Large dog breeds: what are the 10 breeds to know?

Large dog breeds: what are the 10 breeds to know?

Some people have the motto “The bigger the better!”. This article is for exactly those people. Because sometimes this motto also applies to pets.

Characteristics common to large breeds

Giant dogs have many benefits. They are big tender people with a gentle and pleasant temperament, who sometimes only think about sleeping. They are intelligent and generally easy to train. Large dogs were often bred to be sheepdogs and guard dogs. Many are known to be very loyal to their human family.

A giant mutation created breeds, such as the Great Dane and the Saint Bernard. These mastiff-like breeds are not only taller than most dogs, but they also tend to be more muscular and stocky (with a compact and short structure). In comparison, greyhounds, like Greyhounds and Scots, are no less muscular but appear thinner. And there is a wide range between the two extremes.

There are several factors to consider before adopting a large breed of dog. Larger breeds need more space. So, if you live in an apartment, you will need to schedule a period of exercise for your large dog. They also eat more food, which can get expensive. Additionally, larger breeds have access to tall tables and shelves, so you’ll need to think more about protecting dogs in your living space. And a big dog means more hair. While some large breeds don’t shed as much as others, there will always be more dog hair to clean just because of the size. You, or the groomer, will also need to spend more time caring for a large dog’s coat.

Additionally, you will need to be extra careful when feeding a large breed puppy, so that the dog does not grow too fast as this can lead to bone and joint problems. Large breeds are at greater risk for hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which are hereditary diseases. Breeders must select their breeders to eliminate these defects. Do your research before choosing one.

Medically, large, deep-breasted breeds are predisposed to dilations and twists, in which the stomach fills with air and twists when the dog eats too much or too quickly. This is a veterinary emergency. You need to feed large dogs in limited amounts rather than allowing them to feed easily to avoid this disease.

German Mastiffs

You could say that this majestic creature looks more like a small horse than a dog. Great Danes (or Great Danes) stand out in the crowd. Appearance, or in this case, size, isn’t what makes it a great companion; it is the temperament of this race. These dogs are generally gentle, playful, friendly, and incredibly loyal. Due to their size, they appear to be wacky, but it’s their tall limbs and lanky demeanor that make them fun.

Breed overview

  • Height: 70 to 80 cm;
  • Weight: 50 to 80 kg;
  • Coat and color: Short brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin (white with black spots) or merle (black and white) hairs;
  • Life expectancy: 6 to 8 years.

The Mastiffs

Mastiffs have a very muscular appearance, but they are gentle, easy-going companions. Keep a handkerchief handy to wipe off the drool that drools from their massive heads. Their muscular bodies can knock over people and objects in tight spaces; keep this in mind if you live in an apartment or a small house. These giant dogs need a large living space and obedience training wherever they go.

Breed overview

  • Height: 70 cm and more
  • Weight: 55 to 100 kg
  • Coat and color: short coat; colors include apricot, brindle and fawn with a black mask;
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

The Leonbergers

The Leonberger is a massive working dog who generally has a kind and gentle character. This breed is known to bond closely with its family and appear to have a great intuition when it comes to human emotions. Leonbergs are excellent pets and therapy dogs.

Breed overview

  • Height: 60 to 80 cm;
  • Weight: 40 to 80 kg;
  • Physical characteristics: coat with undercoat; colors include red, brown and sand with a black mask;
  • Life expectancy: 7 to 10 years.

The Bullmastiff

In the mid-19th century, breeders crossed mastiff and bulldog to obtain a powerful dog that could stop poachers. Today’s bullmastiff remains a competent watchdog and a valuable companion. Despite his somewhat intimidating appearance, he is a gentle giant who forms a strong bond with his family.

Breed overview

  • Height: 60 to 70 cm;
  • Weight: 45 to 60 kg;
  • Coat and Color: Short coat, colors include fawn, red and brindle with black mask;
  • Life expectancy: 8 to 10 years.

Newfoundland

Newfoundlanders are loving companions and exceptional workers. With their webbed feet and waterproof coats, they evolved into ideal water dogs, helping fishermen and saving people from drowning. It is in their nature to help and protect – especially children – and always with a gentle spirit.

Breed overview

  • Height: 65 to 70 cm;
  • Weight: 45 to 70 kg;
  • Coat and color: double coat coat, colors include black, brown, gray, and black and white;
  • Life expectancy: 9 to 10 years.

The Saint-Bernard

Commonly used in search and rescue and as service animals, the Saint Bernard are giant dogs with even larger hearts. They tend to be gentle, loving family companions, who often get along well with children. Some Saint Bernard’s don’t always realize how tall they are, so education is needed to teach them how to control themselves.

Breed overview

  • Height: 65 to 75 cm;
  • Weight: 55 to 80 kg;
  • Coat and color: dense coat, colors include brown and white, red and white, etc;
  • Life expectancy: 8 to 10 years.

The Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a beautiful, adorable and slobbery dog. This massive dog with a giant head looks fierce, but mostly for show, they are an extremely loyal and gentle breed. He protects his family and is a competent watchdog. This breed is one of the few native to France, and is sometimes called the French mastiff.

Breed overview

  • Height: 60 to 70 cm;
  • Weight: 45 kg and more;
  • Coat and color: short coat, colors include fawn, mahogany and isabelle;
  • Life expectancy: 5 to 8 years.

Pyrenean Mountain dogs

The Pyrenean Mountain dogs are impressive in power and gentleness. One of the oldest dog breeds, this working dog has a long history of guarding sheep and protecting homes. It is a very active breed. This dog requires vigorous daily exercise and obedience training to end up with a well-behaved dog.

Breed overview

  • Height: 60 to 80 cm;
  • Weight: 40 kg and more;
  • Coat and color: double coat of hair, colors include white with gray, red or tan markings;
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years.

Les Irish Wolfhound

Historically, the Irish Wolfhounds were fellow combatants and hunters, as well as housekeepers. Today, these wolfhounds are primarily pets, although they have retained certain hunting and protective instincts. They need more space and exercise than some other giant breeds and generally don’t like small homes.

Breed overview

  • Height: 75 cm and more;
  • Weight: 50 to 55 kg;
  • Coat and Color: Coarse coat, colors include black, blue, brindle, cream, gray, etc. ;
  • Life expectancy: 6 to 8 years.

The Mastiff of Naples

The Naples Mastiff is an Italian breed with ancient roots that historians can trace back to the war dogs of the Roman army. They then became guard dogs. This breed is known for its characteristic wrinkles and loose skin, massive bones and heavy gait. He tends to be loyal and protective, although generally calm and gentle.

Breed overview

  • Height: 60 to 80 cm;
  • Weight: 50 to 70 kg;
  • Coat and Color: Colors include black, blue, mahogany, and fawn;
  • Life expectancy: 7 to 9 years.

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