Where some may find them overwhelming due to their large size, Massive dog breeds actually make perfect family pets. Discover 10 of our favourite big dog breeds.
If you are looking for a furry new addition to your home then choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypallergenic dog b if you suffer from allergies.
But if you have plenty of space and an active lifestyle you might want to consider a larger dog – which tend to make loyal and loving companions and are often more adaptable and easier to train than their more diminutive cousins.
So, if you’re wanting to get a dog and ‘go large’, these are the 10 Massive Dog Breeds out there.
1. English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is officially the largest dog in the world. According to the Guiness Book of Records – a dog called Zorba weighed in at 142.7 kg and stood 27 inches high in 1981.
2. Great Dane
The magestic Great Dane may not quite be the largest dog in the world but it is the tallest. The Guinness Book of Records include a Great Dane called Zeus who stood an amazing 44 inches from the ground. They may be huge but are known for being loving and playful.
3. Saint Bernard
Originally bred to resue people in the Alps, the Saint Bernard is big enough and strong enough to trek through deep snow for miles. Weighing in at up to 91kg they are loyal and make great guard dogs.
4. Neopolitan Mastiff
Weighing in at up to 70kg, Neopolitan Mastiffs are Italian gentle giants that are known for loving their families unconditionally, but can be wary of strangers.
5. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds can stand up to a lofty 35 inches in height and have very low levels of aggression, making them a good dog to have around children.
6. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler was originally dogs bred to drive cattle to market. Later they were used to pull carts for butchers. They were among the earliest police dogs and serve with honor in the military
7. Newfoundland
Canada’s Newfoundland breed can weigh up to 70kg and are probably the strongest dog on this list. They get on very well with children and are fiercely protective. of family members.
8. Anatolian Shepherd
Bred to protect livestock in its native Turkey, the Anatolian Shepherd can weigh up to 65kg and has a proud and confident temperament.
9. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the Bordeaux Mastiff or French Mastiff, is a very muscular dog than can weigh up to 65kg. They are one of the most expensive dogs to buy and care for, so are not necessarily suitable for a family pet.
10. Great Pyrenees
Another dog bred to protect livestock, the Great Pyrenees is also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog and can weigh in at a hefty 54kg.
