Giant dog breeds may appear intimidating, and they will require more upkeep and space than a Chihuahua or a Shih Tzu, but their large size makes them full-fledged companions. And when well-socialized and trained, they can become the most amazing family members.
There are a few contenders for the largest dog breed in the world, depending on whether you judge by height standing on all four paws, height standing on back legs, or weight.
Here are 5 largest dogs around the world:
1. English Mastiff
While males come in at around 31 inches, the Kennel Club breed standard recognizes that they are often taller but no longer give a height - just say that "size is desirable but only if combined with quality," as per Purina
Nonetheless, the Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds alive today, both in height and weight.
Throughout history, the Mastiff has been used as a fighting dog, a powerful guard dog, as well as for wolf hunting, bear and bull baiting, and dog fighting.
When these were outlawed in 1835, the breed's future looked bleak, and by the end of WWII, there were only 14 left in the UK.
Thankfully, enthusiasts saved the breed, but they are still rare.
2. Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is a territorial, smart, and loyal working dog that is imposing and protective. This breed, weighing 150 pounds, was created to protect livestock, as per the American Kennel Club.
These are the dogs who would rather scare predators than attack them, making them popular today as guardian ranch dogs protecting farms.
3. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is unmistakably a giant, standing at an average height of 83cm.
In contrast to most sighthounds, which are on the leaner side of the spectrum, the Wolfhound is both tall and broad.
Though they have been around since the 1st century A.D., the modern Irish Wolfhound has its roots in the 19th century, when Captain Graham revived the breed with Scottish Deerhounds, Borzoi, Great Danes, and Pyrenean Mountain Dogs.
This massive and shaggy-coated breed matures into a truly gentle giant, but as puppies and juveniles, they are boisterous, clumsy, and frankly, enormous.
Despite this, it appears that few people have only one Irish Wolfhound.
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4. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a popular giant breed with a distinctive tri-colored coat. They thrive in cold weather and were bred as hardworking, versatile farm dogs in their native Switzerland, where they excel at drafting/carting.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are popular giant companions and family dogs due to their good-natured temperament.
5. Saint Bernard
Few people are unfamiliar with the St Bernard, and when you mention "giant breed," many people immediately think of this one.
They are truly a behemoth of a dog, with a breed average height of 80cm and a weight range of 70 to 90kg.
The "Saint" part of their name refers to their origins in a Swiss monastery at Great St Bernards Pass, which is located high in the mountains.
The monastery served as a hospice and refuge for travelers, and while St Bernard was initially used as a protection dog, they quickly proved useful as companions and rescuers.
The modern St Bernard still has the presence to ward off strangers with bad intentions, but once introduced as a friend, they are affable and easy-going. Their main goal in life, regardless of size, is to be a lap dog.
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