When it comes to dogs, most people believe that bigger is better. On the other hand, dog lovers will tell you that good dogs come in different sizes. The large dog breeds help people guard homes, pull sleds, and protect their families. What is the tallest breed of dog in the world? According to the American Kennel Club, the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest dog breed, with a minimum of 32 inches tall. Apart from these, there are several tallest dog breeds in the world. Let’s have a detailed look at each breed.
Top 15 Tallest Dog Breeds
Dogs are friendly and need people’s attention, affection, and love. They need training such as jumping up, pulling, and countersurfing regardless of size. Here is the list of the world’s tallest dog breeds.
1. Irish Wolfhound
What is the tallest breed of dog in the world?
- A. Yorkshire Terrier
- B. Maltese dog
- C. Irish Wolfhound
- D. Papilon
One of the majestic giants from Ireland with an athletic build. They are famous for their shaggy coats and friendly nature. The Irish Wolfhound is best known for their loyalty and calmness. Their life expectancy is considered to be 6 to 8 years.
Breed Overview
- Group: Hound
- Height: 32 inches (male) and 30 inches (female)
- Weight: 120 pounds (male) and 105 pounds (female)
- Origin: Ireland
- Temperament: Calm and courageous
2. Spanish Mastiff
A rustic, kind, and noble dog whose expressions showcase all qualities. They are determined in front of strangers and when facing dangerous animals. The Spanish mastiff was used for guarding and defense. They come in various coat colors: black, yellow, red, fawn, and grey.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 26 to 35 inches
- Weight: 140 to 220 pounds
- Origin: Spain
- Temperament: Calm, gentle and loyal
- Life span: 10 to 12 years
3. Great Dane
Great Dane is often known as the ‘Apollo of Dogs’ for its elegance and purity. They are taller than most people. Their coat comes in different patterns and colors, best known for black and white patterns. Danes are home guardians despite their sweet nature.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 26 to 34 inches
- Weight: 100 to 175 pounds
- Origin: Germany
- Temperament: Proud, friendly and loving
- Life span: 8 to 10 years
4. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish deerhound is known as the ‘Royal Dog of Scotland’ for its loyalty and easygoing personality. It is also known for its mild-mannered nature. Historically, they were used for hunting deer. They are gentle with children and good with other animals.
Breed Overview
- Group: Hound
- Height: 28 to 32 inches
- Weight: 75 to 110 pounds
- Origin: Scotland
- Temperament: Docile, gentle, dignified and friendly
- Life span: 8 to 11 years
5. Great Pyrenees
Gentle and protective dog breed ready to tackle any outdoor adventure. It has a fluffy and thick white coat that keeps them warm. Great Pyrenees require regular grooming and exercise to stay healthy.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 25 to 32 inches
- Weight: 100 to 150 pounds
- Origin: France
- Temperament: Confident, fearless, and gentle
- Life span: 10 to 12 years
6. Leonberger
A versatile working dog, unlike other giant breeds. Leonberger has been popular among farmers and royalty in Germany since the 1880s. They often do well with therapy work, obedience training, and water rescue.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 25 to 31 inches
- Weight: 120 to 170 pounds
- Origin: Germany
- Temperament: Fearless, adaptable and obedient
- Life span: 7 years
7. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is considered a powerful dog dating back to ancient Rome. It has a sweet and loving temperament that develops deep bonds with its families. This dog enjoys an easygoing lifestyle and is protective of its family.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 24 to 31 inches
- Weight: 110 to 150 pounds
- Origin: Italy
- Temperament: Loyal, protective and stubborn
- Life span: 7 to 9 years
8. Newfoundland
The friendly breed is known for its water-resistant coat that helps them stay warm in cold waters. Newfoundland is strong enough to save people from drowning, and they are excellent swimmers. They are used for water rescues around the world.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 26 to 28 inches
- Weight: 100 to 150 pounds
- Origin: Canada
- Temperament: Gentle and sweet-tempered
- Life span: 8 to 10 years
9. Greyhound
Greyhounds are sweet-tempered companions with lofty grace. They are more affectionate with their family. Nevertheless, they may experience separation anxiety when they stay alone for a long time.
Breed Overview
- Group: Hound
- Height: 27 to 30 inches
- Weight: 50 to 85 pounds
- Origin: Egypt
- Temperament: Intelligent, athletic and quiet
- Life span: 12 to 15 years
10. Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolians are responsive, smart, adaptable, and devoted. They have been used for centuries to guard livestock from predators. Additionally, they are more serious compared to other breeds. They also watched for sheep herds for a long time.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 27 to 29 inches
- Weight: 80 to 150 pounds
- Origin: Turkey
- Temperament: Protective and loyal
- Life span: 11 to 13 years
11. Tibetan Mastiff
A strong, striking dog with a thick coat keeps them warm in cold weather. Tibetan mastiffs are well-known for their protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs. They have broad heads with v-shaped ears and expressive brown eyes.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 24 to 26 inches
- Weight: 75 to 160 pounds
- Origin: Tibet
- Temperament: Intelligent, aloof, and tenacious
- Life span: 10 to 12 years
12. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are known for their protective instincts and loyalty. This makes them perfect guard dogs that are easily trained. Socialization and regular exercise are important for their well-being.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 22 to 27 inches
- Weight: 85 to 130 pounds
- Origin: Germany
- Temperament:
- Life span: 8 to 11 years
13. Bullmastiff
A powerful dog with a muscular build originally guarded English estates. They are intelligent and affectionate with their loved ones.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 24 to 27 inches
- Weight: 100 to 130 pounds
- Origin: Germany
- Temperament: Protective and calm
- Life span: 8 to 10 years
14. Black Russian Terrier
One of the strongest and tallest dog breeds with a thick coat. Black Russian Terriers may look tough, but they are easy to train. They can be affectionate and gentle with their families.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 26 to 28 inches
- Weight: 80 to 140 pounds
- Origin: Russia
- Temperament: Intelligent and courageous
- Life span: 10 to 12 years
15. Cane Corso
Strong and protective dog with an athletic build, easily trained. They are known for their confidence and loyalty.
- Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Height: 23 to 28 inches
- Weight: 80 to 120 pounds
- Origin: Italy
- Temperament: Stable and reserved
- Life span: 10 to 12 years
Owing the tallest dog breed requires extra commitment, such as medical care and proper nutrition. Dogs are recognized as loyal, lovable, and intelligent. Welcome your favorite breed into your family and have fun.