Most popular large dog breeds
Adding a dog to a home can be a major decision. Among other things, aspiring owners have to consider what size breed they have space for; how much time they can devote to their new addition; and more particular concerns like exercise needs, shedding, health issues, and climate. Another factor to consider is that the lifespan of a dog typically decreases the bigger the breed, though this could soon change—the world's first anti-aging drug for dogs entered clinical trials in 2024, and manufacturers hope the pill will gain conditional approval from the FDA by the end of 2025.
If you're looking to welcome a larger dog into your home, Stacker is here to help with important pre-pup research. Using data from the American Kennel Club dog profiles, we've compiled a list of the 25 most popular large dog breeds.
To be considered for this ranking, Stacker consulted AKC's list of the largest dog breeds and listed each breed by their 2024 AKC popularity rank, which was released in 2025. While this is in no way the authoritative source for picking a new canine companion, it's intended to be a resource to help guide that search. There's sure to be a breed that catches your eye and pulls at your heartstrings.
#25. Borzoi
- Height of dog: 28 inches and up (male), 26 inches and up (female)
- Weight of dog: 75-105 pounds (male), 60-85 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #102 (of 201)
- Temperament: affectionate, loyal, regally dignified
- Life expectancy: 9-14 years
Borzois have their origins in 17th-century Russia, where they were favorites of Tolstoy and the Romanovs. The elegant sighthound, bred for hunting and its signature long coat, can run up to 40 miles per hour—a feat that's truly impressive to watch. They aren't much into roughhousing like other hounds but make affectionate family pets.
#24. Bouvier des Flandres
- Height of dog: 24.5-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-26.5 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 70-110 pounds
- 2024 popularity rank: #101 (of 201)
- Temperament: affectionate, courageous, strong-willed
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
A true working dog, the Bouvier des Flandres has been employed on farms, in the Belgian army, in the European police force, and as a seeing-eye dog, among other professions. The dogs are happiest when they have a job to do, and can get destructive when they feel bored. They do best in active families with lots of room to roam.
#23. Beauceron
- Height of dog: 25.5-27.5 inches (male), 24-26.5 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 70-110 pounds
- 2024 popularity rank: #100 (of 201)
- Temperament: faithful, gentle, obedient
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
The muscular, athletic Beauceron was developed in the late Middle Ages as a sheepherding dog and has retained its high energy and confidence ever since. Beaucerons have long worked in the military and police force, even serving in the trenches in World War I and World War II. Today, Beaucerons are best for experienced dog owners with a highly active lifestyle who can provide them with the necessary physical and mental enrichment.
#22. Leonberger
- Height of dog: 28-31.5 inches (male), 25.5-29.5 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 110-170 pounds (male), 90-140 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #99 (of 201)
- Temperament: friendly, gentle, playful
- Life expectancy: 9 years
Bred to be working dogs and companions, Leonbergers may look intimidating but they're actually sweet and gentle, and do well with children of all ages. The breed requires lots of room to run and play as well as plenty of daily exercise, so they wouldn't do well in a city or small suburban house, but athletes and outdoorsy folk are sure to find a faithful adventure partner in these pups.
#21. Dogue de Bordeaux
- Height of dog: 23.27 inches (male), 23-26 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 110 pounds and up (male), 99 pounds and up (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #96 (of 201)
- Temperament: affectionate, loyal, courageous
- Life expectancy: 5-8 years
The oldest of the French dog breeds, the Dogue de Bordeaux has been around for thousands of years. Known for their short, fawn-colored coat, stubborn wills, and sweet souls, these dogs need obedience training early on to ensure they don't rule the roost. Their strong attitudes and a host of health concerns mean that they won't make a great fit for those who are busy and not around often.
#20. Dogo Argentino
- Height of dog: 24-26.5 inches (male), 24-25.5 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 80-100 pounds
- 2024 popularity rank: #95 (of 201)
- Temperament: loyal, courageous, athletic
- Life expectancy: 9-15 years
Dogo Argentinos may look intimidating, but don't let their appearance fool you—these hunting dogs can be serious lovebugs if given the chance. Mostly white with the occasional dark spot on the face, Dogo Argentinos were developed in the 20th century to pursue big game. This robust breed requires significant playtime and outdoor activity, and is best for adult owners without other dogs.
#19. Old English Sheepdog
- Height of dog: 22 inches and up (male), 21 inches and up (female)
- Weight of dog: 60-100 pounds
- 2024 popularity rank: #89 (of 201)
- Temperament: smart, gentle, adaptable
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Instantly recognizable by their thick, shaggy coats and bearlike gait, Old English Sheepdogs are beloved for their mild temperament. The fluffy pups can be easily trained and make for an excellent watchdog, owned by the likes of Paul McCartney. However, it might surprise you to learn that, despite its name, the breed once worked with cattle in the countryside of the British Isles.
#18. Alaskan Malamute
- Height of dog: 25 inches (male), 23 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 85 pounds (male), 75 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #79 (of 201)
- Temperament: affectionate, loyal, playful
- Life expectancy: 10-14 years
The oldest Arctic sled dog breed, Alaskan Malamutes are thought to be direct descendants of Paleolithic wolf-dogs. A true pack animal, the breed is incredibly loyal to their family and enjoys giving and showing affection. However, their propensity for leadership means they need a strong, firm owner.
You may also like: Best dog breeds for hunting
#17. Irish Wolfhound
- Height of dog: 32 inches and up (male), 30 inches and up (female)
- Weight of dog: 120 pounds (male), 105 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #76 (of 201)
- Temperament: dignified, courageous, calm
- Life expectancy: 6-8 years
Though once bred to hunt wolves and elk, Irish Wolfhounds are now welcomed by dog owners for their mild-mannered, affectionate personalities. Loyal and easygoing, the Irish Wolfhound enjoys relaxing at home but needs regular exercise to stay healthy. The breed is also called the "Greyhound of Ireland" and can run up to 40 miles an hour in short bursts.
#16. Great Pyrenees
- Height of dog: 27-32 inches (male), 25-29 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 100 pounds and up (male), 85 pounds and up (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #74 (of 201)
- Temperament: smart, patient, calm
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bred to protect flocks and deter predators in the mountains between Spain and France, Great Pyrenees are massive, muscled guardians. However, in their day-to-day lives, the dogs are mellow and calm, only leaping into protective mode when they sense a major threat.
#15. Bullmastiff
- Height of dog: 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 110-130 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #67 (of 201)
- Temperament: affectionate, loyal, brave
- Life expectancy: 7-9 years
"The gamekeeper's night dog," bullmastiffs were bred to hunt down poachers in 19th-century England. A guard dog by nature, the breed requires training, socialization, and positive reinforcement to ensure they can thrive in the family unit.
#14. Saint Bernard
- Height of dog: 28-30 inches (males), 26-28 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 140-180 pounds (male), 120-140 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #62 (of 201)
- Temperament: playful, charming, inquisitive
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
In 1050 a monk named Bernard established a hospice high in the Swiss mountains to aid pilgrims who were making the journey to Rome. Over the years, the monks developed a strong, powerful breed of dog, later dubbed Saint Bernards, who could locate and help luckless travelers who were stranded or injured while trying to cross the pass. Intelligent, playful, and friendly, the breed remains a favorite with dog lovers worldwide.
#13. Akita
- Height of dog: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 100-130 pounds (male), 70-100 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #59 (of 201)
- Temperament: courageous, dignified, profoundly loyal
- Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Akitas have long occupied a special place in Japanese culture, where they're venerated as family protectors and symbols of good health, happiness, and long life. But it's Helen Keller who's credited as being the first person to bring one to the United States after receiving it as a gift upon a trip to Japan. The breed is wary of strangers and other dogs but is playful, silly, and fiercely loyal when it comes to their family.
#12. Bloodhound
- Height of dog: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 90-110 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #58 (of 201)
- Temperament: friendly, independent, inquisitive
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Nicknamed "sleuth hounds," bloodhounds are unmatched when it comes to following a scent—even modern technology has yet to develop a device that is as accurate as this pooch. Bloodhounds are inquisitive, intelligent pack animals who crave the companionship of other dogs and people. They are also good with kids and easygoing.
#11. Weimaraner
- Height of dog: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 70-90 pounds (male), 55-75 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #55 (of 201)
- Temperament: friendly, fearless, obedient
- Life expectancy: 10-13 years
A German pooch, Weimaraners were bred to be big-game hunters. While they aren't used for hunting in the same way these days, they're still active and athletic with a can-do attitude. Weimaraners love kids and long to be a bona fide family member—lots of attention will go a long way in warding off bad behavior.
#10. Chesapeake Bay retriever
- Height of dog: 23-26 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #52 (of 201)
- Temperament: affectionate, bright, sensitive
- Life expectancy: 10-13 years
An American original, Chesapeake Bay retrievers are hunting dogs. Athletic and protective, they need plenty of regular exercise and socialization lest they become grumpy and ill-mannered. The dogs also make excellent therapy dogs and have been employed by the police force as bomb sniffers and search-and-rescue dogs.
#9. Newfoundland
- Height of dog: 28 inches (male), 26 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 130-150 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #47 (of 201)
- Temperament: sweet, patient, devoted
- Life expectancy: 9-10 years
Often called a "nanny dog," Newfoundlands are very good with children. Hallmarks of the breed include their sweet nature, an affinity for affection, and gentle yet protective temperaments. It doesn't hurt that these giants also look like plush toys.
#8. Mastiff
- Height of dog: 30 inches and up (male), 27.5 inches and up (female)
- Weight of dog: 160-230 pounds (male), 120-170 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #40 (of 201)
- Temperament: courageous, dignified, good-natured
- Life expectancy: 6-10 years
Belonging to one of the oldest canine clans in the world, mastiffs have been around for centuries. The giant breed is patient, loveable, and loyal, but, as with all dogs of this size, adopting one is not a commitment to be taken lightly.
#7. Belgian Malinois
- Height of dog: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 60-80 pounds (male), 40-60 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #33 (of 201)
- Temperament: confident, smart, hardworking
- Life expectancy: 14-16 years
First brought to America in 1911, Belgian Malinois' popularity really took off in the 1960s. A working dog, these pups require constant activity and plenty of human companionship to satisfy their people-oriented nature.
#6. Siberian Husky
- Height of dog: 21-23.5 inches (male), 20-22 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 45-60 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #26 (of 201)
- Temperament: loyal, outgoing, mischievous
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Few dog breeds are as instantly recognizable as the Siberian husky, a compact sled dog capable of pulling light loads over long, frozen distances. Case in point: the famed 1925 sled run of life-saving medication from Anchorage to Nome, completed by a team of Siberian huskies in the Alaskan winter. Those who want to bring home a husky will need to provide plenty of exercise and be ready to deal with the dog's thick, heavy coat, which is prone to shedding.
#5. Great Dane
- Height of dog: 30-32 inches (male), 28-30 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 140-175 pounds (male), 110-140 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #21 (of 201)
- Temperament: friendly, patient, dependable
- Life expectancy: 7-10 years
The "Apollo of Dogs," Great Danes literally tower over most other dogs and, when they stand on their hind legs, over most people as well. But don't let their formidable appearance scare you off; Great Danes are sweet and lovable, gentle with kids, and eager to please their owners.
#4. Bernese Mountain dog
- Height of dog: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23-26 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 80-115 pounds (male), 70-95 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #19 (of 201)
- Temperament: good-natured, calm, strong
- Life expectancy: 7-10 years
Built for a life of hard work, Bernese Mountain dogs are sweet, lovable, and playful. They love being outdoors and are not at all suited for city or apartment life. Once they develop a connection with their owners, it's often a connection for life, as they are unendingly loyal.
#3. Boxer
- Height of dog: 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 65-80 pounds (male), females are about 15 pounds less than male
- 2024 popularity rank: #17 (of 201)
- Temperament: bright, fun-loving, active
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Boxers have the whole package: They're loyal, intelligent, protective, affectionate, patient, athletic, and great with children. The breed is high energy and thrives when they have lots of space to run and play, as well as plenty of interaction with other dogs and people outside the family.
#2. Doberman pinscher
- Height of dog: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: 75-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)
- 2024 popularity rank: #16 (of 201)
- Temperament: loyal, fearless, alert
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
In Germany during the 19th century, a tax collector named Louis Dobermann sought to breed an intimidating protector that could accompany him on his rounds and dispel any hostility. The result was the Doberman pinscher, a striking work dog and one of America's most popular breeds. Today, these pups still act as guard dogs and develop strong connections with their family members.
#1. Cane corso
- Height of dog: 25-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-26 inches (female)
- Weight of dog: Proportionate to height
- 2024 popularity rank: #14 (of 201)
- Temperament: affectionate, intelligent, majestic
- Life expectancy: 9-12 years
Cane corsos (which translates from Latin to "bodyguard dog") date back to ancient Roman times, where they acted as guard dogs and working animals. Dominant and protective, these pooches are all muscle and can look particularly intimidating. However, with the right training, plenty of exercise, and a healthy dose of love, they can be loyal and attentive to their families.
