Tallest Dog Breeds Ranked: The Complete Height Guide
Discover the tallest dog breeds ranked by height. Compare Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, and more with size data, care tips, and a decision framework.
What Qualifies a Dog as One of the Tallest Breeds?
For a breed to earn a spot on this list, it must meet all three of the following benchmarks based on the AKC breed standards:
- Minimum shoulder height: At least 27 inches (68.5 cm) at the withers for males of the breed.
- Recognized breed status: Must be fully recognized by the AKC, FCI, or UKC — no experimental or unregistered crosses.
- Consistent height data: Breed must have well-documented average height ranges from multiple registry sources, not anecdotal claims.
We measure height at the withers — the highest point of the shoulder blades — which is the veterinary and kennel club standard. Total height (head to ground when standing) is noted where relevant, since many owners care about how tall these dogs are when they put their paws on the counter.
The tallest dog breed in the world is widely acknowledged to be the Great Dane, but height rankings among giant breeds are closer than most people realize. A male Irish Wolfhound can rival a Great Dane at the shoulder, and breeds like the Leonberger and Neapolitan Mastiff push well past 30 inches. This guide ranks 10 of the tallest dog breeds using verified registry data, then gives you a practical framework for deciding whether one of these giants is the right fit for your home.
The 10 Tallest Dog Breeds, Ranked by Shoulder Height
Breeds are ordered from tallest to shortest based on the upper end of the male height range per breed standards. We group them into two tiers: the true giants (32+ inches) and the tall-but-slightly-more-manageable breeds (27–31 inches).
Tier 1: The True Giants (32+ Inches at the Withers)
Size class: Giant (30–34 in / 76–86 cm at withers; 120–180 lb / 54–82 kg)
Key height trait: Holds the world record for tallest living dog — Zeus, a Great Dane, measured 44 inches (111.8 cm) at the shoulder before his passing.
Profile: The Great Dane is the undisputed tallest dog breed on average. Despite their imposing frame, Danes are famously gentle, earning the nickname "Apollo of dogs." They mature slowly, often not reaching full physical and mental maturity until 2.5–3 years of age. Expect to spend $1,800–$3,500 on a puppy from a health-tested breeder, with annual care costs running $2,500–$4,000 due to their massive food intake and breed-specific health risks like gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat).
Size class: Giant (32–35 in / 81–89 cm at withers; 120–180 lb / 54–82 kg)
Key height trait: The tallest of the sighthounds; males often match or exceed Great Danes at the shoulder, though they tend to be leaner and lighter-boned.
Profile: Originally bred to hunt wolves and elk in Ireland, the Irish Wolfhound carries a calm, almost stoic temperament that surprises first-time owners. Their rough, wiry coat requires weekly brushing but no professional grooming. Lifespan is the trade-off: 6–8 years on average, with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and osteosarcoma as leading causes of mortality. Puppy prices range from $1,500–$2,500.
Size class: Giant (30–32 in / 76–81 cm at withers; 85–110 lb / 39–50 kg)
Key height trait: The second-tallest sighthound, with a lighter, more angular build than the Wolfhound — they look taller than they weigh.
Profile: Bred to course red deer across the Scottish Highlands, Deerhounds are quiet, dignified companions indoors and explosive sprinters outdoors. They need a securely fenced yard (minimum 5-foot fence) but are couch-friendly once exercised. Their shaggy coat needs hand-stripping or regular combing. Expect a lifespan of 8–11 years and puppy costs of $2,000–$3,000.
Size class: Giant (30–33 in / 76–84 cm at withers; 160–230 lb / 73–104 kg)
Key height trait: While not always the absolute tallest at the shoulder, the English Mastiff's combination of height and extreme mass (some males exceed 250 lb / 113 kg) makes them the most physically imposing breed on this list.
Profile: The heaviest dog breed by weight, English Mastiffs are docile, loyal guardians that bond deeply with their families. Drool is a lifestyle factor — keep towels handy. They eat 8–12 cups of large-breed kibble daily ($150–$250/month in food alone). Hip and elbow dysplasia screening is essential; ask breeders for OFA or PennHIP certifications. Puppies cost $1,800–$3,000.
Size class: Giant (28–31.5 in / 71–80 cm at withers; 110–170 lb / 50–77 kg)
Key height trait: Males consistently reach 31+ inches, with a lion-like mane that adds visual height. They are among the tallest of the working group breeds.
Profile: Bred in Leonberg, Germany, as a multipurpose farm and family dog, the Leonberger is notably water-loving — many excel at water rescue work. Their double coat sheds heavily and requires brushing 3–4 times per week. They are more active than Mastiffs and need 60–90 minutes of daily exercise. Leonberger polyneuropathy and hip dysplasia are screened by responsible breeders. Puppy prices: $1,800–$3,000.
Tier 2: Tall and Athletic (27–31 Inches at the Withers)
Size class: Giant (26–31 in / 66–79 cm at withers; 130–155 lb / 59–70 kg)
Key height trait: Males reach up to 31 inches with a stocky, heavily wrinkled frame that emphasizes breadth as much as height.
Profile: An ancient Italian guardian breed, the Neo is intensely loyal but reserved with strangers. Their loose skin and heavy wrinkles require daily cleaning to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Not recommended for first-time owners — early socialization and positive reinforcement training are non-negotiable. Lifespan: 7–9 years. Puppy cost: $2,500–$4,000.
Size class: Giant (28–30 in / 71–76 cm at withers; 140–180 lb / 64–82 kg)
Key height trait: Males stand 28–30 inches with a powerful, broad-chested build. When standing on hind legs, large males can reach over 6 feet tall.
Profile: The legendary Alpine rescue dog is gentle, patient, and excellent with children. They come in smooth and rough coat varieties. Both shed significantly. Saint Bernards are prone to bloat, hip dysplasia, and entropion. They tolerate cold beautifully but overheat easily — air conditioning is a must in warm climates. Puppies: $1,500–$2,500.
Size class: Giant (29–31 in / 74–79 cm at withers; 110–150 lb / 50–68 kg)
Key height trait: Tall and athletic with a leaner build than Mastiff-type breeds; built for endurance over rugged terrain.
Profile: A Turkish livestock guardian breed with strong independent instincts. Anatolians are intelligent but not biddable — they were bred to make their own decisions. They need experienced owners, large fenced property (minimum 1 acre recommended), and early, extensive socialization. Not suited for apartment living. Lifespan: 11–13 years, which is notably long for a giant breed. Puppy cost: $1,000–$2,000.
Size class: Giant (28–30 in / 71–76 cm at withers; 130–150 lb / 59–68 kg)
Key height trait: Males stand 28–30 inches with massive bone structure and a thick, water-resistant double coat that adds visual bulk.
Profile: Known as nature's babysitter, the Newfoundland is one of the gentlest giants in the canine world. They are natural swimmers with webbed feet and an instinct for water rescue. Drool and shedding are significant — budget for professional grooming 4–6 times per year ($60–$90 per session). Prone to subaortic stenosis (SAS) and cystinuria. Puppies: $1,500–$2,500.
Size class: Giant (26–27 in / 66–69 cm at withers; 110–150 lb / 50–68 kg)
Key height trait: The shortest breed on this list by shoulder measurement, but their massive head and broad chest create an outsized presence. Males reach 27 inches — just clearing our 27-inch minimum threshold.
Profile: A powerful French guardian with a brachycephalic (short-muzzled) face. The Dogue is deeply devoted to family but can be dog-aggressive without proper socialization. Their short coat is low-maintenance, but facial wrinkles need daily wiping. Heat intolerance is a serious concern — never leave them outdoors in temperatures above 80°F (27°C). Lifespan: 5–8 years. Puppy cost: $2,000–$3,500.
Breed Comparison: Height, Weight, Lifespan, and Costs at a Glance
| Breed | Male Height (withers) | Male Weight | Lifespan | Puppy Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Dane | 30–34 in / 76–86 cm | 140–180 lb / 64–82 kg | 7–10 years | $1,800–$3,500 |
| Irish Wolfhound | 32–35 in / 81–89 cm | 120–180 lb / 54–82 kg | 6–8 years | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Scottish Deerhound | 30–32 in / 76–81 cm | 85–110 lb / 39–50 kg | 8–11 years | $2,000–$3,000 |
| English Mastiff | 30–33 in / 76–84 cm | 160–230 lb / 73–104 kg | 6–10 years | $1,800–$3,000 |
| Leonberger | 28–31.5 in / 71–80 cm | 110–170 lb / 50–77 kg | 7–9 years | $1,800–$3,000 |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | 26–31 in / 66–79 cm | 130–155 lb / 59–70 kg | 7–9 years | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Saint Bernard | 28–30 in / 71–76 cm | 140–180 lb / 64–82 kg | 8–10 years | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Anatolian Shepherd | 29–31 in / 74–79 cm | 110–150 lb / 50–68 kg | 11–13 years | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Newfoundland | 28–30 in / 71–76 cm | 130–150 lb / 59–68 kg | 9–10 years | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Dogue de Bordeaux | 26–27 in / 66–69 cm | 110–150 lb / 50–68 kg | 5–8 years | $2,000–$3,500 |
Data sources: Height and weight ranges from AKC breed standards. Lifespan estimates compiled from Merck Veterinary Manual and breed-specific health surveys.
Why These Breeds Made the List (Ranking Rationale)
Each breed here was selected not just for raw height but for how consistently they produce tall individuals within their standard. Here's why the top three stand apart:
- Great Dane (#1): The breed standard explicitly calls for 30–32 inches minimum for males, with many individuals exceeding 34 inches. No other breed has as high a floor for male height. The Guinness World Records for tallest dog have been held by Great Danes in nearly every recorded year.
- Irish Wolfhound (#2): The AKC standard sets a minimum of 32 inches for males — higher than most breeds' maximum. Wolfhounds often appear taller than Great Danes due to their long legs and upright carriage, even when shoulder measurements are similar.
- Scottish Deerhound (#3): At 30–32 inches, Deerhounds are only slightly shorter than Wolfhounds but carry significantly less weight (85–110 lb vs. 120–180 lb), giving them an elegant, elongated silhouette that many owners find more manageable.
The Tier 2 breeds (Neapolitan Mastiff through Dogue de Bordeaux) all clear the 27-inch threshold but represent a broader range of body types — from the lean Anatolian Shepherd to the heavily muscled English Mastiff. Their inclusion reflects the fact that "tall" encompasses different builds, and the right tall breed for you depends on more than just inches.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds Often Mistaken for the Tallest
Several breeds are frequently assumed to be among the tallest but don't quite meet our 27-inch minimum for males, or they're tall in total height (nose-to-tail) rather than at the withers:
- Greyhound: Males stand 28–30 inches, which technically qualifies — but Greyhounds weigh only 65–70 lb, making them the lightest and most slender breed that could appear here. They were excluded because their height is deceptive; they're leggy rather than truly large.
- Bernese Mountain Dog: Males reach 25–27.5 inches — just below our cutoff. They look bigger than they are due to their heavy coat and stocky build.
- Tibetan Mastiff: Males stand 26+ inches and can weigh up to 160 lb, but the breed standard is less specific about an upper height limit, and many individuals fall below 27 inches. Their massive coat creates an illusion of greater height.
- Bloodhound: Males reach 25–27 inches. Despite their iconic stature, they don't consistently clear the 27-inch bar.
Breeds to approach with caution if you want a tall but manageable dog: The English Mastiff and Neapolitan Mastiff are spectacular in size but come with significant drool, shorter lifespans, and higher veterinary costs. If you're a first-time owner drawn to tall breeds, the Great Dane, Newfoundland, or Leonberger are more forgiving of training mistakes.
Decision Framework: Which Tall Breed Fits Your Life?
Choosing among the tallest dog breeds comes down to four lifestyle factors. Use this flowchart to narrow your options:
- How much space do you have?
- Apartment or small yard → Greyhound (honorable mention) or Scottish Deerhound. Sighthounds are sprinters, not endurance athletes — a 20-minute sprint session followed by couch time works for them.
- House with fenced yard (¼–½ acre) → Great Dane, Saint Bernard, or Newfoundland.
- Rural property (1+ acre) → Anatolian Shepherd, Leonberger, or Irish Wolfhound.
- What's your experience level?
- First-time owner → Great Dane or Newfoundland. Both are forgiving of training mistakes and eager to please.
- Experienced owner → Leonberger, Saint Bernard, or Scottish Deerhound.
- Advanced handler only → Neapolitan Mastiff, Anatolian Shepherd, or Dogue de Bordeaux. These breeds require confident, consistent leadership and extensive socialization.
- How long are you prepared to commit?
- Want maximum years together → Anatolian Shepherd (11–13 years) or Scottish Deerhound (8–11 years).
- Prepared for a shorter but deeply rewarding bond → Irish Wolfhound (6–8 years), Dogue de Bordeaux (5–8 years), or English Mastiff (6–10 years).
- What's your climate?
- Cold/worthern climate → Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, or Leonberger — all thrive in cold weather.
- Hot/southern climate → Great Dane or Anatolian Shepherd — short or moderate coats handle heat better. Avoid brachycephalic giants like the Dogue de Bordeaux in hot regions.
The Hidden Costs of Owning a Giant Breed
Height doesn't just mean a bigger dog bed — giant breeds carry proportional costs that catch many new owners off guard. Here's a realistic first-year budget breakdown for a typical giant breed:
| Expense Category | Estimated Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food (large-breed kibble or raw) | $1,200–$2,400 | 8–12 cups/day; premium formulas recommended |
| Heartworm & flea/tick prevention | $250–$450 | XL-dog doses cost 2–3x more than small-dog doses |
| Routine veterinary (vaccines, bloodwork) | $400–$700 | Annual exams; add $300–$500 for OFA hip/elbow screening |
| Pet insurance | $600–$1,200 | Higher premiums for giant breeds; consider before puppy is 1 year old |
| Grooming (if applicable) | $0–$540 | Danes: $0 (short coat). Newfies: $60–$90/session × 6 |
| Gear (XL crate, bed, harness) | $300–$600 (year 1) | 48–54 inch crate; orthopedic bed $150–$300 |
| Total estimated first-year cost | $2,750–$5,890 | Excludes puppy purchase price |
Always consult your veterinarian about breed-appropriate nutrition, especially during the first 18 months of growth. Giant breeds need large-breed puppy formulas with controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases like hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD) and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tallest dog breed in the world?
The Great Dane is widely recognized as the tallest dog breed. The tallest living dog recorded by Guinness World Records was a Great Dane named Zeus, who measured 44 inches (111.8 cm) at the withers. On average, male Great Danes stand 30–34 inches at the shoulder.
Is the Irish Wolfhound taller than the Great Dane?
It depends on the individual dog. The Irish Wolfhound breed standard calls for a minimum of 32 inches for males — which is higher than the Great Dane's minimum of 30 inches. However, Great Danes have a higher upper range (up to 34+ inches), so the tallest individual dogs tend to be Danes. On average, the two breeds overlap significantly in the 32–34 inch range.
Are tall dog breeds good family dogs?
Many tall breeds — especially Great Danes, Newfoundlands, and Saint Bernards — are excellent family dogs known for gentleness with children. However, their sheer size means they can accidentally knock over toddlers. Supervision is essential, and training should focus on positive reinforcement methods to teach calm indoor behavior. Never leave a giant breed unsupervised with very small children.
Do tall dogs live shorter lives?
Yes. Giant breeds have significantly shorter lifespans than small or medium breeds. While a Chihuahua might live 15+ years, most giant breeds average 6–10 years. The Anatolian Shepherd is a notable exception at 11–13 years. The biological reasons include faster growth rates, increased oxidative stress, and higher rates of cancer and cardiac disease. Consult your veterinarian about breed-specific screening protocols to catch health issues early.
How much does it cost to own the tallest dog breed?
Expect to spend $2,750–$5,890 per year on a giant breed, excluding the initial puppy purchase price of $1,500–$4,000. Food alone runs $100–$200 per month. Emergency veterinary care for conditions like bloat (GDV) can cost $3,000–$7,000 per incident, making pet insurance a wise investment for giant breed owners.
Can tall dogs live in apartments?
Some can — particularly sighthounds like the Scottish Deerhound and Greyhound, which are low-energy indoors and need only periodic sprint exercise. Great Danes are also surprisingly apartment-adaptable due to their couch-potato tendencies. However, you'll need adequate space for a 48–54 inch crate, and daily outdoor exercise is non-negotiable. Breeds like the Anatolian Shepherd and Leonberger are not apartment-suitable.
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
