What's the Biggest Dog Breed? 12 Giants Ranked by Size & Fit
What's the biggest dog breed? We rank 12 giant breeds by height, weight, lifespan, and lifestyle fit with real cost data and a decision framework.
What Exactly Qualifies as a "Biggest" Dog Breed?
When people search for the biggest dog breed, they usually mean one of two things: tallest at the shoulder or heaviest on the scale. Those are very different measurements, and they produce different winners. The American Kennel Club recognizes over 200 breeds, but only a handful cross into true giant territory — dogs that routinely exceed 100 lb (45 kg) or stand over 28 inches (71 cm) at the withers.
To make this list, a breed must meet at least one of the following thresholds:
- Weight: Breed standard average of 100+ lb (45+ kg) for males
- Height: Breed standard minimum of 28 inches (71 cm) at the withers for males
- Combined mass: Recognized as a giant breed by at least two major registries (AKC, FCI, UKC)
We then ranked entries using a composite score weighing peak male weight (40%), peak male height (30%), and general body mass impression (30%). Breeds are grouped by primary claim to fame: heaviest, tallest, or most massive overall.
Before we get to the rankings, a practical reality check: giant breeds carry significant ownership costs. Expect to spend $2,400–$5,000 annually on food alone for a 150+ lb dog, plus $800–$2,000 in routine veterinary care. Emergency visits and breed-specific health issues can push first-year medical costs well past $4,000. If you're considering a giant breed, budget honestly before committing.
The Heaviest Contenders: Breeds That Tip the Scales
These breeds win on pure mass. They're stocky, broad-chested, and built like freight trains. Height isn't their primary claim — density and bone structure are.
1. English Mastiff — The Undisputed Heavyweight
Size class: Super-giant (heaviest breed in the world)
Key trait: Highest recorded weight of any dog breed — an English Mastiff named Zorba weighed 343 lb (155.6 kg) in 1989, a Guinness World Record that still stands.
Male English Mastiffs typically range from 160–230 lb (73–104 kg) with some individuals exceeding 250 lb. They stand 30+ inches (76+ cm) at the shoulder. Despite their intimidating size, Mastiffs are famously gentle, low-energy couch companions. They need only 30–45 minutes of moderate walking daily. Their short coat sheds moderately but requires minimal grooming. The trade-off: a lifespan of just 6–10 years and a strong predisposition to hip dysplasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), and cystinuria. Purchase price from a health-tested breeder runs $2,000–$5,000.
2. Saint Bernard — The Alpine Heavyweight
Size class: Giant (heavyworking)
Key trait: Bred for Alpine rescue, Saint Bernards combine massive weight with remarkable cold-weather endurance and a thick double coat.
Males weigh 140–180 lb (64–82 kg) and stand 28–30 inches (71–76 cm). They're slightly more active than Mastiffs, needing 45–60 minutes of daily exercise. Their famous rescue heritage means they're hardy, but their size brings the same joint and bloat risks. Drool is a lifestyle factor — Saint Bernards are among the heaviest drooling breeds. Budget $1,800–$3,500 for a well-bred puppy. Lifespan: 8–10 years.
3. Boerboel — The South African Powerhouse
Size class: Giant (guardian-type)
Key trait: Exceptionally dense muscle mass and broad skull give the Boerboel a weight-to-height ratio that exceeds most mastiff-type breeds.
Males weigh 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) at 24–27 inches (61–69 cm). Shorter than an English Mastiff but often denser. Boerboels are confident, territorial guardians that require experienced handlers and serious socialization from 8 weeks onward. They are not recommended for first-time owners. Positive reinforcement training is essential — aversive methods create dangerous reactivity in powerful breeds. Puppy cost: $1,500–$3,500. Lifespan: 9–11 years, slightly longer than most super-giants.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff — The Wrinkled Giant
Size class: Giant (molosser-type)
Key trait: Loose, heavily wrinkled skin and a broad, massive head create one of the most visually imposing silhouettes in the dog world.
Males weigh 150 lb (68 kg) minimum, with many reaching 170–200 lb (77–91 kg), standing 26–31 inches (66–79 cm). Neapolitan Mastiffs are calm indoors but require firm, consistent leadership. Their facial folds need daily cleaning to prevent yeast and bacterial infections. Heavy drooling is guaranteed. Puppy cost: $2,500–$5,000. Lifespan: 7–9 years — one of the shortest on this list.
The Tallest Contenders: Breeds That Tower Over the Rest
These breeds win on vertical measurement. They may not be the heaviest, but when they stand on their hind legs, they look you in the eye — or look over your head.
5. Great Dane — The Tallest Breed on Earth
Size class: Super-giant (tallest)
Key trait: The tallest individual dog ever recorded was a Great Dane named Zeus, who measured 44 inches (111.8 cm) at the withers before his passing in 2014.
Male Great Danes stand a minimum of 30 inches (76 cm) per AKC breed standard, with many reaching 32–34 inches (81–86 cm). Weight ranges 140–175 lb (64–79 kg). Despite their height, Great Danes are known as "gentle giants" with moderate energy needs — 45–60 minutes of daily exercise suffices. They are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), bloat, and Wobbler syndrome. Use a slow-feeder bowl and avoid exercise for one hour before and after meals to reduce bloat risk. Puppy cost: $1,500–$3,000. Lifespan: 7–10 years.
6. Irish Wolfhound — The Tallest Sighthound
Size class: Giant (sighthound)
Key trait: Minimum height of 32 inches (81 cm) for males makes the Irish Wolfhound the tallest of all sighthound breeds, with a lean, athletic build designed for coursing wolves.
Males weigh 120–160 lb (54–73 kg) and can reach 34–35 inches (86–89 cm) at the shoulder. Despite their hunting heritage, adult Irish Wolfhounds are surprisingly calm indoors. They need 45–60 minutes of daily exercise in a securely fenced area — their prey drive means off-leash time is only safe in enclosed spaces. Rough coat requires weekly brushing. Puppy cost: $1,800–$3,000. Lifespan: 6–8 years, one of the shortest of any breed due to high rates of osteosarcoma and DCM.
7. Scottish Deerhound — The Elegant Giant
Size class: Giant (sighthound)
Key trait: Males stand 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) with a wiry, weather-resistant coat that sets them apart from the smooth-coated Great Dane.
Weight ranges 85–110 lb (39–50 kg), making them lighter than Irish Wolfhounds despite similar height. Scottish Deerhounds are dignified, somewhat reserved with strangers, and deeply bonded to their families. They're quieter and less exuberant than Wolfhounds. Puppy cost: $2,000–$3,500 (litters are small and breeders are few). Lifespan: 8–11 years.
The Most Massive Overall: Breeds That Combine Height and Weight
These breeds don't win any single category outright, but they score highest when you combine height, weight, and overall physical presence into a single impression of mass.
8. Leonberger — The Balanced Giant
Size class: Giant (working)
Key trait: Combines the height of a Great Dane with the substance of a Mastiff-type breed, creating a lion-like appearance that's both tall and heavy.
Males stand 28–31.5 inches (71–80 cm) and weigh 110–170 lb (50–77 kg). Leonbergers are more athletic and energetic than pure mastiff breeds — expect 60–90 minutes of daily exercise. They excel in water rescue, carting, and hiking. Their thick double coat requires brushing 3–4 times per week with heavy seasonal shedding. Puppy cost: $1,500–$3,000. Lifespan: 7–10 years. Prone to Leonberger polyneuro-polyradiculoneuritis (LPN), a breed-specific neurological condition — ask breeders for LPN1 and LPN2 genetic test results.
9. Newfoundland — The Water Rescue Giant
Size class: Giant (working/water rescue)
Key trait: Massive bone structure, webbed feet, and a water-resistant double coat make the Newfoundland uniquely built for cold-water rescue — they can swim while towing a human.
Males weigh 130–150 lb (59–68 kg) at 28 inches (71 cm). Newfoundlands are among the gentlest giants, famously patient with children. They require 45–60 minutes of daily exercise and thrive with access to water. Drool and shedding are significant lifestyle factors. Puppy cost: $1,500–$3,000. Lifespan: 9–10 years. Screen breeders for hip/elbow dysplasia, cystinuria, and cardiac conditions per Merck Veterinary Manual guidelines.
10. Tibetan Mastiff — The Ancient Guardian
Size class: Giant (livestock guardian)
Key trait: A thick, lion-like mane and independent guardian temperament set the Tibetan Mastiff apart from European mastiff breeds. Males can appear far larger than their actual measurements due to heavy coat.
Males weigh 90–150 lb (41–68 kg) at 26+ inches (66+ cm). Tibetan Mastiffs are intensely independent, nocturnal barkers, and bond deeply with one family while remaining aloof with strangers. They are not suited for apartment living or novice owners. Their double coat sheds massively once per year. Puppy cost: $2,000–$5,000+ (some imported lines command much higher prices). Lifespan: 10–12 years — among the longest-lived giant breeds.
11. Anatolian Shepherd — The Rugged Livestock Guardian
Size class: Giant (livestock guardian)
Key trait: Bred to guard flocks against wolves and bears in Turkey's harsh terrain, Anatolians combine size with remarkable agility and endurance for a giant breed.
Males weigh 110–150 lb (50–68 kg) at 29+ inches (74+ cm). They are leaner and more athletic than mastiff breeds, built for all-day patrolling. Anatolians are serious working dogs — they need a job, space, and experienced handling. They are not social butterflies and should not be expected to greet visitors warmly. Puppy cost: $1,000–$2,500. Lifespan: 11–13 years, unusually long for their size.
12. Dogue de Bordeaux — The Compact Powerhouse
Size class: Giant (molosser-type)
Key trait: The largest head circumference relative to body size of any breed — a Dogue de Bordeaux's head can measure 27–30 inches (69–76 cm) around.
Males weigh 110–145 lb (50–66 kg) at 23.5–27 inches (60–69 cm). Shorter than most breeds on this list but extraordinarily stocky and muscular. Dogues are loyal, calm, and deeply attached to their families. They drool heavily and snore loudly. Puppy cost: $2,000–$4,000. Lifespan: 5–8 years — the shortest lifespan on this list, largely due to cardiac disease and cancer prevalence.
Side-by-Side: How All 12 Breeds Compare
| Breed | Male Weight | Male Height | Exercise/Day | Lifespan | First-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Mastiff | 160–230 lb (73–104 kg) | 30+ in (76+ cm) | 30–45 min | 6–10 yr | $5,500–$9,000 |
| Saint Bernard | 140–180 lb (64–82 kg) | 28–30 in (71–76 cm) | 45–60 min | 8–10 yr | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Boerboel | 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) | 24–27 in (61–69 cm) | 60–90 min | 9–11 yr | $4,500–$7,500 |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) | 26–31 in (66–79 cm) | 30–45 min | 7–9 yr | $5,500–$9,500 |
| Great Dane | 140–175 lb (64–79 kg) | 30–34 in (76–86 cm) | 45–60 min | 7–10 yr | $4,500–$7,500 |
| Irish Wolfhound | 120–160 lb (54–73 kg) | 32–35 in (81–89 cm) | 45–60 min | 6–8 yr | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Scottish Deerhound | 85–110 lb (39–50 kg) | 30–32 in (76–81 cm) | 45–60 min | 8–11 yr | $5,000–$7,500 |
| Leonberger | 110–170 lb (50–77 kg) | 28–31.5 in (71–80 cm) | 60–90 min | 7–10 yr | $4,500–$7,500 |
| Newfoundland | 130–150 lb (59–68 kg) | 28 in (71 cm) | 45–60 min | 9–10 yr | $4,500–$7,500 |
| Tibetan Mastiff | 90–150 lb (41–68 kg) | 26+ in (66+ cm) | 45–60 min | 10–12 yr | $5,000–$9,000 |
| Anatolian Shepherd | 110–150 lb (50–68 kg) | 29+ in (74+ cm) | 60–90 min | 11–13 yr | $3,500–$6,000 |
| Dogue de Bordeaux | 110–145 lb (50–66 kg) | 23.5–27 in (60–69 cm) | 30–45 min | 5–8 yr | $5,500–$9,000 |
First-year cost includes puppy purchase, initial veterinary exams, core vaccinations (DHPP, rabies, bordetella), spay/neuter, crate, collar, leash, initial food supply, and basic supplies. Ongoing annual costs after year one typically run $3,000–$6,000 depending on health status and region.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Consider Carefully
Honorable Mentions
These breeds narrowly missed the list but deserve recognition:
- Bernese Mountain Dog: Males reach 115 lb (52 kg) at 27.5 inches (70 cm). Just below our weight threshold but visually massive. Included here because their popularity makes them a common "biggest dog" search result. Note their short 6–8 year lifespan and high cancer rates.
- Cane Corso: Males weigh 100–110 lb (45–50 kg) at 25–27.5 inches (64–70 cm). Athletic and powerful but below our mass threshold. An excellent choice if you want a large dog that's more agile than a mastiff.
- Bullmastiff: Males weigh 110–130 lb (50–59 kg) at 25–27 inches (64–69 cm). A Mastiff-Bulldog cross that's stocky but not quite massive enough for the primary list.
Breeds to Approach With Caution
- Great Pyrenees: Males weigh 100+ lb but are independent livestock guardians that bark all night and roam if not fenced. Not suited for suburban neighborhoods or close neighbors.
- Presa Canario: Powerful and territorial. Requires experienced handling, extensive socialization, and may be restricted under breed-specific legislation in your jurisdiction. Check local laws before committing.
- Caucasian Shepherd (Ovcharka): Weighs 110–200 lb but is an extremely serious guardian breed unsuitable for casual pet ownership. Aggression toward unfamiliar dogs and people is a breed trait, not a training failure.
Decision Framework: Which Giant Breed Fits Your Life?
Choosing between giant breeds isn't about picking the biggest — it's about matching the dog's needs to your reality. Use this framework to narrow your top three down to the right fit.
- What's your living situation?
- Apartment or small yard: English Mastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux, or Neapolitan Mastiff — these are low-energy indoors despite their size. Avoid Leonberger, Anatolian Shepherd, and Boerboel.
- House with fenced yard (1/4 acre+): All breeds on this list are viable. Great Dane and Newfoundland are excellent family choices.
- Rural property (1+ acre): Anatolian Shepherd, Tibetan Mastiff, and Leonberger thrive with space and a job.
- How much daily exercise can you commit to?
- Under 45 minutes: English Mastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux, Neapolitan Mastiff.
- 45–60 minutes: Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, Irish Wolfhound.
- 60–90+ minutes: Leonberger, Boerboel, Anatolian Shepherd.
- Do you have children or other pets?
- Yes, young children: Newfoundland and Great Dane are the most reliably patient. Avoid Boerboel and Tibetan Mastiff with small children — their size and guardian instincts create risk even without aggression.
- Yes, other dogs: Newfoundland, Leonberger, and Irish Wolfhound generally coexist well. Same-sex aggression can be an issue in Tibetan Mastiffs and Boerboels.
- Yes, cats or small animals: Avoid Irish Wolfhound and Scottish Deerhound unless raised together from puppyhood — their sighthound prey drive is strong.
- What's your experience level?
- First-time dog owner: Great Dane or Newfoundland. Both are forgiving of training mistakes and eager to please.
- Experienced owner: Saint Bernard, Leonberger, Irish Wolfhound.
- Advanced/professional handler: Boerboel, Tibetan Mastiff, Anatolian Shepherd, Neapolitan Mastiff. These breeds require confident, consistent leadership from day one.
- How long are you prepared for your dog's life to last?
- This is the hardest question. Giant breeds have short lives. If the thought of losing a dog in 5–7 years is unbearable, consider the Anatolian Shepherd (11–13 years) or Tibetan Mastiff (10–12 years) — both significantly outlive mastiff and sighthound giants.
Practical Ownership Costs You Need to Budget For
Giant breed ownership costs are not a scaled-up version of owning a Labrador. Here's what to expect in real numbers:
| Expense Category | Annual Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Food (premium large-breed formula) | $1,800–$4,200 | A 150 lb dog eats 6–10 cups/day; 40 lb bags last 10–14 days |
| Heartworm/flea/tick prevention | $400–$800 | Dosed by weight — giant breeds need the highest (most expensive) tier |
| Routine veterinary care | $600–$1,500 | Annual exams, bloodwork, vaccines; giant-breed cardiac screening adds $200–$400 |
| Pet insurance (comprehensive) | $900–$2,400 | Giant breeds carry the highest premiums; enroll before 12 months to avoid pre-existing condition exclusions |
| Grooming (long-coated breeds) | $600–$1,800 | Leonberger, Newfoundland, Tibetan Mastiff need professional grooming every 6–8 weeks |
| Emergency/breed-specific illness fund | $1,000–$5,000 (recommended reserve) | Bloat surgery alone costs $3,000–$7,000; hip replacement runs $5,000–$8,000 per hip |
Consult your veterinarian about breed-specific health screening protocols before purchasing a puppy. Reputable breeders will provide OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHIP certifications for hip and elbow scores, as well as breed-appropriate cardiac and genetic test results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the biggest dog breed in the world by weight?
The English Mastiff holds the record as the heaviest dog breed. Males routinely weigh 160–230 lb (73–104 kg), and the heaviest recorded individual, Zorba, weighed 343 lb (155.6 kg). No other breed consistently reaches these weights.
What's the biggest dog breed by height?
The Great Dane is the tallest recognized breed. Males stand 30–34 inches (76–86 cm) at the withers, with the tallest recorded Great Dane, Zeus, measuring 44 inches (111.8 cm). The Irish Wolfhound is a close second, with some individuals reaching 35 inches (89 cm).
Why is the English Mastiff ranked #1 instead of the Great Dane?
Our ranking uses a composite score that weights total mass more heavily than height alone. The English Mastiff exceeds the Great Dane in average weight by 40–60 lb (18–27 kg) while being only slightly shorter. When people ask "what's the biggest dog breed," they typically envision overall physical presence — and no breed matches the Mastiff's sheer bulk.
Are giant breeds good with children?
Newfoundlands and Great Danes are widely considered the most child-friendly giant breeds due to their patient, gentle temperaments. However, any 150+ lb dog can accidentally injure a toddler simply by bumping into them. Supervision is non-negotiable, and children must be taught to respect the dog's space. Never leave a giant breed unsupervised with children under 5.
How long do giant dog breeds live?
Giant breeds have the shortest lifespans in the canine world. Most live 6–10 years, with the Dogue de Bordeaux averaging just 5–8 years and the Irish Wolfhound 6–8 years. The longest-lived giants are the Anatolian Shepherd (11–13 years) and Tibetan Mastiff (10–12 years), which benefit from their leaner builds and lower rates of cardiac disease.
What's the best way to train a giant breed puppy?
Start positive reinforcement training at 8 weeks using high-value treats and short (5–10 minute) sessions. Focus on loose-leash walking early — a 15-pound Mastiff puppy pulling on a leash is manageable, but that same behavior at 150 lb is dangerous. Never use shock collars, prong collars, or alpha rolls on giant breeds. Force-free methods build trust and produce reliable behavior. Enroll in a puppy socialization class before 16 weeks to build confidence around people, surfaces, and other dogs.
Should I get pet insurance for a giant breed?
Yes, strongly recommended. Giant breeds have the highest rates of expensive emergencies — bloat surgery ($3,000–$7,000), hip dysplasia surgery ($5,000–$8,000), and cardiac treatment ($2,000–$10,000+ over the dog's lifetime). Enroll before 12 months of age to lock in lower premiums and avoid pre-existing condition exclusions. Expect monthly premiums of $75–$200 depending on breed, location, and coverage level.
Can giant breeds live in apartments?
Some can — English Mastiffs, Dogue de Bordeaux, and Neapolitan Mastiffs are surprisingly low-energy indoors and can adapt to apartment life if they receive their daily walks. However, you'll need a ground-floor unit or elevator (stairs are hard on giant-breed joints), and your building must not have breed or weight restrictions. High-energy giants like Leonbergers and Anatolian Shepherds are not apartment-appropriate.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
