world, the answer depends entirely on which measurement you prioritize. Some breeds tower in height while others dominate in sheer mass. For this list, we evaluated breeds using three criteria:
- Height at the withers (shoulder): Measured in inches and centimeters per AKC and FCI breed standards.
- Adult body weight: Typical healthy weight range for males (females generally run 15–25% smaller).
- Overall mass index: A composite ranking that accounts for both height and weight — because a tall, lean breed like the Greyhound isn't "big" in the way a stocky Mastiff is.
All data is sourced from the American Kennel Club breed standards and the Merck Veterinary Manual. We only included breeds with documented standards from major registries (AKC, FCI, or UKC). Mixed breeds and unstandardized types were excluded.
The Short Answer: It Depends on How You Measure
If you're measuring height, the Great Dane holds the crown — males stand 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) at the shoulder, and the tallest dog ever recorded was a Great Dane named Zeus at 44 inches (111.8 cm). If you're measuring weight and mass, the English Mastiff wins — males tip the scales at 160–230 lb (73–104 kg), with the heaviest recorded Mastiff (Zorba) weighing 343 lb (155.6 kg).
Below, we rank 10 giant breeds across both dimensions, grouped logically from tallest to most massive.
The Tallest Giants: Breeds That Tower
1. Great Dane
Size class: Giant (tallest)
Key trait: Recognized by Guinness World Records as the tallest dog breed; males average 30–32 in (76–81 cm), females 28–30 in (71–76 cm).
Profile: Despite their imposing height, Great Danes are famously gentle — often called "the world's biggest lapdog." They require 60–90 minutes of daily exercise and have a relatively short lifespan of 7–10 years, largely due to cardiac and orthopedic risks. Expect to pay $1,500–$3,000 from a health-tested breeder, with annual care costs running $2,500–$4,000 due to their food consumption (8–12 cups of kibble daily) and size-related veterinary needs.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Size class: Giant (tallest sighthound)
Key trait: Minimum height of 32 in (81 cm) for males per AKC standard — some individuals reach 34–35 in (86–89 cm), rivaling Great Danes.
Profile: Originally bred to hunt wolves and elk in Ireland, the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of the sighthounds. They're calmer than you'd expect — 40–60 minutes of exercise satisfies them — but they need significant space due to their length and leg span. Lifespan is unfortunately brief at 6–8 years, with dilated cardiomyopathy and osteosarcoma as leading health concerns. Purchase price: $1,800–$3,500.
3. Scottish Deerhound
Size class: Giant (tall, lean)
Key trait: Males stand 30–32 in (76–81 cm) but weigh only 85–110 lb (39–50 kg) — tall without the bulk.
Profile: The Scottish Deerhound is essentially a wiry-coated, slightly more agile cousin of the Wolfhound. Bred for coursing deer across the Scottish Highlands, they retain strong prey drive and need secure fencing (minimum 6 ft). Their lighter build means fewer joint problems than heavier giants, and they live slightly longer at 8–11 years. Price range: $2,000–$4,000.
The Heaviest Giants: Breeds Built for Mass
4. English Mastiff
Size class: Giant (heaviest)
Key trait: Males weigh 160–230 lb (73–104 kg) — the heaviest breed by raw poundage, with a broad, deep body and massive bone structure.
Profile: The English Mastiff is the definitive answer if you define "biggest" by weight. They're low-energy dogs — 30–45 minutes of gentle walking is enough — but their space requirements are enormous simply due to their footprint. Drool is a lifestyle factor (keep towels handy). Health screening for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cardiac conditions is essential. Lifespan: 6–10 years. Price: $1,500–$3,500. Annual food costs alone can reach $2,400–$3,600.
5. Saint Bernard
Size class: Giant (heavy, tall)
Key trait: Males stand 28–30 in (71–76 cm) and weigh 140–180 lb (64–82 kg) — combining substantial height with heavy bone and muscle.
Profile: Famous for their Alpine rescue heritage, Saint Bernards are among the most family-friendly giants. They're patient with children and generally good with other dogs. Exercise needs are moderate (45–60 minutes daily), but they overheat easily in warm climates — temperatures above 80°F (27°C) require air-conditioned environments. Lifespan: 8–10 years. Price: $1,500–$3,000.
6. Boerboel
Size class: Giant (heavy, muscular)
Key trait: Males weigh 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) with a dense, athletic build — heavier-boned than most Mastiff-type breeds relative to height.
Profile: The South African Boerboel was developed as a farm guardian and remains one of the most physically powerful breeds in existence. They require an experienced handler — not recommended for first-time owners — and respond best to positive reinforcement training with firm, consistent boundaries. Early socialization (8–16 weeks) is critical. Lifespan: 9–11 years, which is above average for a giant. Price: $2,000–$4,500.
The Dual-Threat Giants: Tall AND Heavy
7. Leonberger
Size class: Giant (balanced mass)
Key trait: Males stand 28–31.5 in (71–80 cm) and weigh 110–170 lb (50–77 kg) — one of the few breeds that scores highly in both height and weight.
Profile: The Leonberger's lion-like mane and webbed feet (yes, really) make them distinctive among giants. Originally bred in Germany as an all-purpose farm and water rescue dog, they're more active than Mastiff types — expect 60–90 minutes of exercise including swimming if possible. They're generally excellent family dogs. Lifespan: 7–9 years. AKC breed standard emphasizes temperament stability. Price: $2,000–$4,000.
8. Newfoundland
Size class: Giant (heavy, moderate height)
Key trait: Males stand 28 in (71 cm) and weigh 130–150 lb (59–68 kg) — compact height but enormous body volume and lung capacity.
Profile: Newfoundlands are legendary water rescue dogs with a natural swimming ability and a temperament so gentle they're often used as therapy dogs. Their thick double coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($60–$90 per session). They drool and shed heavily — this is not a breed for cleanliness obsessives. Lifespan: 9–10 years. Price: $1,500–$3,000.
9. Neapolitan Mastiff
Size class: Giant (heavy, stocky)
Key trait: Males weigh 150 lb (68 kg) minimum with no upper limit in the standard — some exceed 200 lb (91 kg) on a 26–31 in (66–79 cm) frame.
Profile: The Neapolitan Mastiff's loose, wrinkled skin and massive head make them instantly recognizable. They're low-energy but high-maintenance in other ways: skin folds require daily cleaning to prevent infection, and their drool is legendary. Not ideal for apartments or homes with small children (accidental knocks are a real risk). Lifespan: 7–9 years. Price: $2,500–$5,000.
10. Tibetan Mastiff
Size class: Giant (heavy, heavily coated)
Key trait: Males weigh 90–150 lb (41–68 kg) but appear significantly larger due to their dense double coat and heavy ruff — visually one of the most imposing breeds alive.
Profile: The Tibetan Mastiff is an independent, strong-willed livestock guardian that requires an experienced owner and extensive early socialization. They're nocturnal by instinct (barking at night is common) and have a thick coat that sheds explosively once a year. Not recommended for hot climates. Lifespan: 10–12 years — one of the longest-lived giants. Price: $2,500–$6,000+ (some imported lines exceed $10,000).
Side-by-Side: How These Giant Breeds Compare
| Breed | Male Height | Male Weight | Lifespan | Exercise/Day | Family Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Dane | 30–32 in | 140–175 lb | 7–10 yr | 60–90 min | ★★★★☆ |
| Irish Wolfhound | 32+ in | 120–160 lb | 6–8 yr | 40–60 min | ★★★★☆ |
| Scottish Deerhound | 30–32 in | 85–110 lb | 8–11 yr | 45–60 min | ★★★☆☆ |
| English Mastiff | 30+ in | 160–230 lb | 6–10 yr | 30–45 min | ★★★★☆ |
| Saint Bernard | 28–30 in | 140–180 lb | 8–10 yr | 45–60 min | ★★★★★ |
| Boerboel | 24–27 in | 150–200 lb | 9–11 yr | 60–90 min | ★★★☆☆ |
| Leonberger | 28–31.5 in | 110–170 lb | 7–9 yr | 60–90 min | ★★★★★ |
| Newfoundland | 28 in | 130–150 lb | 9–10 yr | 45–60 min | ★★★★★ |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | 26–31 in | 150–200+ lb | 7–9 yr | 30–45 min | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Tibetan Mastiff | 26+ in | 90–150 lb | 10–12 yr | 45–60 min | ★★★☆☆ |
Family Fit ratings reflect suitability for households with children under 12, first-time owners, and multi-pet homes. Consult your veterinarian about breed-specific health screening before committing to any giant breed.
Choosing Your Giant: A Decision Framework
If you've narrowed it down to the top three — Great Dane, English Mastiff, and Saint Bernard — here's how to pick based on your actual lifestyle:
- Do you have children under 8?
→ YES: Choose the Saint Bernard. They're the most patient and least likely to accidentally knock over a small child due to their slower, more deliberate movement.
→ NO: Continue to next question. - Is daily exercise under 45 minutes realistic for your schedule?
→ YES: Choose the English Mastiff. They're genuinely low-energy and content with short walks and couch time.
→ NO: Continue to next question. - Do you want a dog that can keep up on hikes and outdoor adventures?
→ YES: Choose the Great Dane. They have the stamina and athleticism for longer activities once fully grown (after 18–24 months — never over-exercise giant puppies due to growth plate risks).
→ NO: Any of the three will work; choose based on grooming tolerance (Mastiffs drool most, Danes shed least). - Can your budget handle $3,000–$5,000/year in ongoing care?
→ YES: All three are viable. Factor in pet insurance ($80–$150/month for giant breeds in 2026).
→ NO: Consider a large (not giant) breed like the Bernese Mountain Dog or Labrador Retriever — you'll save 30–40% on food, medication, and veterinary costs.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Reconsider
Honorable mentions that narrowly missed the top 10:
- Dogue de Bordeaux: Males weigh 110–145 lb (50–66 kg) on a shorter 23–27 in frame. Extremely stocky but doesn't hit the height threshold to compete with the top entries.
- Cane Corso: Males weigh 99–110 lb (45–50 kg) — impressive but lighter than most breeds on this list. Their athletic build makes them appear larger than they are.
- Anatolian Shepherd: Males can reach 150 lb (68 kg) and 29 in (74 cm) but are leaner and lighter-boned than comparable Mastiff breeds.
Breeds people assume are giants but aren't:
- Rottweiler: Despite their reputation, males max out around 135 lb (61 kg) and 27 in (69 cm) — large, not giant.
- German Shepherd: Males typically weigh 65–90 lb (29–41 kg). Big in personality, medium-large in body.
- Bernese Mountain Dog: Males weigh 80–115 lb (36–52 kg) — a large breed that's often mistaken for a giant due to their fluffy coat adding visual bulk.
The Real Cost of Owning a Giant Breed
Giant breeds carry costs that catch many owners off guard. Here's a realistic first-year budget breakdown based on 2026 pricing:
- Purchase price: $1,500–$6,000 (varies by breed and breeder)
- Food (high-quality large-breed kibble): $1,800–$3,600/year — giant breeds eat 6–12 cups daily
- Preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick): $400–$700/year — weight-based dosing means giant-breed doses cost 2–3x more than small-breed doses
- Orthopedic bed: $150–$350 (they need XL or XXL sizes)
- Veterinary care (annual wellness + giant-breed screening): $800–$1,500 — including hip/elbow X-rays ($200–$400) and cardiac evaluation ($150–$300)
- Pet insurance: $960–$1,800/year for giant breed coverage
- Emergency fund (recommended): $2,000–$5,000 — gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) surgery alone costs $3,000–$7,000
Total first-year cost: $7,600–$19,000 depending on breed, location, and whether complications arise.
Giant Breed Health: What Every Prospective Owner Must Know
Giant breeds share several health vulnerabilities that directly correlate with their size:
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV/Bloat): Deep-chested giants are at highest risk. Prophylactic gastropexy (stomach tacking) during spay/neuter costs $300–$600 and can be lifesaving. Feed 2–3 smaller meals daily rather than one large meal, and avoid exercise 1 hour before and after eating.
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Prevalence varies by breed but averages 15–25% in giant breeds per Orthopedic Foundation for Animals data. Only buy from breeders who provide OFA or PennHIP certification on both parents.
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): Particularly prevalent in Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and Newfoundlands. Annual cardiac screening via echocardiogram is recommended after age 3.
- Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer affects giant breeds at rates 5–10x higher than small breeds. Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes are especially predisposed.
When to call your vet immediately: If your giant breed dog shows a distended abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness, or rapid breathing — these are bloat symptoms and this is a life-threatening emergency. Do not wait. Transport to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest dog breed in the world by weight?
The English Mastiff holds the record for heaviest dog breed. Males typically weigh 160–230 lb (73–104 kg), and the heaviest ever recorded was an English Mastiff named Zorba at 343 lb (155.6 kg) in 1989.
What is the tallest dog breed in the world?
The Great Dane is the tallest breed. Males stand 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) at the shoulder, and the tallest dog ever recorded was a Great Dane named Zeus at 44 inches (111.8 cm).
Is the Saint Bernard bigger than the Great Dane?
It depends on the measurement. Saint Bernards are heavier on average (140–180 lb vs. 140–175 lb for Danes, with some Saints exceeding 200 lb), but Great Danes are taller (30–32 in vs. 28–30 in for Saints). By overall mass, a large Saint Bernard can outweigh a typical Great Dane.
Which giant breed lives the longest?
The Tibetan Mastiff has the longest lifespan among giant breeds at 10–12 years, followed by the Boerboel at 9–11 years. Most other giants average 6–10 years. This is a critical consideration — giant breeds age faster and have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs.
Are giant breeds good with children?
Many are excellent — Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Leonbergers are among the gentlest breeds with children. However, their sheer size creates accidental knock-over risk for toddlers. Always supervise interactions between giant breeds and children under 8, and teach children not to climb on or startle the dog.
How much does it cost to feed a giant breed dog?
Expect to spend $150–$300 per month on high-quality large-breed kibble. Giant breeds consume 6–12 cups daily depending on activity level and metabolic rate. Raw feeding a giant breed costs significantly more — typically $300–$600/month.
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
