What's the Largest Dog Breed? 12 Giant Breeds Ranked by Size
What's the largest dog breed? We rank 12 giant breeds by height, weight, and lifestyle fit with data tables, cost breakdowns, and a decision framework.
What Qualifies a Dog as the "Largest" Breed?
When people ask "what's the largest dog breed," the answer depends entirely on which measurement you prioritize. Height at the withers (shoulder), total body mass, and overall length all produce different winners. The Irish Wolfhound stands tallest, the English Mastiff weighs the most, and the Great Dane often claims the combined crown. Before we rank anything, here's the framework we used.
Selection Criteria for This List
- Minimum weight threshold: Breeds must have an adult male standard weight of at least 100 lb (45 kg) per AKC breed standards.
- Minimum height threshold: Breeds must stand at least 27 inches (69 cm) at the withers for males.
- Recognized breed status: Only breeds with full AKC or FCI recognition are included — no experimental crosses or unregistered types.
- Active breeding population: Breeds must have a viable population with available puppies or rescues in the US market as of 2026.
- Ranking methodology: Breeds are ranked by a composite score weighing maximum male weight (40%), maximum male height (30%), and overall body mass index (30%).
Understanding these criteria matters because some dogs — like the Saint Bernard — hit extreme weights but stand shorter than a Greyhound. Others, like the Scottish Deerhound, are tall but relatively light. Our composite ranking accounts for both dimensions.
The 12 Largest Dog Breeds, Ranked
We've grouped these breeds into three tiers: the true giants (over 150 lb / 68 kg), the tall giants (over 30 inches / 76 cm but lighter), and the balanced giants (large in both dimensions). Within each tier, breeds are ordered by composite size score.
Tier 1: The Heavyweights (150+ lb / 68+ kg)
1. English Mastiff
Size Class: Super Giant | Key Trait: Heaviest breed on Earth by average mass
The English Mastiff claims the number one spot for sheer body mass. Males routinely reach 160–230 lb (73–104 kg) and stand 30+ inches (76+ cm) at the shoulder. The AKC records show individual Mastiffs exceeding 250 lb (113 kg). Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are famously docile — often described as "gentle giants" who prefer lounging on the couch to running marathons. Their exercise needs are surprisingly modest: 30–45 minutes of low-impact walking daily. The trade-off is a short lifespan of 6–10 years and significant drooling.
Why it made the list: Highest average body mass of any recognized breed, with documented individuals over 250 lb.
2. Saint Bernard
Size Class: Super Giant | Key Trait: Heaviest alpine working breed with dense bone structure
Originally bred for alpine rescue in the Swiss Alps, the Saint Bernard carries a thick, muscular frame that pushes 140–180 lb (64–82 kg) for males, with some lines reaching 200 lb (91 kg). They stand 28–30 inches (71–76 cm) tall. Their dense double coat provides insulation but demands serious grooming — budget 2–3 hours weekly for brushing during shedding season. Saint Bernards are exceptionally patient with children but require early socialization to manage their protective instincts. Health screening for hip dysplasia and dilated cardiomyopathy is essential.
Why it made the list: Combines extreme weight with substantial height and a broad chest that creates one of the largest overall body volumes in the canine world.
3. Boerboel
Size Class: Super Giant | Key Trait: Densest muscle-to-frame ratio among mastiff types
The South African Boerboel is a powerhouse that weighs 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) on a 24–27 inch (61–69 cm) frame. While slightly shorter than some breeds on this list, their muscle density and bone thickness create an exceptionally stocky, imposing presence. Bred as farm guardians in South Africa, Boerboels are confident, territorial, and intensely loyal. They require experienced handlers and structured positive-reinforcement training from puppyhood. First-time owners should look elsewhere — this breed's combination of size and strong guarding instinct demands skilled management.
Why it made the list: Highest muscle density per inch of height among recognized breeds, creating extraordinary physical presence despite slightly shorter stature.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
Size Class: Super Giant | Key Trait: Most massive head and loosest skin of any breed
Weighing 150 lb (68 kg) on average with males reaching up to 200 lb (91 kg), the Neapolitan Mastiff is visually one of the most massive dogs alive. Their distinctive loose skin and enormous head create an appearance of even greater size. Standing 26–31 inches (66–79 cm), they are ancient Roman war dog descendants turned quiet home guardians. Expect heavy drooling, snoring, and a stubborn streak. Training requires patience and food-motivated positive reinforcement — force methods will shut this sensitive breed down completely.
Why it made the list: Extraordinary head and body mass with a visual footprint that exceeds their actual measurements.
Tier 2: The Tall Giants (30+ inches / 76+ cm)
5. Great Dane
Size Class: Giant | Key Trait: Tallest breed with the best height-to-weight balance
The Great Dane is the breed most people picture when they think "largest dog." Males stand 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) and weigh 140–175 lb (64–79 kg). The tallest Great Dane on record, Zeus, measured 44 inches (112 cm) at the withers. Danes are athletic and surprisingly agile for their size, needing 60–90 minutes of daily exercise. They're social, eager to please, and often unaware of their own size — expect a 160-lb lap dog. Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) is the most critical health risk; prophylactic gastropexy during spay/neuter is strongly recommended.
Why it made the list: Best combined height and weight among all breeds, holding the tallest individual records while maintaining substantial mass.
6. Irish Wolfhound
Size Class: Giant | Key Trait: Tallest breed by minimum standard height
The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed by AKC minimum standard — males must be at least 32 inches (81 cm), with many reaching 34–35 inches (86–89 cm). Weight ranges from 120–180 lb (54–82 kg). Despite their towering height, Wolfhounds are lean sighthounds, not heavyweights. Their wiry coat requires hand-stripping or regular brushing. Originally bred to hunt wolves and elk in Ireland, they retain a strong prey drive but are gentle and dignified at home. Lifespan is unfortunately brief: 6–8 years on average, with osteosarcoma and cardiac disease as leading concerns.
Why it made the list: Tallest minimum height requirement of any recognized breed — every adult male Irish Wolfhound qualifies as a giant.
7. Scottish Deerhound
Size Class: Giant | Key Trait: Second-tallest sighthound with elegant, lean frame
Standing 30–32 inches (76–81 cm) and weighing 85–110 lb (39–50 kg), the Scottish Deerhound is tall but lighter than most breeds on this list. Their inclusion is justified by height alone — they're among the top three tallest breeds. Bred to hunt red deer in the Scottish Highlands, they're athletic, quiet, and surprisingly good apartment dogs if given adequate daily running time. Their shaggy coat needs weekly brushing. Deerhounds are sensitive, bond deeply with their families, and do poorly with harsh training methods.
Why it made the list: Elite height with a graceful build that proves "largest" doesn't always mean "heaviest."
8. Leonberger
Size Class: Giant | Key Trait: Largest of the German working breeds with a lion-like mane
The Leonberger combines substantial height (28–31.5 inches / 71–80 cm) with serious weight (120–170 lb / 54–77 kg). Males sport a distinctive lion-like mane around the neck and chest. Originally bred in the German town of Leonberg as a multi-purpose farm and water rescue dog, they're strong swimmers with a webbed-toed trait. Leonbergers are family-oriented, good with children, and more active than mastiff breeds — expect 60+ minutes of exercise daily. Polyneuropathy and laryngeal paralysis are breed-specific health concerns to screen for.
Why it made the list: One of the few breeds that combines mastiff-level weight with working-dog athleticism and above-average height.
Tier 3: The Balanced Giants
9. Newfoundland
Size Class: Giant | Key Trait: Largest water rescue breed with extraordinary swimming power
Newfoundlands weigh 130–150 lb (59–68 kg) and stand 28–30 inches (71–76 cm). Their massive lung capacity, webbed feet, and water-resistant double coat make them unmatched water rescue dogs. "Newfies" are famously gentle — often called the "nanny dog" for their patience with children. They require 45–60 minutes of daily exercise and thrive when swimming is part of the routine. Expect heavy shedding, drooling, and a need for climate control in warm weather. Cystinuria (a kidney stone condition) and subaortic stenosis are key health screening priorities.
Why it made the list: Combines large dimensions with unique functional traits (water rescue capability) that no other giant breed offers.
10. Tibetan Mastiff
Size Class: Giant | Key Trait: Heaviest-coated giant breed with extreme cold tolerance
Tibetan Mastiffs weigh 90–150 lb (41–68 kg) and stand 26–30 inches (66–76 cm), but their enormous double coat adds significant visual bulk. Bred to guard monasteries and livestock in the Himalayas, they're independent, nocturnal barkers, and intensely protective. Early socialization is non-negotiable. Tibetan Mastiffs are not recommended for first-time owners or urban environments. They thrive in cold climates and can struggle in heat. Purchase prices are among the highest of any breed: $3,000–$8,000+ from reputable breeders.
Why it made the list: Visual mass and coat volume create one of the most imposing physical presences, with genuine guardian capability to match.
11. Bernese Mountain Dog
Size Class: Large-Giant | Key Trait: Most popular tricolor giant breed with exceptional family temperament
Bernese Mountain Dogs weigh 80–115 lb (36–52 kg) and stand 25–27.5 inches (64–70 cm). While at the lower end of our weight threshold, their broad build and popularity warrant inclusion. Originally Swiss draft dogs, they're strong enough to pull carts and eager to work. Berners are among the friendliest giant breeds — excellent with children, other pets, and strangers. Their critical drawback is lifespan: 7–10 years on average, with cancer (particularly histiocytic sarcoma) affecting an estimated 25% of the breed. Responsible breeders screen for hip/elbow dysplasia and cardiac conditions.
Why it made the list: The most accessible and family-friendly option for owners wanting a large, sturdy companion without extreme size management challenges.
12. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Size Class: Giant | Key Trait: Largest livestock guardian breed with unmatched endurance
Anatolian Shepherds weigh 110–150 lb (50–68 kg) and stand 29–31 inches (74–79 cm). Bred over thousands of years in Turkey to guard flocks against wolves and bears, they're independent thinkers with low biddability — they'll assess a situation and act on their own judgment rather than waiting for commands. Anatolians need large fenced properties (minimum 6-foot fencing), experienced handlers, and early, extensive socialization. They're not suited for suburban environments or first-time owners. Health is generally robust for their size, with a lifespan of 11–13 years — exceptional for a giant breed.
Why it made the list: Combines elite size with the longest lifespan and best overall health among giant breeds, making them the most sustainable choice for experienced owners.
Breed Comparison: How the 12 Largest Breeds Stack Up
| Breed | Male Weight (lb / kg) | Male Height (in / cm) | Lifespan (years) | Exercise Need (min/day) | Annual Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Mastiff | 160–230 / 73–104 | 30+ / 76+ | 6–10 | 30–45 | $3,500–$6,000 |
| Saint Bernard | 140–180 / 64–82 | 28–30 / 71–76 | 8–10 | 45–60 | $3,200–$5,500 |
| Boerboel | 150–200 / 68–91 | 24–27 / 61–69 | 9–11 | 60–90 | $2,800–$4,500 |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | 150–200 / 68–91 | 26–31 / 66–79 | 7–9 | 30–45 | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Great Dane | 140–175 / 64–79 | 30–32 / 76–81 | 7–10 | 60–90 | $3,000–$5,500 |
| Irish Wolfhound | 120–180 / 54–82 | 32–35 / 81–89 | 6–8 | 45–60 | $3,500–$6,000 |
| Scottish Deerhound | 85–110 / 39–50 | 30–32 / 76–81 | 8–11 | 45–60 | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Leonberger | 120–170 / 54–77 | 28–31.5 / 71–80 | 8–10 | 60+ | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Newfoundland | 130–150 / 59–68 | 28–30 / 71–76 | 9–10 | 45–60 | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Tibetan Mastiff | 90–150 / 41–68 | 26–30 / 66–76 | 10–12 | 45–60 | $4,000–$8,000+ |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 80–115 / 36–52 | 25–27.5 / 64–70 | 7–10 | 45–60 | $2,800–$5,000 |
| Anatolian Shepherd | 110–150 / 50–68 | 29–31 / 74–79 | 11–13 | 60–90 | $2,200–$4,000 |
Annual cost estimates include premium large-breed food ($80–$150/month for a 150-lb dog eating 6–8 cups daily), preventive veterinary care, heartworm prevention (dose-based pricing makes this expensive for giant breeds — expect $200–$400/year), grooming, and basic supplies. Emergency veterinary care for giant breeds is significantly more expensive due to weight-based medication dosing and larger IV fluid volumes. Budget an additional $2,000–$5,000 annually for an emergency fund or pet insurance.
Decision Framework: Which Giant Breed Fits Your Life?
Choosing among the top three — English Mastiff, Saint Bernard, and Great Dane — comes down to your living situation, experience level, and what you want from daily life with your dog. Here's a practical framework:
- Do you live in an apartment or home without a yard?
- → Yes: English Mastiff. Despite their size, Mastiffs are the lowest-energy breed on this list. They need short walks and are content sleeping 18+ hours a day. They adapt to apartment living better than any other giant breed, provided you can manage stairs (many apartments lack freight elevators that fit a 200-lb dog).
- → No, I have a fenced yard: Continue to question 2.
- Do you want an active exercise partner (hiking, jogging, swimming)?
- → Yes: Great Dane. Danes are the most athletic of the top three. They enjoy long walks, light jogging (after growth plates close at 18–24 months), and can participate in canine sports like lure coursing. They're also the most social and trainable.
- → No, I prefer relaxed walks and yard time: Continue to question 3.
- Do you have children under 10 or frequent young visitors?
- → Yes: Saint Bernard. Known for extraordinary patience with children, Saint Bernards are the most reliable "nanny dog" among the top three. Their slightly lower energy means less risk of accidentally knocking over small children during play.
- → No: Any of the top three will work. Base your decision on grooming tolerance (Saint Bernards shed the most) and drool tolerance (Mastiffs and Saint Bernards drool heavily; Danes drool moderately).
Beyond the Top 3: Quick Lifestyle Matches
- Best for cold climates: Newfoundland, Tibetan Mastiff, or Saint Bernard — all have double coats designed for freezing temperatures.
- Best for warm climates: Great Dane or Anatolian Shepherd — shorter coats and better heat tolerance (though all giant breeds need air conditioning above 85°F / 29°C).
- Best for first-time giant breed owners: Great Dane or Bernese Mountain Dog — both are highly trainable and forgiving of handler mistakes.
- Best for experienced handlers wanting a guardian: Boerboel, Tibetan Mastiff, or Anatolian Shepherd — all require confident, knowledgeable owners.
- Best for allergy-sensitive households: None of these breeds are hypoallergenic. If allergies are a concern, reconsider whether a giant breed is the right fit — all produce significant dander due to their large surface area.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Avoid
Honorable Mentions
These breeds narrowly missed our top 12 but deserve recognition:
- Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff): Weighs 110–145 lb (50–66 kg) with an enormous head. Falls just under our weight threshold for males in many lines. Exceptional guardian with a shorter lifespan of 5–8 years.
- Cane Corso: Weighs 99–110 lb (45–50 kg) — slightly under our threshold but visually imposing. More athletic and trainable than mastiff breeds. Good choice for owners wanting a large protector that can also do agility work.
- Bullmastiff: 110–130 lb (50–59 kg). A Mastiff-Bulldog cross that's more agile than the English Mastiff but slightly smaller. Good middle ground for owners wanting mastiff temperament in a more manageable size.
- Landseer (Continental European type): A black-and-white Newfoundland variant recognized by the FCI but not the AKC. Similar size and temperament to the Newfoundland.
Breeds to Avoid If You Want "Largest" Without the Challenges
Some people search for the largest dog breed without fully understanding what giant breed ownership entails. If any of the following apply to you, consider a large breed (60–90 lb) instead of a giant breed:
- You rent your home: Many landlords impose weight limits (often 50 lb). Even pet-friendly rentals may not accommodate a 180-lb dog.
- Your vehicle is a sedan or small SUV: Transporting an unconscious or injured 200-lb dog requires a large SUV, van, or truck. Emergency vet transport in a Honda Civic is physically impossible.
- Your budget is under $2,500/year for dog care: Giant breeds cost significantly more than medium breeds for food, medication (all doses are weight-based), surgery, and boarding.
- You travel frequently: Finding pet sitters, boarding facilities, or airlines that accommodate 150+ lb dogs is extremely difficult and expensive.
- You have mobility concerns: A 180-lb dog on a leash can pull an adult off their feet. Consider whether you can physically manage a giant breed during emergencies, vet visits, or if the dog becomes injured and needs to be carried.
Giant Breed Health Essentials: What Every Owner Must Know
Owning one of the largest dog breeds comes with predictable health challenges. Understanding these before you commit can save heartbreak and thousands of dollars in emergency veterinary bills.
Top 5 Health Risks Across Giant Breeds
| Condition | Most Affected Breeds | Prevalence | Treatment Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat) | Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Irish Wolfhound | 5–24% lifetime risk depending on breed | $3,000–$7,000 (emergency surgery) |
| Hip Dysplasia | All giant breeds | 15–40% depending on breed and breeding quality | $1,500–$7,000 per hip (surgical) |
| Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) | Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland, Great Dane | 10–30% breed-dependent | $500–$2,000/year (management) |
| Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer) | Irish Wolfhound, Great Dane, Leonberger | 8–28% breed-dependent | $5,000–$15,000 (amputation + chemo) |
| Elbow Dysplasia | Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, Mastiff breeds | 10–20% breed-dependent | $2,000–$5,000 per elbow (surgical) |
Emergency Red Flags for Giant Breeds
Call your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately if your giant breed dog shows:
- Distended, hard abdomen with unproductive retching (bloat — this is a life-threatening emergency with a window of hours, not days)
- Sudden rear-leg weakness or collapse
- Rapid, irregular heartbeat with coughing or fainting
- Inability to stand or bear weight on any limb
For suspected poisoning, contact ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Always consult your veterinarian before starting any exercise, diet, or supplement regimen with a giant breed dog. Growth-rate management in giant breed puppies is critical — the AVMA recommends large-breed puppy formulas that limit calcium and caloric density to prevent rapid skeletal growth and associated joint problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the single largest dog breed in the world?
By total body mass, the English Mastiff is the largest breed, with males averaging 160–230 lb (73–104 kg). By height, the Irish Wolfhound holds the tallest minimum standard at 32 inches (81 cm). The Great Dane holds the record for the tallest individual dog ever measured. If you combine height and weight into a single "largest" metric, the Great Dane ranks highest overall.
How much does it cost to own the largest dog breeds?
First-year costs for a giant breed typically range from $5,000–$12,000 when you include the puppy purchase ($1,500–$8,000 depending on breed and breeder), initial veterinary exams, spay/neuter (which costs more for giant dogs due to anesthesia and surgical time), crate, bed, and supplies. Ongoing annual costs range from $2,200–$8,000 depending on the breed's health profile, your location, and whether you carry pet insurance.
Can giant breed dogs live in apartments?
Some can — the English Mastiff and Neapolitan Mastiff are surprisingly good apartment dogs due to their low energy levels. However, you need ground-floor access or a freight elevator, as giant breeds are prone to joint issues and carrying a 180-lb dog down stairs is impractical. Check your lease: many apartments have breed or weight restrictions that exclude dogs over 50–100 lb.
At what age do giant breeds stop growing?
Giant breeds grow significantly longer than smaller dogs. Most don't reach full skeletal maturity until 18–24 months, and some (like the Great Dane and Irish Wolfhound) continue filling out until 3 years old. This extended growth period means you must restrict high-impact exercise (jumping, jogging on hard surfaces, agility) until growth plates close — your veterinarian can confirm closure via X-ray around 14–18 months.
Are the largest dog breeds good with children?
Most giant breeds — especially the Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Great Dane — are excellent with children due to their patient, gentle temperaments. The primary risk is accidental injury from the dog's size: a Mastiff wagging its tail can bruise a toddler, and a Great Dane leaning against a small child can knock them over. Always supervise interactions between giant dogs and children under 8, and teach children not to climb on or ride the dog.
What is the best food for giant breed dogs?
Look for AAFCO-certified large-breed or giant-breed formulas that meet the nutritional guidelines for controlled growth. Key specifications: calcium content of 1.0–1.5% on a dry matter basis, phosphorus of 0.8–1.2%, and caloric density no higher than 350–400 kcal per cup for puppies. Brands commonly recommended by veterinary nutritionists include Purina Pro Plan Large Breed, Royal Canin Giant, and Hill's Science Diet Large Breed. For adult giant breeds, joint-support formulas with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage the high orthopedic stress their frames endure.
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–$7,000; cancer treatment: $5,000–$15,000). Pet insurance premiums for giant breeds run $80–$150/month depending on age, breed, and coverage level — but a single emergency surgery can exceed a year's worth of premiums. Enroll while your dog is young and healthy, as pre-existing conditions are universally excluded.
Anouk Beaumont
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
