The giant short haired dog breeds are a group of magnificent dogs that are perfect for families and individuals who want a loyal companion. They typically weigh between 80-120 pounds.
These breeds are known for their short, smooth coats that require minimal grooming. The Bulldog, for example, has a short, easy-to-maintain coat that comes in a variety of colors.
Some of the most popular giant short haired dog breeds include the English Mastiff, the Bullmastiff, and the Bulldog. Each of these breeds has its own unique characteristics and temperament.
These breeds are not only beautiful but also gentle and loving, making them perfect for families with children.
Check this out: Short Bulldog Breeds
Giant Short Haired Dog Breeds
If you're looking for a giant short-haired dog breed that's as gentle as it is massive, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a great choice. Weighing in at 99 to 110 pounds, these French mastiffs are certainly not for the faint of heart.
They stand tall at 23 to 26 inches, making them a commanding presence in any room.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a powerful and intimidating breed, but don't let that scare you off. These Italian Mastiffs need lots of exercise and a firm hand to thrive.
Cane Corsi can be intimidating bodyguards, but with the right training, they'll bond with their families, including children. With their rugged appearance and athletic build, it's no wonder they're a popular choice for those who want a loyal companion.
If you're considering bringing a Cane Corso into your family, be prepared for a challenge. These dogs are not for the faint of heart, but for those who are willing to put in the work, the rewards are well worth it.
Here are some key facts about the Cane Corso:
Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is known as the King of the Terriers due to its size and personality. They can be quite bold and determined, but also make excellent companions.
One of the notable characteristics of the Airedale Terrier is its weight, which ranges from 50 to 70 pounds.
Tosa
The Tosa is a gentle giant from Japan, standing tall at 21-24 inches in height. They're the largest breed to come from Japan.
Their short coats are a beautiful reddish brown, fawn, or apricot color, and they often have dark brown or black noses. This breed is known for its low shedding factor, making them a great choice for those with allergies or a preference for less dog hair.
Tosas are easy-going and loving, but they can be wary of strangers and other dogs. They're natural defenders of their family members, so it's essential to socialize them properly.
Rottweiler and Mastiff Considerations
Rottweilers are medium to large dog breeds, reaching a shoulder height of 22” – 27” and weighing 84lbs – 130lbs. They need regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Rottweilers require obedience and socialization training to become confident and well-behaved companions. This means investing time and effort into teaching them good manners and social skills.
If you're considering a Rottweiler, be prepared for a medium-energy dog that will keep you active and engaged.
German Rottweiler Search Considerations
If you're considering bringing a German Rottweiler into your family, you'll want to think about their physical needs first. They typically stand between 22” and 27” at the shoulder.
Their size is a medium to large breed, which means they'll need plenty of space to move around. German Rottweilers usually weigh between 84lbs and 130lbs, so you'll want to make sure your home can accommodate their weight.
One thing to keep in mind is that German Rottweilers have a medium energy level, so they'll need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They're also very social dogs that thrive on interaction with people, but they do require obedience and socialization training to become well-behaved companions.
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Before Searching for a Mastiff
Before searching for a Mastiff, consider their physical characteristics.
Their shoulder height is typically between 27.5” and 30”.
These gentle giants can weigh anywhere from 50lbs to 75lbs.
As a low-energy breed, they don't require a lot of exercise, but they still need regular physical activity to stay healthy.
Their good-natured and docile personality makes them a loyal companion, but it's essential to remember they are powerful dogs that require proper training and socialization.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is known as “the gamekeeper’s night dog.” It was developed in the 19th century to protect private English game preserves and country estates.
This breed is highly biddable, meaning it responds well to training. However, early socialization and puppy training are extremely important for its development.
As a loyal guardian, the Bullmastiff is a natural protector of its family and territory.
Caring for Large Breeds
Caring for Large Breeds requires a thoughtful approach. Training is a top priority, especially for independent spirits. Early socialization and training can make a huge difference in a big dog's behavior and obedience.
The American Kennel Club recommends using a breed selector tool to find the right large dog breed for you. This will help you consider factors like trainability, energy level, and shedding. It's also essential to think about your lifestyle and living situation.
To optimize nutrition, focus on high-protein, low-fat meals for your large breed dog. Look for food that provides glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to improve joint health. This is crucial for large breeds, as they take longer to mature physically and mentally.
For another approach, see: English Mastiff Large
Big dogs need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. However, it's also essential to consider the amount of time you can devote to training. As a general rule, training puppies takes a lot of dedication early on.
Here are some key factors to consider when caring for a large breed dog:
- How much time can you devote to training?
- How much money can you put towards your dog in the first year?
- Where will your dog stay when you're on vacation?
- How much barking can you handle?
Remember, training is a lifelong endeavor that doesn't end once your pup grows up. Be patient and consistent, and you'll be rewarded with a well-behaved and loving companion.
Finding and Training
Finding and Training giant short-haired dog breeds requires careful consideration.
Training is essential for all dogs, but it's especially crucial for giant breeds due to their size and potential strength.
It's best to start training giant dogs as young puppies, ideally through a positive and fun approach.
The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program is a great resource for getting started with training, and it's recommended for giant breeds in particular.
Find Your Perfect Big Breed Match
Finding your perfect big breed match can be a daunting task, but it's essential to consider a few key factors. The American Kennel Club's breed selector tool is a great place to start.
To begin, ask yourself how trainable you want your dog to be. This will help narrow down the best breed for you and your family. The tool will also prompt you to consider how energetic you want your dog to be, how much shedding you can deal with, and how much barking you can handle.
It's also crucial to think about your lifestyle, including what type of home you live in, whether you have a yard, other pets, and kids. These factors will help you determine which breed is suitable for your family.
Here are some additional questions to consider:
- How much money can you put towards your dog in the first year?
- How much time can you devote to training?
- Does everyone in your family want a dog?
- Where will your dog stay when you're on vacation?
Answering these questions will help you find a big breed that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Training
Training giant dogs requires a different approach than smaller breeds. Misbehaviors like jumping up, counter-surfing, and pulling aren't cute when your dog is a giant.
These dogs will outweigh many people when fully grown, so it's essential to begin training them as young puppies. Training should always be fun and positive.
The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program is a great resource to get training off on the right foot. It's a good idea to look into this program if you're considering adding a giant breed to your life.
Largest Breeds
The Great Dane is one of the largest breeds, with males weighing up to 200 pounds and standing as tall as 32 inches at the shoulder. Their massive size requires plenty of space to move around.
The Irish Wolfhound is another giant breed, with some males reaching heights of 35 inches or more. Their deep chests and muscular builds make them a force to be reckoned with.
The Newfoundland is known for its massive size, with some males weighing up to 150 pounds. Their thick coats and webbed feet make them well-suited for life in the water.
The Leonberger is a large breed that originated in Germany, with males weighing up to 170 pounds and standing as tall as 31.5 inches. Their distinctive coats feature a mix of golden, black, and red colors.
For your interest: Giant Wooly Alaskan Malamute
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a 200 pound dog?
Yes, the English Mastiff breed can grow up to 200 pounds, making them one of the largest dog breeds. Despite their size, they can thrive in apartment living with proper care.
Sources
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/pets/advice/g1737/largest-dog-breeds/
- https://www.petfinder.com/dogs-and-puppies/breeds/what-are-largest-dogs-puppy-breeds/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/home-lifestyle/pets/g32065740/large-dog-breeds/
- https://www.purewow.com/family/big-dog-breeds
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/16-largest-dog-breeds/
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