12 of the Tallest Dog Breeds That Will Tower Above You

Breeds
By Jonas Becker

Some dog breeds are known for their impressive height, making them tower above their canine counterparts and sometimes even their human companions. These breeds are not only tall but also possess unique characteristics and charm. Whether you’re looking for a gentle giant or a playful puppy with a towering presence, these breeds offer a little bit of everything for large dog lovers.

Great Dane

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Great Danes are often celebrated for their enormous size and gentle nature. With their long legs and sleek bodies, they are truly majestic creatures. Originating from Germany, Great Danes have a dignified appearance and can reach a height of up to 32 inches at the shoulder. They are known as gentle giants, exuding calmness and love. Despite their size, they are friendly and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets. Their impressive stature can be intimidating, but these dogs are known for their gentle demeanor.

Irish Wolfhound

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The Irish Wolfhound is a breed of great height and storied history. These dogs can stand between 30 to 35 inches tall and are known for their loyalty and affection. Traditionally bred for hunting wolves, they are gentle and kind-hearted companions. Their shaggy coats and soulful eyes give them a wise, ancient appearance. Despite their formidable history, Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants at heart, known for their friendly nature. They require plenty of space to stretch their long legs and enjoy regular exercise.

Scottish Deerhound

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Scottish Deerhounds are known for their slender, athletic build and impressive height, reaching up to 32 inches. These dogs are elegant and gentle. Bred for hunting deer, they possess a natural grace and speed. Their wiry coats and gentle eyes convey an air of sophistication. Deerhounds are known for their friendliness and calm demeanor, making them excellent companions. They thrive in open spaces where they can run freely, reflecting their hunting heritage.

Mastiff

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Mastiffs are renowned for their impressive size and strength, standing between 27 to 32 inches tall. These dogs are both protective and gentle. With origins tracing back to ancient civilizations, Mastiffs have always been revered for their guarding abilities. They are loyal and affectionate with family members. Despite their formidable appearance, Mastiffs are known for their docile and calm nature. They make excellent family protectors and companions, needing a lot of space and love.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands are towering dogs known for their strength and swimming abilities. They can reach heights of up to 28 inches and are famous for their gentle disposition. These dogs have a history of lifesaving, often associated with water rescue due to their powerful swimming skills and webbed feet. Known for their loyalty and sweet nature, Newfoundlands are excellent family companions. They require regular exercise and enjoy activities that involve water, highlighting their natural talents.

Leonberger

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Leonbergers are large, lion-like dogs known for their majestic appearance and friendly nature. They can stand between 28 to 31 inches tall. Bred in Germany, they are known for their thick, luxurious coats and gentle temperament. Leonbergers are friendly with children and make excellent family pets. Despite their size, they are gentle and calm, loving to play and socialize. These dogs need regular grooming due to their thick fur and thrive in spacious environments.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are large, gentle dogs known for their size and rescue abilities in snowy terrains. They stand between 28 to 30 inches tall. Originally bred for mountain rescue operations, these dogs are incredibly strong and reliable. Their friendly nature makes them excellent companions. With a calm demeanor, Saint Bernards are great with children and love family life. They require regular exercise and enjoy cold weather, reflecting their alpine heritage.

Great Pyrenees

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Great Pyrenees are known for their majestic presence and gentle nature, standing up to 32 inches tall. These dogs are natural guardians. With a history of protecting livestock, they are courageous and loyal. Their thick, weather-resistant coats make them suited for various climates. Despite their protective instincts, Great Pyrenees are calm and affectionate with their families. They need regular grooming and enjoy long walks in open spaces.

Kuvasz

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The Kuvasz is a large, protective breed known for its loyalty and intelligence. Standing up to 30 inches tall, they are both elegant and strong. Originating from Hungary, these dogs were traditionally used as livestock guardians. Their loyalty and protective instincts are unmatched. Despite their imposing stature, Kuvasz dogs are gentle and affectionate with their families. They require regular exercise and thrive in environments where they can roam freely.

Anatolian Shepherd

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Anatolian Shepherds are known for their strength and size, standing up to 29 inches tall. They are highly independent and protective. Bred in Turkey as livestock guardians, these dogs are vigilant and brave. They have a strong instinct to protect their territory and loved ones. Despite their independent nature, Anatolian Shepherds are loyal companions. They require ample space and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Borzoi

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Borzois are elegant, tall dogs known for their grace and speed. They can reach heights of up to 28 inches at the shoulder. Originally bred in Russia for hunting, their slender build and long legs make them incredibly fast. They are gentle and affectionate companions. With their aristocratic appearance, Borzois require regular grooming and enjoy activities that allow them to run. They are gentle-natured and form close bonds with their families.

Tibetan Mastiff

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Tibetan Mastiffs are ancient breeds known for their imposing size and protective nature, standing up to 30 inches tall. Originating from the Himalayas, these dogs were used to guard livestock in harsh climates. Their thick coats are well-suited for cold environments. Despite their powerful presence, Tibetan Mastiffs are gentle with family members and form strong bonds. They are independent and require consistent training and socialization.