Breed Tips

10 Largest Dog Breeds In The World

Dogs, our loyal companions, come in all shapes and sizes, from petite teacup poodles to the awe-inspiring giants that grace our homes and hearts. Among these canine behemoths, a select few stand out as the largest dog breeds in the world, captivating us with their towering stature, gentle demeanor, and unwavering loyalty.

1. English Mastiff: The undisputed heavyweight champion of the dog world, the English Mastiff boasts an imposing presence, reaching up to 36 inches in height and weighing a staggering 230 pounds. Despite their intimidating size, English Mastiffs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them surprisingly gentle giants.

English Mastiff Dog

2. Neapolitan Mastiff: Originating from southern Italy, the Neapolitan Mastiff exudes an air of regal elegance and strength. With their wrinkled skin, droopy jaws, and muscular build, these gentle giants can reach up to 31 inches in height and weigh up to 200 pounds.

Neapolitan Mastiff dog

3. Saint Bernard: Renowned for their heroic rescues in the snowy Alps, Saint Bernards are not only large but also incredibly compassionate. These gentle giants can grow up to 30 inches tall and weigh up to 200 pounds, making them a formidable yet affectionate presence.

Saint Bernard

4. Irish Wolfhound: As their name suggests, Irish Wolfhounds were originally bred to hunt wolves, and their imposing stature is a testament to their prowess. These lean and muscular dogs can reach up to 32 inches in height and weigh up to 180 pounds.

Irish Wolfhound

5. Great Dane: Affectionately known as "gentle giants," Great Danes are renowned for their elegant stature and graceful gait. These towering dogs can reach up to 35 inches in height and weigh up to 180 pounds.

Great Dane 

6. Leonberger: Bred for companionship and protection, Leonbergers combines the gentle nature of a St. Bernard with the regal presence of a lion. These fluffy giants can reach up to 31 inches in height and weigh up to 170 pounds.

leonberger dog breed

7. Tibetan Mastiff: Hailing from the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their thick fur, protective instincts, and unwavering loyalty. These formidable dogs can reach up to 30 inches in height and weigh up to 170 pounds.

8. Boerboel: Originating from South Africa, Boerboels are muscular and athletic dogs, bred for farm work and companionship. These loyal companions can reach up to 30 inches in height and weigh up to 200 pounds.

9. Dogo Argentino: Known for their muscular build and athleticism, Dogo Argentinos were originally bred for hunting wild boar. These powerful dogs can reach up to 27 inches in height and weigh up to 100 pounds.

Dogo Argentino

10. Cane Corso: With their muscular bodies and distinctive black masks, Cane Corsos exude an air of confidence and strength. These loyal and protective dogs can reach up to 28 inches in height and weigh up to 150 pounds.

How Much Does a Cane Corso Cost?

Expert Opinions on Large Dog Breeds

According to the American Kennel Club, giant dog breeds come with giant needs, and not every clinic or dog-care service will be equipped to meet them. So when choosing a vet, sitter, dog walked, or daycare provider for your pet, it's important to ask about their experience working with giant dogs and make sure that they are comfortable meeting the needs of your pet.

Dogs this large can weigh as much as an adult which leaves little room for bad manners. According to Sassafras Lowreey, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, training should begin early and continue throughout your pet's life to make sure they never develop behaviors such as jumping on guests to greet them when they come through your door.

Expert Insights From Spot

According to internal research conducted at Spot, several giant dog breeds, like Boerboels, Cane Corsos, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Tibetan Mastiffs, see significantly higher average insurance claim costs compared to other breeds. These costs can be 20-35% more expensive, with common claims involving digestive issues, skin problems, allergies, ear infections, lameness, and gastrointestinal conditions.

Furthermore, breeds such as Dogo Argentinos, English Mastiffs, and Irish Wolfhounds experience even steeper increases in claim costs, ranging from 56-68% higher. The Neapolitan Mastiff stands out with a staggering 77% higher average claim cost compared to other breeds.

While the exact reasons for these varied costs are complex, potential contributors may include the inherent size and associated health challenges of these breeds, possible genetic predispositions to certain conditions, and specific care requirements that might be overlooked or under-reported for other breeds.

Key Takeaways

The 10 largest dog breeds, each with their unique traits and captivating personalities, represent a testament to the diversity and grandeur of the canine world. While their size demands respect and responsible ownership, their gentle nature, loyalty, and unwavering companionship make them cherished members of our families and communities. Understanding their unique needs and providing them with the care they deserve ensures that these canine giants continue to enrich our lives with their presence.

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