Wolves are known to be some of the largest dogs around, but not anymore because these dog breeds have entirely taken over. These dogs might have an intimidating stature, but they are some of the most gentle giants around, often wanting to cuddle more than to bark. But don’t be fooled; they are still ready to protect their loved ones when the need calls for it.
1. Great Dane
These dogs are well-known to be some of the largest dogs around. They can stand between 30 and 34 inches tall at the shoulder, with some reaching even taller heights. They can weigh between 140 and 175 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. These pups are complete goofballs and can sometimes be quite clumsy, even though they have a muscular build.
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants are affectionate and friendly, often earning the nickname “world’s largest lapdog” for their loving nature. They were once used for hunting boar and deer but quickly adapted to the luxury life.
2. Saint Bernard
These pups look like giant teddy bears waiting for their next cuddle session, even though they are pretty large. Males typically stand between 28 to 30 inches tall and weigh between 140 to 180 pounds, with females slightly smaller but still impressively large. Saint Bernards have either short or long coats in colors like red and white, brindle and white, often with distinctive dark masks over their eyes. Despite their size, these dogs are calm and patient and get along with children, making them a great addition to any family.
It’s important to start training these pups from a young age to help them stay in line and get along in social environments. They are known for their excessive drooling, and puppies only reach maturity at the age of 2 – 3.
3. Cane Corso
This dog is a formidable and muscular Italian mastiff breed known for its impressive size and protective nature. Males typically stand between 25 to 27.5 inches tall and weigh around 99 to 110 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, standing 23.5 to 26 inches tall and weighing between 85 to 99 pounds. They were once used to protect livestock and farms and made for some of the best protectors.
These dogs are strong, athletic, and can command presence by looking at you. Although these dogs might look intimidating, they can be some of the most gentle dogs and will always keep their families safe.
4. Tibetan Mastiff
These giant fluffballs can be pretty large and have an impressive thick double coat, which protects them from the harsh climates of the Himalayan region where they came from. Males typically stand between 26 and 29 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 90 and 150 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, standing 24 to 27 inches tall and weighing 70 to 120 pounds.
They have a protective nature but can be loyal and calm in temperament when it comes to their family, although they might be aloof when it comes to strangers.
5. Newfoundland
If you’ve ever encountered a Newfoundland, you’ll know just how large these dogs can be. Males typically stand around 28 inches tall and weigh between 130 and 150 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, making them a fair comparison to wolves. They have a thick, water-resistant double coat and webbed feet, which makes them great swimmers, as they were once used for water rescues.
These dogs have earned the name “nanny dogs.”
due to their gentle and calm demeanor, which makes them ideal for families with small children. They are protective without being aggressive, often placing themselves between their family and potential threats, and are known for their loyalty and intelligence.
6. Great Pyrenees
These remarkable dogs were once used to guard sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, and they can grow to be quite large. Males typically stand between 27 and 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 100 to 150 pounds, while females range from 25 to 29 inches tall and weigh 85 to 130 pounds, making them significantly larger than most wolves. They have a long, thick coat that is quite soft to the touch and, most of the time, white as snow.
The Great Pyrenees is calm, gentle, and deeply devoted to family, including children. However, due to its history as a livestock protector, it is also fiercely protective and independent.
7. Leonberger
These dogs might look as fierce as a long, but they are gentle giants at heart, waiting to be loved by the right family. Standing between 28 to 31 inches tall and weighing 120 to 170 pounds, Leonbergers combine strength, elegance, and a thick, dense double coat that ranges from golden-yellow to red-brown, often complemented by a distinctive black mask. These dogs were bred as a mix of Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Great Pyrenees to create an intelligent and loyal dog.
These pups need a lot of grooming, exercise, and training to ensure they are happy, healthy, and able to live up to their true potential.
8. Neapolitan Mastiff
These pups can easily be spotted by their loose, wrinkled skin and muscular stature. They can stand between 24 and 31 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 110 to 150 pounds. They were once used as guard dogs for families, and it’s easy to see why. These dogs are gentle and affectionate with their loved ones, often forming strong bonds with a favorite family member.
Their protective instincts are strong, making them excellent watchdogs, but due to their stubborn and independent nature, they require an experienced owner.
9. Irish Wolfhound
These dogs can grow to be quite large. Males typically stand at least 32 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh over 120 pounds. Some reach heights of 36 inches or more, easily surpassing the size of the largest wolves. These gentle giants are known for their calm and sensitive temperament, which makes them a great addition to families. They are quite affectionate with their families, especially regarding children.
Their wiry, medium-length double coat, often adorned with distinctive long eyebrows and a beard, protects them in harsh weather. These pups sure do stand out when it comes to size and temperament.
Explore more of our trending stories and hit Follow to keep them coming to your feed!
Don’t miss out on more stories like this! Hit the Follow button at the top of this article to stay updated with the latest news. Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
