Large Dog Breeds [You'll Never Guess Which One's Biggest!]

There's plenty more to love with large dog breeds, and their gentle temperaments make them great for children of all ages. If you think these gentle giants are perfect for you and your family, check out our list of some of the most popular large dog breeds. Find out why so many owners prefer larger dogs and all the things that make them so great!

 

 

What is Considered to Be a Large Dog Breed?

Officially, a large dog breed is any breed that typically weighs over 50 pounds and under 100 pounds. Some of the largest dog breeds like the Mastiff or Bernese Mountain Dog can weigh over 100 pounds, with some even nearing 200 pounds! Some breeders may classify these extra-large dogs as "giant breeds." However, generally, any dog that weighs over 50 pounds is considered large. A large dog breed usually stands around 24 inches tall at the shoulder.

 

 

Most Popular Large Dog Breeds

The most popular large dog breeds on this list are typically great with children and families. They have loving and affectionate personalities while staying protective and loyal. If you are trying to decide which breed you want to add to your family, check out our top 10 most popular large dog breeds!

 

 

Labrador Retriever

 

 

The most popular and commonly owned dog in America is the Labrador Retriever. They are very similar to their cousins, the Golden Retriever, and have a gentle but playful temperament. Labs are slightly larger than Golden Retrievers, standing on average about 21-25" tall. They can also weigh slightly more, about 55-80 pounds.

 

 

German Shepherd

 

 

The German Shepherd is one of the most popular large dog breeds and the second most popular overall, just after Labrador Retrievers. German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent, often working as search-and-rescue and police dogs. They typically stand about 22-26" at the shoulder while weighing on average about 60-80 pounds.

 

 

Golden Retriever

 

 

One of the most popular and iconic dog breeds in America, it's no surprise that the fun-loving, affectionate Golden Retriever makes this list. Golden Retrievers make friends easily with other humans and dogs alike and are very gentle with smaller pets and children. The breed typically stands about 20-24" tall and weighs about 55-75 pounds.

 

 

Boxer

 

 

Boxers make great family pets because they are constantly fighting for your attention and have super-sweet personalities. They are easily excitable and can get a little rowdy at times, but they are intelligent and easy to train. They stand about 22-25" tall at the shoulder and weigh approximately 50-80 pounds.

 

 

Rottweiler

 

 

Rottweilers are extremely popular because they are fiercely loyal and protective of all their loved ones. The strong breed often gets a bad reputation for their overly defensive or aggressive behaviors, but they are actually incredibly playful and loving animals. A Rottweiler can get pretty big, standing about 22-27" tall and weighing anywhere from 80-130 pounds.

 

 

Great Danes

 

 

Great Danes are known for their patience and loyal personalities. They stand taller than most other breeds, at about 28-34". They also typically weigh over 100 pounds, with some even reaching 150 pounds. Despite being bigger than most dogs, this sizeable breed doesn't require as much exercise as most canines.

 

 

Mastiffs

 

 

Mastiffs are massive dogs that can be considered "giant." They are the definition of gentle giants, preferring to sleep rather than go out and exercise. Mastiffs can reach sizes of 27-30" tall and weigh a massive 120-230 pounds. Luckily, they don't require much grooming with their short coats, and their laid-back personalities make them great with families.

 

Related: Broholmer Dog: Exploring the Danish Mastiff Breed

 

 

Alaskan Malamute

 

 

Alaskan Malamutes are closely related and even look similar to their Siberian Husky cousins, but they are much taller and heavier. Malamutes are friendly and sociable dogs, and as a consequence, they are terrible guard dogs. Originally bred as a sled dog, Malamutes have boundless energy that they should burn off with daily exercise. The breed usually stands about 27-30" tall and weighs about 75-100 pounds.

 

 

Bernese Mountain Dog

 

 

Bernese Mountain Dogs are powerful animals that are often used to rescue stranded climbers in the Swiss Alps. Another gentle giant, the Bernese Mountain Dog has a smile that will melt your heart. They also have beautiful coats that may require more grooming. Bernies typically stand around 23-27" tall and weigh about 80 to 120 pounds.

 

 

Saint Bernard

 

 

Saint Bernards are commonly used in search-and-rescue operations, but these giant dogs have extremely gentle personalities. These hefty dogs have hearts of gold and make affectionate pets. They also love to lounge around and don't require much daily exercise. Don't be intimidated by their large size! This breed stands 26-30" tall and weighs between 120-180 pounds.

 

 

Are Large Dog Breeds Easy to Care For?

Larger dogs may require more food, exercise, and grooming than smaller dogs. Larger breeds are not always recommended for first-time dog owners with little to no experience. However, learning how to care for any dog can be an excellent bonding experience, as long as you are willing to put in the time and effort.

 

 

Potential Health Issues

One issue to be wary of is that larger dogs typically have a few more potential health conditions than smaller breeds. Larger breeds are more prone to hip dysplasia, joint problems, bloat, or heart conditions. Fortunately, modern medicine has made it so that many canine health problems can be treated or managed. If your pet experiences discomfort, CBD dog treats may be able to help.

 

 

Do Large Dog Breeds Get Along with Children?

Most larger breeds are gentle giants with calm temperaments. Dogs like German Shepherds or Labradors are also extremely loyal and protective of their families, making them great to raise with children. Even breeds with more aggressive natures can be trained to act calm and composed around children and other situations. As with all breeds, proper training and socialization are necessary.

 

 

What Breed is the Largest Dog?

Among the many types of dogs, the English Mastiff counts as the biggest dog in the world. English Mastiffs were once descended from ancient war dogs, but are now soft, cuddly pets that sit on our sofas. English Mastiffs can stand up to 27-35" tall at the shoulders, making them the largest dog breed. Most English Mastiffs weigh over 200 pounds and can reach upwards of about 230 pounds.

 

 

Final Thoughts

You'll have a pet that is extremely patient, gentle, fun, and loyal when you go with a large dog. Most are relatively easy to care for since many breeds don't require as much exercise as some smaller dogs. If you have enough space and time to raise a large dog, it could be one of the best decisions you'll ever make!

 

 

FAQs

 

 

What kind of home environment is best for large dog breeds?

Large dogs thrive in homes with ample space to move around. While some are apartment-friendly if exercised regularly, most large breeds benefit from a yard or access to open areas. High ceilings and non-slippery flooring are also ideal.

 

 

How much does it typically cost to care for a large dog breed annually?

Caring for a large dog can cost between $1,500 to $3,000 per year, depending on food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and emergency expenses. Their larger size usually translates to higher costs in almost every care category.

 

 

Do large dog breeds have shorter lifespans than small dogs?

Yes, on average, big dog breeds tend to have shorter lifespans, often ranging from 7 to 12 years, while smaller breeds can live 12 to 16 years or more. Genetics, lifestyle, and healthcare play critical roles in longevity.

 

 

Are large dog breeds suitable for first-time dog owners?

While some big dogs are beginner-friendly (like Golden Retrievers or Bernese Mountain Dogs), others may be more demanding due to training needs or strength. First-time owners should research breed temperament and energy levels carefully.

 

 

What type of training works best for large dog breeds?

Large dogs respond best to consistent, reward-based training. Early socialization and obedience training are essential to manage their strength and ensure they are well-mannered companions as adults. Professional trainers can help guide the process.