Large Dog Breeds And Characteristics
In the animal world, being big usually means imposing one’s presence. In the case of large dogs, this feature is often accomplished. Despite their imposing appearance, most large dog breeds are loyal and balanced animals.
Do you want to know some large dog breeds? Read on to learn more!
5 large breeds of dogs
Great Dane, a giant among large dogs
This breed (in the photo that opens the article), also known as the German dogo, has German origins precisely. It is believed that initially he was not so docile and sociable, but that the various crosses have perfected his character. Nowadays, it makes a great companion animal and is known as “the noble giant” or “the gentle giant”.
When we talk about large dogs, the Great Dane undoubtedly stands out: between 80 and 100 centimeters in height and with a weight that varies between 50 and 100 kilograms. Some specimens reach a height of over two meters when standing on their hind legs.
As already mentioned, its impressive size hides a sweet and docile character. He is usually not aggressive towards other dogs and if raised from a young age he makes a fantastic companion for the whole family.
Newfoundland
The origin of this breed is found in Newfoundland, in present-day Canada. The inhabitants of this region used him as a working dog, in particular to help with fishing jobs. It is a dog selected for swimming and today is one of the most chosen breeds in sea rescue activities.
Without doubt this dog has won a place of excellence among the large breeds of dogs: males can reach 90 centimeters at the withers and have an approximate weight of 60 kilograms. The coat of the Newfoundland is water resistant and the color varies; despite this, black fur is the most common. Like Great Danes, these dogs also have a quiet and loyal character.
The Neapolitan Mastiff, an icon among the large breeds of dogs
One of those breeds that certainly stand out for their appearance. This animal descends from the enormous Tibetan mastiffs and there are numerous historical records that mention it as a war or fighting dog. The Campania region was one of the most active breeding areas of this breed.
With a height between 60 and 70 centimeters and a weight that is around 85 kilos on average, the Neapolitan mastiff stands out for the enormous amount of skin that covers its body. This feature is accentuated on the head, where there are numerous folds of skin.
This breed has earned a reputation as a guard dog, but if properly trained and bred , it can be a faithful and balanced companion.
St. Bernard
We have to travel to the Swiss Alps and Northern Italy to find the origins of this breed. His exploits as a rescue and retrieval dog in mountainous areas are well known, but he is also an excellent sheepdog.
The Saint Bernard reaches a height that varies between 65 and 75 centimeters, the females are a little smaller, and weighs between 80 kilograms. Its calm and peaceful character contrasts with its appearance, there is no doubt. It is a very strong and muscular dog, but quiet. It must be remembered, however, that it needs large spaces in which to live. There are two varieties based on the length of the hair.
Irish Greyhound
In terms of stature, the Irish Greyhound earns the title of champion among large dog breeds. This breed originates from Ireland, and its origins go back to the greyhounds that the Celts used for hunting.
It has an imposing height, reaches 100 centimeters at the withers, and reaches a weight ranging from 45 to 55 kilograms. Despite these data, the Irish Greyhound is slender and has a strong and very hard coat.
Once again, we emphasize that the appearance of this breed hides an extremely docile character : it is balanced and gets very attached to the little ones of the house.
