Dogs are perfect, no matter the shape or size. But if you’re a fan of the HUGE pups, you might be wondering what the largest breeds known to man are. Let’s take a look at the ten biggest types of dogs that humans have bred!
Kangal Shepherd Dog
The Kangal Shepherd Dog is an ancient Turkish breed. As their name implies, they were selected for their ability to guard flocks of sheep in the mountainous regions of Turkey. They’re notably not a good fit for an inexperienced owner, as their vigilant personality makes them quick to react to perceived threats.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds aren’t more closely related to wolves, despite common misconceptions brought on by their name. The truth is perhaps even more impressive: they were bred to help hunt wolves! Eventually, they also took on a role during bear hunts. As you might expect, this breed has a ton of energy and muscle to help its owner take down big game.
Chien De Montagne Des Pyrenees
That big name befits a big dog! The translation of this breed’s French name is “Pyrenean Mountain Dog,” which could you tip you off to the theme of mountain dogs being downright huge. These fluffy sweethearts are gentle and alert, and extremely protective of their owners.
Leonberger
The Leonberger is named for its city of origin, Leonberg. That being said, it also bears a striking resemblance to a lion! You might also recognize some of its features as being similar to the Saint Bernard, its ancestor breed. These huge pups need a lot of exercise.
Landseer
The Landseer is renowned for its intelligence as well as its size. You’ve likely seen these big friendly hounds used as service dogs due to their strong work ethic. They’re extremely adaptable and can be trained for a number of important jobs—including as beloved family pets!
Borzoi
Borzoi are related to Greyhounds and have a similar desire to move. They have a huge threshold for exercise and running, and a long, flowing coat. They’re also extremely easy to train and very amenable to meeting new people! Their lengthy nose and distinctive build make them very memorable dogs.
Akbash
The Akbash (Turkish for “White Head”) is a huge, fluffy, muscular dog who is perfectly at home as a guard or as a running companion. They’re well-known for their alertness, calm, and steady attention to their owners’ commands. They’re also extremely friendly!
Great Dane
Some people might think that Great Danes are the biggest dogs in the world, but that’s not precisely true. Some of the largest individual dogs ever (like the legendary Freddy) have been Great Danes, but as a general rule, there are a few breeds who are, on average, a bit bigger. That being said, Danes make for amazing pets with their gentle, inquisitive personalities and unwavering loyalty.
Read More: 10 Best Dog Breeds for People Who Travel
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are enormous and lovable. They’ve got adorable faces, gentle dispositions, and hardy constitutions. This makes them a natural fit in their original job as rescue dogs, as they’re commonly seen carrying medical supplies in cartoons. A big, friendly Saint Bernard is exactly who you want to see coming to rescue you if you get lost in the Swiss Alps.
Read More: 10 Heartwarming Stories About Dogs Saving Humans
Mastiff
The massive Mastiff is a popular British dog breed and, on average, the largest breed on Earth. They’re muscular, sturdy, and extremely patient befitting a dog bred for guarding the home. Their relaxed and laid-back personalities also make them stellar family pets, which leads to their enduring popularity.
Read More: 10 Things to Do If Your Dog Runs Away
