Whether they’re guarding the house or hogging the couch, these big dogs often bring a lot of joy—but they also come with their own set of challenges. Bigger dogs tend to face specific health issues, like joint problems and heart conditions, which can quickly lead to expensive vet bills.
Understanding what makes these dogs special, including their unique health risks, helps owners plan ahead. Since those risks can add up, choosing between our best pet insurance companies can go a long way toward keeping your giant companion happy and healthy.
Top 10 Largest Dog Breeds
According to the American Kennel Club’s 2023 registry of dogs, here are some of the most popular large breeds:
1. Cane Corso
Fierce, loyal, and muscular, Cane Corsos are around 27–28 inches tall at the shoulder and typically weigh between 90 and 120 pounds. Originally bred for guarding and hunting large game, they’re natural protectors with a powerful, intimidating presence. Early training and socialization are essential to balance their protective instincts and help them adapt to family life. While they may look tough, they’re affectionate with their owners and love being part of the family.
2. Great Dane
Great Danes, often called “gentle giants,” stand at about 28–34 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 110 to 175 pounds. Originally bred to hunt wild boar, today, they’re more likely to be found lounging with their families. Their easy-going temperament makes them great with children, but they still serve as loyal protectors when needed.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs, originally from Switzerland, were bred to work on farms, pulling carts and herding livestock. Standing between 23–27 inches tall and weighing 70–115 pounds, they’re strong, hardworking dogs built for tough tasks and cold weather. Their thick, tri-colored coat is perfect for chilly climates, but it also makes them an ideal cuddle buddy at home. Known for their gentle, affectionate nature, Berners make fantastic family pets, especially with their patience around children.
4. Mastiff
Mastiffs tower at 27–30 inches and weigh up to 230 pounds. Bred for guarding and protection, they have a natural wariness toward strangers but are incredibly loyal and loving with their families. Early training and socialization are essential to help them manage their size and instincts. Mastiffs are calm, steady companions who thrive on affection and are especially gentle with children.
5. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are sometimes called “nanny dogs” because of their sweet-natured temperament and watchful eye with their children. Standing 26–28 inches tall and weighing between 100 and 150 pounds, these dogs were originally bred for water rescues. Their thick, water-repellent coats and webbed feet make Newfies powerful swimmers able to pull drowning victims to shore with ease. At home, they’re affectionate companions—though they do drool a lot.
6. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards stand around 26–30 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 120 to 180 pounds. Historically used for mountain rescues, Saint Bernards are strong and capable yet incredibly patient and loving towards young children. Their fluffy coats and calm nature make them great family pets, though their protective instincts mean they’ll always keep an eye on things at home.
7. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs were originally bred to guard estates, and their fearless nature reflects that history. Standing between 24–27 inches tall and weighing 100–130 pounds, they are powerful and brave protectors. While they aren’t quite as large as their Mastiff relatives, Bullmastiffs are still strong, muscular dogs with a calm and affectionate side, especially with their families. Early training and socialization are crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved companions, as their natural guarding instincts can make them wary of strangers.
8. Great Pyrenees
Bred to protect livestock in the mountains, the Great Pyrenees stands 25–32 inches tall and weighs between 85 and 160 pounds. These dogs are known for their calm, gentle demeanor with family members, yet they won’t hesitate to act if they sense a threat. Their thick, weather-resistant coats make them well-suited for outdoor life, though many are just as content lounging around at home. While they are instinctively nurturing and protective, Great Pyrenees also possess an independent streak, making training a bit more challenging.
9. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are the tallest of all dog breeds, often standing around 32–35 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 105 and 180 pounds. Originally bred to hunt wolves and other large game, they have since earned a reputation as gentle, agreeable companions. They’re low-key dogs who are easygoing, making them great family pets, though they do need plenty of space to stretch those long legs.
10. Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian Shepherds were bred to guard livestock, and their strong territorial instincts make them excellent protectors. Standing between 27–29 inches tall and weighing 80–150 pounds, these dogs are loyal, intelligent, and fiercely independent. Despite their size, they are agile and quick, which adds to their effectiveness as guard dogs. While they may not be overly affectionate, Anatolian Shepherds are deeply devoted to their families and show their loyalty through their protective behavior.
Health Risks Common Among Large Dog Breeds
In addition to common pet health issues, large dog breeds face unique health challenges due to their size and weight, which can put extra strain on their joints, heart, and other parts of their body. These and breed-specific issues can be costly, making pet insurance a smart way to manage long-term care for your furry companion.
Here are some common health risks to watch for in large dog breeds:
Hip Dysplasia: This genetic condition happens when the hip joint doesn’t fit properly in the socket, which can lead to arthritis and pain. Symptoms include stiffness, limping, and hesitation to run or jump. In severe cases, surgery may be needed, and that's where pet insurance can really help with those big vet bills.
Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint. It can lead to lameness and arthritis over time. If you notice your dog’s joints cracking or if they’re hesitant to run, it’s time for a vet visit.
Joint Issues (Arthritis and Other Orthopedic Conditions): Many large dogs suffer from joint issues as they age. Arthritis is a common result of joint wear and tear, causing pain and mobility problems. Owners should watch for stiffness, limping, or reluctance to move. Treating arthritis with medication, physical therapy, or surgery can get expensive, so make sure you’re covered.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A serious, life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Signs include a swollen belly, retching, and obvious distress. Bloat requires emergency surgery and fast action—without treatment, it’s fatal. Pet insurance can help ease the financial burden of those urgent, unexpected surgeries.
Cancer: Larger breeds, especially long-limbed dogs like Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes, are more susceptible to cancers such as osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Unfortunately, cancer is often hard to detect early, and treatment costs can add up quickly with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
Obesity: Large dogs can be prone to obesity, especially if they don’t get enough exercise. This condition can lead to joint issues, heart problems, and a shorter lifespan. Preventing obesity with a balanced diet and exercise is easier than treating it, but in cases where health complications arise, insurance can help cover medical interventions.
Heart Disease: Large dogs’ hearts have to work harder to pump blood through their bigger bodies, which can lead to heart disease over time. Symptoms may be hard to notice until the disease has progressed. Regular vet visits can help catch it early, preferable to expensive medications or surgery.
Why Pet Insurance Is Crucial for Large Dog Breeds
Veterinary care has come a long way, and while that’s great for your dog, it can also mean bigger bills—especially for the biggest dogs. According to a 2024 study, larger dogs are more susceptible to a variety of health issues at some point in their lives, such as cancer, bone-related diseases, and even neurological and endocrine conditions. Pet insurance helps cover the kind of treatments that can sneak up on you when you own a large breed.
Larger dogs also tend to rack up bigger vet bills because they need more resources. Think about it: bigger doses of meds, specialized equipment, and even more food during hospital stays. Pet insurance steps in to make sure those surprise costs don’t catch you off guard.
It’s a good idea to insure your dog while they’re still young and healthy. Puppies are cheaper to cover, and insuring early means you won’t run into problems with pre-existing conditions being excluded later on.
The great thing about pet insurance is that it gives you options. You can go beyond just basic care and look into specialists or alternative treatments without constantly worrying about the price tag.
At the end of the day, even if you never have to use it, having insurance in place for your big buddy is a safety net that’s hard to beat.
What to Look for in Pet Insurance for Large Dogs
When looking for pet insurance specifically for large breeds, consider the following factors:
Coverage for Breed-Specific Conditions: Large dogs are more prone to issues like hip dysplasia, joint pain, and heart conditions. Make sure the plan covers diagnosing and treating these common problems. Also, check the waiting periods—some conditions might not be covered right away, especially ones that are common in large breeds. You don’t want to get caught off guard by that fine print.
Comprehensive Coverage and Higher Coverage Limits: Besides the health issues that larger breeds often face, they can still get sick or have accidents like any other dog. Look for a plan that covers wellness, preventative, and accident or emergency care. Since treatments for big dogs can cost more, choosing a plan with higher annual and lifetime coverage limits could be a smart move to avoid maxing out your policy.
Deductibles, Copayments, and Reimbursements: With most pet insurance policies, you’ll have to pay a deductible before the coverage kicks in. Higher deductibles usually mean lower monthly payments, but you’ll pay more out of pocket when something happens. Also, keep an eye on how the company handles reimbursements—some will cover a percentage of the actual vet bill, while others might only reimburse up to a certain amount.
Veterinary Networks: Some insurance plans require you to use vets in their network to get reimbursed. Before committing to a policy, double-check that the network includes vets who are familiar with large dog breeds and their common health issues. It’s important to make sure your vet is covered, especially if your dog needs specialized care.
Case Study: Insuring a Large Dog Breed
When researching the real-world benefits of pet insurance for large dog breeds, I came across an extensive cost breakdown on Lemonade’s website. To make all the numbers a bit more digestible, here’s an example case:
After adopting a playful Great Dane, a couple knew they were in for some big vet bills down the line, given the breed's risk of issues like hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat. To prepare for potential medical expenses, they opted for a 90% coverage plan with a $500 deductible. This policy covered accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, and emergencies, with an annual premium of $642.84.
By the third year, their Great Dane did indeed need surgery for hip dysplasia. The total cost of the procedure was $5,000 ($2,500 per hip). The couple paid their $500 deductible upfront. After the deductible, the insurance covered 90% of the remaining cost, reimbursing them $4,050.
Here’s how it broke down:
Total surgery cost: $5,000
Deductible paid by the couple: $500
Remaining amount after deductible: $5,000 - $500 = $4,500
Insurance reimbursement (90% of $4,500): 90% × $4,500 = $4,050
Coinsurance amount paid by the couple (10% of $4,500): 10% × $4,500 = $450
Total out-of-pocket expenses for surgery (deductible + coinsurance): $500 + $450 = $950
Over the three years, they had paid $1,928.52 in premiums ($642.84 × 3 years). Including their out-of-pocket expenses for the surgery, their total costs amounted to $2,878.52. Which means the couple saved $2,121.48 on this surgery alone ($5,000 - $2,878.52).
How to Manage the Cost of Insuring Large Dog Breeds
Insuring a large dog can get pricey, but there are a few smart ways to keep insurance costs down without sacrificing coverage. Here’s how you can get the most value out of your pet insurance:
Choose the right deductible: Higher deductibles usually mean lower monthly premiums, but make sure you’re comfortable with what you’ll have to pay out of pocket if your dog needs care. The goal is to balance a deductible you can afford with premiums that fit your budget.
Look for discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like insuring multiple pets, paying annually instead of monthly, or even for civil or military service members. Don’t hesitate to ask about any potential discounts that could save you money.
Start with basic coverage and adjust later: If you're on a tight budget, consider starting with a plan that covers accidents and illnesses. You can always add more coverage as your dog ages or if their health changes. This way, you’ll still have protection without overspending upfront.
Shop around: Pet insurance rates can vary widely between companies, so it pays to compare policies. Make sure to look at what’s covered, any waiting periods, and the lifetime limits.
Pay annually if you can: Some pet insurers offer discounts if you pay for the entire year upfront instead of breaking it into monthly payments. If it works for your budget, this can be an easy way to save.
Don’t forget the extras: Some policies offer wellness add-ons that cover routine care like check-ups and vaccinations. These extras might cost more upfront, but if your dog is healthy, they could actually save you money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions About Large Dog Breeds and Insurance
- What health issues are common in large-breed dogs? Large breed dogs see an increased incidence of hip and elbow dysplasia, certain heart conditions, joint problems, and even certain cancers.
- Do large breeds cost more to insure? Typically, yes. Pet insurance premiums are higher for large breed dogs due to their increased risk for health issues.
- Are there breed-specific exclusions in pet insurance policies? Some policies may not cover certain hereditary or genetic conditions. Always check the fine print to ensure your breed's common health issues are included.
- Can I get insurance coverage for my older large-breed dog? Yes, but it might cost more since older dogs are more likely to need care. Insuring them earlier can help avoid higher premiums.
- Can I insure my large breed dog for just accidents or illnesses? Yes, you can choose a plan covering only accidents, illnesses, or both.
- What information do I need to get a quote? A pet insurance company can generate a quote for your pet with just your pet's age, breed, and medical history.
Summary
Owning a large dog comes with big rewards—and big responsibilities. From managing their unique health needs to preparing for costly vet bills, the right pet insurance can make all the difference. By choosing a plan that fits both your dog’s needs and your budget, you’re not just covering the costs—you’re investing in their long, healthy life.
