The 5 Largest Dog Breeds in the World

Very large dogs have a majestic and noble appearance; they are strong, resilient, and beautiful in their own way. The five largest breeds in the world were bred for work involving harsh climates or the danger of predatory animals. This has left its mark on their character, so you should think carefully before purchasing a representative of one of the five largest dog breeds.

Alabai

A huge, powerful shepherd dog of domestic origin. The history of this breed spans between three and six thousand years. These dogs were developed in the area stretching from the Caspian Sea to the Southern Urals. Their primary purpose was herding sheep and protecting the flock from predators. The breed developed in harsh climates and with minimal human intervention.

Alabai dogs resemble bears in appearance: they have a large, massive head, a strong neck, and a sturdy body. Their coat is thick, with a well-developed undercoat that provides reliable protection from the cold. Any color is acceptable, except saddle, brown, and blue.

They have a balanced character: these giants (minimum height 65-70 cm, weight 45-50 kg) are peaceful with their owners, children, and pets. They don't attack strangers without reason, and they only display guarding qualities when strangers trespass on their territory. Keep in mind that keeping an Alabai on a chain is not recommended, as it can be detrimental to their psyche.

Belgian Shepherd

Dogs similar to modern Belgian Shepherds date back to the Middle Ages. However, the breed itself is quite young, dating back just under 130 years. Belgian breeders didn't settle on a specific type. They retained four original varieties, each distinguished by color and coat type:

1. The Groenendael has a medium-length coat that forms a small "ruff" on the neck and tail, and is exclusively black in color.
2. The Laekenois's main external characteristics are its reddish-gray coloring with blackening and its harsh, slightly tousled coat.
3. Malinois. Short-haired, red with black markings and a distinct black mask on the muzzle.
4. Tevruren. Their coloring is similar to the Malinois, but their coat is long like the Groenendael's.

The height can be 56-66 cm at the withers, and the weight is up to 30 kg.

Belgian Shepherds are intelligent, quick-witted, and highly trainable. However, their owners must have a strong character and sufficient physical strength. With proper training, these dogs make ideal guard dogs, courageously protecting their owners' property without displaying excessive aggression.

They get along well with children and other pets, but may have problems living with cats or small rodents. Belgian Shepherds are also very active and energetic, requiring significant mental and physical stimulation, as well as long walks.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

A powerful guard dog with a determined and courageous character. These dogs are friendly toward their owners and other pets, but wary of strangers. Among other dogs, Caucasian Shepherds get along best with dwarf toy breeds.

The minimum weight for a male is 45-50 kg, and the height is 64-68 cm. Thanks to their long, thick coat, which forms a rich mane and feathering, Caucasian Shepherds appear even larger and more massive.

Since ancient times, they have been used for herding and guarding livestock from predators. Frequent encounters with wolves and life in harsh weather conditions have hardened the Caucasian Shepherd's character, making it firm and unwavering. They are intelligent and quick-witted, but can also be stubborn and willful, and even quite aggressive, requiring firm handling and professional training.

Although Caucasian Shepherd puppies look adorable and resemble teddy bears, buying these dogs as live toys is strictly prohibited.

Neapolitan Mastiff

A descendant of ancient Roman war dogs, this breed is distinguished by its large, muscular build and phlegmatic facial expression. The skin is loose and heavy, forming a double dewlap on the neck and deep folds on the head. Acceptable colors: black, blue, gray, red, isabella, and brindle. Small white markings may be present on the chest and toes.

The mastino's height ranges from 60 to 75 cm, and its weight can reach up to 70 kg.

The Mastino has a menacing and imposing appearance. Its mere appearance can be intimidating to strangers, but these dogs are very affectionate toward their owners. However, they are quite jealous and not ideal for families with other pets or small children. With proper training, Mastino dogs grow up to be calm, even-tempered, alert, courageous, and very loyal pets. They make excellent watchdogs and bodyguards.

Rottweiler

Height can range from 56 to 68 cm at the withers, and weight over 50 kg. The body is powerful and muscular. The head is large and massive, with well-developed cheekbones. The coat is not long, but thick and dense to the touch. The only acceptable color is black and tan, and the brighter and richer the red markings, the better.

Rottweilers are hard-working, energetic, and playful. With proper training, they grow up very devoted to their owners and become reliable protectors. They are quite calm, serious, intelligent, and easily trained. However, an untrained Rottweiler can be very aggressive and dangerous, not only to strangers but also to their owners.

Remember that Rottweilers are prone to overeating and rapid weight gain, so it's important to measure out food portions correctly and avoid giving your pet treats between meals.

All these dogs are distinguished not only by their large size, courage, and incorruptibility. They are also devoted to their owners, but extremely wary of strangers. Their independent nature, high intelligence, and ability to make independent decisions make them excellent companions, guards, and bodyguards.