Some dogs are small enough to fit in your pocket, others are so big that they can tower over a human when they stand on their hind legs. Somewhere in between are the heaviest dog breeds. These surprisingly stocky lads might look spry, but they feel like a ton of bricks when they hop into your lap. The heaviest dog breeds on our list are all the large and extra-large breeds that were mentioned most across 10 expert sources. Unfortunately, these breeds are prone to suffering from poor health due to their size. Taking care of these breeds can involve therapeutic exercise, costly surgeries, and preventative supplements. However, people who love these heavyweights will attest that the extra fuss is worth it for the love of these majestic beasts. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
The List: Heaviest Dog Breeds That Can Pack On The Pounds
1. English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is a huge breed that is strong, durable, and obedient. With that being said, this breed does best with an experienced handler. These colossal canines are the epitome of calm and politeness, despite their impressive size. Towering up to nearly three feet at the shoulder, they’re not exactly lap dogs, but their gentle nature makes them wonderful companions, says Healthy Pet Systems.
When it comes to heavyweight hounds, the English Mastiff reigns supreme. This gentle giant holds the title of the heaviest dog breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, according to Smart Dog Owners. While they might not be the chart-toppers in height, they gain weight like no other. Even the smaller end of the Mastiff spectrum comes in at a hefty 110 pounds.
These dogs typically pack some serious muscle. Males tip the scales at a hefty 150-240 pounds and their female counterparts clock in at 120-170 pounds, adds AZ Animals. But wait, there’s more! It’s not uncommon for Mastiffs to nudge the scale well into the mid-to-high 200s. The record holder, a true titan of a Mastiff, tipped the scales at a jaw-dropping 343 pounds!
2. Great Dane
Scooby Doo and Marmaduke are two famous cartoon Great Danes that love snacking. Though the real breed isn’t necessarily obsessed with junk food, they do weigh in amongst some of the heaviest breeds. Some males even tip the scales at over 200 pounds, according to Pet DT. Don’t be fooled by their size, though – these dogs can have a surprising turn of speed when chasing a rogue squirrel (or a particularly enticing tennis ball!).
Early socialization is key, but once they’re comfortable with their surroundings, these gentle giants become fast friends with everyone they meet, humans and furry companions alike, offers Hepper Blog. Great Danes might be trendy and undeniably eye-catching, but they require a bit of extra planning. They possible enormous appetites, so be prepared for some serious kibble consumption! They also need plenty of space to roam and stretch those long legs.
Great Danes might be independent thinkers, but they also have a strong desire for companionship. They don’t like to be left alone for long stretches, so if you’re looking for a furry shadow to follow you around the house (and maybe even steal your spot on the couch!), a Great Dane might be your perfect match, Chasing Tails states. Just remember, with that playful spirit comes a need for plenty of exercise. Long walks, playtime in the park, and maybe even a game of fetch in the backyard are all essential to keep these gentle giants happy and healthy.
3. Saint Bernard
Picture this: a courageous canine hailing from the majestic Alps, bred as working dogs beginning in the 16th century. These gentle giants, originally from the border region of Italy and Switzerland, can reach truly impressive sizes, according to Petsoid. Towering up to three feet at the shoulder and packing on the muscle with a weight of up to 300 pounds in extreme cases, they’re a sight to behold. The average male can grow to be up to around 180 pounds.
These dogs were bred for legendary rescue missions in the treacherous Alps, adds The Goody Pet. Think snowy mountain passes, howling winds, and a Saint Bernard with a barrel of brandy strapped to their back (though that part is actually a myth!). And get this: Benedictine, the heaviest Saint Bernard ever recorded, tipped the scales at a whopping 357 pounds!
Despite their impressive stature, Saint Bernards are renowned for their friendly and affectionate nature, especially with children and other animals, Pet DT details. While not inherently aggressive towards humans, Saint Bernards are known to be protective of their family and territory. They might greet strangers with a booming bark and a playful nip (though those playful nips can pack a punch with those paws!). Just be prepared for a pet who needs a spacious living area (and a strong vacuum cleaner), and daily exercise.
4. Leonberger
These delightful heavy dogs originate from Leonberg, Germany. These big fluffs share many positive traits with their close cousin, the Saint Bernard. Males can tip the scales at a whopping 170 pounds, while females are no shrinking violets themselves, weighing in at around 135 pounds, explains AZ animals. Their thick double coat, perfect for braving icy waters, also makes them cuddle champions – prepare for epic snuggle sessions on the couch (just invest in a good lint roller first!).
Training and early socialization are important to ensure a well-rounded companion, but with a little patience, you’ll have a loyal friend by your side, writes The Goody Pet. Their impressive stature makes them natural watchdogs, but their true passion lies in loving family members. Heads up: they need plenty of space to roam (and maybe even a kiddie pool to splash around in), and a daily dose of exercise.
5. Newfoundland
Newfies are huge in body and huge in heart. Winning over one of these extra-large dogs means earning a friend for life. These dogs are practically born with flippers, renowned for their love of swimming and impressive aquatic abilities, according to Hepper Blog. While they might take some time to mature and master their manners (all those puppy zoomies can be a handful!), consistent training goes a long way. These big guys are eager to please and win you over with their affectionate personalities – just be prepared for slobbery kisses and enthusiastic tail wags!
The Newfoundland is the living embodiment of a fluffy black teddy bear, and who can resist that? Now, these aren’t your average-sized teddy bears. The average Newfoundland can weigh-in at a hefty 100 to 150 pounds, with some males reaching a staggering 200 pounds, raves Smart Dog Owners. The record holder was a whopping 260 pounds and could stand six feet tall on its hind legs – talk about a majestic cuddle monster!
Hailing from the Canadian island of Newfoundland, these dogs were originally bred by fishermen to be heroes of the high seas, according to AZ Animals. Their webbed paws practically turn them into furry little submarines, and their love for water is undeniable. Daily walks are important, but don’t be surprised if a Newfoundland makes a detour for any puddle or pond.
6. Cane Corso
This Italian dog is descended from Roman war hounds. Just one look at this massive breed, and it is easy to see how their ancestors might have been terrors on the battlefield. If you’re looking for a canine companion who cuts an impressive figure, then look no further than the Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, according to The Goody Pet. These aren’t your average lap dogs – we’re talking about real whoppers! Both male and female Corsos typically tip the scales at a hefty 110 pounds, with some clocking in just shy of 100 pounds.
The Cane Corso is anything but lightweight in the personality department! These Italian Mastiffs were bred for serious tasks like guarding homes and tackling big game, explains Weight of Stuff. With their impressive stature, standing at a cool 26 inches tall, they certainly have the physical presence to back it up. Imagine a loyal companion who looks like they could wrestle a bear!
Despite arriving in the United States only in the late 1900s, the Cane Corso has quickly become one of the top 40 most popular dog breeds according to the American Kennel Club. That’s no surprise! These intelligent and trainable pups are fiercely loyal to their families, making them excellent guard dogs and cuddle companions in equal measure. They are known for their strength and athleticism, so daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy, adds Canna-pet. Just be prepared for a furry friend who needs a firm and experienced owner, plenty of space to roam, and maybe even a bigger bed (because let’s face it, sharing a cuddle puddle with a Cane Corso might be a tight squeeze!)
7. Scottish Deerhound
This lesser-known breed is tall and solid. As a big game hunting companion, the Scottish Deerhound is at home outdoors. Don’t let their name fool you – the Scottish Deerhound is all about grace and gentleness, not about roughhousing with deer! These beauties are on the lighter side of our giant dog list, clocking in at around 100 pounds on average, Weight of Stuff adds.
Hailing from the windswept highlands of Scotland, these gentle giants were originally bred for a very specific purpose: hunting red deer, according to Chasing Tails. Despite their size (they can tower over 30 inches tall!), Scottish Deerhound are friendly and docile. They possess a dignified air, almost regal in their composure, but these pups love a good game of fetch in the backyard.
Scottish Deerhounds might not be cuddle monsters like some of the other giants on this list, but they still love spending time with their humans, as they were prized companions of both merchants and nobility, explains Canna-pet. They’ll happily accompany you on hikes and adventures, their long legs carrying them effortlessly across any terrain. Just be sure to keep an eye out for squirrels or rabbits – those ancient hunting instincts might kick in, and before you know it, your regal companion has turned into a furry blur chasing after a fluffy critter!
Sources:
- Healthy Pet Systems
- Smart Dog Owners
- AZ Animals
- The Goody Pet
- Weight of Stuff
- Canna-pet
- Petsoid
- Pet DT
- Hepper Blog
- Chasing Tails
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.