As much as tea-cup size dogs are adorable and oozing with cuteness, large dogs can bring twice the fun and joy to their owners. Children specially love large dogs because despite of their enormous size, large dogs are by and large (yes, pun intended) loyal, good-natured, protective yet “gentle giants.”
(Check out 2013 Recap Breed Spotlight)
If you’re thinking of adopting or rescuing a large breed of dog, here’s a three dog breeds that fall under the “largest dog” category.
Great Dane
Great Dane
The “gentle giant.” Contrary to the belief of many, the Great Dane is only the second largest dog in the world; however, it’s probably the most popular and loved “largest dog” in the planet.
Fun Fact: Giant George, a 250-pound blue Great Dane from Arizona, currently holds the record for World’s Tallest Living Dog and Tallest Dog Ever. George stands 3 feet, 7 inches tall from paw to shoulder. He consumes 110 lbs of food each month and sleeps on his own queen-sized bed inside the house.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are said to be the tallest dog breed. In the years past, the Irish Wolfhound’s astonishing size, speed, and intelligence made them ideal animals for hunting wolves and boars, although this breed is also quite docile and friendly in nature.
Fun fact: With a robust and muscular build, males can attain the stature of a small pony. The Irish Wolfhound can reach up to 7 feet tall when standing on its hind legs and weigh 90 to 150 lbs.
St. Bernard
St. Bernard
Popular for the breed’s innate bravery and aptitude in alpine rescue missions, the average weight of a St. Bernard ranges from 140 to 220 lbs, and the approximate height is about 27½ inches to 35½ inches.
Fun fact: Benedictine, a St. Bernard, holds the world record for the Heaviest Dog Ever. Benedictine, who displaced Zorba as the heaviest dog of all time, is said to have weighed 357 lbs.
