UK’s Top 5 Popular Giant Dog Breeds Explained

Giant dog breeds capture the imagination with their remarkable size and gentle natures. While they make memorable companions, giant breeds require ample space and dedicated care, making responsible ownership essential. If you're captivated by these gentle giants or considering adding one to your home, understanding their needs and personalities is vital.

In this guide, we explore the UK’s top five most popular giant dog breeds in 2025, highlighting their characteristics, care requirements, and why these impressive breeds continue to charm UK dog enthusiasts.

Number 5: The Great Dane

The Great Dane is world-renowned for its towering height, often called the "Apollo of dogs." Males typically measure 76-81cm at the withers, with some exceptional individuals like Zeus reaching nearly 112cm tall. Weighing up to approximately 62kg, they are surprisingly agile for their size.

Gentle and affectionate, Great Danes thrive in family environments. They require moderate exercise to maintain health but are generally calm indoors. Their short coats need minimal grooming but watch for breed-specific health issues like hip dysplasia. When considering find a Great Dane puppy, look for reputable breeders who prioritise health and temperament.

Number 4: The Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard embodies the classic gentle giant. Males stand up to 90cm tall and can weigh up to 120kg, which may come as a surprise! Their famous rescuer history in the snowy Swiss Alps highlights their strength and calm temperament.

Saint Bernards have thick double coats requiring regular grooming to prevent matting, especially in active homes. They are slow-moving, friendly, and deeply loyal pets, well-suited for families with room to accommodate their size. When searching for reputable Saint Bernard breeders, focus on ethical sources ensuring well-socialised puppies.

Number 3: The Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a large, thick-coated water dog with impressive strength and a famously sweet nature. Males grow up to 71cm tall and weigh up to 68kg.

They have webbed paws and a water-resistant double coat making them exceptional swimmers and rescue dogs. Their grooming needs are significant due to dense fur. They enjoy outdoor activities and need careful introduction to water environments. When looking to find a Newfoundland puppy, always check for breeders committed to health testing.

Number 2: The Cane Corso

The Cane Corso, an Italian mastiff, is rapidly rising in popularity in the UK despite not being Kennel Club recognised. Males reach 70cm and 50kg, representing a muscular and protective giant.

Known for strong guarding instincts and loyalty, the Cane Corso requires experienced owners who can provide firm, consistent training and socialisation. Their short coat is easy to maintain. When considering Cane Corso puppies, prioritise reputable breeders focusing on temperament and social skills.

Number 1: The Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux is the UK’s most popular giant breed and one of the more compact giants. Males stand around 69cm tall and weigh about 50kg.

Known for their distinctive wrinkled face and deep loyalty, Dogues de Bordeaux combine power and affection. Despite imposing looks, they often have calm and affectionate temperaments. They need careful socialisation, firm leadership, and consistent training. When looking for Dogue de Bordeaux puppies, seek out breeders who uphold high health and welfare standards.

Honourable Mention: The Akita

The Akita deserves a special nod as it narrowly missed the top five giants list, with its American variant just touching giant size with males at 71cm and 56kg.

Both the American and Japanese varieties are noble, dignified breeds requiring committed, understanding owners. The Akita’s blend of loyalty and strong character requires early socialisation and firm training. If you wish to find an Akita puppy, ensure the breeder is knowledgeable and ethical.

Responsible Giant Dog Ownership

Giant breeds are magnificent but carry unique responsibilities. Prospective owners should consider:

• Whether their living space can comfortably accommodate a large, active dog.
• Health care needs including regular vet check-ups to monitor for breed-specific conditions.
• The financial commitment of food, grooming, and veterinary care often higher than smaller breeds.
• The importance of regular, appropriate exercise tailored to each breed’s stamina and structure.
• Training and socialisation early in life to nurture gentle, well-adjusted giants.

Choosing puppies from reputable breeders and prioritising animal welfare is crucial. Adopting or rehoming giants from trusted rescue organisations is also a responsible option to consider.

Conclusion

While giant dog breeds remain a niche choice in the UK, many owners cherish their gentle nature and commanding presence. Understanding the particular needs of these dogs – from space and exercise to health and behaviour – equips you to welcome a gentle giant into your home responsibly and joyfully.

For those dreaming of owning a giant dog, ongoing education about each breed’s characteristics and care requirements is essential. The UK's top giants like the Great Dane, Saint Bernard, and Dogue de Bordeaux stand as proud, affectionate companions for dedicated families.