Biggest Breed of Dog
“Biggest” can mean height or weight. Discover which dog breeds rank at the top by each measurement. From the towering Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes to the massive English Mastiffs and Saint Bernards, explore the world's largest breeds.
Ranking the Largest Dog Breeds
When ranking the biggest dog breeds, we consider two key measurements: height at the shoulder (withers) and total weight. The contenders vary depending on which metric you prioritize.
Tallest Breeds
Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes typically stand 28-35 inches tall at the shoulder, making them the tallest dog breeds. These giants tower over most other breeds.
Heaviest Breeds
English Mastiffs and Saint Bernards can weigh 120-230+ pounds, making them among the heaviest dog breeds globally. Their massive frames are truly impressive.
Top 4 Largest Dog Breeds
These four breeds consistently rank as the biggest dogs by height and/or weight. Each has unique characteristics that make them stand out among giant breeds.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound was coursing wolves, elk. Sweet-Tempered and Loyal companions.
History
The Irish Wolfhound and belongs to the Hound group. They were bred for coursing wolves, elk.
Health Considerations
Common concerns: Regular vet checkups recommended
Great Dane
Gentle giant known as the 'Apollo of dogs.' Great Danes are friendly, patient, and make excellent family pets.
History
Developed in Germany from English Mastiffs and Irish Wolfhounds. Originally used for hunting wild boar.
Health Considerations
Common concerns: Bloat, Hip Dysplasia, Heart Disease
English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is a wonderful dog breed known for its unique characteristics and loyal companionship.
History
The English Mastiff has a rich history and has been a beloved companion for many years.
Health Considerations
Common concerns: Hip Dysplasia, Eye Problems
Saint Bernard
Massive, gentle giant known for rescue work in the Alps. Saint Bernards are calm, patient family dogs.
History
Developed by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice in the Swiss Alps for rescue work in the mountains.
Health Considerations
Common concerns: Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Bloat
Size Rankings Comparison
Compare the key metrics of the world's largest dog breeds side by side
| Rank | Breed | Height | Weight | Lifespan | Energy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Irish Wolfhound | 30 - 35 inches | 105 - 180 lbs | 6 - 8 years | 3/5 |
| #2 | Great Dane | 28-32 inches | 110-175 lbs | 7-10 years | 3/5 |
| #3 | English Mastiff | 15-20 inches | 20-50 lbs | 10-14 years | 3/5 |
| #4 | Saint Bernard | 26-30 inches | 120-180 lbs | 8-10 years | 2/5 |
Living with Giant Dog Breeds
The biggest dog breeds require special considerations for their health, happiness, and well-being. Here's what you need to know before bringing home a gentle giant.
Space Requirements
Giant breeds need plenty of room to move comfortably. While they can adapt to apartment living with adequate exercise, a house with a yard is ideal for these large dogs.
Exercise Needs
Despite their size, many giant breeds are surprisingly moderate in exercise needs. However, they still require daily walks and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
Health & Care
Giant breeds are prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia. Regular vet checkups, proper nutrition, and controlled growth during puppyhood are essential for longevity.
Nutrition Needs
Large breeds need specialized diets formulated for giant breeds to support proper growth and prevent issues like bloat. Feeding smaller meals multiple times a day is recommended.
Lifespan Considerations
Unfortunately, larger breeds tend to have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs. Most giant breeds live 7-10 years, though proper care can help maximize their time with you.
Gentle Giants
Despite their imposing size, most giant breeds are known as “gentle giants” - calm, patient, and excellent with families. Early socialization is key to their success.
Other Large and Giant Dog Breeds
Explore other impressive large breeds that may interest you
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest dog breed by height?
The Irish Wolfhound and Great Dane are commonly cited as the tallest dog breeds, typically standing 28-35 inches tall at the shoulder. Irish Wolfhounds often edge out Great Danes by a few inches on average.
What is the biggest dog breed by weight?
The English Mastiff is typically the heaviest, with males often weighing 160-230 pounds. Saint Bernards also rank among the heaviest breeds, typically weighing 120-180 pounds.
Are the biggest dog breeds good for families?
Yes! Most giant breeds are known as “gentle giants” - they're typically calm, patient, and excellent with children. However, their large size requires proper training and socialization from an early age, as well as adequate space.
How much do the biggest dog breeds cost?
Giant breed puppies typically cost $1,500-$3,000+ from reputable breeders. Ongoing costs include large amounts of food, larger beds and crates, and potentially higher veterinary costs due to their size-related health concerns.
Which biggest breed has the longest lifespan?
Unfortunately, larger breeds tend to have shorter lifespans. Most giant breeds live 7-10 years on average. The Irish Wolfhound has one of the shortest lifespans at 6-8 years, while some mastiffs may live 10-12 years with excellent care.