Some people like to live life on the larger side. This may mean they require a bigger companion to keep up with them. Or maybe you’re in the market for a cuddly friend to keep you warm at night. No matter your needs, there’s a good sized dog out there for you. Large dogs have a ton of pros that make them desirable pets.
They can be great guard dogs, typically have a sweet temperament, can be super good with kids, and may even require less exercise than you think. There are many advantages to owning a big dog, so here are 10 dog breeds that weigh over 100 pounds that you may be interested in.
10 Dog Breeds That Weigh Over 100 Pounds
For some of these breeds, it may only be the males that reach over 100 pounds on average. The females are still larger dogs, but will not reach the 100 pound mark for every breed. This will be mentioned as it comes up.
1. Irish Wolfhound
Average Lifespan: 6-8 years
Average Size: 105-120 pounds
Coat: medium, wiry
The Irish Wolfhound has a long and interesting history. They were thought to have been bred from large hunting hounds from Britain and the Middle East. They were well loved by Roman soldiers and notorious wolf hunters.
These dogs are one of the tallest breeds, coming in at 30 inches in height as an adult, and that’s just for the smaller ones! Both the males and females reach over 100 pounds, with the females averaging around 105 and the males 120.
While once big game hunters, these dogs are loving and friendly, getting along great with all members of the family from toddlers to grannies. They are not the best guard dogs, but they look intimidating enough to scare off possible harm-doers.
2. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Average Lifespan: 8-11 years
Average Size: 85-140 pounds
Coat: short, smooth
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are named exactly for their origin. They come from the Swiss Alps and were used as cart dogs to haul goods up and down the mountains. Their breed was used in the making of breeds like the Saint Bernard and Rottweiler.
“Swissies” are typically a little smaller on the female size, as they average anywhere from 85-110 pounds. The males range from 115-140 pounds. They’re also quite tall, making them a good pick for a companion.
These dogs will require a lot of exercise, but are very watchful guard dogs. They are good with little kids and will be very protective of those who are closest to them. They can be easily trained and even taught tricks.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
Average Lifespan: 7-10 years
Average Size: 70-115 pounds
Coat: medium, thick
Closely related to the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Bernese Mountain Dogs were also bred to pull carts up and down mountains. They stand tall at 27 inches on average and can easily pull more than their own weight.
Female Bernese Mountain Dogs typically will not hit over 100 pounds, coming in at an average of 70-95 pounds. The males will sometimes be under at 90 pounds, but more than likely will reach up to 115 pounds. These dogs are known for being friendly and goofy companions.
Their largeness makes strangers a little wary of them, but they are not one to be overly protective, Bernese Mountain Dogs will usually form a strong bond with one member of the family, but will be loving and playful with the rest.
4. Great Pyrenees
Average Lifespan: 10-12 years
Average Size: 85-100 pounds
Coat: medium, long, dense
Much like the Bernese and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs, Great Pyrenees were bred for mountain weather. However they weren’t pulling carts, they were watching sheep. Their thick coat would keep them warm as they kept the sheep in line among the cold mountain tops.
The female Great Pyrenees will not reach 100 pounds unless overweight. The smallest males are 100 pounds exactly, but will usually get larger as they age.
These dogs have a very calm temperament, but are quick to oppose when a threat presents itself. This makes them great guard dogs. They have a very thick and fluffy coat, and love their humans. So if you’re looking for a cuddle buddy, look no further!
5. Saint Bernard
Average Lifespan: 8-10 years
Average Size: 120-180 pounds
Coat: smooth, short
Saint Bernards were bred in the mountains, a common theme here among dog breeds that weigh over 100 pounds. They were used to pull people that were buried in snow and bring them to rescue, making great use of their large and muscular size.
These dogs are over 100 pounds for both males and females. The smaller females can weigh anywhere from 120-140 pounds while the males can weigh anywhere from 140-180 pounds.
Saint Bernards are known as “nanny dogs” because they are wonderful and gentle with children. Despite their size, they are not too intimidating and very patient and friendly. They are family dogs and would be a great addition to a family of any size.
6. Newfoundland Dog
Average Lifespan: 9-10 years
Average Size: 100-150 pounds
Coat: medium, dense
Newfoundlands were ship dogs in Canada. They are excellent swimmers and would often bring men who fell overboard back onto the boat. They are similar to Saint Bernards in that way, and in their massive size.
Female Newfoundlands are smaller than males, but still large nonetheless. Their weight ranges from 100-120 pounds. The massive males can get up to 150 pounds on average.
Also like the Saint Bernard, these dogs have a sweet and loving temperament, and just like the Saint Bernard, are also good “nanny dogs” for kids. Newfoundlands love to be by your side and can easily be trained with your guidance.
7. Leonberger
Average Lifespan: 7 years
Average Size: 90-170 pounds
Coat: medium, long, dense
Leonbergers were bred to be royal companions. Saint Bernards and Newfoundlands can both be found deep in their bloodline, making them a working dog without actually doing any work at first. They were kept by European aristocrats until they eventually were used to pull carts.
These dogs can have quite a range in weight, but both males and females are large nonetheless. The females range from 90-140 pounds, while the males range from 110 to 170 pounds.
Leonbergers are highly intelligent and make good watchdogs. Because of their aristocratic history, they are seen as elegant and their lush brown coat comes to prove it!
8. Boerboel
Average Lifespan: 9-11 years
Average Size: 150-200 pounds
Coat: smooth, short
Boerboel dogs were bred as protection for farmers in South Africa from large predators. While they were bred to be big game hunters, they did this to protect their family, which makes them big lovers behind their muscular appearance.
These dogs can be quite huge, with the smaller ones still weighing in at 150 pounds. They can get as large as 200 pounds.
Boerboel dogs should be trained and socialized when they are pups for best results. But they take to training very quickly and are willing to do anything for the humans that are closest to them.
9. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Average Lifespan: 11-13 years
Average Size: 80-150 pounds
Coat: short, smooth
Anatolian Shepherd dogs originate from a breed that comes from Asia. They were brought over to America during a top secret project called “Sheepdog Project” where the Department of Agriculture was looking for the best breeds of dogs to guard sheep.
The female Anatolians can be on the smaller size, with their weight ranging from 80-120 pounds. The males’ weight can range from 110-150 pounds.
These dogs are not the most loving with humans, but they still protect and are good with them. They are strong working dogs and love to be challenged whether through training or playing. They can ward of predators of all sizes, but are there to protect children and your family.
10. Broholmer
Average Lifespan: 8-10 years
Average Size: 90-150 pounds
Coat: short, smooth
Broholmer dogs were only found in Denmark, and they almost went extinct. A few people became dedicated to reviving the breed and eventually it was brought to the United States and is more regularly seen today.
These dogs can be under 100 pounds, but very rarely. They are one of the more rare dog breeds that weigh over 100 pounds, and usually can get up to 150 pounds.
Broholmer dogs are very watchful companions, and make it their mission to protect you. They can be good with children and are great with any type of family.