In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 largest dog breeds, including their history, size, and temperament. We’ll also cover the health risks common among big dogs, and explain how pet insurance can help cover costly medical care.
Key Insights
- Large dog breeds face higher lifetime vet costs due to size-related health issues.
- Common conditions include joint problems, heart disease, bloat, and cancer.
- Pet insurance helps offset high costs for surgery, diagnostics, and emergency care.
- Insuring your dog early avoids exclusions for pre-existing conditions.
- Choosing the right plan with breed-specific coverage is crucial for big dogs.
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
Average Size: Height – 27–28 inches | Weight – 90–120 lbs
Temperament: Loyal, alert, and protective
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Originally bred in Italy for guarding and hunting large game, the Cane Corso is known for its power, intelligence, and loyalty. These dogs thrive with early training and firm but loving leadership.
Common Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, bloat, eyelid abnormalities
Insurance Tip: Look for a policy that covers orthopedic conditions early, including hip evaluations and bloat-related emergencies.
2. Great Dane
Average Size: Height – 28–34 inches | Weight – 110–175 lbs
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and patient
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Nicknamed “gentle giants,” Great Danes are one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. Despite their size, they’re known for their calm demeanor and love for lounging around with the family.
Common Health Risks: Heart disease (DCM), bloat, hip dysplasia
Insurance Tip: Prioritize plans that cover cardiomyopathy and emergency surgery coverage for bloat.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Average Size: Height – 23–27 inches | Weight – 70–115 lbs
Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, and hard-working
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Originally bred for pulling carts and herding livestock in the Swiss Alps, Berners are cold-weather working dogs with sweet temperaments. They're great with kids but prone to certain hereditary conditions.
Common Health Risks: Elbow dysplasia, cancer, joint degeneration
Insurance Tip: Choose a plan that includes cancer coverage and doesn’t exclude genetic predispositions.
4. Mastiff
Average Size: Height – 27–30 inches | Weight – up to 230 lbs
Temperament: Calm, loyal, and protective
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: One of the heaviest dog breeds, Mastiffs are gentle family guardians with deep bonds to their people. Their size alone can make treatment and care more expensive.
Common Health Risks: Hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, obesity
Insurance Tip: Go for higher annual coverage limits — vet bills for giant breeds can escalate quickly.
5. Newfoundland
Average Size: Height – 26–28 inches | Weight – 100–150 lbs
Temperament: Sweet-natured, watchful, and nurturing
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Newfies are natural swimmers and were historically used for water rescues. Their calm, loving personalities make them ideal family dogs — especially with kids.
Common Health Risks: Heart disease, hip dysplasia, subvalvular aortic stenosis
Insurance Tip: Ensure your plan includes coverage for cardiac testing and large-breed orthopedic evaluations.
6. Saint Bernard
Average Size: Height – 26–30 inches | Weight – 120–180 lbs
Temperament: Gentle, devoted, and protective
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Famous for alpine rescues, Saint Bernards are strong and affectionate companions. Their thick coats and steady nature make them wonderful family dogs.
Common Health Risks: Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, entropion (eyelid issue)
Insurance Tip: Focus on plans that don’t delay coverage for breed-specific orthopedic problems.
7. Bullmastiff
Average Size: Height – 24–27 inches | Weight – 100–130 lbs
Temperament: Confident, brave, and affectionate with family
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Originally bred to guard estates, Bullmastiffs combine strength with loyalty. They require early training to balance their protective instincts.
Common Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, ligament injuries
Insurance Tip: Opt for accident & illness coverage that includes joint injuries and hormone disorders.
8. Great Pyrenees
Average Size: Height – 25–32 inches | Weight – 85–160 lbs
Temperament: Calm, patient, and protective
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Known for guarding livestock, the Great Pyrenees is both independent and gentle. Their thick coats and strong instincts make them well-suited to outdoor living.
Common Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, bloat, luxating patella
Insurance Tip: Ensure coverage includes orthopedic surgery and emergency conditions like GDV (bloat).
9. Irish Wolfhound
Average Size: Height – 32–35 inches | Weight – 105–180 lbs
Temperament: Quiet, easygoing, and loyal
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: The tallest dog breed in the world, Irish Wolfhounds are elegant and calm. They’re great companions but have shorter lifespans and are vulnerable to bone-related diseases.
Common Health Risks: Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), heart disease, bloat
Insurance Tip: Select plans that cover cancer treatment and don’t cap payouts for chronic conditions.
10. Anatolian Shepherd
Average Size: Height – 27–29 inches | Weight – 80–150 lbs
Temperament: Independent, intelligent, and fiercely loyal
Why It’s a Large Breed to Watch: Originally bred to guard flocks, Anatolian Shepherds are self-sufficient and protective. They’re agile for their size and need space and structure.
Common Health Risks: Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, entropion
Insurance Tip: Choose a plan with flexible vet networks — this breed may require specialists for certain conditions.
| Breed | Height | Weight | Temperament | Common Health Risks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cane Corso | 27–28 inches | 90–120 lbs | Loyal, alert, protective | Hip dysplasia, bloat, eyelid issues |
| Great Dane | 28–34 inches | 110–175 lbs | Gentle, affectionate, patient | DCM, bloat, hip dysplasia |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 23–27 inches | 70–115 lbs | Affectionate, gentle, hard-working | Elbow dysplasia, cancer, joint degeneration |
| Mastiff | 27–30 inches | Up to 230 lbs | Calm, loyal, protective | Hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat, obesity |
| Newfoundland | 26–28 inches | 100–150 lbs | Sweet-natured, nurturing | Heart disease, hip dysplasia, SAS |
| Saint Bernard | 26–30 inches | 120–180 lbs | Gentle, protective | Hip dysplasia, bloat, entropion |
| Bullmastiff | 24–27 inches | 100–130 lbs | Confident, brave, affectionate | Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, ligament injuries |
| Great Pyrenees | 25–32 inches | 85–160 lbs | Calm, independent, protective | Hip dysplasia, bloat, luxating patella |
| Irish Wolfhound | 32–35 inches | 105–180 lbs | Quiet, loyal, easygoing | Osteosarcoma, heart disease, bloat |
| Anatolian Shepherd | 27–29 inches | 80–150 lbs | Independent, intelligent, loyal | Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, entropion |
Common Health Risks in Large Dog Breeds
Like all pets, large dogs can face common pet health issues, but their size adds a unique layer of risk. The added weight and physical structure of giant breeds can put pressure on their joints, bones, heart, and digestive system, often leading to chronic or emergency conditions. Remember, you can always appeal a denied pet insurance claim. Before dealing with appeals, it's good to understand your dog's health risks. Below are some of the most common health concerns among large breeds, what to watch for, and why insurance matters.
Hip Dysplasia
This genetic condition occurs when the hip joint doesn’t sit properly in the socket, leading to painful arthritis.
What to watch for: Limping, stiffness, trouble running or jumping.
Why it matters: Surgery can cost thousands, and pet insurance helps manage those big bills.
Elbow Dysplasia
A developmental issue in the front legs, common in breeds like Mastiffs and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
What to watch for: Cracking joints, uneven gait, reluctance to walk.
Why it matters: Treatment often involves surgery or long-term care, which can get expensive.
Arthritis and Joint Degeneration
As big dogs age, joint wear becomes a real concern, especially if they were very active when young.
What to watch for: Difficulty rising, slower movement, less interest in play.
Why it matters: Long-term treatment adds up insurance with chronic care coverage is a smart move.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and traps gas, most common in deep-chested dogs like Great Danes.
What to watch for: Swollen belly, unproductive retching, signs of distress.
Why it matters: Emergency surgery is the only way to save your dog. Without insurance, the cost can be overwhelming.
Cancer (Especially Bone Cancer)
Large breeds like Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes are more prone to aggressive cancers like osteosarcoma.
What to watch for: Swelling in limbs, unexplained limping, lethargy.
Why it matters: Cancer treatment is expensive, and ongoing plans with high annual coverage can help.
Obesity
Big dogs can put on extra weight easily, leading to secondary health issues.
What to watch for: Excess weight, reduced energy, labored breathing.
Why it matters: Prevention is key, but if medical treatment is needed, a wellness add-on may help cover costs.
Heart Disease
Because large breeds’ hearts work harder, they’re at higher risk for cardiac conditions.
What to watch for: Coughing, rapid breathing, exercise intolerance.
Why it matters: Early diagnosis improves outcomes. Insurance that covers diagnostics and meds is essential.
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.
How to Choose Pet Insurance for Large Dogs: What Really Matters
Large dogs come with large responsibilities and that includes choosing insurance that actually fits their medical risks. Here's what to look for in a pet insurance policy designed for big breeds.
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: How Pet Insurance Helped a Great Dane Owner Save Thousands
When a couple adopted a playful Great Dane puppy, they knew the breed’s size came with potential health risks, particularly hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat.
While researching their options, they found a cost breakdown on Lemonade’s website that helped them estimate long-term veterinary expenses and choose the right plan. They selected a 90% reimbursement policy with a $500 deductible, costing $642.84 per year. This plan covered accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, and emergency surgeries.
By the dog’s third year, it needed surgery for bilateral hip dysplasia, costing $5,000. Here’s how the numbers worked out:
- Total surgery cost: $5,000
- Deductible paid: $500
- Remaining balance after deductible: $4,500
- Insurance reimbursement (90%): $4,050
- Owner’s coinsurance (10%): $450
- Out-of-pocket total for the procedure: $950
Over three years, the couple paid $1,928.52 in premiums. Including the surgery, their total expense came to $2,878.52, meaning they saved $2,121.48 on that surgery alone.
How to Manage the Cost of Insuring Large Dog Breeds
Insuring a large dog can get pricey, but there are several smart ways to keep costs manageable without sacrificing essential coverage. Here are the top strategies to help you get the most value from your pet insurance plan:
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.
