Canine species exhibit a wide range of physical characteristics, varying in shape and size. However, as any enthusiast of young dogs can attest, they are invariably adorable, regardless of their dimensions. Even when a dog of considerable stature, capable of drinking from a kitchen sink, perceives itself as a lapdog, its charm remains intact. Some of the largest dog breeds in the world are comparable in size to humans, such as Zeus, the Great Dane, who was essentially the height and weight of a professional basketball player.
Zeus was recognized as the tallest and heaviest dog globally by the Guinness World Records from 2011 to 2013. At the age of three, Zeus measured 44 inches in height, equivalent to 3 feet and 8 inches, from the base of his foot to the highest point above his shoulder blade, also known as the dog’s withers. When standing on his hind legs, Zeus was approximately as tall as some of the NBA’s tallest players, measuring 7 feet and 4 inches, and weighing 155 pounds.
Regrettably, it is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Zeus, a cherished therapy dog in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Despite his immense stature, Zeus’s lifespan was unfortunately not commensurate with his size. Tragically, Zeus departed this world shortly before reaching his sixth birthday, and to this day, he remains unrivaled as the largest dog to have ever existed.
Presently, a Great Dane by the name of Atlas emerges as a potential contender for the title of the tallest living dog. Hailing from Navarre, Florida, this six-year-old German Harlequin Great Dane boasts an impressive weight of 225 pounds and stands at a towering height of 4 feet and 4 inches.
If the companionship of a canine akin to Zeus or Atlas appeals to you, we present the following list of the 11 largest dog breeds in existence.
Table of Contents
1. Great Dane
The Great Dane has always been known as the biggest dog breed, holding the record for its impressive size. They are not only the tallest breed, but they have also claimed the title of the biggest dog in the Guinness World Records multiple times, from 2010 to 2013, in 2016, and again in 2021. You might be familiar with Scooby-Doo, who is probably the most famous Great Dane with his huge appetite.
On average, Great Danes have a life expectancy of seven to ten years, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Male Great Danes can grow up to 32 inches and weigh 175 pounds, while female Great Danes can reach 30 inches in height and weigh 140 pounds.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Friends Did you know that the Irish Wolfhound is often a runner-up in the Guinness Book of World Records. It’s such an amazing breed, although it comes in second when compared to the Great Dane. These dogs are not only affectionate but also very sociable. On average, male Irish Wolfhounds grow to about 32 inches, while females reach around 30 inches, according to the AKC.
3. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is known for being much taller than its weight. This amazing breed from Scotland can reach heights of around 30 to 32 inches for males and 28 inches and above for females. When it comes to weight, males typically weigh between 85 to 110 pounds, while females weigh around 75 to 95 pounds, as stated by the AKC.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
Friends Have you heard of the Neapolitan Mastiff. They’re a Mastiff breed that actually originated in ancient Rome.These pups are known for their stocky build, short coats, and, well, their drooling. The males can grow to be anywhere from 26 to 31 inches tall, while the females reach heights of 24 to 29 inches. And when it comes to weight, the guys usually tip the scales at around 150 pounds, while the ladies come in at about 110 pounds. Pretty impressive, huh.
5. English Mastiff
English Mastiffs have the most amazing personalities. They are often called “gentle giants” because they are naturally sweet and kind. And boy, are they big. The males can measure up to a whopping 30 inches or more and weigh between 160 to 230 pounds. The females are also quite tall, standing at least 27.5 inches, and weigh between 120 to 170 pounds. These measurements are according to the AKC.
6. Newfoundland
Friends Did you know that Newfoundlands were originally bred for working. They’re known for their impressive size, but also for their tendency to drool quite a bit. The males usually grow to be around 28 inches tall and weigh between 130 and 150 pounds, while the females grow to an average of 26 inches and weigh between 100 to 120 pounds. Pretty cool, huh.
7. Leonberger
The Leonberger is such a lovable dog breed. They are known to get along great with other dogs and are just so friendly. It’s actually a newer large breed that was officially recognized by the AKC in 2010. The male Leonbergers can grow to be anywhere from 28 to 31.5 inches tall and weigh between 110 to 170 pounds. The females, on the other hand, typically grow to be 25.5 to 29.5 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 90 to 140 pounds. They are truly magnificent creatures.
8. Saint Bernard
When it comes to big-sized dog breeds, the Saint Bernard definitely stands out, especially thanks to the Beethoven movie franchise. According to the AKC, male Saint Bernards typically measure around 28 to 30 inches in height and weigh between 140 to 180 pounds. As for the lovely ladies, female Saint Bernards usually measure around 26 to 28 inches in height and weigh between 120 to 140 pounds.
9. Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is such a strong and muscular breed with a background in guarding flocks. These adorable pups can grow as tall as 29 inches for males and 27 inches for females. The males can weigh anywhere between 110 to 150 pounds, while the females can weigh between 80 to 120 pounds.
10. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is an amazing family pet. They are gentle giants who are great with kids and other dogs. The males of this breed can grow to be around 25 to 27.5 inches tall, while the females reach about 23 to 26 inches in height. These lovable dogs can weigh up to 115 pounds for males and 95 pounds for females.
11. Cane Corso
Friends Have you heard of the Cane Corso. They’re amazing guard dogs and always on high alert to protect their loved ones. With their strong muscles, they can easily intimidate any unwanted visitors. The males usually stand at around 25 to 27.5 inches tall, while the females are a bit smaller at 23.5 to 26 inches. They’re truly impressive creatures.