In the world of canine companions, some dogs quite literally stand above the rest. These gentle giants not only capture attention with their impressive stature but also win hearts with their loyal and often gentle nature. Delving into the nine tallest dog breeds showcases a fascinating blend of history, temperament, and unique characteristics that set these breeds apart. From the commanding presence of the Great Dane to the slender elegance of the Irish Wolfhound, each breed brings its own charm and challenges. Explore these towering breeds and discover why bigger can indeed be better for some dog enthusiasts.
Are you ready to meet the biggest dog breeds in the world? These immensely strong canines are not only a sight to behold but also incredibly loving companions. Whether it’s a mountain dog braving the heights or a world record holder standing tall at 27 inches, these breeds grow into powerful yet affectionate pets, perfect for families with kids or other dogs.
Their courage and protective instincts make them great guardians, but don’t let their size fool you—they have a tender side and love to be close to their human pack.
With all their strength, these giant dogs come with special care and needs. They often require more exercise, and due to their size, they can be prone to joint problems, so regular attention to their health is essential.
From puppies to adults, these dogs thrive with early training and a well-structured routine. Although they may face some challenges, their life is filled with loyalty, love, and protection. Ready to invite one of these powerful dogs into your home?
9 Tallest Dog breeds
1. Borzoi
The Borzoi, a majestic breed known for its tall and slender frame, is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. Originally bred for hunting in Russia, these dogs were prized for their speed and agility. Standing between 28 to 32 inches tall, as per AKC, they are not only powerful but also graceful, with a striking appearance that turns heads wherever they go.
Though they may appear aloof, Borzois are affectionate with their families, and their gentle temperament makes them excellent companions for families who enjoy active lifestyles. They are especially suited to those with large, secure yards, as they require plenty of space to stretch their long legs. While independent by nature, they are known to form strong bonds with their pet parents and love to spend time with them.
Despite their elegance, Borzois are strong dogs and require early training to ensure they don’t become too independent. Their long, silky coat needs regular grooming, but the time spent maintaining it is well worth it given the beauty and grace of these giant breeds.
|
Height |
28-32 inches |
|
Weight |
60-105 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Independent, Affectionate |
2. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are one of the most iconic giant dog breeds, originally bred as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps. These dogs are known for their massive size, often standing between 28 to 30 inches tall and weighing as much as 180 pounds. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are gentle giants with a sweet temperament, making them wonderful family dogs.
According to PetMD, their history as working dogs is impressive, as they were used to rescue people trapped in snowstorms. This bred in them not only strength and endurance but also a deep affection for their families. Saint Bernards are particularly good with children, and their calm demeanor makes them ideal pets for families looking for a big dog that is both affectionate and protective.
Saint Bernards have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming, and they are prone to joint issues due to their size. They thrive in larger spaces, and while they don’t need excessive exercise, regular activity is important to keep them healthy and fit. Their loyalty and loving nature make them one of the most adored giant breeds in the world.
|
Height |
28-30 inches |
|
Weight |
110-180 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Calm, Affectionate |
3. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a majestic dog that can stand up to 32 inches tall, making it one of the tallest dog breeds in existence. Originally bred for wolf hunting in Ireland, they are known for their speed, strength, and incredible size. As per Hills Pet, their impressive stature is complemented by a gentle, sweet temperament, making them ideal family dogs despite their intimidating size.
These dogs are naturally affectionate and form close bonds with their pet parents. They are good with children and generally get along well with other pets when socialized properly. Their noble appearance and gentle nature make them stand out as one of the most beloved giant dog breeds in the world.
Irish Wolfhounds do need regular exercise and early training to manage their size and strength. While they are calm and peaceful by nature, they benefit from consistent interaction with their families. Their short lifespan, a common trait among giant breeds, means that every moment spent with them is precious.
|
Height |
30-32 inches |
|
Weight |
105-180 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Affectionate, Independent |
4. Great Dane
The Great Dane is one of the most recognizable giant breeds, often considered the king of the dog world due to their imposing size and graceful stature. Standing at least 32 inches tall, these massive dogs are known for their affectionate nature and their ability to form deep bonds with their families. Despite their size, they have a sweet temperament and are incredibly gentle with children and other pets.
Originally bred for hunting large game and as guard dogs, Great Danes are powerful. Their history as working dogs has instilled in them a calm, protective instinct that makes them excellent guard dogs. Early training and socialization are essential for these giant dogs, as they can be quite independent if not properly managed.
Great Danes require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Their grooming needs are minimal, but their size can lead to joint issues as they age. Nevertheless, their affection, loyalty, and incredible presence make them a cherished companion for dog lovers everywhere.
|
Height |
32+ inches |
|
Weight |
100-200 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Affectionate, Protective |
5. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants, standing at 26 to 28 inches tall with a massive, muscular build. Originally bred as working dogs to assist fishermen, they are excellent swimmers with webbed feet, making them one of the best rescue dogs when it comes to water-related tasks. Their calm, affectionate nature makes them ideal for families looking for a large, loving dog.
These dogs are particularly good with children, and their sweet temperament allows them to get along well with other pets, as suggested by Purina. Though they are large and strong, Newfoundlands are gentle and protective, making them perfect for families seeking a powerful guard dog that is also affectionate. They are particularly suited for homes with a large yard where they can move freely.
Their thick double coat requires regular grooming, and they need moderate exercise to stay fit. Newfoundland dogs are prone to joint issues and hip dysplasia, so early training and careful attention to their health are essential. They are loyal companions, forming strong bonds with their families and providing love and protection.
|
Height |
26-28 inches |
|
Weight |
100-150 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Affectionate, Protective |
6. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a massive breed known for its wrinkly skin and immensely powerful stature. Standing around 31 inches tall, these dogs are not only impressive in size but also in strength, making them one of the most formidable guard dogs. Despite their intimidating appearance, Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their affectionate and protective nature, making them ideal companions for families.
Originally bred in Southern Italy for guarding property and livestock, Neapolitan Mastiffs are fiercely loyal to their families. Their calm demeanor and gentle temperament make them well-suited to family life, though they require early training and socialization to prevent them from becoming overly protective. Their thick coat requires regular grooming to manage shedding and to keep their skin healthy.
These dogs are known to be powerful, with a protective nature that makes them excellent guard dogs. However, their affection for their family and love for children ensure they make wonderful pets when raised in a positive environment. Neapolitan Mastiffs require plenty of space and exercise, but they are loyal companions that make a significant impact on the lives of those they love.
|
Height |
26-31 inches |
|
Weight |
110-150 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Protective, Affectionate, Loyal |
7. Mastiff
Mastiffs rank among the largest dog breeds globally, typically standing between 27 and 32 inches tall and weighing more than 200 pounds. These giant breeds are known for their massive build and their calm, composed nature. Though intimidating in appearance, Mastiffs are incredibly gentle and loving toward their families, making them excellent family dogs.
Originally bred as guard dogs, also used for wolf hunting and dog fighting, Mastiffs have an instinct to protect their families. Britannica suggests that their size and strength make them ideal for guarding property and loved ones. However, they are also incredibly affectionate and tend to be very good with children. Early training is essential to manage their size and ensure they are well-mannered in social settings.
Mastiffs require regular exercise and plenty of space to move around, but they are generally calm and not overly energetic. Their thick coat needs grooming to prevent matting, and they are prone to joint issues, so careful attention to their health is crucial. They are loyal, protective, and loving, making them a great choice for families with ample space.
|
Height |
27-32 inches |
|
Weight |
120-230 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Protective, Calm |
8. Leonberger
The Leonberger is another giant dog breed known for its impressive size and lion-like mane. Standing up to 32 inches tall, these dogs are incredibly strong and were originally bred as working dogs in Europe. Their noble appearance and gentle temperament make them one of the most beloved giant breeds, especially for families looking for both power and affection.
Despite their imposing size, Leonbergers are affectionate with their families and enjoy spending time with children. They are known to be gentle giants, offering protection and love in equal measure. Their thick double coat requires regular grooming, but it’s worth the effort given their majestic appearance and sweet nature.
Leonbergers are excellent family dogs due to their patience and protective instincts. They need early training and socialization to ensure they develop into well-behaved pets. Regular exercise and attention to their health, particularly their joints, are important to keep them happy and healthy. Their loyalty and affection make them a cherished member of any family.
|
Height |
26-32 inches |
|
Weight |
90-170 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Affectionate, Protective |
9. Scottish Deerhound
According to WebMD, the Scottish Deerhound is one of the tallest dog breeds, standing up to 32 inches tall. Originally bred for hunting large game like deer, these dogs have an elegant, slender build that makes them stand out among giant breeds. Despite their tall stature, they are known for their sweet, gentle temperament, which makes them ideal family dogs.
These dogs are incredibly affectionate and get along well with children and other pets when properly introduced. Their calm demeanor and friendly nature make them excellent companions for dog lovers who appreciate the size and grace of a giant breed. Though they are independent, they are loyal and form strong bonds with their families.
Scottish Deerhounds are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, but their size and activity level mean they require regular exercise. They are excellent working dogs and have a natural ability to protect, though their main role today is as a beloved family dog. Their gentle personality and striking appearance make them a wonderful addition to any household.
|
Height |
30-32 inches |
|
Weight |
75-110 lbs |
|
Temperament |
Gentle, Affectionate, Loyal |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the largest dog breeds are not just a marvel of size, but also of character and strength. From the courageous Borzoi to the powerful Dane, each breed offers its unique qualities that make them exceptional companions. These dogs are known for their protective instincts and their love for their families. While they require larger doses of exercise and care, their devotion and loyalty make them a joy for those who are willing to meet their needs.
The American Kennel Club recognizes these breeds for their distinct characteristics and adherence to breed standards, ensuring that each dog grows up healthy and strong. With a life expectancy that varies by breed, it’s important to know what to expect in terms of health and care.
In addition to the breeds mentioned above, there are other dogs that stand tall such as Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Dogue de Bordeaux. While these dogs may tower over small dogs, their affectionate nature and courage in the face of strangers make them wonderful family pets.
Whether standing tall as a mastiff or just curling up beside you, these dogs love their humans, offering both strength and tenderness in abundance.
In exploring the nine tallest dog breeds, we uncover not just their impressive stature, but also their unique characteristics, temperaments, and roles in various cultures and societies. These breeds, from the majestic Great Dane to the elegant Irish Wolfhound, embody both physical grandeur and gentle loyalty. Understanding the needs of these large companions, such as ample space and appropriate training, is crucial for prospective owners. Ultimately, these towering canines capture our hearts not just through their size, but with their affectionate nature and the undeniable presence they bring to any home.