There is always something special about large dogs.
For some people, bigger is simply better.
Big dogs make great companions for anyone with a big heart.
Despite their giant size these dogs are fun, wonderful and exciting to live with. Many are often big and fluffy and enjoy nothing more than snuggling all day after a good walk.
Want to find the best large dog breeds and learn more about these extra-large puppies?
Get ready to climb that beanstalk then because we have created a list of the best friendly giants…
Large Dog Breeds A to Z List
Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terriers are known as the King of the Terriers as they are one of the biggest terrier breeds. This clever canine was first bred to catch rats, otters and other small mammals in the Yorkshire Valley of Aire.
Size: 21 to 23 inches
Weight: 40 to 65lbs
Akita
The Akita was first seen in Japan and is known for its courage and loyalty. They are the biggest Japanese dog breed and are perfect for experienced owners.
Size: 24 to 28 inches
Weight: 70 to 130lbs
Alaskan Malamute
The giant Alaskan Malamute was bred for stamina, strength and endurance. Originally used as sledding dogs, these dogs are becoming increasingly popular due to their affectionate and playful personalities.
Size: 23 to 25 inches
Weight: 70 to 100lbs
American Bulldog
This large breed is a staple of American culture. Despite looking fierce their confident yet gentle personalities make them a great match for families with older children. An American Bulldog should consume around 2 cups of high-quality kibble per day.
Size: 20 to 28 inches
Weight: 60 to 120lbs
American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire terrier is three inches taller than their English siblings. Smart and loyal these dogs are great at canine sports such as flyball.
Size: 17 to 19 inches
Weight: 40 to 70lbs
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd is a livestock guardian from Turkey. These large dogs are naturally independent as they used to spend large periods of time alone with their flock.
Size: 27 to 29 inches
Weight: 80 to 150lbs
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a big breed from Southeast America – not Australia. They are named after their ancestors which arrived on boats from Australia!
Size: 18 to 23 inches
Weight: 40 to 65lbs
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is second only to Bloodhounds for their senses of smell. These long dogs are lazy at heart and are quite happy to spend their day sleeping on the couch.
Size: up to 14 inches
Weight: 50 to 65lbs
Beauceron
The big Beauceron is thought to be one of the smartest dogs in the world. They are excellent problem solvers and enjoy puzzle feeders and enrichment toys.
Size: 24 to 27.5 inches
Weight: 70 to 110lbs
Belgian Malinois
Then Belgian Malinois is known for their bravery and intelligence. They are the breed of choice for bite work and protection dogs.
Size: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 40 to 80lbs
Belgian Sheepdog
This giant dog was first bred to be a livestock guardian. They are known for their elegance and are often be seen in agility competitions.
Size: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 60 to 75lbs
Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren is a gentle giant known to be the most graceful of Sheepdogs. This breed is known to get along well with dogs and cats and makes an excellent family pet.
Size: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 44 to 66lbs
Bernese Mountain Dog
Out of all the large dogs on this list the Bernese Mountain Dog is not a good guard dog. They are naturally affectionate and make the perfect farming dog.
Size: 26 to 27 inches
Weight: 80 to 110lbs
Black Russian Terrier
The gentle giants were first seen in Russia in the 1800s. They quickly became popular as guard dogs because of their tenacity and appearance. They are suited to experienced handlers only.
Size: 26 to 30 inches
Weight: 80 to 130lbs
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are ranked number one for their senses of smell. They were first bred in Medieval France to track deer and boar. Now they are commonly used as sniffer dogs in airports.
Size: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 80 to 110lbs
Bluetick Coonhound
The large Bluetick Coonhound loves to play. They are happy to spend hours playing games with their owner and make an excellent pet for active families who want a large dog.
Size: 23 to 30 inches
Weight: 45 to 100lbs
Boerboel
This massive mastiff type dog is known for its loud booming bark. They make very intimidating guard dogs and need an owner who is experience with large breeds.
Size: 22 to 28 inches
Weight: 110 to 200lbs
Border Collie
The big Border Collie has the energy to match their size. They are quick as a whip and naturally agile. These speedy dogs are normally seen herding sheep or winning agility championships.
Size: 18 to 22 inches
Weight: 30 to 45lbs
Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres is a versatile breed. These dogs were used to pull carts, guard and herd livestock. Their natural intelligence means they excel at working roles.
Size: 23 to 26 inches
Weight: 70 to 100lbs
Boxer
Big and bouncy Boxer dogs are known for their goofy personalities. These dogs make excellent family pets due to their loving and caring temperament.
Size: 21 to 25 inches
Weight: 60 to 70lbs
Bracco Italiano
Winner of Crufts 2015 the Bracco Italiano is a large hunting dog. Also known as the Italian Pointer their sweet nature makes them a great match for homes with older children who can keep up.
Size: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 55 to 90lbs
Broholmer
The big Broholmer is from Denmark where they were an estate guardian for the wealthy. They remain popular in Denmark but are rare in the United States.
Size: 27.5 to 29.5 inches
Weight: 90 to 150lbs
Bull Terrier
Bull Terriers look fierce but they have a very soft temperament. Easily identified by their egg shaped head the big Bull Terrier is a happy go lucky family pet.
Size: 21 to 22 inches
Weight: 35 to 75lbs
Caucasian Shepherd dog
Caucasian Shepherds or Russian Bear Dogs are giant dog known for their gentle and caring personalities. This intelligent breed is often trained as a therapy or assistance dog.
Size: 24 to 34 inches
Weight: 80 to 220lbs
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is very similar to a Labrador Retriever. They are from the state of Maryland and are very good swimmers.
Size: 21 to 26 inches
Weight: 55 to 80lbs
Chinese Shar-Pei
The large Chinese Shar-Pei was bred as a devoted hunting companion. Because of their large size they are also used to guard and herd livestock.
Size: 18 to 20 inches
Weight: 40 to 55lbs
Chow Chow
The big Chow Chow has a temperament similar to a lion. Chow Chows are fiercely protective of their family and generally do not get on well with anyone else.
Size: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 40 to 70lbs
Curly-Coated Retriever
The tall Curly-Coated Retriever is a competition dog. They excel at canine sports, agility and herding. When they are not competing they love to spend time with their family.
Size: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 65 to 100lbs
Dalmatian
Dalmatians were originally used to guard carriages. These brave dogs would run alongside carriages to protect them from bandits. Bred to run they quickly became popular with the aristocracy. Dalmatians need the right balance of nutrients for their overall well-being.
Size: 19 to 24 inches
Weight: 48 to 55lbs
Doberman Pinscher
The giant Doberman is endlessly loyal to their owners and are excellent with children when socialized properly. Giant Dobermans should eat between 4 and 7 cups of dry dog food per day.
Size: 24 to 28 inches
Weight: 60 to 80lbs
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is large, white and muscular. First bred 100 years ago they are banned in several countries because of their brave and aggressive temperament.
Size: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 80 to 100lbs
Dogue de Bordeaux
The “Mastiff of Bordeaux” is a large and powerful breed that has been used for many jobs from hunting to guarding. They need an experienced owner that can give them an active job.
Size: 26 to 27 inches
Weight: 90 to 120lbs
English Setter
The English Setter is also called Llewellin Setter. They are known for their desire to work and to be strong willed. They are not a good match for first time owners.
Size: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 45 to 80lbs
Flat-Coated Retriever
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a dual purpose retriever. These big dogs are often seen working as agility or therapy dogs.
Size: 22 to 24 inches
Weight: 55 to 70lbs
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is one of Americas favorite large dogs. They make the best family dogs and wonderful service or protection dogs.
Size: 23 to 26 inches
Weight: 75 to 95lbs
German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are big dogs known for their versatile nature. They make excellent family, hunting and working pets provided you have the time to exercise them. German Shorthaired Pointers require a well-balanced diet that supports their active lifestyle.
Size: 21 to 25 inches
Weight: 45 to 70lbs
German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is bigger than their shorthaired siblings. They were one of the most popular dogs in Germany throughout the 19th and 20th century because of their hunting ability.
Size: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 60 to 70lbs
Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer is the biggest type of Schnauzer. They are known for their loyal and courageous attitude. They have a feisty and independent temperament. Giant Schnauzers should eat up to 4 cups of dog food a day, divided into 2 meals.
Size: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 55 to 80lbs
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is America’s second favorite family dog. They are an excellent dog around kids because of their patient and loyal temperament. This also makes them great service animals.
Size: 20 to 24 inches
Weight: 55 to 77lbs
Goldendoodle
The Goldendoodle is a mix of Golden Retriever and Poodle. They are one of the most popular companion dogs in the world.
Size: 22 to 25 inches
Weight: 30 to 45lbs
Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a large Setter known for his loyal and happy temperament. He is easy going and is commonly seen as a loving family pet.
Size: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 45 to 80lbs
Great Dane
The first Great Dane was bred in Germany but carvings on Egyptian tombs depict Dane-type dogs as early as 3000 BC. The breed’s energetic personality and large size can make them difficult to handle. Great Danes require a diet rich in high-quality protein to maintain their muscle and overall health.
Size: 30 to 32 inches
Weight: 100 to 175lbs
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees has a beautiful white silky coat. Their calm disposition matches this calming color. Described as the “Great Dogs of the Mountains” this breed is loved by farmers for their courage. Great Pyrenees should eat 4–6 cups of dry food per day to ensure optimal health and well-being.
Size: 29 to 32 inches
Weight: 80 to 160lbs
Greyhound
The Greyhound is one of the fastest dog breeds and can run up to 45 miles per hour. Surprisingly they make excellent apartment dogs and love spending time on a comfy couch.
Size: 25 to 30 inches
Weight: 50 to 85lbs
Hanoverian Hound
The Hanoverian Scenthound is a big hunting dog. They have the tracking ability of a Bloodhound and personality of a Border Collie. They make excellent working dogs.
Size: 19 to 22 inches
Weight: 80 to 100lbs
Hovawart
The Hovawart is one of the Five Noble Breeds of Germany. They look similar to German Shepherds but were first bred in Medieval Germany.
Size: 23 to 29 inches
Weight: 66 to 110lbs
Irish Setter
Irish Setters are another large Setter breed. Show Irish Setters are larger than Field Setters and have a have a thicker coat.
Size: 25 to 27 inches
Weight: 60 to 70lbs
Irish Water Spaniel
The Irish Water Spaniel is hundreds of years old. These big dogs are known for their good nature and willingness to train and work.
Size: 21 to 24 inches
Weight: 45 to 65lbs
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound was first discovered in 391 and was used to hunt wolves and other big game like Irish Elk. These shaggy-coated dogs loves to gallop and run so need plenty of long walks.
Size: 32 to 35 inches
Weight: 115 to 180 pounds
Kangal
Kangal dogs were first bred as livestock guardians. They are large Turkish dogs known for their calm, controlled and independent nature.
Size: 26 to 31 inches
Weight: 110 to 140lbs
Komondor
The Komondor, also known as the mop dog, is another flock guardian. These dogs can be territorial, independent and bark to alert danger.
Size: 22 to 25 inches
Weight: 60 to 80lbs
Kuvasz
Originally from Hungary the Kuvasz is a large herding dog. They are often confused with the Great Pyrenees but the Kuvasz have a slightly slimmer head.
Size: 26 to 30 inches
Weight: 70 to 115lbs
Labradoodle
First bred in 1988 the Labradoodle the most popular hybrid dog. They are fun, friendly and extremely clever.
Size: 21 to 24 inches
Weight: 50 to 65lbs
Labrador Retriever
The large Labrador Retriever has been America’s favorite purebred dog for 30 years! Hard working and loyal they make excellent pets. Labradors require a well-balanced diet to support their active lifestyle.
Size: 21 to 22 inches
Weight: 55 to 80lbs
Leonberger
The Leonberger is a large majestic breed with a regal stance and lion-like mane. The Leonberger is a whole lot of dog and has been working on the farmhands of Europe for centuries.
Size: 25 to 31 inches
Weight: 120 to 170 pounds
Mastiff
The Mastiff is sometimes called the Old English Mastiffs as they were originally bred over 5,000 years ago. These dogs are known for their large size and calm temperament. English Mastiffs require a well-balanced diet to support their overall health.
Size: 27 to 32 inches
Weight: 130 to 220lbs
Newfoundland
The large Newfoundland dog is from Canada. These dogs were bred to swim alongside fishermen’s boats and haul nets in. They were also used to haul timber and pull wagons.
Size: 25 to 29 inches
Weight: 100 to 150lbs
Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs are known for their thick, grey and white coat. These large dogs excel at canine herding sports and make great family pets.
Size: 22 to 24 inches
Weight: 66 to 110lbs
Pitbull Terrier
The Pitbull Terrier is larger than a Staffordshire Bull Terrier by six inches. This breed is known for its confidence and zest for life.
Size: 17 to 21 inches
Weight: 30 to 60lbs
Poodle
Poodles are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. These large waterdogs are the national dog of France but Germany claim it is actually German in origin.
Size: 15 to 22 inches
Weight: 45 to 70lbs
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a versatile hunting breed from South Africa. This big dog is known for their tenacity and bravery. Legend has it they would fight lions.
Size: 24 to 27 inches
Weight: 70 to 85lbs
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard was bred to locate and rescue travelers stuck in drifts and avalanches in. the Swiss Alps. Saint Bernards tend to bark at intruders but are not aggressive.
Size: 26 to 30 inches
Weight: 140 to 180lbs
Saluki
The tall Saluki is the rare feather-footed cousin of Greyhounds. This swift and agile dog was used by Nodamic tribes to hunt game in Egypt, Persia and the Middle East.
Size: 23 to 28 inches
Weight: 35 to 70lbs
Samoyed
Samoyeds are easily recognized for their cloud-like fur. The large Samoyed is known for their friendly nature and loves to sleep on top of their owners.
Size: 19 to 24 inches
Weight: 50 to 60lbs
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is another large arctic dog. These big dogs have thick coats, triangular ears and distinctive markings. Siberian Husky need a high-quality, well-rounded diet to maintain their active lifestyle.
Size: 20 to 23 inches
Weight: 35 to 60lbs
Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is the perfect large watchdog. They have a ferocious bark. As early as 1100 BC they called the Himalayan Mountains their home.
Size: 28 to 36 inches
Weight: 75 to 160 pounds
Vizsla
The large Vizsla is known for their affectionate and sensitive nature. Their short, tan coat is the defining feature of this breed.
Size: 21 to 25 inches
Weight: 40 to 66lbs
Weimaraner
Weimaraners are nicknamed Silver Ghosts. This breed was bred for hunting so has a high prey drive and excels at scent work.
Size: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 55 to 85lbs
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Largest Dog Breeds By Size
| 1 | Mastiff | 130 to 220lbs | 27 to 32 inches |
| 2 | Caucasian Shepherd dog | 80 to 220lbs | 24 to 34 inches |
| 3 | Boerboel | 110 to 200lbs | 22 to 28 inches |
| 4 | Saint Bernard | 140 to 180lbs | 26 to 30 inches |
| 5 | Irish Wolfhound | 115 to 180lbs | 32 to 35 inches |
| 6 | Great Dane | 100 to 175lbs | 30 to 32 inches |
| 7 | Leonberger | 120 to 170lbs | 25 to 31 inches |
| 8 | Great Pyrenees | 80 to 160lbs | 29 to 32 inches |
| 9 | Tibetan Mastiff | 75 to 160lbs | 28 to 36 inches |
| 10 | Newfoundland | 100 to 150lbs | 25 to 29 inches |
| 11 | Anatolian Shepherd Dog | 80 to 150lbs | 27 to 29 inches |
| 12 | Broholmer | 90 to 150lbs | 27.5 to 29.5 inches |
| 13 | Kangal | 110 to 140lbs | 26 to 31 inches |
| 14 | Akita | 70 to 130lbs | 24 to 28 inches |
| 15 | Black Russian Terrier | 80 to 130lbs | 26 to 30 inches |
| 16 | American Bulldog | 60 to 120lbs | 20 to 28 inches |
| 17 | Dogue de Bordeaux | 90 to 120lbs | 26 to 27 inches |
| 18 | Kuvasz | 70 to 115lbs | 26 to 30 inches |
| 19 | Hovawart | 66 to 110lbs | 23 to 29 inches |
| 20 | Old English Sheepdog | 66 to 110lbs | 22 to 24 inches |
| 21 | Beauceron | 70 to 110lbs | 24 to 27.5 inches |
| 22 | Bernese Mountain Dog | 80 to 110lbs | 26 to 27 inches |
| 23 | Bloodhound | 80 to 110lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 24 | Bluetick Coonhound | 45 to 100lbs | 23 to 30 inches |
| 25 | Curly-Coated Retriever | 65 to 100lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 26 | Alaskan Malamute | 70 to 100lbs | 23 to 25 inches |
| 27 | Bouvier des Flandres | 70 to 100lbs | 23 to 26 inches |
| 28 | Dogo Argentino | 80 to 100lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 29 | Hanoverian Hound | 80 to 100lbs | 19 to 22 inches |
| 30 | German Shepherd | 75 to 95lbs | 23 to 26 inches |
| 31 | Bracco Italiano | 55 to 90lbs | 22 to 26 inches |
| 32 | Greyhound | 50 to 85lbs | 25 to 30 inches |
| 33 | Weimaraner | 55 to 85lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 34 | Rhodesian Ridgeback | 70 to 85lbs | 24 to 27 inches |
| 35 | Belgian Malinois | 40 to 80lbs | 22 to 26 inches |
| 36 | English Setter | 45 to 80lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 37 | Gordon Setter | 45 to 80lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 38 | Chesapeake Bay Retriever | 55 to 80lbs | 21 to 26 inches |
| 39 | Giant Schnauzer | 55 to 80lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 40 | Labrador Retriever | 55 to 80lbs | 21 to 22 inches |
| 41 | Doberman Pinscher | 60 to 80lbs | 24 to 28 inches |
| 42 | Komondor | 60 to 80lbs | 22 to 25 inches |
| 43 | Golden Retriever | 55 to 77lbs | 20 to 24 inches |
| 44 | Bull Terrier | 35 to 75lbs | 21 to 22 inches |
| 45 | English Foxhound | 55 to 75lbs | 23 to 27 inches |
| 46 | Belgian Sheepdog | 60 to 75lbs | 22 to 26 inches |
| 47 | Saluki | 35 to 70lbs | 23 to 28 inches |
| 48 | American Staffordshire Terrier | 40 to 70lbs | 17 to 19 inches |
| 49 | Chow Chow | 40 to 70lbs | 17 to 20 inches |
| 50 | German Shorthaired Pointer | 45 to 70lbs | 21 to 25 inches |
| 51 | Poodle | 45 to 70lbs | 15 to 22 inches |
| 52 | 15 to 22 inches | 55 to 70lbs | 22 to 24 inches |
| 53 | Boxer | 60 to 70lbs | 21 to 25 inches |
| 54 | German Wirehaired Pointer | 60 to 70lbs | 22 to 26 inches |
| 55 | Irish Setter | 60 to 70lbs | 25 to 27 inches |
| 56 | Vizsla | 40 to 66lbs | 21 to 25 inches |
| 57 | Belgian Tervuren | 44 to 66lbs | 22 to 26 inches |
| 58 | Airedale Terrier | 40 to 65lbs | 21 to 23 inches |
| 59 | Australian Shepherd | 40 to 65lbs | 18 to 23 inches |
| 60 | Irish Water Spaniel | 45 to 65lbs | 21 to 24 inches |
| 61 | Basset Hound | 50 to 65lbs | up to 14 inches |
| 62 | Labradoodle | 50 to 65lbs | 21 to 24 inches |
| 63 | Pitbull Terrier | 30 to 60lbs | 17 to 21 inches |
| 64 | Siberian Husky | 35 to 60lbs | 20 to 23 inches |
| 65 | Samoyed | 50 to 60lbs | 19 to 24 inches |
| 66 | Chinese Shar-Pei | 40 to 55lbs | 18 to 20 inches |
| 67 | Dalmatian | 48 to 55lbs | 19 to 24 inches |
| 68 | Border Collie | 30 to 45lbs | 18 to 22 inches |
| 69 | Goldendoodle | 30 to 45lbs | 22 to 25 inches |
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