Table of Contents
Are you looking for a dog that’s larger than life? Then, you’re in luck! In this post, we’ll be discussing the biggest dog breeds in the world. From their size to their temperament, we’ll cover everything you need to know before bringing one of these gentle giants into your home.
What are the biggest dog breeds in the world?

The following are the top 5 biggest dog breeds in the world based on height and weight:
- English Mastiff – This breed can weigh up to 220 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Saint Bernard – These dogs can weigh up to 200 pounds and stand up to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Irish Wolfhound – This breed can weigh up to 180 pounds and stand up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Great Dane – These dogs can weigh up to 180 pounds and stand up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Leonberger – This breed can weigh up to 170 pounds and stand up to 31 inches tall at the shoulder.
Who should consider owning a big dog breed?

Big dogs can make great pets for the right owner. However, they may not be suitable for everyone due to their size and exercise requirements. Here are some things to consider before getting a big dog:
- Your living situation – Big dogs require a lot of space to move around, so if you live in a small apartment, it might not be the best fit.
- Your activity level – Big dogs love to exercise, so if you’re someone who enjoys going on long walks or runs, then a big dog may be perfect for you!
- Your experience with dogs – Big dogs can be more challenging to train and handle than smaller breeds, so it’s essential to have prior experience with dogs before getting one.
What are the Pros and Cons of owning a big dog breed?

Like any pet, there are pros and cons to owning a big dog breed. Here are a few things to consider:
Pros:
- They make great protectors – Due to their size, they can be an excellent deterrent for intruders.
- They’re affectionate – Big dogs can be big softies who love nothing more than cuddling up with their owners.
- They’re great exercise partners – If you enjoy going on long walks or runs, then a big dog will be happy to join in!
Cons:
- They require a lot of space – Big dogs need plenty of room to move around and play, so if you have a small home or apartment, it may not be suitable.
- They can be expensive – Large breeds require more food, which means higher costs, and veterinary bills can also be higher due to their size.
- They shed a lot – Big dogs tend to shed more than smaller breeds, which means more cleaning and vacuuming for you.
When is the best time to get a big dog breed?

The best time to get a big dog breed is when you’re ready to commit to the responsibility of owning one. Here are a few things to consider before taking the plunge:
- Your schedule – Big dogs require a lot of attention and exercise, so it’s essential to ensure that your schedule allows for this.
- Your living situation – As mentioned earlier, big dogs require plenty of space to move around, so make sure your home is suitable for a larger breed.
- Your finances – Owning a big dog can be expensive, so make sure you have the funds to care for them properly.
How to take care of a big dog breed?

Taking care of a big dog breed requires more effort than owning a smaller breed. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Diet – Big dogs require a lot of food to maintain their size, so you’ll need to feed them a high-quality diet that’s appropriate for their age and activity level.
- Exercise – Big dogs need plenty of exercise to stay healthy, so make sure to take them on long walks or runs every day.
- Grooming – Big dogs tend to shed a lot, so regular grooming is essential to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny.
- Training – Large breeds can be more challenging to train than smaller breeds, so it’s essential to start early and be consistent with your training methods.
- Health – Due to their size, big dogs are more prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia and bloat. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial to catch any issues early on.
Alternatives to big dog breeds

If you love the idea of owning a big dog but aren’t sure if it’s right for you, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Medium-sized breeds – These dogs are smaller than large breeds, but still have enough energy to keep up with an active lifestyle.
- Small dog breeds –If you don’t have a lot of space, then a small dog breed may be a better fit for you. They require less exercise and can thrive in smaller living spaces.
- Senior dogs – Adopting an older dog can be a great choice if you want a calmer companion who’s already trained.
Step by step guide: How to choose the right big dog breed for you?

Choosing the right big dog breed can be challenging. Here are some steps to help you make the best decision:
- Research – Do your research on different big dog breeds to learn about their size, temperament, and exercise requirements.
- Consider your living situation – Think about your home and whether it’s suitable for a larger breed.
- Think about your lifestyle – Are you someone who enjoys outdoor activities and has plenty of time to exercise your dog? If so, then a bigger breed may be a good fit for you.
- Consider your experience with dogs – If you’re a first-time dog owner, then a larger breed may not be the best choice as they can be more challenging to train and handle.
- Meet the breed – Once you’ve narrowed down your options, meet the breed in person to see if their personality and energy level is a good match for you.
Tips for owning a big dog breed

Here are some tips to keep in mind when owning a big dog breed:
- Make sure your home is safe and secure – Big dogs can accidentally knock things over or get into things they shouldn’t, so make sure your home is dog-proofed.
- Exercise regularly – Big dogs need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy, so make sure to take them on long walks or runs every day.
- Start training early – Training a big dog breed takes time and patience, so start early and be consistent with your training methods.
- Socialize your dog – Big dogs can be intimidating to others, so it’s essential to socialize them early on to prevent any behavior issues.
- Regular veterinary checkups – Due to their size, big dogs are more prone to certain health problems, so make sure to schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian.
The best big dog breeds for families

If you’re looking for a big dog breed that’s great with kids, here are some breeds to consider:
- English Mastiff – These dogs are gentle giants who love nothing more than cuddling up with their owners.
- Great Dane – Known as the “gentle giants” of the dog world, these dogs have a calm and affectionate nature.
- Newfoundland – This breed is known for its patient and gentle temperament, making them great with children.
- Bernese Mountain Dog – These dogs are loyal and loving companions who thrive in a family environment.
- Boxer – Boxers are energetic and playful dogs who love to be around people and make great family pets.