The Biggest Dogs In The World: 51 Surprising Photos

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiniest teacup Yorkie to the massive Mastiff. But which breeds are the biggest?

We’ve scoured the internet to find 51 of the biggest dog breeds in the world, so you can see for yourself! Some of these dogs will make your jaw drop, while others may surprise you with their gigantic size.

No matter what, though, they’re all undeniably adorable. Keep reading to learn more about these big dogs and see photos of each one. (Hint: Molossus is the #1 biggest dog breed)

51. Molossus

Image from Instagram:@oldworldmolossus

Average Weight of Molossus:

99 to 143 lbs for males and 88 to 132 lbs for females

Average Height of Molossus:

26 to 30 inches for males and 25 to 29 inches for females 

The Molossus of Epirus is an ancient giant dog that has been bred since the age of Alexander the Great. There are very few breeds though outside Greece.

The canines are closely related to the Greek Shepherds. The Molossus of Epirus is also considered one of the original ancestors of modern-day mastiffs. It is also the only surviving remnant of the Molossus dog types.

50. Georgian Shepherd Dog

Image from Instagram:@georgian_shepherd

Average Weight of Georgian Shepherd Dog:

130 to 220 lbs for males and 110 to 180 lbs for females

Average Height of Georgian Shepherd Dog:

28 inches minimum for males and 26 inches for females

Traditionally from the Georgia Caucasus, there are two main types of the Georgian Shepherd. The first one is the short-haired “Lion” variety that typically has a predominant white coat with small patches of black across its body.

The second one is the “bear” type that is characterized by a dominant brown coat and a large black head. The pure white breed is however very rare. Nonetheless, the dogs are strong-boned and very powerful.

49. Cane Corso

Image from K9Cuisine

Average Weight of Cane Corso:

99 to 110 lbs for males and 88 to 99 lbs for females 

Average Height of Cane Corso:

24 to 28 inches for males and 23 to 26 for females 

The Cane Corso is actually an Italian version of the English Mastiff. It is largely used for personal protection and in law enforcement. The dog is characterized by well-developed muscles and a large imposing head as well. 

The Corso typically appears in two basic coat colors including black and fawn. The pooch is believed to be a direct descendant of the Molossoid dogs of Ancient Rome.

48. Bernese Mountain Dog

Average Weight of Bernese Mountain Dog:

80 to 115 lbs for males and 70 to 95 lbs for females

Average Height of Bernese Mountain Dog:

25 to 27.5 inches for males and 23 to 26 inches for females

Bernese Mountain dogs were introduced to Switzerland by the Romans some 2,000 years ago. But traditionally these dogs originate from the Swiss Alps. The pooch was bred as a typical farm dog because of its strength. It was used for pulling carts and other farm-related activities by the alpine herders and dairy men.

47. Newfoundland

 Average Weight of Newfoundland:

143 to 176 lbs for males and 121 to 143 lbs for females

Average Height of Newfoundland:

28 inches for males and 26 inches for females

The Newfoundland, as the name suggests, originates from the Canadian province of Newfoundland. The breed was largely used by local fishermen as a working dog. These large pooches can either be black, gray, brown, or a mixture of both white and black. 

They have a thick double coat too and an excellent muscular body. The dog is also an excellent swimmer and has often been used in lifesaving missions in the water.

46. St. Bernard

Image from Paw.com

Average Weight of St. Bernard:

140 to 180 lbs for males and 120 to 140 lbs for females

Average Height of St. Bernard: 

28 to 35 inches for males and 26 to 31 inches for females 

Originally from the Western Alps of Switzerland and parts of Italy, St. Bernard was bred to do lifesaving hospice work in the Great St. Bernard Pass. The pooch is famed for its dramatic Alpine rescues. 

There are even real-life accounts of these pooches locating people trapped in the Alpine snow and carrying them to safety all on their own. This is a perfect testament to just how strong they are.

45. Dobermann

Image from Pawstruck

Average Weight of Dobermann: 88 to 99 lbs for males and 71 to 77 lbs for females

Average Height of Dobermann: 27 to 28 inches for males and 25 to 27 inches for females

The Doberman Pinscher is a tenacious and extremely loyal guard dog. The pooch was bred for the first time in 1890 by German tax collector Karl Dobermann. It is the 16th most popular dog breed in the world. 

The Dobermann is also ranked one of the most intelligent and trainable dogs globally. These canines often stand on their pads and are not heavy-footed as most large breeds.

44. Irish Wolfhound

Image from Wolfgang

Average Weight of Irish wolfhound: 120 to 155 lbs for males and 105 to 135 lbs for females 

Average Height of Irish wolfhound: 32 inches for males and 30 inches for females

The Irish wolfhound is a hunting dog that was traditionally used in Ireland to pursue game, especially wolves. For its size, the pooch is surprisingly very fast too. 

The American Kennel Club also considered the Irish wolfhound the tallest of all recognized dog breeds. The pooch has a domineering stature but it’s mostly considered a quiet, somewhat introverted, and highly intelligent dog.

43. Alaskan Malamute

Image from Wolfgang

Average Weight of Alaskan Malamute: 125 lbs for males and 75 lbs for females 

Average Height of Alaskan Malamute: 28 inches for males and 23 inches for females 

The Alaskan Malamute is one of the strongest dogs in the world. These pooches were initially bred for their ability to haul heavy sleds on snow and their impeccable endurance to go over long distances. 

Malamutes are still used as domestic sled dogs today but mostly for personal travel. However, if need be, these dogs can pull between 1,100 and 3,300 lbs in sled weight easily.

42. Great Pyrenees

Average Weight of Great Pyrenees: 100 to 160 lbs for males and 85 to 115 lbs for females

Average Height of Great Pyrenees: 28 to 31 inches for males and 26 to 30 inches for females

The Great Pyrenees is a naturally nocturnal and aggressive dog that was bred for guarding cattle. However, the pooch is known to be very gentle with children. 

Despite this, the dogs are not the most intelligent canines out there. They are often slow to learn and train but you will still love being around them.

41. Bullmastiff

Image from Pawstruck

Average Weight of Bullmastiff: 110 to 130 lbs for males and 90 to 120 for females 

Average Height of Bullmastiff: 25 to 27 inches for males and 24 to 26 inches for females 

The Bullmastiff is a strong and well-built domestic dog that was bred in the 19th century. The dog was primarily used to guard estates in Britain.

It is characterized by a short muzzle, a flat head, and may appear in three main colors including brindle, red, or fawn. These canines are however very sensitive dogs even with their strength and power.

40. Leonberger

Image from Instagram:@6_leos_and_a_vacuum

Average Weight of Leonberger: 120 to 170 lbs for males and 100 to 135 lbs for females

Average Height of Leonberger: 28 to 31 inches for males and 26 to 30 inches for females

The Leonberger is one of the few dogs in the world that were actually bred for symbolic purposes. The pooch was supposed to look like a real lion in an effort to reflect the coat of arms in the city of Leonberg, where it is from.

Although the dog is very muscular, it’s also surprisingly agile. This is why it’s often been used in search and rescue operations on the water.

39. Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Image from Instagram:@titans.family

Average Weight of Caucasian Shepherd Dog: 110 lbs minimum for males and 100 lbs minimum for females 

Average Height of Caucasian Shepherd Dog: 28 to 30 inches for males and 26 to 28 inches for females

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a native of the caucuses of Georgia, Armenia, Dagestan, and Azerbaijan. These canines are traditionally used by herders as livestock guardians.

However, modern-day Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are extensively used in guarding prisons in Russia. The dogs have a very powerful musculoskeletal structure. They also have long, thick, and very beautiful hair.

38. Kangal Shepherd Dog

Image from Instagram:@world.dog1

Average Weight of Kangal Shepherd Dog: 110 to 139 lbs for males and 90 to 130 lbs for females

Average Height of Kangal Shepherd Dog: 29 to 32 inches for males and 28 to 31 inches for females

The Kangal Shepherd Dog is a livestock guardian dog that originates from the Turkish city of Sivas. However, because of its courage and domineering size, the pooch has been exported to many African countries where it is used to protect cattle from lions and other big cats in the savannah. The canine is highly protective and very loyal as well.

37. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Average Weight of Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: 90 to 135 lbs for males and 80 to 110 lbs for females

Average Height of Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: 25.5 to 28.5 inches for males and 23.5 to 27 inches for females 

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was developed by the dairymen and herders of the Swiss Alps. The pooch has heavy bone density, a well-built muscular physique, and commendable agility as well. 

Additionally, the dog tends to have relatively fewer health issues compared to dogs of similar size. It is also considered one of the oldest breeds in the world.

36. Perro de Presa Canario

Image from Paw.com

Average Weight of Perro de Presa Canario: 100 to 155 lbs for males and 88 to 130 lbs for females

Average Height of Perro de Presa Canario: 24 to 26 inches for males and 22.5 to 24.5 inches for females

The Perro de Presa Canario is characterized by a thick and muscular body. Unlike most dogs, however, this breed actually has “cat-like” paws, something that makes it move like a big cat.

These canines are also very aggressive towards other dogs in the vicinity. The Perro de Presa Canario is the official animal symbol of the Spanish island of Gran Canaria.

35. Pyrenean Mastiff

Image from Instagram:@pardip322

Average Weight of Pyrenean Mastiff: 130 to 200 lbs for both males and females 

Average Height of Pyrenean Mastiff: 30 inches minimum for males and 28 inches minimum for females

The Pyrenean Mastiff originates from the Spanish autonomous region of Aragon. The pooch tends to have a heavy white coat with small patches of darker colors spread over its body. 

These giant dogs were largely popular with the pastoralist communities of Northeastern Spain but have since spread all over to many parts of the world.

34. Tibetan Mastiff

Image from DogTV

Average Weight of Tibetan Mastiff: 100 to 160 lbs for males and 75 to 120 lbs for females

Average Height of Tibetan Mastiff: 26 to 30 inches for males and 24 to 28 inches for females 

The Tibetan Mastiff is a highly instinctive dog with primitive hardiness that makes it possible for it to survive in the harsh, high-attitude areas of Tibet and the Himalayas.

The pooch has a thick and long double coat and is available in a wide variety of colors. Although the dog was traditionally used for herding, it was also utilized as a guard dog in Tibetan monasteries.

33. Neapolitan Mastiff

Image from DogTV

Average Weight of Neapolitan Mastiff: 132 to 154 lbs for males and 110 to 132 lbs for females 

Average Height of Neapolitan Mastiff: 25 to 30 inches for males and 22 to 27 inches for females 

The Neapolitan Mastiff is often considered a close relative of the Cane Corso. It’s however a traditional guard dog that traces its origins in central Italy.

The canine is extremely powerful and can live for up to ten years. It also features a signature abundant and loose skin around its head with heavy wrinkling all-around.

32. Anatolian Shepherd

Image from Paw.com

Average Weight of Anatolian Shepherd: 110 to 143 lbs for males and 88 to 121 lbs for females 

Average Height of Anatolian Shepherd: 29 to 32 for males and 28 to 31 inches for females

Contrary to what the name might suggest, the Anatolian Shepherd Dog is in fact a US breed. However, the dog is bred from other canines imported from turkey including the Kangal and the Akbash.

This rugged, tall, and powerful pooch came to the US for the first time in the 1960s and is known to be one of the most independent and forceful dogs out there.

31. Bully Kutta

Average Weight of Bully Kutta: 155 to 200 lbs for males and 130 to 155 lbs for females

Average Height of Bully Kutta: 30 to 35 inches for males and 29 to 30 inches for females

Dating back to the 16th century, the Bully Kutta is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. It originates from the Indian subcontinent but the pooch is more common in the Punjab regions of both Pakistan and India.

These dogs tend to be very alert, responsive, and sometimes even aggressive. Sadly, Bully Kuttas are widely used in illegal dog fights in India and Pakistan.

30. American Bulldog

Image from Pawstruck

Average Weight of American Bulldog: 75 to 115 lbs for males and 60 to 90 lbs for females

Average Height of American Bulldog: 20 to 26 inches for males and 20 to 24 inches for females

The American Bulldog is considered a cultural icon in the US. These versatile utility pooches are used in farms, dog sports, and dog shows.

Bulldogs have a reputation for being tough and extra strong for their size. But they are nonetheless extremely social and would easily liven up any atmosphere they are in.

29. Boerboel

Image from Bully Beds

Average Weight of Boerboel: 132 to 174 lbs for males and 121 to 161 lbs for females

Average Height of Boerboel: 26 inches minimum for males and 22 inches minimum for females

The Boerboel is a South African mastiff-type breed characterized by a short coat and a distinctive black mask. These giant dogs are absolutely fearless and they will confront anyone or anything if they are threatened.

Nonetheless, the pooches thrive under loving human companionship and this goes a long way in reducing the risk of destructive behavior.

28. Dogue de Bordeaux

Image from Bully Beds

Average Weight of Dogue de Bordeaux: 150 lbs minimum for males and 125 lbs minimum for females 

Average Height of Dogue de Bordeaux: 24 to 27 inches for males and 23 to 26 inches for females

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large French mastiff from the city of Bordeaux. The dogs were traditionally associated with the French elite and were often used to guard castles and palaces. But they were also versatile enough to work on farms, especially pulling heavy carts.

This canine has a powerful and muscular build that can intimidate anyone. The pooch was bred for the first time in the 14th century, making it one of the oldest dogs from France.

27. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Image from Bully Beds

Average Weight of Rhodesian Ridgeback: 79 to 85 lbs for males and 64 to 70 lbs for females 

Average Height of Rhodesian Ridgeback: 25 to 27 inches for males and 24 to 26 inches for females

The Rhodesian ridgeback is a distinctively African native whose origins can be traced back to the traditional hunting dogs of the Khoikhoi, an indigenous nomadic tribe dominant in Southwestern Africa.

The pooch is distinguished by a unique ridge of hair that runs along its back opposite to the rest of its coat. It is imposing and superbly athletic too.

26. Scottish Deerhound

Image from Instagram:@fergusdeerdiary

Average Weight of Scottish Deerhound: 85 to 110 lbs for males and 75 to 90 lbs for females 

Average Height of Scottish Deerhound: 30 to 32 inches for males and 26 to 28 inches for females 

The Scottish deerhound was initially bred to hunt deer. Although sometimes the pooch can be confused with the Greyhound, it is often larger and more imposing. 

But despite this, these pooches are super friendly and very gentle. They are also very docile. They won’t jump up and down all day but would rather spend most of their days stretched out and sleeping.

25. Giant Schnauzer

Image from DogTV

Average Weight of Giant Schnauzer: 77 to 105 lbs for both males and females

Average Height of Giant Schnauzer: 25.5 to 27.5 inches for males and 23.5 to 25.5 inches for females 

The Giant Schnauzer is one of three Schnauzers bred in Germany since the 17th century. The other two include the Miniature Schnauzer and the Standard Schnauzer. The dogs feature a distinct dense and coarse coat which may be pure black, or a combination of white and black.

Most Giant Schnauzers are used in a wide range of dog sports too but have also been used by law enforcement for drug detection and tracking.

24. Dogo Argentino

Image from Paw.com

Average Weight of Dogo Argentino: 88 to 100 lbs for males and 88 to 95 lbs for females

Average Height of Dogo Argentino: 24 to 27 inches for males and 24 to 26 inches for females

Dogo Argentinos are predominately white, large, and muscular dog breeds. The pooch was bred for the first time in 1928 for big game hunting. This is why the canine has a strong and powerful stature enough to take down something as big as a wild boar.

Sadly, it is illegal to own the Dogo Argentino in certain countries without exclusive permission from local authorities.

23. Bloodhound

Image from Instagram:@sir.pons

Average Weight of Bloodhound: 101 to 119 lbs for males and 88 to 106 lbs for females 

Average Height of Bloodhound: 25 to 28 inches for males and 23 to 26 inches for females

Ever since the mid-century, the Bloodhound has been used for its incredible sense of smell to track fugitives as well as hunting. Although dogs typically are gifted when it comes to tracking scents, the Bloodhound takes it to a whole new level. The pooch has the ability to track humans for hours on end and more often than not, it finds them.

22. Borzoi

Image from Instagram:@borzoierna_gin_tonic

Average Weight of Borzoi: 75 to 105 lbs for males and 55 to 90 lbs for females 

Average Height of Borzoi: 30 to 33 inches for males and 27 to 31 inches for females

The Borzoi is a large, agile, and surprisingly fast Russian dog that resembles several central Asian breeds like the Taigan, the Afghan hound, and others.

The pooch has a slightly curly outer coat and a soft undercoat that typically thickens during the winter. These dogs are extremely athletic but they are not as territorial as other breeds.

21. Old English Sheepdog

Image from Big Lu

Average Weight of Old English Sheepdog: 79 to 101 lbs for males and 66 to 88 lbs for females 

Average Height of Old English Sheepdog: 24 inches for males and 22 inches for females

The Old English Sheepdog is a compact, strong, and muscular pooch. But it may not seem that way at first glance. This is because these canines tend to develop dense and long coats that cover almost every inch of their bodies. These dogs do not also shed unless they are brushed.

The Old English Sheepdog was bred for the first time in Birmingham in 1873.

20. Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog

Image from Instagram:@apbtandrottweiler

Average Weight of Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog: 77 to 99 lbs for males and 66 to 88 lbs for females 

Average Height of Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog: 26 to 29 inches for males and 24 to 27 inches for females

The Maremmano is one of the oldest Italian breeds on record. The pooch has been used by shepherds for centuries to protect cattle from wolves and other predators.

These dogs are predominantly from Tuscany and Lazio but have spread all over the world in the last decades. The canines also featured a lot in ancient Roman art and literature.

19. Black Russian Terrier

Image from Instagram:@neli.suler

Average Weight of Black Russian Terrier: 110 to 130 lbs for males and 99 to 110 lbs for females

Average Height of Black Russian Terrier: 28 to 30 inches for males and 27 to 28 inches for females

The Black Russian Terrier is a fairly recent breed that was bred for the first time in the 1940s. The dog was initially developed for the Russian military.

It is believed that the breeding involved over 17 dog breeds from all over the world. Despite their imposing size, these Russian dogs are very adaptive to training. They can however be a bit lazy at times.

18. Central Asian Shepherd Dog

Image from Dog.com

Average Weight of Central Asian Shepherd Dog: 110 lbs for males and 88 lbs for females 

Average Height of Central Asian Shepherd Dog: 28 inches minimum for males and 26 inches minimum for females

The Central Asian Shepherd is an ancient Molossoid-type dog known for its superb strength and power. Although the breed is dominantly found in most Central Asian countries, it is quite beloved in Russia.

In fact, it is the most popular breed in the country. The pooch is believed to originate from the region between the Ural River and the Caspian Sea.

17. Akbash

Image from Eusoh

Average Weight of Akbash: 90 to 140 lbs for males and 75 to 105 lbs for females

Average Height of Akbash: 28 to 32 inches for males and 27 to 30 inches for females

The Akbash is one of the most recognizable Turkish breeds globally. The pooch has a short-medium white double coat and an imposing physique.

The dogs also have a reputation of being very tall with extremely agile and strong bodies. The Akbash is also relatively widespread in the United States after it was introduced in the country in the 1970s.

16. Spanish Mastiff

Image from PetHonesty

Average Weight of Spanish Mastiff: 88 to 176 lbs for males and females 

Average Height of Spanish Mastiff: 31 inches minimum for males and 30 inches minimum for females

The Spanish Mastiff is a large and well-built breed that originates from several Spanish territories including Asturias, Zamora, and Leon.

The pooch can be aggressive towards other dogs but it is generally more accepting of people even if they are strangers. The canine is revered for its power and you can pick from a wide variety of coat colors too.

15. Komondor

Image from Instagram:@komondor_sorsok

Average Weight of Komondor: 110 to 132 lbs for males and 88 to 110 lbs for females

Average Height of Komondor: 31.5 inches for males and 27.5 inches for females

The Komondor is an ancient guard dog that goes way back. The first one was in fact recorded in 1544. These pooches are characterized by heavy and matted coats that are predominately white.

They also have a natural guardian instinct but they are often considered calm, alert, and friendly dogs. Despite this, the dogs still require a firm hand when it comes to training especially because of their size, power, and speed.

14. American Akita

Image from House Carers

Average Weight of American Akita: 60 to 90 lbs for males and 50 to 80 lbs for females

Average Height of American Akita: 25 to 27 inches for males and 23 to 25 inches for females 

The Akita is a big and powerful dog that comes from northern Japan. However, there are two distinct varieties to note. The first one, often referred to as Akita Inu, is the Japanese version. There is a second US version called the American Akita.

With the exception of the US and Japan, the two varieties are considered separate unique breeds. These pooches however have a distinctively large bear-like head, a thick double coat, and an athletic muscular look.

13. Tosa

Image from Instagram:@k0peksevenler

Average Weight of Tosa: 130 to 200 lbs typically for both males and females

Average Height of Tosa: 24 to 32 inches for both males and females

The Tosa is a Japanese fighting dog that originates from the Island of Kochi. It is the only breed authorized by Japanese authorities to be used in legal dog fights. As a result, the pooch is considerably strong.

Between 1924 to 1933, the Tosa was extremely popular in Japan but it has declined significantly ever since. The breed is also banned or legally restricted in several European and Middle Eastern countries.

12. Kuvasz

Image from Instagram:@annamaria.erneszt

Average Weight of Kuvasz: 99 to 115 lbs for males and 71 to 90 lbs for females 

Average Height of Kuvasz: 28 to 30 inches for males 26 to 28 inches for females

The Kuvasz is a traditional Hungarian guard dog. The pooch is mentioned a lot in old Hungarian text, something that infers it has been here for a long time. Some estimates show that the Kuvasz may have been in existence as early as 2000 BC. Nonetheless, this four-legged canine buddy has a dense double coat that tends to be completely odorless.

The dogs are also very protective of their homes in fact, because of these attributes nearly all Kuvasz was killed during the Second World War as they stood up against the German and Soviet war machine. But they have since rebounded and can be found in many homes as pets.

11. Fila Brasileiro

Image from Bully Beds

Average Weight of Fila Brasileiro: 110 lbs minimum for males and 88 lbs minimum for females 

Average Height of Fila Brasileiro: 26 to 30 inches for males and 24 to 28 inches for females

The Fila Brasileiro originates from Brazil. Other than its brute strength and size, the dog is also known for its impetuous and aggressive temperament.

The pooch is characterized by dense strong bones and loose skin. It has a big and heavy head too with a muscular back and neck as well. These pooches are also as agile as cats and can be quite playful.

10. Sarplaninac

Image from Instagram:@sarplaninacdog

Average Weight of Sarplaninac: 77 to 99 lbs for males and 66 to 88 lbs for females 

Average Height of Sarplaninac: 24 inches for males and 23 inches for females

Previously known as the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, the Sarplaninac is an Albanian mountain dog native to the Balkan countries of Albania, Kosovo, and Macedonia. The pooch is actually named after the Šar Mountains.

It has longer front legs, a well-built strong body, and a thick long coat. The coat can in fact grow for as long as 4 inches so it’s definitely a high-maintenance dog.

9. Alano Español

Image from Instagram:@storm_mastiffmix

Average Weight of Alano Español: 66 to 88 lbs for males and 55 to 77 lbs for females 

Average Height of Alano Español: 23 to 25 inches for males and 22 to 24 inches for females

Alano Español, or the Spanish Alano, is a fierce and brave large dog with a thick and short coat. The pooch is sometimes confused as a bull dog but it isn’t. This is largely because these dogs were used in Spanish bullfights to control raging cattle.

Nonetheless, the breed is not that widespread. Other than a small population in Spain, these dogs are rarely found in other parts of the world.

8. Estrela Mountain Dog

Image from Instagram:@nikita_vuoristokoira

Average Weight of Estrela Mountain Dog: 99 to 132 lbs for males and 77 to 99 lbs for females

Average Height of Estrela Mountain Dog: 25 to 30 inches for males and 24 to 28 inches for females

The Estrela Mountain Dog is one of the oldest breeds on the Iberian Peninsula. The pooch originates from the Estrela Mountains and is available in both short and long coats. 

The canines are also very athletic and a formidable opponent for any predator that may threaten your home. In particular, the pooch is instinctively protective of children.

7. Polish Tatra Sheepdog

Image from Instagram:@marcelina_lasota

Average Weight of Polish Tatra Sheepdog: 80 to 130 lbs for both males and females 

Average Height of Polish Tatra Sheepdog: 26 to 28 inches for males and 24 to 26 inches for females

The Polish Tatra Sheepdog was introduced in Poland by Romanian shepherds. Like many large and protective Eastern European guard dogs, the pooch almost became extinct during the world wars. It was hunted and targeted by rival armies but it still stood.

These dogs are originally from the Tatra Mountains found along the border between Poland and Slovakia. Although dogs are found in several countries in Eastern Europe, in the US they are very rare.

6. Armenian Gampr

Image from Instagram:@redbrookeranch

Average Weight of Armenian Gampr: 126 to 135 lbs for males and 100 to 130 lbs for females 

Average Height of Armenian Gampr: 25 to 26 inches for males and 23 to 24 inches for females

The Armenian Gampr is a large mountain breed that has actually remained the same throughout history. It is one of the few remaining natural breeds in the world.

These pooches are predominantly common in the Southern Caucasus. They are also very friendly to humans and can grow very attached to their owners.

5. Gull Dong

Image from Instagram:@otacbulldogs

Average Weight of Gull Dong: 55 to 85 lbs for males and 45 to 65 lbs for females

Average Height of Gull Dong: 18 to 22 inches for both males and females

The Gull Dong is considered a fighting dog but was traditionally bred for hunting and guarding. The pooch is a product of crossbreeding the Gull Terrier and the Bully Kutta.

It is native to, and predominantly available, mostly in India and Pakistan. Gull Dongs are known to be feisty and athletic. The pooches can live for up to 14 years.

4. Rafeiro do Alentejo

Image from Instagram:@tome.alentejano

Average Weight of Rafeiro do Alentejo: 99 to 132 lbs for males and 77 to 110 lbs for females 

Average Height of Rafeiro do Alentejo: 26 to 29 inches for males and 25 to 28 inches for females

Rafeiro do Alentejo is a powerful and imposing dog. Although the pooch is considered a Portuguese breed, it is believed that it originates from the Middle East. It has a dense straight coat too.

The pooch is also available in many different colors. You can pick from wolf gray, fawn, yellow, brindle, and black. Nonetheless, these pooches always have white markings regardless of color.

3. Cão de Gado Transmontano

Image from Instagram:@afonsocalheirosmenezes

Average Weight of Cão de Gado Transmontano: 132 to 165 lbs for males and 110 to 130 lbs for females 

Average Height of Cão de Gado Transmontano: 30 to 33 inches for males and 27 to 31 inches for females

The Cão de Gado Transmontano, also known as the Transmontano Mastiff, is a Portuguese large dog that originates from the historical province of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro. The dog is the largest Portuguese pooch on record and was initially bred for livestock guarding.

This canine has a large head with a broad muzzle too. The pooch is typically reserved and calm and would rarely attack even if threatened.

2. Great Dane

Image from Bully Beds

Average Weight of Great Dane: 110 to 180 lbs for both males and females 

Average Height of Great Dane: 30 to 31 inches for males and 28 to 30 inches for females 

Contrary to what the name might suggest, the Giant Dane is actually a German breed that was primarily used as a hunting dog. The pooch is characterized by its obvious large stature and a great variety of available coat colors. 

The Great Dane can grow really tall and the breed in fact holds the title of the tallest dog ever recorded at a height of nearly 88 inches or 7.4 feet. The dog is super energetic too and very friendly as well.

1. English Mastiff

Image from Bully Beds

Average Weight of English Mastiff: 60 to 230 lbs for males and 120 to 170 lbs for females

Average Height of English Mastiff: 30 inches minimum for males and 27.5 inches minimum for females

The English Mastiff traces its origins back to the 19th century. It features a massive head with a distinct black mask and a shorter coat. Despite its large size, the English Mastiff is known for its loving and gentle nature. 

The pooch can grow huge in fact, the largest ever recorded weight for an English Mastiff stands at 343 lbs or roughly 155.6 Kilograms. The record height on the other hand stands at roughly 37 inches, making the dog literally a small donkey.



What Dog Has The Strongest Bite?

The Kangal has the strongest bite force among all canines. This giant Turkish dog breed has a bite force of up to 743 PSI. Its bite force is actually stronger than the African lion. The king of the Savannah can only manage a bite force of roughly 650 PSI even for its large size and revered predatory instincts.

What Dog Has Killed The Most Humans?

The American Pit Bull Terrier has killed the most humans. Although it’s nowhere near some of the largest breeds in our list above, according to Forbes the pit bull is responsible for nearly 66% of all dog fatalities in the United States.

What Is Considered A Giant Dog? 

Any dog above 99 lbs should be considered. Big dogs have become extremely popular with people since the 19th century. The only downside is that larger breeds tend to have more health issues than smaller ones. Giant dogs also have a relatively shorter life expectancy.

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Pete Decker