What Big Dog Should I Get?

Saint Bernards, originally rescue dogs from the Swiss Alps and northern Italy are about 28-35 inches tall and can tip the scales at 140-180 pounds. That's a lot of dog! They are known for their gentle, sweet personality and their love for children and kitties.

Great Danes are tall, usually around 30 inches tall. However, the tallest on record was 44, inches so don't be surprised if yours grows beyond the average height. These dogs are Though they aren't the heaviest dogs, reaching around 100-120 pounds, they are among the tallest. The average Great Dane stands around 28-30 inches tall but often they can be taller. Unfortunately, they usually die before they reach 9 years old.

Parlez-vous ... dogue? These French giants were working dogs, but they didn't limit themselves to guarding the house. They were used for pulling carts or driving livestock. Apparently, their talent went to their heads... they haved the largest head to body size ratio of any dog.

Though newfoundlands are svelte at 150 pounds, their thick coat makes them appear larger than their weight. These dogs love the water. They were bred to help fishmerman haul in their heavy nets and lines, pull carts, and retrieve anything that fell off of the boat, including drowning people.

Irish Wolfhounds were originally used to hunt down wolves, so you shouldn't be surprised that this dog is larger than even Great Danes. What may shock you is that they are peaceble pubs, quiet, laidback, and smart!

Though German Shepherd aren't the hugest of the huge, they are some of the strongest dogs around. Coupled with their legendary intelligence and loyalty, these dog make an excellent companion with those who have time to provide them with sufficient exercise and stimulation.