Large Dog Breeds: Names, Photos, and Main Characteristics

Large dogs, walking peacefully alongside their owners on a leash and obediently following their commands, always attract attention. The group of large dogs is quite large. These include dogs weighing over 45 kg and standing over 60 cm at the withers. They are easy to train and, with proper training, have wonderful personalities.

The downsides of owning a large dog include the fact that they require a lot of exercise, and the cost of feeding a large pet can be quite high. Despite these downsides, many people prefer a large dog as a companion, guardian, and protector.

The giant dog is the English Mastiff.

The average height of this Old English breed of dog ranges from 60 to 90 cm at the withers. Males weigh from 65 to 110 kg, while females weigh from 54 to 91 kg. The pet's size is impressive even in photos.The breed's name translates into Russian as "horse-dog." Mastiffs are distinguished by:

• strong posture;
• powerful muscles;
• with a toned appearance.

They are excellent hunters and loyal companions. For centuries, the breed has been used as guard dogs. Few dogs can match them in this regard. Obedient, responsive and a little clumsy Mastiffs are generally very calm. But when it comes to protecting their family, this gentle giant turns into a true guard dog.

Kind Newfoundland dogs – photo

Large dogs of this breed are known throughout the world as good nannies, rescue dogs, and loyal friends. This large pet is distinguished by:

• weighing 60–70 kg;
• height about 70 cm;
• webbing between the fingers;
• large head with close-fitting ears;
• with coarse, long fur of dark brown, black or brown color.

Loving, calm and obedient, Newfoundlands are easy to train and always try to please their owner. They are very sensitive, so they need to be trained gently.This large animal loves to swim and will take advantage of any opportunity to take a bath.

When planning to get a gentle giant, you need to remember that they should only be kept in small apartments if they are walked frequently.

A brave Spanish Mastiff – photo

Renowned for its courage and excellent guard qualities, the Spanish Mastiff will not hesitate to capable of rushing into battle with a bear, a boar and a wolfWith proper upbringing and training, this pet will become a wonderful companion and family friend. The breed's characteristics include:

• weight 85 kg with a height of about 80 cm;
• loose skin;
• pendant on the neck;
• dense, short hair lying close to the body;
• red, fawn, black, apricot, brindle or gray color.

Spanish Mastiff puppies look like teddy bears waddling on their thin legs. An adult dog has amazing performance, and will do everything its owner asks of it. A large dog needs love and understanding to become a reliable friend and faithful helper.

Strong and fearless Alabai

Many have seen a photo online of a man holding a large red dog and claiming it's a Chelyabinsk watchdog puppy. In reality, this is, of course, a joke. It's not a watchdog at all, but adult dog of Alabai breedLarge dogs were prized even in ancient times as ideal protectors and guards. The breed is distinguished by:

• weighing 60 kg with a height at the withers of about 70 cm;
• massive lower jaw;
• dense undercoat;
• short or long hair;
• with strong and sturdy paws.

A large pet always fights for the top spot, so even as a puppy, an Alabai needs to be shown who's boss. It's best to train and raise a dog with a professional, because An uncontrolled and ill-mannered dog can become a danger to others.The breed's key characteristics include devotion to its owner, poise, and wariness of strangers. However, the Alabai quickly adapts to regular guests and friends and readily accepts them into its "pack."

A friendly, healthy St. Bernard

These friendly, large dogs are self-assured, have a stable, and surprisingly gentle nature. They love to play and make excellent companions for children. Capable of moving a load weighing 3000 kg St. Bernards are among the strongest dogs in the world. The breed's characteristics include:

• with a height at the withers of 70 cm, the height is not less than 80 kg;
• a broad, large head with a convex forehead;
• drooping upper lips;
• dark brown eyes with a sad look;
• ears hanging down on the sides;
• white with red or red with white markings color.

A large dog is a great fit for families with children and active people. However, be prepared for hair, drool, and snoring.

The Great Dane is the tallest dog.

A striking example of the breed is a dog whose height reaches 111 cm. With a weight of 55 to 90 kg, the minimum height of the pet can be 80 cm. Great Dane combines strength, refined elegance and self-esteemThe characteristics of a large dog include:

• long, large, dry head;
• muscular, long, dry neck;
• voluminous rectangular muzzle;
• dark lips;
• high-set lop-eared ears;
• strong, muscular body;
• shiny, short coat without undercoat;
• black, marble, brindle, fawn or blue color.

Not prone to dominance or aggression, Great Danes are excellent with children. They mature late and enjoy the occasional mischief. Therefore, a large dog will fit perfectly into a family of active people, and will be happy to accompany you on your morning jog.

The ancient Tibetan Mastiff working dog – photo

The history of guard dogs has always been surrounded by legends and myths. According to one legend, the breed belonged to Buddha himself, and was also a favorite of Genghis Khan. Nomads used dogs as pack animals and for security.

The Tibetan Mastiff is known to many for its mane. The breed is also distinguished by:

• tall, 72–85 cm;
• weighing 60–82 kg;
• thick, smooth fur, calm and reserved character.

Tibetan mastiffs are highly intelligent and comparable in intelligence to Great Danes. When training a guard dog, it is necessary to show undoubted leadershipIf poorly trained and without strict discipline, a large pet can become dangerous and unpredictable.

Leonberger is a dog with a friendly character.

Thanks to their gentle nature, this dog breed is loved by everyone. The pet itself is also known for its affectionate nature. can be a reliable protection for the family, a patient nanny for children and a nightmare for enemies. The Leonberger's distinctive characteristics include:

• height from 72 to 80 cm with a weight of 60–80 kg;
• thick, long hair;
• collar-mane;
• long but not pointed muzzle;
• broad and strong back;
• muscular and strong lower back;
• sandy, dark red, red and lion-yellow colors and a black mask are required.

Despite its large size, the breed is very agile. Muscular, strong, and yet elegant, this dog combines a lively temperament with a calm disposition.

A beautiful and strong Caucasian Shepherd Dog

One of the largest breeds developed in the Caucasus, it has been around for over two thousand years. Caucasian Shepherds protected flocks of sheep from wolf attacks, but they are also willing to protect their owners from danger. clearly divide everyone into "us" and "them", so it's essential to manage their behavior and reactions. The breed's appearance characteristics include:

• rough build;
• voluminous muscles;
• weight from 55 to 86 kg with a height of 65 cm;
• voluminous, blunt muzzle;
• muscular neck;
• Coarse coat with white, brindle, grey or red colouring.

Hardy and strong, unpretentious and sensitive, the Caucasian Shepherd is an excellent watchdog and guard. able to adapt to any conditions of keeping and feedingBehind his great height and indifference lies a loving heart and a kind soul.

Self-sufficient and independent large dogs need a strong owner who should become their leader. Their upbringing and training must be approached with the utmost responsibility.Only in this case will the pet obey and become an excellent protector and loyal friend.