Really Big Dogs
Explore 10 really big dogs ranked by weight, lifespan, cost, and family compatibility. Includes breed comparisons, health risks, and a decision framework.
What Qualifies as a "Really Big Dog"? Our Selection Criteria
Not every large dog earns the title of really big. For this guide, we drew a hard line based on veterinary body-condition standards and breed registry data. Every breed on this list meets all three of the following thresholds:
- Minimum adult male weight: 100 lb (45 kg) or more at healthy body condition score (BCS 4-5/9)
- Minimum shoulder height: 25 inches (63.5 cm) at the withers
- Recognized breed standard: Listed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) with documented weight/height ranges
We excluded breeds that only occasionally produce oversized individuals (e.g., standard poodles) and focused on breeds where giant size is the standard, not the exception.
Beyond raw size, we ranked each breed across five practical dimensions that matter to real owners: purchase/adoption cost, annual care budget, family friendliness, exercise demands, and lifespan. A 200-pound dog that lives 6 years and needs $4,000 in annual joint care is a very different commitment than a 120-pound dog that lives 10 years and jogs happily on a trail. Let's break them down.
10 Really Big Dogs Ranked: Breed-by-Breed Breakdown
We've organized these breeds into three tiers — Gentle Giants (calm, family-oriented), Working Powerhouses (high-drive, purpose-bred), and Rare Titans (less common, experienced-owner territory). Within each tier, breeds are ranked by overall owner-friendliness for the average household.
Tier 1: Gentle Giants
1. Great Dane
Size class: Super-giant (140–175 lb / 63–79 kg males; 110–140 lb / 50–63 kg females)
Key trait: Tallest breed on this list — males routinely hit 30–32 inches at the shoulder
Profile: Despite their imposing frame, Great Danes are notoriously couch-loving and low-energy indoors. They bond deeply with family and tend to be gentle with children, though their sheer mass means toddlers can be accidentally knocked over. Expect a briefer lifespan of 7–10 years, with AKC data noting dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) as primary health concerns.
Why it made the list: The Great Dane is the benchmark for "really big" — tallest of all domestic dog breeds, and their calm indoor temperament makes them surprisingly apartment-adaptable if you have the floor space.
2. English Mastiff
Size class: Super-giant (160–230 lb / 73–104 kg males; 120–170 lb / 54–77 kg females)
Key trait: Heaviest breed by mass — some males exceed 250 lb (113 kg)
Profile: The English Mastiff is the heavyweight champion of the dog world. They are profoundly calm, rarely bark without cause, and are deeply loyal. Drooling is prolific — budget for towel placement throughout your home. Lifespan averages 6–10 years. Hip and elbow dysplasia, cherry eye, and cystinuria are breed-specific concerns noted in the Merck Veterinary Manual.
Why it made the list: If "really big" means maximum mass, the Mastiff is unmatched. Their low exercise needs (30 minutes of walking daily) make them manageable despite their bulk.
3. Saint Bernard
Size class: Super-giant (140–180 lb / 63–82 kg males; 120–140 lb / 54–63 kg females)
Key trait: Bred for Alpine rescue — exceptional cold tolerance and spatial awareness
Profile: Saint Bernards are steady, patient, and famously good with children. They require moderate exercise (45–60 minutes daily) and thrive in cooler climates — heat stress is a genuine risk above 80°F (27°C). Their thick double coat sheds heavily seasonally. Lifespan: 8–10 years. Watch for bloat, hip dysplasia, and osteosarcoma.
Why it made the list: They combine genuine giant size with one of the most reliable, predictable temperaments among large breeds — ideal for families who want size without unpredictability.
4. Newfoundland
Size class: Giant (130–150 lb / 59–68 kg males; 100–120 lb / 45–54 kg females)
Key trait: Natural water rescue instinct — webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat
Profile: Called the "nanny dog" for their protective gentleness with children, Newfoundlands are strong swimmers and love water access. They need 45–60 minutes of daily activity and mental stimulation. Grooming is intensive: plan for 20–30 minutes of brushing 3–4 times per week. Lifespan: 9–10 years. Subaortic stenosis (a heart condition) and cystinuria are breed-specific screenings recommended by the AKC breed standard.
Why it made the list: Among really big dogs, the Newfoundland offers the rarest combination: genuine giant size plus a temperament so reliable that they're used as therapy and water-rescue dogs worldwide.
Tier 2: Working Powerhouses
5. Leonberger
Size class: Giant (110–170 lb / 50–77 kg males; 90–140 lb / 41–63 kg females)
Key trait: Versatile working breed — excels in water rescue, carting, and obedience
Profile: The Leonberger is athletic for its size, needing 60–90 minutes of daily exercise including swimming or hiking. They are more energetic than Mastiffs or Great Danes and need a job — without purpose, they can develop destructive boredom behaviors. Lifespan: 7–9 years. Leonberger polyneuropathy (LPN) is a breed-specific neurological condition; ask breeders for LPN1 and LPN2 genetic test results.
Why it made the list: For active owners who want a really big dog that can actually keep up on the trail, the Leonberger is the top choice in this weight class.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Size class: Large-giant (80–115 lb / 36–52 kg males; 70–95 lb / 32–43 kg females)
Key trait: Tri-color coat and draft-pulling heritage — strong but biddable
Profile: Berners are the most trainable breed on this list and excel in obedience and carting. They are deeply bonded to their people and prone to separation anxiety if left alone more than 4–5 hours regularly. Their biggest drawback is lifespan: 6–8 years on average, with cancer (particularly histiocytic sarcoma) affecting an estimated 25–50% of the breed. The AKC recommends hip, elbow, eye, and cardiac screening for all breeding stock.
Why it made the list: The Bernese is the most trainable and eager-to-please giant breed — but owners must be emotionally prepared for the heartbreakingly short lifespan.
7. Tibetan Mastiff
Size class: Giant (90–150 lb / 41–68 kg males; 70–120 lb / 32–54 kg females)
Key trait: Independent livestock guardian — nocturnal barking instincts
Profile: Tibetan Mastiffs are not a breed for first-time owners. They are fiercely independent, territorial, and bond to one or two people rather than being broadly social. Expect nightly barking (they were bred to guard flocks from predators at night). They do poorly in apartments and need secure, large yards. Lifespan: 10–12 years — one of the longest for giant breeds. Health is generally robust, but hypothyroidism and hip dysplasia are seen.
Why it made the list: They offer the longest lifespan among super-giant breeds and a uniquely independent personality — but only for experienced owners with rural space.
Tier 3: Rare Titans
8. Irish Wolfhound
Size class: Super-giant (120–160 lb / 54–73 kg males; 105–130 lb / 48–59 kg females)
Key trait: Tallest sighthound — built for coursing wolves and elk
Profile: The Irish Wolfhound rivals the Great Dane in height (minimum 32 inches for males per AKC standard) but has a leaner, more athletic build. They are gentle, quiet indoors, and surprisingly good with other dogs. However, their prey drive means cats and small animals are at risk. Lifespan is the shortest on this list: 6–8 years. Osteosarcoma and DCM are the primary killers.
Why it made the list: For owners who want height and elegance rather than bulk, the Irish Wolfhound is the premier choice — but the short lifespan is a serious consideration.
9. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Size class: Giant (110–150 lb / 50–68 kg males; 80–120 lb / 36–54 kg females)
Key trait: Active livestock guardian — requires working purpose or large property
Profile: Anatolian Shepherds are serious working dogs, not casual house pets. They need acreage, a job (livestock guarding is ideal), and an owner who understands independent guardian breeds. They are not aggression-trained but are naturally protective and will challenge unfamiliar people and animals entering their territory. Lifespan: 11–13 years. Generally healthy, with hip dysplasia being the primary screening concern. Note: Some jurisdictions include Anatolian Shepherds under breed-specific legislation (BSL) targeting "mastiff-type" dogs — check your local regulations.
Why it made the list: The longest-lived giant breed on this list, but only suitable for rural owners with livestock or large property.
10. Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff)
Size class: Giant (110–145 lb / 50–66 kg males; 99–130 lb / 45–59 kg females)
Key trait: Brachycephalic (short-faced) mastiff with powerful guarding instinct
Profile: The Dogue de Bordeaux is a loyal, deeply bonded guardian that is calm indoors but serious about protecting its family. Their brachycephalic face means heat intolerance, snoring, and potential breathing issues — they should never be exercised in temperatures above 75°F (24°C). Drool is extreme. Lifespan: 5–8 years, one of the shortest on this list. Cardiac disease and cancer are leading causes of death.
Why it made the list: A compact, muscular giant that fits in smaller homes than a Great Dane — but the brachycephalic health concerns and short lifespan require serious commitment.
Breed Comparison: All 10 Really Big Dogs Side by Side
| Breed | Male Weight (lb/kg) | Lifespan (years) | Exercise (min/day) | Annual Cost (USD) | Family Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Dane | 140–175 / 63–79 | 7–10 | 30–45 | $2,800–$4,500 | ★★★★☆ |
| English Mastiff | 160–230 / 73–104 | 6–10 | 20–30 | $3,200–$5,000 | ★★★★☆ |
| Saint Bernard | 140–180 / 63–82 | 8–10 | 45–60 | $2,600–$4,200 | ★★★★★ |
| Newfoundland | 130–150 / 59–68 | 9–10 | 45–60 | $2,800–$4,400 | ★★★★★ |
| Leonberger | 110–170 / 50–77 | 7–9 | 60–90 | $2,500–$4,000 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 80–115 / 36–52 | 6–8 | 45–60 | $3,000–$5,200 | ★★★★★ |
| Tibetan Mastiff | 90–150 / 41–68 | 10–12 | 45–60 | $2,200–$3,800 | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Irish Wolfhound | 120–160 / 54–73 | 6–8 | 40–60 | $3,000–$4,800 | ★★★★☆ |
| Anatolian Shepherd | 110–150 / 50–68 | 11–13 | 60–90 | $2,000–$3,500 | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Dogue de Bordeaux | 110–145 / 50–66 | 5–8 | 20–30 | $3,200–$5,500 | ★★★☆☆ |
Annual cost estimates include premium large-breed food ($800–$1,400/year), routine veterinary care ($600–$1,000), heartworm/flea/tick prevention ($250–$400), grooming ($200–$800 depending on coat), pet insurance ($600–$1,200 for giant breeds), and joint supplements ($150–$300). Emergency/specialist care is not included — set aside an additional $1,500–$3,000 annually for giant breed emergencies.
Decision Framework: Which Really Big Dog Fits Your Life?
Choosing between these breeds comes down to four lifestyle variables. Use this framework to narrow your top three:
- How much daily exercise can you provide?
- Under 30 minutes → English Mastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux
- 30–60 minutes → Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, Irish Wolfhound, Tibetan Mastiff
- 60–90+ minutes → Leonberger, Anatolian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog
- Do you have young children or frequent visitors?
- Yes, high-traffic household → Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dog (highest family-fit ratings)
- Quiet, adult-only or teen household → Tibetan Mastiff, Anatolian Shepherd, Dogue de Bordeaux
- What is your living situation?
- Apartment/large condo → Great Dane (surprisingly apartment-tolerant due to low indoor energy), English Mastiff
- Suburban home with fenced yard → Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, Bernese, Leonberger
- Rural property with acreage → Anatolian Shepherd, Tibetan Mastiff
- How long are you prepared to commit, and what is your budget?
- Want longest possible lifespan → Anatolian Shepherd (11–13 yrs), Tibetan Mastiff (10–12 yrs)
- Prepared for shorter lifespan but maximum family experience → Saint Bernard, Newfoundland (8–10 yrs)
- Budget under $3,000/year ongoing → Anatolian Shepherd, Tibetan Mastiff (lower annual costs)
- Budget $4,000+/year → Dogue de Bordeaux, Bernese Mountain Dog (higher health costs)
Cost Reality Check: What Really Big Dogs Actually Cost
Giant breed ownership is expensive — there is no way around it. Here is a realistic first-year and ongoing budget breakdown based on 2026 US pricing data:
| Expense Category | First Year | Annual (Years 2+) |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy purchase (responsible breeder) | $2,000–$6,000 | — |
| Adoption (breed rescue) | $400–$800 | — |
| Food (large-breed formula, 80–120 lb bags) | $1,000–$1,600 | $900–$1,400 |
| Veterinary (routine + giant-breed screenings) | $800–$1,500 | $600–$1,200 |
| Pet insurance (giant breed premium) | $700–$1,400 | $700–$1,400 |
| Gear (XL crate, orthopedic bed, heavy-duty leash) | $400–$900 | $100–$300 |
| Joint supplements (glucosamine/chondroitin + omega-3) | $150–$300 | $150–$300 |
| Total Estimated Range | $5,050–$11,700 | $2,450–$4,600 |
A critical note on food: giant breed puppies must be fed a diet formulated for large/giant breed growth. The AVMA and veterinary nutritionists recommend foods meeting AAFCO guidelines for large-breed puppy growth (calcium restricted to 1.0–1.5% on a dry matter basis) to reduce the risk of developmental orthopedic diseases like hip dysplasia and osteochondrosis. Brands like Royal Canin Giant Puppy, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy, and Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Puppy are commonly recommended. Never supplement a giant breed puppy's diet with extra calcium without veterinary guidance.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Approach with Caution
Honorable Mentions (Just Below the Cutoff)
These breeds are large but didn't quite meet our 100 lb minimum for males, or are borderline:
- Rottweiler (95–135 lb males) — Athletic, trainable, and deeply loyal. A strong candidate if your priority is a working-capable dog over pure size.
- Cane Corso (100–120 lb males) — Meets the weight threshold but has a more intense guardian temperament that places it in a different category than the family-oriented breeds above. Experienced owners only.
- Caucasian Shepherd (Ovcharka) (110–220 lb) — Enormous and fiercely independent. Extremely rare in the US and not AKC-recognized. Only for experienced livestock guardian owners.
Breeds to Think Carefully About Before Choosing
Some really big dogs come with challenges that catch new owners off guard:
- Dogue de Bordeaux: Their brachycephalic anatomy means higher anesthesia risk, chronic skin fold infections, and severe heat intolerance. Veterinary bills trend higher than average.
- Tibetan Mastiff: Their nocturnal barking, independence, and wariness of strangers make them a poor fit for suburban neighborhoods or families wanting a social companion dog.
- Anatolian Shepherd: Without livestock or large property, they often develop frustration-based behavioral issues. Not a breed for casual ownership.
Health Considerations Unique to Really Big Dogs
Owning a giant breed means signing up for a specific set of health risks. Consult your veterinarian about breed-appropriate screening, and always discuss any symptoms with a professional rather than attempting home diagnosis.
- Bloat (GDV): Distended abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness, rapid heart rate. This is a life-threatening emergency — survival drops dramatically without surgery within 2–4 hours. All deep-chested giant breeds are at risk.
- Sudden rear-leg weakness or collapse: Could indicate fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), spinal cord issue, or acute heart failure.
- Coughing with exercise intolerance: May signal dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), especially in Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and Dobermans.
Bloat prevention tip: Feed giant breeds 2–3 smaller meals per day rather than one large meal. Avoid vigorous exercise for 60 minutes before and after eating. Discuss prophylactic gastropexy (stomach-tacking surgery) with your veterinarian, especially for Great Danes — it can be performed during spay/neuter and reduces GDV risk by approximately 85%.
Joint health: Hip and elbow dysplasia are prevalent across most giant breeds. Ask breeders for OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHIP certification on both parents. Maintain your dog at a lean body condition score (4/9 rather than 5/9) — every extra pound of body weight places approximately 4 pounds of additional force on each hip joint during movement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Really Big Dogs
Are really big dogs good with children?
The breeds with the highest family-fit ratings — Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, and Bernese Mountain Dog — are genuinely excellent with children due to their patient, low-reactivity temperaments. However, any dog over 100 lb can accidentally injure a toddler simply by leaning, wagging, or lying down nearby. Always supervise interactions between giant breeds and children under 5, and teach children not to climb on or startle the dog.
Do really big dogs eat significantly more than large breeds?
Yes. A 150 lb (68 kg) dog at healthy weight typically requires 2,200–3,000 calories per day depending on activity level, compared to 1,200–1,600 for a 70 lb (32 kg) dog. Expect to spend $80–$130 per month on quality large-breed kibble. Raw or fresh-food diets for giant breeds can cost $250–$500 per month — consult a veterinary nutritionist to ensure nutritional completeness before switching.
Can really big dogs live in apartments?
Surprisingly, yes — with caveats. Great Danes and English Mastiffs are among the most apartment-adaptable giant breeds because they are low-energy indoors and spend most of the day resting. The key requirements are: sufficient floor space for them to lie fully stretched (plan for a 6×4 foot resting area minimum), daily outdoor walks, and an elevator or ground-floor unit (stairs are hard on giant breed joints). Check your lease — many complexes have breed or weight restrictions.
How long do really big dogs live?
The inverse relationship between body size and lifespan is well-documented in canine science. Among the 10 breeds in this guide, lifespans range from 5 years (Dogue de Bordeaux, low end) to 13 years (Anatolian Shepherd, high end). The median lifespan across all giant breeds is approximately 8–9 years. The Anatolian Shepherd and Tibetan Mastiff are notable outliers with longer lifespans, likely due to their landrace origins and less intensive selective breeding.
Should I get pet insurance for a giant breed?
Strongly recommended. Giant breeds have higher rates of expensive conditions (bloat surgery: $3,000–$7,000; hip replacement: $5,000–$8,000 per hip; DCM treatment: $500–$2,000/month in medications). Enroll while your dog is young and healthy — pre-existing conditions are excluded by all major insurers. Expect monthly premiums of $60–$120 for a giant breed puppy, rising with age. Companies like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, and ASPCA Pet Health Insurance are commonly used by giant breed owners.
What is the best training approach for really big dogs?
Positive reinforcement and force-free training methods are essential for giant breeds. A 150 lb dog cannot be physically compelled — you must build voluntary cooperation. Start puppy socialization and basic obedience by 8–12 weeks. Focus heavily on leash manners (a giant breed that pulls is unmanageable), "leave it," and a reliable recall. Avoid shock collars, prong collars, and alpha rolls — these methods damage trust and can trigger fear-based reactivity in breeds powerful enough to cause serious injury. Look for trainers certified by the CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) or IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants).
Dr. Hannah Wickes
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
