If you’re a fan of supersized snuggles and the gentle giants of the canine world, look no further than our list of seven XL dog breeds that are sure to steal your heart. These magnificent canines combine impressive stature with loyal companionship, making them perfect for those who admire both size and sweetness in a furry friend. From the regal Great Dane to the fluffy Newfoundland, each breed brings its unique charm and character, promising a life filled with wagging tails and larger-than-life love. Discover which of these colossal companions is your ideal match and prepare to be amazed!
Did you know the tallest dog in the world stood at a towering 44 inches?
XL dog breeds are not just big—they have massive hearts, too. Known for their loyalty, protective nature, and gentle temperament, these canine giants have been beloved companions for centuries. Whether bred for guarding, working, or simply companionship, they leave an unforgettable impression.
From the majestic Irish Wolfhound to the powerful Neapolitan Mastiff, this guide will take you through seven of the most awe-inspiring XL breeds. You’ll learn about their personality, care needs, and whether they’re the right fit for your lifestyle.
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a four-legged giant by your side, this list will introduce you to some of the most incredible dogs in the world!
XL Dog Breeds
1. Irish Wolfhound
Quick Facts:
Known for: Ancient royalty, affectionate natureIdeal for: Calm homes, companionshipTemperament: Loyal, independent
Towering over most other giant breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is an impressive giant dog, standing up to 35 inches tall and weighing around 180 pounds. Their long, muscular build and rough coat give them a noble yet rugged appearance. With deep-set eyes and a commanding presence, they were originally bred to hunt wolves and big game.
Despite their size, they are known as gentle giants, forming deep bonds with their families, as mentioned in AKC. They thrive in calm environments and are incredibly patient with children. While affectionate, they also have an independent streak, making them ideal for experienced dog owners.
Due to their moderate energy levels, they require regular walks and open space to roam. A large, fenced yard is ideal, as their history as swift hunters makes them prone to chasing small animals. However, they’re not overly hyper and love relaxing indoors.
Their thick, wiry coat requires weekly brushing to prevent matting. Shedding is minimal, but seasonal grooming helps maintain their coat. Like many giant breeds, they are prone to bloat, heart disease, and joint issues, so regular vet check-ups are crucial.
While intelligent, they can be stubborn, requiring consistent training and early socialization. They respond best to positive reinforcement but may take longer to fully train compared to smaller breeds. Their gentle and dignified nature, however, makes them well worth the effort for the right owner.
2. Leonberger
Quick Facts:
Known for: Strength, affectionate natureIdeal for: Active families, therapy workTemperament: Gentle, intelligent
Among the largest dog breeds, the Leonberger boasts a majestic lion-like mane and a powerful, muscular frame. Males can weigh up to 170 pounds, while a female dog is slightly smaller. Their thick, waterproof coat and expressive eyes make them both striking and approachable, a combination that once made them favorites among European royalty.
Despite their imposing size, these dogs tend to be incredibly gentle and affectionate. They form deep bonds with their families and often take on a watchful, protective role. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them great therapy dogs, often working in hospitals and care facilities. Their patience also makes them excellent companions for children.
With moderate to high energy levels, they require daily exercise, whether it’s a long walk, hiking, or swimming. Their history as working dogs means they thrive when given a task, and mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Without enough engagement, they may develop boredom-related behaviors.
Their dense double coat requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles and reduce shedding, as per Hound Therapy. Seasonal shedding can be intense, so regular grooming is essential. Health-wise, they are prone to hip dysplasia and bloat, common concerns in large breeds. Proper diet and controlled meal portions can help reduce these risks.
Training a Leonberger is relatively smooth, thanks to their high intelligence and eagerness to learn. Early socialization and positive reinforcement are key, as they are sensitive to harsh training methods. Their ability to pick up on emotions makes them highly responsive, making them ideal for both work and companionship.
3. Newfoundland
Quick Facts:
Known for: Strength, gentle natureIdeal for: Families, water rescueTemperament: Loyal, calm
Massive yet elegantly built, the Newfoundland is a large breed dog with a broad chest, strong legs, and a thick, water-resistant coat. These giants stand tall at 26–28 inches and can weigh up to 150 pounds. Their expressive eyes and webbed feet hint at their natural swimming abilities, making them one of the best water rescue dogs in the world.
Despite their size, Newfoundlands are remarkably gentle and affectionate. They form deep bonds with their families, often displaying nanny-like tendencies toward children. They remain calm and composed, making them an excellent choice for homes seeking a steady companion.
While they don’t require intense exercise, regular activity is important to keep them healthy and happy, as per AKC. A daily walk combined with swimming sessions provides the perfect balance. However, due to their dense coat and large build, they may struggle in hot climates and need access to cooler environments.
Newfoundlands require frequent grooming to manage their thick fur and prevent matting. They are seasonal shedders, meaning their coats need extra attention during spring and fall. Regular brushing helps, but their drooling tendencies mean owners should also be prepared for some mess.
Training a Newfoundland is rewarding but requires patience. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners, yet their strong-willed nature demands consistent guidance. They respond well to positive reinforcement and early socialization, ensuring they grow into well-mannered companions.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
Known for: Protective nature, ancient lineageIdeal for: Experienced owners, spacious homesTemperament: Loyal, reserved
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a powerful dog with an unmistakable appearance. Its massive frame, loose skin, and signature wrinkles give it a commanding presence. Males can reach 150 pounds, making them one of the tallest breeds with a broad, muscular build. Their deep chest and strong legs contribute to their imposing stature, making them a natural deterrent.
Beneath the intimidating look lies a fiercely loyal and affectionate companion. While not the most friendly dog with strangers, they form deep bonds with their families. Known for their protective instincts, they act as silent guardians, watching over their home with unwavering devotion. Proper socialization helps balance their natural wariness with a stable temperament.
Although they are low-energy indoors, they need regular exercise to maintain muscle strength. A daily walk and a secure outdoor space suit them best, as they don’t require intense activity. Neapolitan Mastiffs prefer short bursts of movement rather than prolonged play.
Their short coat requires minimal upkeep, but their wrinkles demand regular cleaning to prevent infections. Shedding is moderate, but drooling is significant, so keeping a towel handy is a must. They are prone to joint issues due to their size, making weight management crucial.
Training takes patience, as this breed is independent-minded. Early socialization helps prevent excessive wariness, and consistent leadership is key. Originally used as a livestock guardian, their instincts can be channeled through structured training. With the right guidance, they grow into confident, well-mannered protectors.
5. Great Dane
Quick Facts:
Known for: Towering height, gentle personalityIdeal for: Families, spacious homesTemperament: Friendly, protective
The Great Dane stands out as one of the tallest breeds, often towering over other dogs. With a sleek, muscular frame, long legs, and a deep chest, their presence is both elegant and commanding. Despite their size, they carry themselves with remarkable grace, making them a true gentle giant in the dog world.
Beneath their imposing stature lies a loving and affectionate companion. They form deep bonds with their families and are known to be especially good with kids. While their protective nature makes them reliable watchdogs, they are not aggressive by default. Instead, they offer a calm and reassuring presence in any home.
Even though they enjoy lounging around, Great Danes need daily exercise to stay healthy. A spacious backyard is ideal, but they can adapt to apartment living if given enough walks. Regular movement helps extend their life expectancy, as their large size can contribute to joint issues over time.
Caring for a Great Dane is relatively easy, as their short coat requires minimal grooming. Shedding is moderate, but their drooling can be excessive. Due to their fast growth as a puppy, a well-balanced diet is essential to prevent health issues later in life. Veterinary checkups help ensure they stay in peak condition.
They are smart dogs, but training requires patience. Since they grow rapidly, early training is crucial to prevent bad habits. Teaching commands early helps protect both the dog and its surroundings from accidental damage. With proper guidance, they mature into well-behaved, loyal companions for life.
6. Scottish Deerhound
Quick Facts:
Known for: Graceful build, hunting heritageIdeal for: Active owners, spacious homesTemperament: Gentle, dignified
The Scottish Deerhound is a true aristocrat among dogs, boasting a tall, lean frame built for speed and endurance. With a wiry coat and long legs, they were originally bred for hunting deer in the Scottish Highlands. Their elegant yet rugged appearance makes them a sight to behold, whether sprinting across open fields or lounging at home.
Despite their hunting background, they are gentle and affectionate pets, forming strong bonds with their families. Their calm temperament makes them wonderful companions, though they do best in homes with ample space. They are known to be friendly with other pets, but their prey drive can sometimes kick in, so supervision is key.
Providing enough exercise is an important factor when owning a Scottish Deerhound. While they enjoy relaxing indoors, they thrive with daily runs or long walks. Without regular activity, they can become restless, as their athletic build demands movement to stay healthy and happy.
Their low-maintenance coat requires occasional brushing to keep it tidy, and shedding is moderate. They are prone to certain health concerns, so routine vet visits are essential. Proper diet and care go a long way in ensuring they live a long, fulfilling life.
Training a Scottish Deerhound requires patience, as they can be independent thinkers. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. With the right guidance, they become well-mannered, affectionate companions who bring both grace and loyalty to any home.
7. Pyrenean Mastiff
Quick Facts:
Known for: Strong guardian instincts, gentle natureIdeal for: Large properties, protective familiesTemperament: Calm, affectionate
The Pyrenean Mastiff is an impressively large dog, built for both strength and endurance. With a thick double coat and a powerful frame, they were originally bred to protect livestock from predators. Their majestic appearance, combined with their size, makes them an unmistakable presence wherever they go.
Despite their size, they are gentle giants with a natural affinity for their families. Loyal and affectionate, they are known to be excellent with children and other large dogs. While they are calm indoors, their protective instincts remain sharp, making them reliable guardians when needed.
To stay happy, this powerful breed requires both physical stimulation and mental engagement. While they don’t demand intense exercise, long daily walks, and free space to roam are necessary. Without activity, they may become restless, leading to unwanted behaviors.
Their thick coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, but overall, they are fairly low-maintenance. Shedding is moderate, and like most large dogs, they are prone to joint issues, so a proper diet and vet care are crucial to their well-being.
Training should start early to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. They are intelligent but can be independent, so consistency and patience are key. Once trained, they are both obedient and loving, proving to be not just excellent protectors but also wonderful companions.
Conclusion
For those needing a strong yet gentle protector, the above-listed stands tall among breeds like the Black Russian Terrier, Anatolian Shepherd Dog, and French Mastiff. These dogs are more than just guardians; they’re devoted companions with unwavering loyalty.
Whether you choose a Cane Corso, Bernese Mountain Dog, or another rare breed, each has distinct traits that make them exceptional. The key is ensuring they fit your lifestyle and space. If you’re looking for a breed that balances power with affection, this might be the perfect match!
In conclusion, the seven XL dog breeds cater to those who have a passion for large canine companions. These breeds offer unmatched loyalty, love, and often protective instincts, making them excellent family dogs and guardians. Their impressive size is matched by their equally big personalities and gentle nature, which can be incredibly rewarding for the dedicated owner. However, owning such a large breed also comes with specific responsibilities, including ensuring ample space, regular exercise, and proper training. For those ready to embrace the commitment, these majestic giants offer a lifetime of friendship and joy.