Large Breeds Ranked By Popularity
↓ Skip directly to Large BreedsWe've ranked these Large breed dogs by popularity to help you see which may be easier to find and which might be a challenge. If a breed is listed as 'Rare' or has a higher AKC Popularity number, be prepared for a potentially longer search.
The classification is determined by both height and weight. Consequently, several tall hound breeds—including the Greyhound, Azawakh, and Saluki—fall into the "Large" category due to their weight being substantially less than 100 pounds.
Large breeds offer substantial benefits including their impressive presence as natural deterrents and their typically calm, stable temperaments. Many of the Large breeds make resilient and reliable family companions due to their sturdier builds and generally patient nature.
However, potential owners should consider several challenges before committing to a large breed. Their size means everything costs more—from food and medications to grooming and veterinary care. Large dogs require significant space both indoors and out, and may not be suitable for apartment living or homes with limited yard space.
Health considerations are particularly important with larger breeds, as some larger breeds may be predisposed to joint issues like hip dysplasia. They typically have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs.
Their strength requires consistent training from puppyhood, and simple activities like car travel or finding pet-friendly accommodations require advanced planning.
Size Range: The lower end of each height/weight range represents typical female measurements, while the higher end reflects male averages.
Labrador Retriever
Origin: Canada
Purpose: Retrieving fishing nets & game
Height: 21.5-24.5"
Weight: 55-80 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #2
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Golden Retriever
Origin: Scotland
Purpose:Retrieving waterfowl
Height: 21.5-24"
Weight: 55-75 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #3
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German Shepherd
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Herding, protection
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 50-90 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #4
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Standard Poodle
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Water retrieving
Height: 22-27"
Weight: 40-70 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #5
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German Short-haired Pointer
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Versatile hunting dog
Height: 21-25"
Weight: 45-70 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #10
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Doberman Pinscher
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Personal protection
Height: 24-28"
Weight: 60-100 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #16
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Boxer
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Bull-baiting & guarding
Height: 21.5-25"
Weight: 55-80 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #17
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Belgian Malinois
Origin: Belgium
Purpose: Herding, protection
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 40-80 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #33
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Collie
Sooth & Rough
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Sheep herding
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 50-75 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #39
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Rhodesian Ridgeback
Origin: Southern Africa
Purpose: Hunt lions/Protection
Height: 24-27"
Weight: 70-80 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #43
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Dalmatian
Origin: Croatia
Purpose: Coach dog
Height: 19-24"
Weight: 45-70 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #48
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Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Origin: United States
Purpose: Retrieving in icy waters
Height: 21-26"
Weight: 55-80 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #52
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Weimaraner
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Big game hunting
Height: 23-27"
Weight: 55-90 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #55
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Giant Schnauzer
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Cattle driving
Height: 24-28"
Weight: 55-95 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #57
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Bloodhound
Origin: Belgium
Purpose: Tracking Dog
Height: 23-27"
Weight: 80-110 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #58
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German Wire-haired Pointer
Origin: Germany
Purpose: All-purpose hunting dog
Height: 22-26"
Weight: 50-70 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #61
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Airedale Terrier
Origin: England
Purpose: Hunting, versatile
Height: 22-24"
Weight: 50-70 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #64
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Alaskan Malamute
Origin: Alaska
Purpose: Heavy freighting
Height: 23-25"
Weight: 75-85 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #79
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Irish Setter
Origin: Ireland
Purpose: Bird setting & retrieval
Height: 25-27"
Weight: 60-70 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #85
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Old English Sheepdog
Origin: England
Purpose: Sheep driving
Height: 21-26"
Weight: 60-100 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #89
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