Larger dogs are often the most popular breeds in the world, but there are some that might surprise you. This article will cover 8 of the giant dog breeds you may have never heard about.
Table of Contents
Akita Inu

This large breed of dog is considered a national treasure in Japan and is very popular even within the United States. They were used for guarding the royal family and the homes of nobility because they could hunt down and kill bears and boars that roamed Japan. Akitas are very loving, but can be hard to manage especially when it comes to strangers.
Bullmastiff

The bullmastiff was created in England by breeding an English Mastiff with a Bulldog. These dogs are known for their gentle nature with children, but also have the ability to stop intruders from entering your home or yard. Their appearance may seem quite scary at times, however, these dogs can be very sociable once you get to know them.
Hovawart

Hovawarts are large, intelligent dogs that have long been popular in Germany. They are known for their popularity as family pets and they are most content when living with an active family. However, these dogs can be stubborn so you will need to train them constantly if you want to keep them well-behaved.
Kangal

This dog is usually found within Turkey and Central Asia, but it is gaining popularity throughout Europe because of its loyal nature and affectionate attitude towards children. It was originally bred to guard livestock against predators like jackal, wolf or bear attacks; however, this breed makes a great household companion too! Irish Wolfhounds: massive hounds were used by the ancient Irish to hunt wolves and they are still used for this purpose today. They can grow up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder, but despite their massive appearance they are very docile by nature.
Samoyed

these dogs were originally bred as sled dogs in Siberia; however, now they are mainly kept as family pets because of their gentle natures. Despite their size, Samoyeds love nothing more than cuddles with their owners and can sometimes be quite protective too!
Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is known as a symbol of stability and courage in Tibet and China even though it is one of the oldest breeds of dog found on Earth. They have been used by nomads for guarding livestock against predators and they are still used for this purpose today.
Tosa Inu

These dogs were originally bred in Japan by mixing the Tosa Fighting Dog with local breeds of dog, but there are no signs of any fighting abilities within the breed anymore. They are one of the rarest breeds found around the world today because they can weigh up to 180 pounds!
Xoloitzcuintli

The Xolo is a native breed that has been kept by many Mesoamerican cultures throughout history. Today, these dogs are known as Mexican Hairless Dogs and have become very popular in North America due to their gentle natures and ease of care.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
– Why are Akitas so popular in Japan?
Akitas are popular in Japan because they serve as guard dogs and protectors of the home.
– How big will my Irish Wolfhound get?
An Irish Wolfhound can grow up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 120-200 pounds!
– What is the temperament of a Tibetan Mastiff like?
The Tibetan Mastiff is known for its gentle nature, loyalty and stability that it displays no matter what situation it faces and how big it gets depends on the parents’ size.
– How large do Tosa Inus get?
Tosa Inus were bred from fighting dogs so they could still display their ability for combat, but their temperament has become gentler over time due to breeding with other dog breeds such as Shikoku Inus, Boxers and Bullmastiffs. And depending on your location, Tosa Inus can grow up to 32 inches tall and weigh around 90-180 pounds.
– Where does the Xolo come from?
Xolos originate in Mexico and were used by many Mesoamerican cultures as both family pets and guard dogs because of their protective abilities. These dogs can be found in three different sizes: toy (2-9kg), miniature (10-19kg) and standard (20-36kg).
The 8 Giant Dog Breeds You Might Not Have Heard About are Hovawarts, Kangals, Irish Wolfhounds, Samoyeds, Tibetan Mastiffs , Tosa Inus and Xoloitzcuintli. These dogs were bred for various purposes including guarding livestock from predators or as family pets with gentle natures which can make them a great addition to your home too! If you’re considering adding one of these breeds to your household be sure to do some research first so that you know what’s involved in caring for their needs. Now it’s time to take the plunge and find out if any of these dog breeds might be right for you!