Top Five Largest Dog Breeds Ranked

The world of giant dog breeds is full of gentle giants that tower over their canine counterparts. These are the biggest dogs in terms of height and weight, often possessing loving temperaments that contrast with their imposing size. In this article, we rank the top five largest dog breeds (by height and/or weight) and explore each breed’s size, temperament, care needs, and history. If you’ve ever been curious about the largest dog breeds and what it’s like to live with these giant dogs, read on – you might be surprised to find that bigger dogs can equal bigger hearts.

Owning a large dog breed is a rewarding experience, but it comes with responsibilities. Giant breeds need plenty of space, proper training, and special care (not to mention a bigger food budget!). They also tend to have shorter lifespans and may face unique health issues like joint problems or bloat. We’ll present the facts about each breed in a friendly, factual way – celebrating their strengths while honestly noting care requirements. Now, let’s dive into our list of the five largest dog breeds, ranked from the (still enormous) fifth place up to the biggest of them all.

Table of Contents

5. Irish Wolfhound – The Tallest of the Gentle Giants
4. Newfoundland – The Powerful Water Rescue Dog
3. Saint Bernard – The Alpine Lifesaver
2. Great Dane – The Towering "Apollo of Dogs"
1. English Mastiff – The Mighty Heavyweight

5. Irish Wolfhound – The Tallest of the Gentle Giants

The Irish Wolfhound is often cited as the tallest dog breed in the world​ (PetMD) (AKC). Adult males can stand around 32 to 35 inches (80–90 cm) at the shoulder, and when up on their hind legs these giants are known to reach 7 feet tall or more. Despite their towering height, Irish Wolfhounds are not the heaviest dogs – they generally weigh between 105 and 120 pounds (48–54 kg) (PetMD). This combination of height and a relatively lean build gives them a graceful, lanky appearance.

Originally bred in Ireland for hunting wolves and large game, Wolfhounds were “fearless big-game hunters capable of dispatching a wolf in single combat” in centuries past (AKC). Today, however, they have left their ferocious hunting days behind and are known as serene, agreeable companions (AKC).

Temperament: Don’t let the name intimidate you – modern Irish Wolfhounds are true gentle giants. They are typically quiet, sensitive, and extremely gentle with their family members (including kids and other pets). In fact, they rank among the most patient and kind breeds. Their intimidating size might deter intruders, but an Irish Wolfhound is more likely to greet a newcomer with curious sniffing and a tail wag than any aggression. These dogs are often a bit reserved or introverted, but they form deep bonds with their humans. Owners often describe them as dignified and loyal.

Because Wolfhounds are so large, they do best in homes with ample space; an apartment is usually not ideal for a dog that can literally look you in the eye while you’re standing!

Care Requirements: Irish Wolfhounds have moderate exercise needs. Despite being built for running, over-exercise should be avoided when they are young to prevent stress on growing joints. As adults, they enjoy a good sprint in a fenced yard or a long walk, but they are generally calm indoors. Regular exercise is important to keep their muscles strong, but they are not as high-energy as some smaller breeds.

Grooming an Irish Wolfhound is relatively easy – their coat is rough and wiry, requiring weekly brushing to remove dead hair. They shed some, but not as heavily as thicker-coated breeds. Like all giant breeds, Wolfhounds are prone to certain health issues. Notably, they can suffer from hip dysplasia and gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), a life-threatening stomach condition (PetMD). It’s wise for Wolfhound owners to discuss bloat prevention with their veterinarian (such as using raised food bowls or avoiding exercise right after meals). Sadly, Irish Wolfhounds have a short lifespan of only about 6–8 years (PetMD), which is something prospective owners must prepare for. Providing a high-quality diet and regular vet checkups can help ensure these gentle giants stay healthy as long as possible.

History: As one of the most ancient breeds, the Irish Wolfhound’s history stretches back to antiquity. They were coveted by Celtic chieftains and even Roman consuls – legend has it that families would gift Irish Wolfhounds to royalty and other nobles. The breed’s purpose was reflected in its name: to hunt wolves that once roamed Ireland. By the 18th century, wolves had vanished from Ireland, and the Wolfhound breed nearly vanished too. In the 19th century, breeders worked to revive the Irish Wolfhound by infusing bloodlines from Great Danes and Scottish Deerhounds, saving this magnificent dog from extinction. Today, the Irish Wolfhound is a unique blend of imposing stature and loving soul – truly the tallest of the gentle giant dog breeds.

4. Newfoundland – The Powerful Water Rescue Dog

The Newfoundland (often affectionately called the “Newfie”) is a giant working breed famous for its strength and swimming ability. A male Newfoundland can stand 26–28 inches (66–71 cm) at the shoulder and weigh between 100 and 150 pounds (45–68 kg) (Britannica). Their build is heavy-boned and muscular, giving an impression of massiveness and power. These dogs have a thick, water-resistant double coat and large, webbed feet, which contribute to their exceptional swimming talent (Britannica). In fact, Newfoundlands are noted for rescuing people from the sea and have a long history as lifesaving water dogs (Britannica).

Despite their huge size and working dog capabilities, Newfies are famously sweet-natured. The American Kennel Club describes the Newfoundland as a “sweet-tempered Newfie” that often acts as a patient, watchful nanny for children (AKC).

Temperament: Newfoundlands are often called gentle giants and for good reason. They have an incredibly gentle, patient demeanor and are typically very good with children – hence the “nanny dog” nickname (AKC). A well-socialized Newfie is friendly to everyone and usually gets along with other pets. They are loyal and devoted to their family, known for keeping a calm watch over the household. Because they were bred to work closely with people (fishermen and rescue teams), Newfoundlands are very people-oriented and form strong bonds. Don’t be surprised if this giant dog tries to snuggle or sit in your lap; they sometimes seem unaware of their bulk!

One thing to note: Newfies love water. If you have a pool or live near a lake, you may find your Newfoundland happily taking a dip or attempting to "rescue" swimmers. Their swimming instinct is that strong. They also have a deep bark which makes them good watchdogs, though they are not aggressive by nature.

Care Requirements: As a large, heavy-coated breed, the Newfoundland has some specific care needs. Exercise should be moderate – these dogs enjoy walks, swimming sessions, and playtime, but they are not built for intense jogging in hot weather due to their heavy coat. Many Newfoundlands are content with a couple of good walks or play periods each day. Be cautious in warm temperatures: their thick fur and black coloration (in many Newfies) can cause them to overheat. Ample shade and water are a must in summer.

Grooming a Newfoundland is a commitment. That beautiful coat sheds year-round and “blows” seasonally; expect a lot of fur around the house. Regular brushing (several times a week) will help keep the coat healthy and reduce matting. They also tend to drool, especially the males or in warm weather – a drool towel might become your constant companion. Training and socialization from puppyhood are very important, as with any giant breed. Newfies are intelligent and eager to please, so they generally train well, but their strength means you want them to be well-mannered early on.

Health-wise, watch for hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and cystinuria (a kidney condition that Newfoundlands can be prone to). With good care, a Newfoundland’s lifespan is around 9–10 years (Britannica). They truly thrive in a loving environment where they have space to move and plenty of human interaction.

History: Hailing from the island of Newfoundland (now part of Canada), this breed developed as a working partner to fishermen. There are a few theories about their origins – one popular idea is that Newfoundlands might descend from a mix of local working dogs and mastiff-type or Great Pyrenees dogs brought to the area by European fishermen (Britannica). Whatever their exact beginnings, Newfies proved themselves invaluable by hauling nets, carrying wood, and most famously, saving people from drowning. Their legendary water rescue capability is well documented; tales abound of Newfoundlands leaping from boats to pull people safely to shore. One Newfoundland was even credited with saving Napoleon Bonaparte from drowning in 1815! (Britannica)

Over the centuries, the breed’s heroics and gentle nature have made them beloved worldwide. They were popular among English fishermen and also found their way into the hearts of European nobility (Queen Victoria owned Newfoundlands). To this day, Newfoundlands continue to serve as water rescue dogs in some parts of the world, and they always serve as loving family companions wherever they go.

3. Saint Bernard – The Alpine Lifesaver

The Saint Bernard is a massive working breed that originated in the Swiss and Italian Alps. Instantly recognizable from movies and cartoons (often depicted with a brandy barrel around their neck), real Saint Bernards are every bit as impressive as their legend. Males typically stand 28–30 inches (70–75 cm) at the shoulder and can weigh 140–180 pounds (64–82 kg) (SpiritDogTraining). Some exceptionally large individuals may even exceed those ranges. They have a broad, powerful build with a huge head and thick neck – necessary traits for plowing through deep snow and rough terrain.

Saint Bernards can have either short (smooth) or long coats, both of which are dense to protect against cold mountain weather. The breed was developed by monks at a hospice in the Alps to locate and rescue travelers lost in snowstorms, and over the centuries Saint Bernards have been credited with saving hundreds of lives in avalanche-prone areas (Britannica).

Along with their strength, they are renowned for a gentle, benevolent temperament. In fact, this breed is so gentle and friendly that one famous Saint Bernard named Mochi even held a Guinness World Record for the longest tongue, delighting people in nursing homes and schools during her therapy visits (Trupanion)!

Temperament: Known as gentle giants, Saint Bernards are calm, affectionate, and great with families. They often have an almost nanny-like patience with children (though their sheer size means supervision is still needed to avoid accidental knock-downs). A well-bred and socialized Saint Bernard is friendly with strangers, other dogs, and even cats. Their disposition is typically gentle and tolerant, and they are eager to please their owners. Because of their history as rescue dogs in a monastery hospice, Saint Bernards have a deeply ingrained sense of loyalty and seem to have a caring nature. They tend to be pretty laid-back and can be a bit lazy as adults – a Saint Bernard is just as happy lounging around the house as they are trotting in the yard. That said, they are working dogs at heart, so they enjoy having a “job” or activities, whether it’s hiking with the family or participating in obedience training.

Interestingly, Saint Bernards have a relatively low prey drive and usually won’t wander off chasing squirrels – their focus is on people. Their big presence and loud bark can make them good deterrents for intruders, but any watchdog duty they perform is usually without aggression. All in all, this breed embodies the phrase “gentle giant” – enormous in size and equally big in heart (Trupanion).

Care Requirements: Saint Bernards have moderate exercise needs. As puppies and adolescents, it’s crucial not to over-exercise them – those growing bones and joints can be prone to injury if pushed too hard. As adults, most Saints are content with daily walks and the occasional romp in cool weather. They actually tolerate cold much better than heat; in summer, they need cool places to relax and lots of water. Obesity can be an issue (an under-exercised Saint Bernard will readily pack on extra pounds), so regular light exercise is important to keep them fit (Trupanion).

Grooming depends on coat type: the short-haired variety needs weekly brushing, while the long-haired variety may require brushing 2-3 times a week to prevent mats. Both types shed quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes. And be warned – Saint Bernards drool… a lot! Keeping a cloth handy to wipe slobber is part of living with this breed (they tend to shake their heads and fling drool on walls and ceilings, as many owners can humorously attest).

Training is a must for a dog of this size. Fortunately, Saint Bernards are usually eager to make their people happy, which makes training easier. Use positive reinforcement and start young, since a full-grown Saint Bernard (even a friendly, goofy one) can be a handful if they haven’t learned basic manners. Regular veterinary care is important; like other giant breeds, Saints can face health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat. Their life expectancy is around 8–10 years. Despite some special needs, most Saint Bernard owners will tell you that these dogs are actually fairly easygoing companions as long as you have the space and don’t mind a bit of mess. A calm afternoon nap on a cool floor is a Saint’s idea of a perfect day.

History: The Saint Bernard’s story is tied to the perilous St. Bernard Pass in the Alps, a route with treacherous snow and frequent avalanches. In the 17th century, monks at the Hospice of Saint Bernard (named after an 11th-century saint, Bernard of Menthon) began using large farm dogs from the valley to aid travelers. Over time, these dogs were bred for the ideal traits to find and help lost people in snow – a keen sense of smell, strength to dig through drifts, size to plow a path and provide warmth if necessary, and an instinct to not attack or hunt people they found.

The classic image of a St. Bernard with a brandy keg comes from art and legend (the monks didn’t actually strap barrels of liquor to the dogs), but in reality, the dogs did carry small packs of food and water for survivors. One famous St. Bernard, Barry, reportedly saved 40 lives in the early 1800s and has a memorial in Bern. By the mid-1800s, the breed’s numbers at the hospice dwindled (partially due to harsh winters and disease), and outcrosses with Newfoundland dogs were used to revive it – which introduced longer coats. Eventually, the breed, now known as Saint Bernard, spread throughout Europe and to England and America, where they gained fame for their size and sweetness. Today, Saint Bernards are mostly family pets and show dogs, but their legacy as alpine rescuers endures – they even remain the mascot of the Swiss Alpine Club. Few breeds have such a storied history of lifesaving service paired with a loving family-dog personality.

2. Great Dane – The Towering "Apollo of Dogs"

The Great Dane is often the first breed people think of when they hear “huge dog.” Known for its incredible height and elegant build, the Great Dane has earned the nickname “Apollo of Dogs” for its majestic appearance. Standing on all fours, a male Great Dane typically measures 30 to 34 inches (76–86 cm) at the shoulder, and some individuals even taller. In terms of weight, males usually weigh around 140–175 pounds (64–79 kg), with females slightly smaller (Trupanion). Despite their lanky look compared to other bulkier giants, Danes are very powerful and muscular. Their size often sets world records – in fact, the world’s tallest dog ever recorded was a Great Dane named Zeus, measuring over 1.1 m (44 inches) at the shoulder (BorrowMyDoggy).

Great Danes come in a variety of coat colors (fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, and more), and they always catch eyes wherever they go. It’s interesting to note that Great Danes aren’t actually Danish; the breed was developed in Germany, where they were originally used to hunt wild boar and guard estates (PetMD). Over time, their hunting ferocity was bred down, and today’s Danes are far more gentle than their boar-hound ancestors (PetMD).

Temperament: Often called gentle giants, Great Danes are famous for being friendly, affectionate, and somewhat goofy despite their regal pose (Trupanion). They tend to be patient and loving with children, and most Danes get along well with other dogs (and often even cats, especially if raised with them). A Great Dane’s size might be intimidating, but these dogs usually have a calm and composed nature. In fact, they sometimes seem blissfully unaware of how large they are – it’s not uncommon for a Dane to try and sit on your lap or cuddle on the couch like a much smaller dog. They crave human company and affection. “Gentle giant” really fits: one moment a Dane can be lounging with a mellow grace, and the next moment they might be play-bowing and prancing with surprising silliness. Many owners love the breed’s sense of humor and fun.

However, Great Danes do have a protective streak; they make alert watchdogs and will bark to announce visitors. They are typically not aggressive without cause, but their sheer size and a deep bark are usually enough to deter anything or anyone unwelcome. Proper socialization is key to ensure they remain confident and friendly in all situations. It’s worth noting that Danes remain puppy-like (sometimes clumsy and mischievous) for a long time – they take about 3 years to fully mature. During that time, you’ll have a giant puppy on your hands, which is an adventure in itself!

Care Requirements: Great Danes require plenty of space. A big house or yard is ideal, as even indoors they need room just to move around without bumping into things (imagine a wagging tail at coffee-table height!). They need regular exercise to keep their large bodies healthy – a couple of good walks a day and some playtime should suffice, as most Danes are not excessively high-energy. In fact, adult Danes are often a bit lazy and love a good nap. Just be cautious with young Great Danes: avoid hard running or jumping on hard surfaces until they’re fully grown, as their joints are developing.

Training a Great Dane is very important, not only for manners but for safety due to their strength and size. Thankfully, Danes are generally people-pleasers and respond well to positive reinforcement training. Many Great Danes can be quite sensitive (they may pout if scolded harshly), so gentle, consistent training works best (FoxTribeK9).

Grooming a Dane is relatively easy – their coat is short and smooth, so a weekly brushing to remove loose hair and the occasional bath will keep them looking good. They do shed, but not as profusely as, say, a Saint Bernard or Newfoundland. Watch out for that “walloping tail” – when a happy Dane wags, objects can go flying!

Health considerations for Great Danes include hip dysplasia, heart conditions (like dilated cardiomyopathy), and bloat (which is common in deep-chested breeds). Many Dane owners take precautions against bloat, such as feeding smaller meals throughout the day and discouraging rapid gulping of food or water. Unfortunately, Great Danes have a shorter lifespan, averaging around 7–10 years. This is a heartache that comes with giant breed ownership – “the bigger the dog, the shorter the life,” is a saying that often holds true. Still, every year with a Great Dane is filled with so much love and admiration for this incredible breed.

Finally, be prepared for the costs: Great Danes eat a lot of food, and medications or preventatives (like heartworm pills) are dosed by weight, meaning you’ll be paying for a giant amount. All that said, those who love Danes will tell you that these dogs are worth every bit of effort, providing endless love and a touch of awe to your life.

History: Despite the name “Great Dane,” this breed’s roots trace back to Germany (and some influence from English Mastiffs and Irish Wolfhounds). In German, Danes are called Deutsche Dogge (German Mastiff) or sometimes German Boarhound. They were refined by German nobles to hunt the fearsome wild boar – requiring a dog both swift and strong, but also trainable and loyal. By the 19th century, the boar hunting role faded and Great Danes became more known as estate guard dogs and companions of nobility.

The name “Great Dane” came about when a French naturalist in the 1700s saw these dogs in Denmark and misidentified them, calling them Grand Danois (Big Danish). The misnomer stuck in English, even though Denmark didn’t develop the breed. Over time, Great Danes were bred to be more gentle. The fierce hunting drive was mellowed, and the breed standard emphasized a friendly, elegant, and dependable nature. Great Danes were among the breeds recognized early by kennel clubs (the AKC recognized them in 1887). They’ve been popular ever since – you’ll find them in historical estates, in cartoons (Scooby-Doo and Marmaduke are famously Great Danes), and in loving homes around the world. Their imposing yet beautiful presence has earned them a place as one of the most iconic giant dog breeds.

1. English Mastiff – The Mighty Heavyweight

Topping our list is the English Mastiff, often simply called the Mastiff – a breed that exemplifies the word “massive.” In terms of sheer weight and bulk, Mastiffs are the largest dog breed in the world. It’s not uncommon for a male English Mastiff to weigh 200–230 pounds (90–104 kg) or even more (FoxTribeK9). The Mastiff’s height is also impressive: males stand at least 30 inches (76 cm) at the shoulder, and many are taller (FoxTribeK9). When you see an English Mastiff in person, the first words that come to mind are likely “colossal” or “gentle giant.”

They have a broad, heavy build with a deep chest and large head. Despite this immense size, Mastiffs are known to be calm and docile, with a dignified demeanor. They’ve been around for millennia – Mastiff-type dogs were used by ancient civilizations as guardians and war dogs. Today’s English Mastiff has a much gentler job: beloved family companion. But make no mistake, their appearance is formidable.

An interesting fact: the heaviest dog ever recorded was an English Mastiff named Zorba, who weighed 343 pounds and stretched 8 feet 3 inches from nose to tail (Trupanion)! That Guinness World Record from 1987 still stands, underscoring just how gigantic this breed can get.

Temperament: For all their imposing size, English Mastiffs are famously gentle and good-natured. The American Kennel Club describes them as “patient, lovable companions and guardians” that respond best to gentle training (FoxTribeK9). Mastiffs are deeply loyal to their families and often content to just be wherever you are – they make excellent oversized lap dogs (or at least, they think they do!). They tend to be calm, steady, and not easily provoked. With family children, a well-socialized Mastiff can be incredibly tolerant, often forming a protective and affectionate bond.

Their guardian heritage does mean Mastiffs can be a bit wary of strangers at first (FoxTribeK9). They are usually not aggressive by default, but they won’t hesitate to position themselves between their family and a perceived threat. Early socialization is key so that the Mastiff learns to distinguish friend from foe and gains confidence. Once they see someone is welcome in the home, they generally warm up and might even attempt to sit on the guest’s feet or lean into them for rubs (a classic Mastiff move). Mastiffs are not big barkers – they usually only bark if there’s a reason.

In day-to-day life, you’ll find most Mastiffs either calmly observing the household or snoozing in their favorite spot. They are often described as dignified and somewhat lazy adults, with shorter bursts of playfulness. Puppies and young Mastiffs, however, can be goofy and rambunctious (imagine a 100-pound puppy still growing into its paws). Throughout their lives, these dogs remain very attuned to their owners; they’re sensitive souls and may even get upset if they feel they’ve done something wrong. Overall, an English Mastiff’s temperament is like its size – giant, solid, and trustworthy.

Care Requirements: The English Mastiff’s needs revolve largely around accommodating their size and keeping them healthy given their massive build. First and foremost: space. While Mastiffs can be surprisingly inactive indoors (they are often content to lounge around), they do require enough room to move comfortably. A small apartment would be challenging for a dog that can weigh as much as two adult humans. A house with a yard is ideal, though Mastiffs are not typically high-energy dogs that will run laps.

Regular daily walks (not too long or fast when they’re young) are important to keep them fit and prevent weight gain. Mastiffs have a slow growth rate and often don’t reach full maturity until around 3 years old or more (Trupanion). During that growth period, it’s crucial to feed a balanced diet (often large-breed puppy food) that doesn’t promote rapid growth, as growing too quickly can harm their joints (FoxTribeK9). It’s a bit of a balancing act: you want them lean and slow-growing as puppies, but well-nourished. Your breeder and vet can guide you on nutrition – many recommend preventing a Mastiff puppy from getting overweight.

Exercise for an adult Mastiff is typically a couple of moderate walks per day and maybe some playtime. They actually have rather low endurance; don’t expect a Mastiff to go on a marathon run. Avoid exercising during the heat of day because this breed can overheat easily (they’re brachycephalic, meaning they have a broad skull and short muzzle relative to head size, which can make breathing less efficient in heat).

Grooming a Mastiff is straightforward: they have a short coat that sheds a moderate amount. Brushing once a week helps remove loose hair. Like other jowly dogs, Mastiffs drool – maybe not as profusely as a Saint Bernard, but enough that you’ll be wiping slobber off your pants or the couch on occasion. Keep their wrinkles (especially around the face) clean and dry to prevent irritation.

One often overlooked aspect of Mastiff care is training and socialization. Because they will be enormous and incredibly strong, early obedience training is non-negotiable. Luckily, Mastiffs are not hyper or headstrong; they actually want to please you. Use positive reinforcement and be patient but firm – they can have a stubborn streak if they sense inconsistency. Many Mastiffs respond very well to treat-based training and gentle guidance (they do not react well to harsh training). With consistent training, you’ll have a well-mannered giant who can even earn canine good citizen titles (FoxTribeK9) (FoxTribeK9).

In terms of health, English Mastiffs can face challenges common to giant breeds: hip and elbow dysplasia, heart issues, and bloat are top concerns. Their lifespan is typically around 6–10 years. Regular vet checkups, a quality diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help maximize their years. Also, because of their size, everything costs more – food, preventive medications, even dog beds (you might be buying a human mattress as a dog bed!). It’s wise to go into Mastiff ownership prepared for these expenses. In return, you get a devoted protector and companion who will happily take over your couch.

History: The Mastiff’s lineage is ancient and storied. Mastiff-type dogs likely existed in ancient Babylon, Greece, and Egypt as guardians and war dogs. The English Mastiff as we know it is traced through Britain. When Julius Caesar invaded Britain in 55 BC, he reportedly was impressed by the giant war dogs he saw – these were the early Mastiffs that the Britons used in battle. Romans took some back to fight in arenas against lions and gladiators. Throughout the Middle Ages, Mastiffs (sometimes called bandogs or alaunts) were used for guarding estates and castles, as well as in bloody sports like bear-baiting (a practice thankfully outlawed by the 19th century) (Wikipedia) (Wikipedia).

Despite these fierce uses, there are also tales of Mastiffs being loyal family guards. One famous account from the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 tells of a Mastiff that stood over its wounded master, Sir Peers Legh, refusing to leave his side for hours (Wikipedia). That Mastiff was later taken home and became the foundation of the Lyme Hall Mastiffs, a line that would help develop the modern breed. By the 19th century, with bull-baiting outlawed and the need for estate guards diminishing, Mastiffs might have declined. However, enthusiasts kept the breed alive, and dogs like those from Lyme Hall and other estates became the basis for kennel clubs’ Mastiff breed standards. The breed was nearly wiped out in England during World War II due to food shortages, but was revived with help from imported Mastiffs (including some from North America). The term "Mastiff" itself generally refers to this English Mastiff breed, which is the template for the word mastiff meaning massive dog.

Today’s English Mastiff carries the legacy of those ancient giants but is a much gentler soul. They are “a massive, heavy-boned dog of courage and prodigious strength,” as one historian put it, yet they are also docile and dignified (AKC). Owning an English Mastiff is like owning a piece of living history – and a 200-pound lap dog at the same time.

In summary, the top five largest dog breeds – Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, Great Dane, and English Mastiff – each bring something special beyond just their size. These giant dog breeds share traits of gentle demeanor and loyal hearts, proving that the biggest dogs can often be the sweetest companions. However, they also require committed care: ample space, proper training, mindful health monitoring, and lots of food and love! If you’re considering one of these breeds, be sure you can meet their needs. As one expert aptly put it, “Big dogs can be very lovable, but always be sure you can meet their needs – giant breeds need space, are usually very strong and can be expensive to care for” (BorrowMyDoggy).

For those prepared to accommodate them, owning one of the largest dog breeds is an experience like no other. These dogs will draw stares on the street and fill your home (literally and figuratively) with an incredible presence. In the end, giant dogs often think they’re just oversized lap pups, and maybe that’s the secret to their enduring appeal – under all that size, they’re full of love.