Top 10 Big Dog Breeds: Majestic and Powerful

You’re thinking about getting a dog and you’re not sure which breed. All you know is that you want a big dog. You have a big house with a nice size yard. You also love going hiking and going out in nature. Possibly, you might have a country house somewhere in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Big dog breeds are majestic and powerful, and they are perfect for sizable places.

The question now is, which dog breed should you get? Let’s take a look at the top 10 big dog breeds — these unique creatures that are amazing and protective companions.

1. Great Dane

• Height: 28-34 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 110-175 lbs.
• Temperament: Gentle, friendly, and affectionate.

Great Danes are massive dogs known as the “Apollo of Dogs.” However, even though they may be huge, they are also referred to as “gentle giants.” That’s because Great Danes are friendly, affectionate dogs that love being around children and other people. These big and powerful dogs hailing from Germany typically live 8 to 10 years.

2. Saint Bernard

• Height: 26-30 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 120-180 lbs.
• Temperament: Calm, patient, and gentle.

Popularized with the movie Beethoven, the Saint Bernard originally hails from Switzerland and was bred to be rescue other dogs. That’s why today, the Saint Bernard continues to be a loyal and patient dog known for its gentle nature. They are excellent with children and make great companions, although they can be quite lazy. These watchful protectors typically live up to 8 to 10 years.

3. Mastiff

• Height: 27-32 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 150-230+ lbs.
• Temperament: Courageous, dignified, and good-natured.

Mastiffs are gigantic dogs — weighing 230 or more pounds. Way back when, they were bred to be working dogs, and sometimes even guard dogs or fighting dogs. Of course, over the years, they are now pets. Interestingly enough, they are among the calmest of dogs. They also have protective instincts, making them great guard dogs. Typically, Mastiffs live up to 8 to 12 years.

4. Bernese Mountain Dog

• Height: 23-28 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 70-115 lbs.
• Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and gentle.

Bernese Mountain Dogs were originally bred in Switzerland as farm dogs that accompanied alpine herders in the country. They are known for their amazing tri-color coat, but also for their temperament. They are sweet-natured, which means that if you have children, they will be kind and affectionate with them. These great companion dogs typically live up to 6 to 8 years.

5. Newfoundland

• Height: 26-28 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 100-150 lbs.
• Temperament: Sweet, gentle, and patient.

Originally bred to be a working dog, the Newfoundland hails from the Newfoundland province of Canada. These giant dogs are strong swimmers, as they have always had the reputation of being water rescue dogs. Apart from that, they are also calm and friendly — a great asset to have when around children. These dogs typically live up to 8 to 10 years.

6. Irish Wolfhound

• Height: 30-32 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 105-155 lbs.
• Temperament: Gentle, dignified, and friendly.

The Irish Wolfhound, hailing from Ireland, is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. Originally they were bred to hunt large game and wolves. They have also been subjects in literature, mythology, and more. The Irish Wolfhound is a loyal dog that is also affectionate — a great quality to have around children. They typically live up to 6 to 10 years.

7. Rottweiler

• Height: 22-27 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 80-135 lbs.
• Temperament: Loyal, confident, and protective.

Rottweilers are a cute bundle of joy when small, but as they grow up, they become big and powerful. Not only that, they are also strong and intelligent. They were originally bred for herding and guarding, and it shows. Rottweilers are loyal protectors who are excellent watchdogs — perfect for families with children. They typically live up to 8 to 10 years.

8. Leonberger

• Height: 25-31 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 90-170 lbs.
• Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, and loyal.

You don’t hear too much about Leonbergers. They are not the most popular dog breed, like Golden Retrievers. The best part about these giant dogs is their lion-like appearance. Not only that, but they are also gentle creatures. They are good around kids and also loyal companions. These dogs typically live up to 8 to 9 years.

9. Great Pyrenees

• Height: 25-32 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 85-160 lbs.
• Temperament: Patient, gentle, and protective.

Great Pyrenees dogs hail from the French Pyrenees. Originally bred to guard sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains, they were domesticated as pets and now they are lovable creatures that are perfect for families. These dogs are protective and devoted to their families. They typically live up to 10 to 12 years.

10. Alaskan Malamute

• Height: 23-25 inches at the shoulder.
• Weight: 75-100 lbs.
• Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, and strong-willed.

Alaskan Malamutes are powerful dogs originally bred as sled dogs in the Arctic and are known for their strength and endurance. Today, they are friendly dogs that are affectionate and loyal. They thrive in active households — so if you get one, get ready to exercise a lot. Alaskan Malamutes typically live up to 10 to 14 years.

Bottom Line

And there you have it, these are the top 10 big dog breeds. These dogs are an example of how majestic and powerful these creatures can be. They range from the gentle Great Dane to the powerful Alaskan Malamute. Even though these breeds are imposing in size, many of them are affectionate and gentle — a perfect combination if you have children or if you just want adorable companions.

You could be looking for a big dog for a variety of reasons, but what these large breeds offer is a combination of a noble presence and devoted companionship. Having one of these gentle giants by your side will truly change your life for the better.