Welcome to the fascinating world of giant dogs! We present you the 31 heaviest dog breeds in the world - each impressive and majestic in its own way. Take a look at the pictures and discover which of these gentle giants suits you best.
English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is a real colossus among dogs. With a weight that can easily exceed the 100-kilogram mark, this giant really takes up a lot of space! However, despite its imposing size, the Mastiff is known for being a true family dog. He is gentle, patient and shows remarkable affection for his humans. However, you should be aware that his sheer size and enormous appetite means that he is not cheap to maintain. In addition, health problems often associated with the breed, such as joint problems or heart disease, can mean additional financial and emotional burdens.
Tibetan Mastiff
A Tibetan Mastiff is a truly majestic sight, and weighing up to 90 kilograms, a true giant among dogs. This guardian from the highlands of Tibet has an independent and controlled nature, which makes him a loyal and reliable companion in the right environment. However, he is not a typical choice for a family with young children, as he can be rather aloof and likes to show his dominance. Furthermore, because of their thick coats, these dogs need regular grooming to prevent skin problems.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a magnificent dog that has a big heart for children and families, despite its weight of up to 70 kilograms. He is known for his friendly and gentle nature and is perfect for a family that has plenty of space and is willing to give him the care and exercise he needs. Newfoundlands love water and are fantastic swimmers. But beware, their dense undercoat can make them true "hair factories," and their size can lead to health problems like hip dysplasia. Nevertheless, if you are willing to provide a loving home for a Newfoundland, you will be rewarded with a loyal and loving friendship.
Leonberger
The Leonberger is a majestic breed that often ranks among the giant breeds, weighing between 50 and 80 kilograms. Despite its size, the Leonberger is a very family-friendly dog known for its friendly and gentle nature. He enjoys spending time with his family and gets along well with children. However, due to his size, it can be difficult for him to live in small apartments. In addition, the Leonberger has a relatively short life expectancy and is prone to health problems such as hip dysplasia and certain heart conditions.
Irish Wolfhound
With its impressive size and a weight of up to 85 kilograms, the Irish Wolfhound is a true giant. However, despite his impressive size, he is known as a "gentle giant". He is friendly and affectionate, which makes him a wonderful family dog. It should be noted, however, that the Irish Wolfhound is prone to health problems such as bone cancer and heart disease due to his enormous size and rapid growth. In addition, its size can make it difficult to keep in small apartments or houses.
French Mastiff
The French Mastiff, also called Dogue de Bordeaux, is a massive, muscular dog that can weigh up to 68 kilograms. He is a loyal and affectionate companion and despite his fearsome appearance, he makes an excellent family dog. He is patient and gentle, especially with children. However, due to its size, it requires a lot of space and is prone to respiratory problems because of its short nose. The Dogue de Bordeaux is known for its short life expectancy, something potential owners should take into consideration.
Anatolian shepherd dog
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is an impressive breed that can weigh up to 65 kg. Originally a herding dog, he is known for his intelligence and independence. Although he forms a close bond with his family and gets along well with children, he requires consistent leadership and social integration to keep his herding instincts under control. His size and strength can be a problem in households with small children or other pets. Adequate exercise is important to keep this breed happy and healthy.
Rottweiler
Weighing up to 60 kilograms, the Rottweiler has an impressive physical presence. This sturdy, muscular dog is known as a hardworking and loyal companion. With consistent training and sufficient activity, it can be an excellent family dog. However, due to their strength and dominance, Rottweilers should only be kept by experienced dog owners. They are also prone to certain health problems such as hip dysplasia and heart disease.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a gentle giant that can weigh up to 120 kilograms. With his friendly and calm nature, he is very popular with many families. He is patient, affectionate and especially fond of children. However, due to his large stature, he requires a lot of space and his pronounced salivation can be a challenge for some owners. St. Bernards are also prone to health problems common in large dogs, such as joint and heart disease.
Great Pyrenean Shepherd Dog
The Grand Pyrénées is an impressive breed that can weigh up to 55 kilograms. These gentle giants are known for their composure and loyalty to their family. They are excellent guardians and generally get along well with children. However, due to their size and herding instincts, they require a lot of freedom of movement and can be prone to destructive behavior if bored or underchallenged. Their thick, white coat is beautiful, but also requires a lot of grooming and tends to shed all over the house.
Bulgarian shepherd dog
The Bulgarian Shepherd Dog, also called Karakachan, is a robust breed that can weigh up to 75 kilograms. These dogs are very loyal and protective, which makes them excellent guard dogs. However, they are not typical family dogs and tend to be aloof with strangers. Therefore, they may not be the best choice for a family with small children or other pets. Their independence and strong need for protection require an experienced hand and proper socialization. However, with proper handling, they can be loyal and reliable companions.
Black Russian Terrier
The Black Russian Terrier is a large, powerful dog that can weigh up to 60 kilograms. Although it bears the name "terrier", it is more similar to the large working dog breeds. He is brave, intelligent and very loyal to his family. However, he is also an intense watchdog and can be suspicious of strangers. Early and continuous socialization is therefore crucial. Although he generally gets along well with children, his alertness and strong build make him best in a household with older children.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful dog, weighing up to 45 kilograms, with a lot of energy and stamina. He is known for his friendliness and is often a loving, family-oriented companion. But beware, his high energy and size make him a breed that needs plenty of exercise and space. In addition, his strong hunting instinct can cause problems when living with smaller pets. However, for a family with enough time, dedication and space, the Alaskan Malamute can be an incomparably loyal friend.
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Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff, a massive dog that can weigh up to 60 kg, is a brave and loyal protector. He is known for his calmness and friendly nature, which makes him an ideal family dog. Although he generally gets along well with children, he should be supervised when interacting with small children due to his size and strength. Bullmastiffs are generally relatively healthy, but like many large dog breeds, can be prone to certain joint problems. Their strong protective instincts can also be a challenge if not properly socialized and trained.
Boerboel
Weighing up to 90 kilograms, the Boerboel is a real muscleman. He originally comes from South Africa and became known as a farm dog. His enormous strength and alertness make him an excellent guard and watch dog. He is a family dog through and through, but also needs consistent leadership. He is affectionate and patient with children, but his size can be a challenge for small children. His strong protective instinct can also make him wary of strangers, so early socialization is important.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, an Italian Molossian, is a hardy breed that can weigh up to 50 kilograms. They are known for their intelligence and ability to work. They are loyal, affectionate and have a strong need to protect their family, which makes them excellent guard dogs. However, their strong protective behavior can sometimes lead to aggression towards strangers if not properly socialized and trained. Despite their size and strength, they are generally affectionate and patient with children and can therefore make good family dogs.
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier, also called the "King of Terriers", is a robust and active breed that can weigh up to 30 kilograms. It is full of energy and has a loving, playful nature that makes it an ideal companion for children. However, his independent and sometimes stubborn nature can be a challenge to raise. He needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With proper guidance and training, however, the Airedale Terrier can be an excellent and loyal family dog.
Akita
The Akita, a proud dog of Japanese descent, can weigh up to 60 kilograms. He is known for his loyalty and dignity and has a natural guarding instinct. To his family he is affectionate and loving, but to strangers he can be reserved. His confident and dominant nature requires consistent but loving training. Akitas usually get along well with children as long as interactions are supervised. It is important to note that they often do not react well to other dogs or pets, especially if they are of the same sex.
Alano Español
The Alano Español, also called the Spanish Alano, can weigh up to 40 kilograms. This breed is a true powerhouse and an excellent guard and protection dog. Despite its physical strength and courageous temperament, it is known for its calmness and patience with children. However, his upbringing should be done with a firm hand, as he can be prone to dominance. Early socialization and training are essential to get a handle on his strong protective instinct.
Do not confuse the Alano Españo with the Doggo Canario. Despite some similarities, they are different breeds.
Caucasian Owtscharka
Weighing up to 100 kilograms, the Caucasian Ovcharka is an imposing presence. These dogs are known for their fearless courage and protective instincts, which make them excellent guard dogs. They are very loyal and affectionate to their family, but can be suspicious of strangers. Their independent and protective nature requires competent leadership. They are suitable for active families who have plenty of space and time for exercise and mental exertion.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Groenendael
The Groenendael is one of four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd Dog and grows up to 30 kilograms. It captivates with its shiny black coat and elegance. As family dogs, they are very affectionate and love to spend time with their humans. At the same time, they have a strong protective instinct. They need to be challenged physically and mentally to exhibit balanced behavior. Without this stimulation, they can become nervous and restless.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Tervueren
The Tervueren is another variety of the Belgian Shepherd, which reaches about the same weight as the Groenendael. With its long, thick coat and alert eyes, it attracts all eyes. In the family they are loyal and gentle, but also alert and brave. They need a meaningful task and sufficient exercise. If these needs are not met, undesirable behavior can occur.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Malinois
The Malinois is the best known variety of the Belgian Shepherd Dog. Weighing up to 30 kilograms, it is as robust as its relatives. Malinois are very energetic and intelligent, which makes them excellent working and service dogs. At home, they are affectionate and alert, but need plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Without proper management and exercise, the Malinois can be restless and difficult to handle.
Belgian Shepherd Dog - Laekenois
The Laekenois is the rarest variety of the Belgian Shepherd and weighs about the same as the other varieties. Its characteristic features are its wavy, rough coat and watchful eyes. They are loyal family dogs, devoted to protecting their loved ones. However, their intelligence requires meaningful activity and sufficient exercise. Without proper challenge, they can be prone to behavioral problems.
Komondor
Weighing up to 60 kilograms, the Komondor, a dog breed originating from Hungary, is a truly majestic sight. Its striking, wiry coat requires a lot of grooming. In the family, the Komondor is often gentle and very loyal, although it can be a bit headstrong at times. Its heritage as a watchdog can lead to distrust of strangers, so early socialization is essential. This watchdog needs room to run wild and is more suited to the country than the city.
Boxer
Weighing up to 30 kg, the Boxer is a particularly lively and playful breed. He is known for his energy and playfulness, which makes him an ideal companion for active families. Boxers are considered very friendly with children and are often referred to as "big clowns". They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, without which they can be prone to destructive behavior.
Great Dane
The Great Dane, also called the "gentle giant", can weigh up to 90 kilograms. Despite its impressive size, it is incredibly gentle and patient, even with children. This breed loves company and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. It is important to know that their life expectancy is rather short due to their size and they can have special health requirements.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
A Rhodesian Ridgeback can weigh up to 37 kg. This dog is very affectionate and loyal to its family, but can be somewhat reserved towards strangers. They are active animals that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Without adequate activity, the Ridgeback can easily become overwhelmed and exhibit undesirable behaviors. However, with proper management and training, they make excellent family dogs.
Doberman
A Doberman can weigh up to 45 kg. This breed is known for its intelligence and alertness and can be an excellent guard and family dog. Dobermans are loyal and love their family, but can become dominant without proper leadership. However, a well socialized and trained Doberman is an asset to any active family.
Bloodhound
Weighing up to 50 kilograms, the bloodhound is known for its amazing sense of smell. Despite their size, they are often calm and gentle, which makes them good family dogs. They are very affectionate and love to be close to their humans. However, their tendency to drool and their preference for physical activity must be taken into account. Their friendly nature and even temperament make them wonderful family members.
Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu, a Japanese Mastiff, can weigh up to 60 kilograms. His calm and patient nature makes him a pleasant companion. He is a good family dog who enjoys being with children. However, its size and strength require consistent training. It is important to know that this breed is subject to special laws in some countries, because in the past it was used as a fighting dog. Thus, the Tosa Inu is a breed that requires dedication and responsibility from its owners.
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