There is something both regal and a bit intimidating about tall dogs. Many of the tallest dog breeds seem to be all legs, while others are just huge overall. Have you ever tried to dance with a tall dog and realized you were seeing eye to eye? The dining room table or countertops are certainly not safe places for leaving out any food because your lanky canine friend can just help itself. Tall dogs use their height to their advantage. But on the flip side, it is funny how many think of themselves as lap dogs and try to curl up on the couch with you. We at StudyFinds have done the research to come up with the list of the top seven tallest dog breeds according to nine experts. Let us know in the comments which breed is your favorite!
The List: Tallest Dog Breeds, Per Canine Experts
1. Irish Wolfhound
Are you searching for a breed that’s both majestic and mild-mannered? Then look no further than the Irish Wolfhound, reigning supreme as the tallest dog breed in the world, according to Pet Helpful. Bred for hunting wolves and even used in war (can you imagine facing down an army with a pack of these giants by your side?), the Irish Wolfhound boasts a powerful and athletic build. But don’t let their impressive size fool you – these pups are known for their friendly and kind nature. They possess a hunting instinct, but aggression is a last resort. In most situations, Irish Wolfhounds are calm and gentle companions, happy to cuddle with the kids, greet strangers with a wagging tail, and even get along with other furry friends.
We’ve talked about their friendly personality and impressive history, but let’s get down to brass tacks: just how big are these Irish Wolfhounds? Hold onto your hats, dog lovers, because these dogs can stand a whopping 30-32 inches tall at the shoulder, with some reported by Daily Paws to reach an incredible 35 inches, writes USA Today. That’s almost three feet on all fours! Imagine curling up next to a furry friend who towers over you – that’s the kind of snuggle buddy an Irish Wolfhound can be.
Irish Wolfhounds aren’t just the tallest dog breed – they might also be the fastest growing, adds Reader’s Digest. These gangly puppies can sprout up seemingly overnight. Their leggy frames fill out at an astonishing rate, packing on almost a pound a day until they reach around six months old. This rapid growth spurt means they’ll need plenty of exercise to keep those long legs strong and those hunting instincts in check (yes, hunting is in their blood!). Reader’s Digest suggests letting your Irish Wolfhound run off-leash in a safe, open space – just be prepared to watch them disappear into the distance in a blur of fur and floppy ears.
2. Great Dane
Step aside Scooby-Doo, there’s a new Great Dane in town! Coming in at number two on our list of tallest dog breeds, the Great Dane will melt your heart with its sweet personality and massive size. But here’s a fun fact: despite their name and Scooby’s goofy charm, Great Danes actually hail from Germany, not Denmark, explains Hepper. These creatures may be large, but they’re known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for families with children or those looking for a furry best friend who can keep up with couch cuddles.
While they were originally bred to hunt boar (imagine facing down a Great Dane – talk about a terrifying opponent!), these days they’re much more interested in belly rubs and slobbery kisses. Now, here’s the thing: while apartment living is possible, World Animal Foundation reminds us that these giants need their space. Think tall fences and plenty of room to roam – after all, a Great Dane who forgets they’re not a lapdog can cause some serious furniture rearrangement, mentions Pet Keen.
The average Great Dane stands a cool 28-30 inches tall at the shoulder, but don’t be surprised if your friend surpasses those expectations, reports Treehugger. In fact, the world record holder for tallest dog was a Great Dane named Zeus, who stood a staggering 44 inches tall – that’s almost four feet tall! So, if you’re looking for a loyal companion who can double as a personal bodyguard (with a wagging tail, of course), the Great Dane might be your perfect match.
3. Leonberger
Calling all dog lovers seeking a furry friend with a heart as big as their size! Look no further than the Leonberger, a breed hailing from Germany. They have been winning hearts since the 1800s, popular among both farmers and royalty (talk about versatility!). Leonbergers are known for their intelligence and trainability, even attending a special Leonberger University dedicated to unlocking their full potential, writes Daily Paws. Search and rescue? No problem! Gentle playmate for the kids? Absolutely! Leos are happy to put their giant paws to work in any way that brings joy to their humans.
Ever heard of a dog that looks like it stepped out of a fairytale? Look no further than the Leonberger! These dogs hold a special place in our list of tallest dog breeds, and their resemblance to a gentle lion is truly striking (though thankfully, their temperament is much more cuddly!). Leonbergers can range in height from a whopping 26 to 31 inches at the shoulder, making them impressive companions, says Hepper. Despite their enormous size, Leonbergers are renowned for their good-natured personalities. They’re loyal protectors who wouldn’t hurt a fly (except maybe the occasional rogue butterfly in the backyard).
When you see a Leonberger, you probably notice its massive size overall and not just its height. Thy were originally bred to be water rescue heroes. Their thick double coat, perfect for braving icy waters, also makes them cuddle champions; and a calm and composed demeanor that makes them wonderful family dogs. The Leonbergers are the epitome of strength and health, making them fantastic working companions, praises A-Z Animals.
4. Anatolian Shepherd
Not all heroes wear capes – some wear fur! The Anatolian Shepherd, ranking fourth on our list of tallest dog breeds, is the epitome of a loyal guardian. These big pups were originally bred to protect livestock from predators, and that protective instinct translates beautifully to their role as family companions, notes World Animal Foundation.
The ultimate multi-taskers, with a skillset that would make any bodyguard blush: imagine a loyal companion who keeps a watchful eye over your entire crew, from the rambunctious kids to the ever-independent feline. Anatolian Shepherds are known for their devotion, patience, and calm demeanor, notes Reader’s Digest. They’re the kind of dog who will happily accompany you on long hikes or curl up on the couch for a movie marathon. Early training is essential to ensure a harmonious relationship, but if you put in the work, you’ll be rewarded with a loving companion for life.
These pups stand at an impressive height of 27-29 inches, making them a force to be reckoned with (and a cuddle buddy you won’t want to miss), according to Pet Keen. If you’re looking for a companion who will watch over you with unwavering devotion, the Anatolian Shepherd might be your perfect match. Just be prepared for a furry friend who comes with a built-in security system – and maybe a lifetime supply of chew toys to keep that protective energy in check!
5. Scottish Deerhound
These dogs hold the number five spot on our tallest dog breed list, and their history is as impressive as their size. They were originally bred by Scottish nobility to hunt the elusive roe deer, reports Pet Helpful. Picture this: a sleek, athletic dog coursing across the Scottish moors, a blur of fur and determination. While their hunting days might be behind them, the Scottish Deerhound’s instincts are still strong. These tall and athletic dogs boast impressive stamina and speed, making them fantastic companions for active owners.
The Scottish Deerhound might just be the epitome of “tall, dark, and mysterious” in the canine world. They are “selectively social,” which is a fancy way of saying they choose their cuddle buddies wisely, describes Hepper. Be warned, a glimpse of a squirrel (or a particularly enthusiastic jogger) can unleash their hidden speed – we’re talking bursts of up to 30 mph! So, keeping your Scottish Deerhound on a leash and having a watchful eye is a must.
Standing tall and proud at a whopping 32 inches, and tipping the scales at a hefty 110 pounds, the Scottish Deerhound is a true gentle giant. Imagine a dog with the elegance of a runway model and the loyalty of a knight – that’s the Scottish Deerhound in a nutshell! These pups are still cherished by enthusiasts who showcase them in dog shows and, in some places, even participate in a sport called lure coursing (think of it as friendly, controlled bursts of speed), says Tree Hugger.
6. Saint Bernard
Who doesn’t love Beethoven? This beloved movie character has solidified the Saint Bernard’s image as a loyal and courageous canine. But what are they like beyond the silver screen? This powerful dog with a noble bearing was bred to be a guardian for monks and a lifesaver for travelers braving the treacherous Swiss Alps, Pet Keen explains. They may have traded in their barrels of brandy for comfy beds, but their protective instincts remain. While not inherently aggressive, they are fiercely loyal to their families.
Saint Bernards can stand a whopping 26-30 inches tall at the shoulder, and let’s not forget the weight – a range of 120 to 180 pounds, mentions Tree Hugger. And be prepared for a pet that needs plenty of space to roam (and drool!), a strong hand to hold the leash, and a heart big enough to love a giant.
They are also the ultimate secret keepers. Remember that forgotten juice box under the table? Your Saint Bernard’s powerful nose will sniff it out in a heartbeat (and maybe even “accidentally” disappear it entirely). But fear not, their playful antics are always outweighed by their steadfast loyalty, notes Daily Paws. They will watch over your children with unwavering devotion, becoming a furry guardian angel in the form of a giant, drool-prone goofball. But watch out! This furry friend sheds enough fur to decorate your entire house (invest in a good lint roller!).
7. Neapolitan Mastiff
Move over, Clifford! The Neapolitan Mastiff rounds out our list of the top seven tallest dog breeds, and these pups are anything but ordinary. Imagine a dog with a lineage that stretches back to the Roman Empire – a true descendant of gladiators and guardians! These ancient giants were bred for war and protection, and their imposing size is a testament to that history, explains World Animal Foundation. While bred as guard dogs, they can be wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs for your home. The good news for city dwellers? Neapolitan Mastiffs, despite their size, can adapt to apartment living. They’re surprisingly calm indoors, content to lounge by your side or offer silent companionship.
These colossal cuddly canines stand between 24 and 31 inches tall, according to Pet Keen. Think a dog with the stature of a small pony but the cuddle factor of a teddy bear! Their imposing presence alone is often enough to deter any unwanted visitors, but their deep love for their family ensures they’ll raise the alarm (with a bark that could rival a lion’s roar!) if anything seems amiss.
While their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs, their true passion seems to be defending their favorite spot on the sofa, writes Hepper. Forget guarding ancient fortresses; these dogs are more concerned with guarding their napping territory! They also shed enough fur to knit a small sweater (daily brushing is a must!), requires a firm and experienced owner, and deserves a home filled with love, respect, and maybe even a bigger couch (because let’s face it, sharing with a Neapolitan Mastiff might be a losing battle!).
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