Thursday, November 17, 2011

Top 10 Largest Dog Breeds

From breeds that can sit comfortably in your lap to the true giants of the species, man’s best friend comes in all shapes and sizes. We are listing 10 of the largest dog breeds in world below.

1. Saint Bernard

The St. Bernard Dog is a working dog from the Swiss Alps that was bred for rescue missions in mountain passes. It is a truly huge dog, standing in from 27 to 35 inches at the withers (the highest point on the back of an upright animal). Males can weigh anywhere between 73 to 117 kg. The St. Bernard is a very loyal and friendly breed. Although not an overly aggressive dog, socialization and proper training is required at an early age so that it does not become unmanageable.

2. Mastiff

The Mastiff (also known as the English Mastiff) is the second largest of all dog breeds. Males can weigh between 68–110 kg and their standard height is 30 inches. Although Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds are taller then the Mastiff they are much smaller in terms of mass. Mastiffs are a muscular and powerful breed and they are renowned for their courage and dignity. Mastiffs are considered as one of the best guard dogs in the world and make for a loving and well mannered house pet.

3. Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is considered as the 3rd largest dog breed in the world. Standing in at 26 to 31 inches this breed has a standard weight of 74 KG although larger specimens are common. Renowned for their fearsome appearance and protective instincts, this breed makes for a great guard dog. They need to be properly socialized at an early stage so they don’t become a danger for strangers.

4. Newfoundland
Newfoundland
Weighing in at 60 to 70 kg (males) the Newfoundland dog is the fourth largest breed in the world. It is considered by some as the strongest of all dogs and excels at water rescue operations. Newfoundland dogs are an extremely loving, patient and gentle dog that make for a great house pet. Its webbed feet and tremendous strength make it an outstanding swimmer.

5. Dogue de Bordeaux
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux (also known as the French Mastiff) is one of the most ancient of all French dog breeds. French Mastiffs are powerful and imposing dogs. They have a fearless spirit and are ideal for guard duties. Dogue de Bordeaux rank as the fifth largest dog in the world weighing in from 54 to 65 kg for males with a height of 23-30 inches.

6. Great Dane
Great Dane
The Great Dane is renowned for its size and sometimes referred to as ‘Apollo of all breeds’. It is considered as the second tallest dog after Irish Wolfhounds. Great Danes rank as number 6 in terms of size. Males Danes can weigh anywhere between 54 to 90 kg and reach a height of 30-34 inches. This is a beautiful and usually well manned breed that is patient with children.

7. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is an ancient breed that has been used over the centuries primarily for wolf hunting. The tallest of dog breeds they usually weigh 40 to 69 kg and have a height of 28-35 inches. Irish Wolfhounds are an intelligent, patient and generous breed. Their sweet natures allow them to be trusted with children. These dogs are somewhat clumsy and aren’t recommended for guard duties.

8. Perro de Presa Canario
Perro de Presa Canario
The Perro de Presa Canario (or simply ‘Presa Canario’) is a large and powerful dog that originated in the Canary Islands and was specifically developed for dog fighting and large game hunting. This breed weighs in around 36 to 59 kg and stands at 21 to 25 inches. Presa Canarios are outstanding guard dogs but they are NOT for the novice or first time dog owner due to their dominant natures. This breed requires extensive socialization and obedience training.

9. Pyrenean Mountain Dog
Pyrenean Mountain Dog
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is also known as Great Pyrenees and is commonly used as a livestock guardian. It is a serious and well mannered dog that is wary of strangers. Weighing in at around 50 to 54 kg the Great Pyrenees ranks at 9th in terms of size. Like most large dogs, early socialization is necessary for these dogs.

10. Kuvasz
kuvasz
The kuvasz (pronounced: KOO-vahz) is a large and ancient dog breed of Hungarian origin. They have traditionally been used as livestock guardian. This dog weighs at around 45 to 52 kg and stands at 28 to 30 inches. The kuvasz is an independent thinker and can be hard to train.