Top Large Dog Breeds

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Introduction

We performed tool-based research on 75+ large dog breeds to identify the most
searchable dog on top 30 platforms like Google, Reddit, Social media, and other
dog-related platforms. Through this research, we came across some of the most
searchable dog breeds. Here is a detailed description of the top 30 big dog breeds,
starting from the last one.

1. Old English Sheepdog

As the name suggests, Old English Sheepdogs were earlier kept to drive sheep and
cattle around. They have a luxurious coat with a peek-a-boo hairdo look around their
eyes and mouth area. Owing to their intelligence, agile and loving nature, this breed
makes great home pets.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males- 22 inches & up; Females- 21 inches & up

● Weight: 60 to100 pounds

● Physical characteristics: They have a shaggy, bear-like appearance

● Maintenance: Has a double-layered attractive coat that sheds occasionally,

requires weekly brushing to keep hair detangled.

● Coat: Long

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Smart, gentle, adaptable, and fun-loving

● Life Span: 10-12 years

2. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are best known for their retrieving skills. They are
extremely loyal, tireless, upbeat, and intelligent dogs. Also, they can easily socialize
with others, if trained accordingly.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males- 23-26 inches; Females- 21-24 inches

● Weight: Males- 65-80 pounds; Females- 55-70 pounds

 ● Physical characteristics: They are sporting dogs with athletic bodies and
waterproof coats with wavy furs.

● Maintenance: They are a low-maintenance large dog breed, with low-

shedding. Requires bathing once a month.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Sensitive, bright, and affectionate

● Life Span: 10-13 years

3. Boerboel
Boerboels are very confident, dominant, and protective dogs when it comes to the
safety of their family members or owners. These traits make them a good guard dog
for homes, in the large dog breeds category.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – 24 to 27 inches; Females – 22 to 25 inches

● Weight: 110 to 200 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Has alert eyes and dark markings around their nose,
mouth, and eye area.

● Maintenance: Their smooth coat has very few furs and so requires minimal
grooming.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Calm, intelligent, and confident

● Life Span: 9 to 11 years

4. Borzoi
Borzois are very beautiful and graceful dogs that love to please their owner. They
have great strength and can run at a speed up to 40 miles in an hour.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males - at least 28 inches; Females - at least 26 inches

● Weight: Males - 75 to 105 pounds; Females - 65 to 69 pounds

● Physical characteristics: They have a pointy nose and mouth with a powerful
jaw. Borzoi’s silky long hairs make it seem like a hound.

● Maintenance: Requires daily activity and exercise; a lustrous coat is prone to

catching dirt and mud easily and so, requires frequent brushing and baths.

● Coat: Long
 ● Energy: High

● Temperament: Calm, elegant, loyal, and affectionate

● Life Span: 9-14 years

5. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are known to be aristocratic dogs with great levels of energy and
independence. They are profoundly loyal to their owner, which makes them great
guard dogs.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 25 to 27 inches

● Weight: 50 to 60 pounds

● Physical characteristics: They have a tall body, with long glossy hairs and
protruding hips. Their paw pads are extremely large that helps absorb shock,
while they are covering ground in large, long leaps.

● Maintenance: Their long coat requires regular brushing, at least once a day,
and a bath every 3-4 weeks.

● Coat: Long

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Profoundly loyal, aristocratic, and dignified

● Life Span: 12-15 years

6. Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiffs can be easily identified by their wrinkly skin and a slow gait. They
have a serious demeanor and protective instincts that make them great watchdogs.
However, they are friendly with kids, depending upon the training given by the owner.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – 26 to 31 inches, Females – 24 to 29 inches

● Weight: Males – 150 pounds, Females – 110 pounds

● Physical characteristics: These dogs have a majestic structure and look

powerful and intimidating from their appearance. Wrinkles and hanging skin
adds to their strict demeanor and helps make them look better guard dogs.

● Maintenance: Requires regular activity and exercise to keep them fit and
agile. They have a tendency to drool a lot and so a fresh bowl of water or a
healthy drink should be kept available at all times.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: Low

● Temperament: Guarding, Obedient, Watchful, and Dignified

 ● Life Span: 7 to 9 years

7. Catahoula Leopard Dog

Catahoula Leopard dogs make a good mix of both watchdog as well as play-dog
characteristics. They have leopard-like small spots on their entire body, including the
face, and that’s from where they’ve got the name.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 22-24 inches

● Weight: 50-95 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Have a muscular lean body, with spots and patches
of one or different colors on their coat.

● Maintenance: Sheds low to moderately throughout the year; requires regular

walks and exercise to stay fit and active at all times.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Watchful, independent, and loyal

● Life Span: 10-14 years

8. Leonberger
Leonberger are powerful dogs with characteristics like elegance, grace, and high
loyalty towards their owner. They have high intelligence, judgement, and love to play
and watch guard to their loved ones.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – 28 to 31.5 inches; Females – 25.5 to 29.5 inches

● Weight: 80 to 160 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Leonbergers have a muscular frame with dark facial

hairs and a mane on their chest, which is similar to that found on Lions.

● Maintenance: Their coat requires regular brushing to avoid matting and

tangles.

● Coat: Medium to long

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Playful, gentle, and friendly

● Life Span: Up to 9 years

9. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds have a great sense of smell, and for the same attribute, they are widely
kept as tracking dogs to help at crime scenes and rescue searches. They are
 affectionate and enjoy the fun company of children and adults alike, which makes
them good family dogs.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males- 25-27 inches, Females- 23-25 inches

● Weight: Males- 90-110 pounds, Females- 80-100 pounds

● Physical characteristics: They have distinctively loose and saggy skin that
hangs around their neck and head area in deep folds.

● Maintenance: Fur sheds occasionally, requires weekly brushing. Requires

regular baths.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: Low to medium

● Temperament: Inquisitive, independent, and friendly

● Life Span: 10 to 12 years

10. Newfoundland
Also, known as ‘Nanny dog’, this breed is known to be very patient, sweet, and
friendly, especially among children. Newfoundlands usually love to socialize, go on
walks, and go for swimming, depending on how they have been trained and kept by
the owner.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males: 28 inches; Females: 26 inches

● Weight: Males: 130 to 150 pounds; Females: 100 to 120 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Newfoundlands are heavy-boned working dogs with

partially webbed paws that give them natural swimming instincts. They also
have a thick coat that helps keep them warm in cold climates.

● Maintenance: Moderate shedders and sheds twice in a year, weekly brushing

is fine to maintain their coat.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: Low

● Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, and devoted

● Life Span: 9-10 years

11. Doberman Pinscher

These dogs are popular protection dogs, owing to their traits like fearless, intelligent, and
powerful. They have a strong, muscular physique and vigilant eyes.

Key Parameters-
 ● Height: Males: 26 to 28 inches; Females: 24 to 26 inches

● Weight: Males: 85 to 100 pounds; Females: 65 to 75 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Have a sleek yet muscular and powerful structure,

wedge-shaped head, and glistening coat.

● Maintenance: Sheds moderately, requires weekly brushing to remove any

loose hairs.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Alert, fearless and loyal

● Life Span: 10-12 years

12. Irish Setter

Known to be one of the most graceful and beautiful dog breeds, the Irish Setters are
extremely lovable, playful, and outgoing. Apart from home pets, they make great
hunting partners as well.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males: 24.5 to 26 inches ; Females: 22.5 to 24 inches

● Weight: 50 to 75 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Have a chestnut or mahogany colored coat, long

legs, and are swift runners.

● Maintenance: Feathered coats require regular brushing and baths to keep

them clean at all times.

● Coat: Medium to Long - Feathered

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Sweet, outgoing, active

● Life Span: 12-15 years

13. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamute was originally kept as sledge dogs in extremely cold regions.
Their heavy bone and powerful structure make them great work dogs, while their coat
protects them from the extreme weather conditions.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Male - 25 Inches at the shoulders, Female - 23 inches

● Weight: Males - 85 pounds, Females - 75 pounds

 ● Physical characteristics: They have a bushy and plum tail, erect ears,
substantial bones, and a large body structure.

● Maintenance: Have a thick and coarse coat that requires frequent brushing
and regular baths.

● Coat: Medium

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Playful, loyal, affectionate

● Life Span: 10-14 years

14. Rhodesian Ridgeback

This dog breed was originally bred in the Southern Africa region to track Lions and
keep them at bay. Depending on the training and environment, they make great
family dogs today.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – 25 to 27 inches, Females – 24 to 26 inches

● Weight: Males – 85 pounds, Females – 70 pounds

● Physical characteristics: They have some backward-growing hairs on their

back, and a strong, lean structure.

● Maintenance: Seasonal shedding; has an easy to maintain coat.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Even-tempered, dignified, and affectionate

● Life Span: 10 years

15. Mastiff
Mastiff is a giant breed, having traits like courage, companionship, alertness, and
patience. They are an all-round family guard dogs and make great companion dogs if
given the best gentle training.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – at least 30 inches at its shoulders, Females – at least 27.5

inches at its shoulders

● Weight: Males – 160 to 230 pounds, Females – 120 to 170 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Have a thick muscular body, with a large, broad

head and a wrinkled forehead.

● Maintenance: Sheds occasionally; requires minimal effort in weekly brushing

● Coat: Short
 ● Energy: Low

● Temperament: Good-natured, dignified, and courageous

● Life Span: 6 to 10 years

16. Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino dog breed is athletic, powerful, and large, with a strong head
and a highly balanced body. They are pack-hunting dogs that can be trained as
gentle family dogs as well.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 24-26.5 inches (male), 24-25.5 inches (female)

● Weight: 88-100 pounds (male), 88-95 pounds (female)

● Physical characteristics: They are large, sturdy dogs with an athletic build.
Have a heightened sense of smell and so are good trackers.

● Maintenance: Low maintenance breed, regular brushing, and baths every

month will suffice.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Humble, cheerful, and friendly

● Life Span: 9-15 years

17. Boxer dog

Bowers have been one of the most popularly kept pet dogs in America. They are
smart, courageous, alert, and packed with energy at all times.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)

● Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), females are about 15 pounds less than male

● Physical characteristics: Have an athletic built, strong muscles and an

expressive wrinkled forehead at the time they are alert.

● Maintenance: They are low-maintenance dogs.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Upbeat, active, and fun-loving

● Life Span: 10-12 years

18. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs were originally bred to help keep flourishing estates free of poaching
activities. They are courageous, yet sweet-natured and gentle to make great family
dogs.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males - 25 to 27 inches at the withersFemales - 24 o 26 inches at the

withers

● Weight: Males - 110 to 130 lbs., Females - 100 to 120 lbs.

● Physical characteristics: Large and muscular guards, has alert v-shaped ears,
dark eyes and a deep muzzle.

● Maintenance: Requires minimal grooming and exercise

● Coat: Short

● Energy: Low

● Temperament: Brave, loyal and affectionate

● Life Span: 7 to 9 years

19. Weimaraner
Weimaraner are originally German dogs that are very swift and sleek and make a
great choice for pet owners and hunters. They are very obedient and like to please
their owner.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – 25 to 27 inches at the withers, Females – 23 to 25 inches at

the withers

● Weight: Males – 70 to 90 pounds, Females – 55 to 70 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Has a large, lean body that is specially built for
swiftness and endurance.

● Maintenance: Seasonal shedding, requires weekly brushing and monthly

baths.

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: obedient, alert, and friendly

● Life Span: 10 to 13 years

20. Akita
Akita was originally bred in the high altitude areas of Japan (preferably mountains.)
They are extremely loyal and fiercely protective of their family members.
 Key Parameters-

● Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)

● Weight: 100-130 pounds (male), 70-100 pounds (female)

● Physical characteristics: Have a muscular body, erect ears on a large head,

and a bushy tail.

● Maintenance: Requires brushing once a week; seasonal shedding.

● Coat: Double coat

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Loyal, dignified, courageous

● Life Span: 10 to 13 years

21. Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound were originally bred as hunters. They are fearless and capable
of fighting and killing even wolves in one combat and make great companions when
trained as family dogs.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 30 to 34 inches at the shoulders

● Weight: Males – at least 120 lbs.Females – at least 105 lbs.

● Physical characteristics: They are muscular, yet graceful, and swift on their
legs.

● Maintenance: Low maintenance large dog breed

● Coat: Medium

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Courageous, calm, and dignified

● Life Span: 6 to 8 years

22. Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard breed in the large dog breed category was originally bred and kept
to rescue travelers stranded and freezing in snowstorms. They are one of the most
beloved breeds, as they are highly careful, patient, watchful and playful with children
as well.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder, Females – 26 to 28 inches at

the shoulder

● Weight: Males – 140 to 180 pounds, Females – 120 to 140 pounds

 ● Physical characteristics: They have a massive head with a wrinkled brow,
dark set of eyes, and a short muzzle.

● Maintenance: Sheds frequently; regular grooming is necessary.

● Coat: Medium to long

● Energy: Low

● Temperament: Charming, playful, and inquisitive

● Life Span: 8 to 10 years

23. American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is known to have great strength, agility, endurance, yet a
friendly and loving attitude towards all.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 22-25 inches (males); 20-23 inches (females)

● Weight: 75-100 pounds (males); 60-80 pounds (females)

● Physical characteristics: Have a very sturdy and muscular build with a large
head.

● Maintenance: Low-maintenance pets

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Confident, alert, and loyal

● Life Span: 10-12 years

24. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are extremely affectionate and loyal towards their owner. They
make good domestic dogs, however, their playful nature makes them incompetent
watchdogs as they like to play with strangers as well.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males: 21 to 23.5 inches; Females: 20 to 22 inches

● Weight: Males: 45 to 60 pounds; Females: 35 to 50 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Have almond-shaped blue eyes, lush coat, and are
nimble-footed.

● Maintenance: Sheds heavily two times in a year; weekly brushing is required.

● Coat: Thick, double-coat

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Outgoing, playful, and loyal

 ● Life Span: 12-14 years

25. Belgian Malinois

Known as world-class workers in the large dog breed category, Belgian Malinois also
have a great bond with their owner. They love to stay active and please their owner.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)

● Weight: 60-80 pounds (male), 40-60 pounds (female)

● Physical characteristics: This dog breed has a square-built, and are alert
herders with strong muscles.

● Maintenance: Sheds occasionally; low-maintenance pets

● Coat: Short

● Energy: High

● Temperament: Smart, hard-working, and confident

● Life Span: 14 to 16 years

26. Great Pyrenees

This dog breed is named after the mountain ‘Pyrenees’ present in Southwestern
Europe. Just like the mountains, this breed is majestic and loves to guard and show
affection to their owner.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males: 27 to 32 inches; Females: 25 to 29 inches

● Weight: Males: 100 to 130 pounds; Females: 85 to 120 pounds

● Physical characteristics: Have a tall and strong built; rear helps them pick
speed quickly,

● Maintenance: They are high-maintenance dogs as their double-layered coat

sheds a lot during the entire year. However, its fur is tangle-proof and water-
resistant and so it is good to go even without much grooming.

● Coat: Medium

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Calm, patient, and smart

● Life Span: 10-12 years

27. Bernese Mountain Dog

These belong to the strong, working large dog breed category that is very
affectionate and loyal towards their owner. They are also patient and gentle with
children, making them great home pets.
 Key Parameters-

● Height: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23-26 inches (female)

● Weight: 80-115 pounds (male), 70-95 pounds (female)

● Physical characteristics: Have a sturdy body, with a large head and big,
brown coloured eyes.

● Maintenance: Daily brushing and regular baths are required

● Coat: Medium to thick coat

● Energy: Low

● Temperament: Strong, calm, and even-tempered

● Life Span: 7 to 10 years

28. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs make great guardians and watchdogs, owing to their massive body
structure and demeanor. However, they are extremely calm and mellow with their
loved ones and devoted to their safety.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males – at least 26 inches at the withers, Females – at least 24

inches at the withers

● Weight: 90-150 pounds (male), 70-120 pounds (female)

● Physical characteristics: Have a wedge-shaped large head, broad shoulders

on a muscular frame, and expressive eyes.

● Maintenance: Requires regular brushing and baths

● Coat: Medium

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Intelligent, reserved, and independent

● Life Span: 10 to 12 years

29. Great Dane

The Great Dane dog breed was originally bred to help with hunting boars, but now
their giant structure, alert nature, yet friendly and loving attitude makes them great
family companions.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 30-32 inches (male), 28-30 inches (female)

● Weight: 140-175 pounds (male), 110-140 pounds (female)

 ● Physical characteristics: Extremely tall, and sometimes even taller than
humans, when standing on their hind legs, lean structure, with alert ears.

● Maintenance: Sheds twice a year, requires regular brushing to remove any

loose fur

● Coat: Short

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Dependable, patient, and friendly

● Life Span: 7-10 years

30. Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are popular dogs in Italy, known for their hunting, guarding, and
companionship. They are always eager to please their owner and protective of them.

Key Parameters-

● Height: Males: 25 to 27.5 inches; Females: 23.5 to 24 inches

● Weight: 88 to 110 pounds

● Physical characteristics: They are large-sized dogs with a huge head, square
muzzle, and great bite strength.

● Maintenance: Requires regular walks to keep them in shape, requires weekly

brushing

● Coat: Short, double-layered coat

● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Majestic, intelligent, and affectionate

● Life Span: 9-12 years

31. Greyhound
England’s ancient dog breed, Greyhounds are one of the most popular dogs in the
large category. They are swift sprinters and have been a popular muse of kings,
poets, and artists.

Key Parameters-

● Height: 28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)

● Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)

● Physical characteristics: Their shock-absorbing feet help them sprint, and

support hunting skills. Greyhounds have a lean body and a deep chest with a
tucked waist.

● Maintenance: Requires daily exercise, easy-maintenance dogs

● Coat: Short
● Energy: Medium

● Temperament: Noble, independent, and gentle

● Life Span: 10-13 years