Top 5 Largest Dog Breeds: Meet the Gentle Giants

 

For those who admire large, loyal dogs, these gentle giants stand out not only for their impressive size but also for their gentle, protective, and loyal natures. Here’s a look at the top 5 largest dog breeds by size and weight.

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1. English Mastiff

• Average Weight: 160–230 pounds
• Height: 30 inches and above
• Description: English Mastiffs are known for their formidable size and loyal disposition. Despite their intimidating build, they are gentle and affectionate with family. Originally bred for guarding, they have a calm demeanor that makes them excellent companions.
• Learn more about English Mastiffs​
  iHeartDogs.com
  ​The Spruce Pets

2. Great Dane

• Average Weight: 110–175 pounds
• Height: 28–34 inches
• Description: Known as the tallest dog breed, Great Danes are gentle giants with a friendly and easy-going nature. They were originally bred for hunting and guarding, but today they are known for their loyalty and protective instincts.
• Discover more about Great Danes​
  Sit Stay
  American Kennel Club
  ​Largest.org

3. Saint Bernard

• Average Weight: 120–180 pounds
• Height: 26–30 inches
• Description: Saint Bernards were bred as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, where their size and strength enabled them to save travelers. Known for their affectionate and patient nature, they are gentle with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs.
• Find out more about Saint Bernards​
  Dogster
  ​iHeartDogs.com
  Omlet

4. Newfoundland

• Average Weight: 100–150 pounds
• Height: 26–28 inches
• Description: Newfoundlands are powerful swimmers with natural life-saving instincts, often used in water rescues. Their sweet and loyal nature makes them wonderful family pets, though their size requires plenty of room and exercise.
• More on Newfoundland dogs​
  American Kennel Club

5. Irish Wolfhound

• Average Weight: 105–140 pounds
• Height: 30–32 inches
• Description: The Irish Wolfhound, originally bred for hunting wolves and elk, is the tallest breed by height. Known for their gentle and dignified temperament, they are loyal companions who thrive with early training and socialization.
• Explore Irish Wolfhounds​
  Largest.org
  ​The Spruce Pets

Mom's Home!!!

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Working Dogs #28

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The Top 5 Fastest Dog Breeds and Why They're Built for Speed

 

Speed is an essential trait in many dog breeds, particularly those originally bred for hunting or racing. The Greyhound, Saluki, Afghan Hound, Vizsla, and Whippet are among the fastest dogs in the world, each capable of incredible speeds due to their unique physical characteristics. From the Greyhound’s aerodynamic body and double-suspension gallop to the Saluki’s long-distance stamina, these breeds are built for speed through a combination of lean frames, powerful muscles, and exceptional agility. Learn what makes each of these dogs swift and how their natural speed has been shaped by centuries of selective breeding.

1. Greyhound (Top speed: 45 mph)

The Greyhound is the fastest dog breed in the world, bred primarily for racing and hunting due to its incredible speed. Their slender, aerodynamic bodies, long legs, and deep chest allow for maximum lung capacity, helping them reach speeds up to 45 mph. They have a unique ability to sprint in a double-suspension gallop, where all four feet are off the ground simultaneously.  More info at towcester-racecourse.co.uk.

 

2. Saluki (Top speed: 42 mph)

The Saluki, one of the oldest known breeds, was originally used for hunting game across vast deserts. Its slim and flexible body, combined with powerful muscles and long legs, makes it a fast runner. Salukis are also known for their endurance, capable of maintaining high speeds over long distances, which made them valuable for hunting in ancient times.  More info at primitivedogs.com.

 

3. Afghan Hound (Top speed: 40 mph)

The Afghan Hound was bred in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan to hunt agile prey like deer and leopards. Their strong hindquarters, coupled with their lean, muscular bodies and long limbs, contribute to their ability to run at speeds of up to 40 mph. Their unique coat also protects them in cold climates while running at high speeds.  More info at akc.org.

 

4. Vizsla (Top speed: 40 mph)

The Vizsla is a versatile hunting dog known for its incredible speed, agility, and endurance. Originally bred in Hungary for retrieving and pointing game, Vizslas are built for both speed and stamina. Their lean, muscular bodies and energetic nature allow them to move swiftly, making them excellent at covering large areas quickly.  More info at accidentalbirddog.com.

5. Whippet (Top speed: 35 mph)

Whippets are often called “miniature Greyhounds” and are incredibly fast for their size. They were bred for racing and hunting small game. Their lightweight, muscular bodies, long legs, and efficient energy use allow them to reach speeds of up to 35 mph. Like Greyhounds, they also use a double-suspension gallop, which maximizes their speed during sprints.  More info at breedarchive.com.

 

Best Viewed Whilst Listening To The Song, "Magic Carpet Ride"

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These Doggies Getting Their Halloween Costumes In Shape!!!

@elfreda.dean Dog in drag#funny #foryou #pet #funnyvideos #dog ♬ original sound - Share the fun

Working Dogs #1005: These Goodest Boys Can Do Anything

Border Collies sort black and white Ducks
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