They come in all sizes, shapes, and colors—and they’ve been humans' best friends for centuries.
Various dog breeds across the globe have been trained by humans to play important roles:
From hunter to guardian, from herder to companion. Some of these breeds’ size has been of significant importance—whether that was to hunt bigger game, guard a home with more authority, or even just to survive in freezing climates.
But of all the dog breeds in the world—who are the biggest?
Today, we’re counting down the Top 11 Biggest Dogs in the World.
If you thought Great Danes were the tallest dogs, then be sure to stick around for Number One, because this lesser-known breed is even taller.
Number 11: Bully Kutta
Also known as the Pakistani Mastiff, the Bully Kutta is a direct descendant of the Alaunt—an ancient breed of large, short-coated hunting dogs bred to hunt and fight alongside horses and protect campsites.
Rare specimens of the Bully Kutta can reach 200 pounds and stand up to 44 inches tall. If well-exercised, they can pack on a serious amount of muscle.
Although they're no longer used in battle, Bully Kuttas are still not very friendly, which is actually part of their appeal—as elite guard dogs.
They’re loyal to the humans they respect, but will attack strangers or other animals if needed.
Number 10: French Mastiff
You may recognize this iconic mug as the Dogue de Bordeaux, more commonly known as the French Mastiff. Other names include the Bordeaux Mastiff or Bardot Dog.
This breed stands 27 inches tall and weighs up to 150 pounds.
While breeds like the Poodle, Basset Hound, and French Bulldog are more popular, the French Mastiff is one of the most ancient dog breeds in France.
Despite its intimidating face, this dog is amazingly loyal and affectionate. Historically, it was used for guarding homes, watching over flocks, and even pulling carts.
Today, they remain active outdoors, but are known to be gentle and mellow indoors.
Number 9: Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a big-boned, muscular working dog—and also a powerful swimmer. Originally bred to assist fishermen in hauling nets, pulling carts, and rescuing people overboard, they’re true water rescue heroes.
They stand 27 to 30 inches tall and weigh about 150 pounds—as much as an average human. Their thick double coat makes them look even bigger and keeps them warm in icy waters.
Number 8: Saint Bernard
If you can’t get your hands on a Newfoundland, then the Saint Bernard is another fluffy, massive companion to consider.
Created in the Swiss Alps and northern Italy, this breed was originally used for rescue missions. Saint Bernards can stand up to 35 inches tall and weigh up to 260 pounds.
Despite their size, they’re known for being gentle, friendly, and great with kids (and even kittens!).
Today, they’re mostly loving family dogs, but their heroic rescue legacy is still celebrated.
Number 7: Leonberger
Think the Leonberger looks like a cross between a Saint Bernard and a Newfoundland? You’d be right.
In the 1840s, Heinrich Essig of Leonberg, Germany bred Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Pyrenean Mountain Dogs to create the Leonberger.
They can weigh up to 200 pounds and stand 31 inches tall. Despite being companion animals, they excel in everything from herding and tracking to water rescue.
Strong and intelligent, they're ideal for active families who want a giant but gentle breed.
Number 6: English Mastiff
Growing up to 30 inches tall and weighing as much as 250 pounds, the English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds by mass.
While the Great Dane holds the record for tallest, an English Mastiff named Aicama Zorba holds the record for heaviest, weighing an incredible 343 pounds.
Historically, English Mastiffs were used in blood sports, baiting bulls, bears, and even lions.
Today, they’re known for being gentle giants—loyal, calm, and great with families, yet intimidating enough to ward off intruders.
Number 5: Neapolitan Mastiff
This massive Italian breed comes in several colors: black, blue, mahogany, and tawny.
Male Neapolitan Mastiffs stand around 30 inches tall and weigh up to 155 pounds, while females are slightly smaller.
Originally from Southern Italy, they are fearless guardians—loyal to family and often silent when it comes to confronting intruders.
These dogs prefer sneaking up on threats rather than barking—making them perfect protectors for the right owner.
However, they need serious training and socialization early on.
Number 4: Scottish Deerhound
More lean than bulky, the Scottish Deerhound was bred for chasing red deer across the Scottish Highlands.
Standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing around 110 pounds, they have long, powerful legs—similar to Greyhounds but much larger and heavier.
While no longer used for hunting, they’re still shown and raced in lure coursing competitions.
Number 3: Caucasian Shepherd
This Eastern European breed is a livestock guardian best suited for experienced dog owners.
With an average height of 30 inches and a weight of up to 220 pounds, the Caucasian Shepherd is a powerful and commanding breed.
They're loyal and loving when properly trained, but can be aggressive toward other dogs or threats.
If well-socialized, they become amazing protectors and snuggly companions—capable of keeping you warm and safe.
Number 2: Great Dane
Known for their towering height, Great Danes can stand 28 to 30 inches—and sometimes even taller.
The tallest dog ever recorded was a Great Dane named Zeus, who stood 44 inches tall!
However, their size comes with a tradeoff—they only live 6 to 8 years.
Originally bred from English Mastiffs and Irish Wolfhounds, the Great Dane is known today as the German Mastiff.
Although often called the largest dog breed, there's one more dog that surpasses it in height...
Number 1: Irish Wolfhound
Yes, the Irish Wolfhound is taller than most Great Danes.
While the Great Dane holds the record for tallest individual dog, Irish Wolfhounds regularly reach or exceed 35 inches, with many growing taller than Danes on average.
Historically, they were used for wolf hunting and warfare—even dragging men off horses and chariots.
Despite that past, today's Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants, known for being loving and excellent family dogs.
