Gibson, a Harlequin Great Dane, is currently the world’s tallest dog. When this big fellow, who holds the Guinness Book of World Records title as the world’s tallest dog, stands up he’s more than seven feet tall and measures 42.2 inches on all fours. Gibson comes from a proud line of AKC Great Danes and, while he resides in California and isn’t for sale, Gibson’s grand-puppies can be bought from Great Danes Exclusive. Gibson, though, is a bit of a fluke as Irish Wolfhounds historically hold the title for world’s tallest dogs, ranging up to 35 inches at the shoulder.

The Irish Wolfhound was resurrected from near extinction as a dog breed in the 1800’s when they were used to hunt wolves. Today they make excellent companion dogs. Like a lot of larger breeds they are known for their good nature. As a breed they are good with children, and known to be calm, sweet, and loving. Due to its large size and fast growth the Irish Wolfhound tends to be clumsy as a puppy but grows into its large size well.

Now, while Gibson may be the world’s tallest dog, he’s not the world’s biggest dog. The title of biggest dog currently goes to Hercules, an English. Unlike Gibson, English Mastiffs usually win the title of World’s biggest dog, as they tend to weigh more than 200 pounds. Hercules weighs about 282 pounds, and is said to have paws the size of softballs. While his parents aren’t breeders they are very proud of their “gentle giant,” who is said to be a very loving dog.

English Mastiffs were originally used as military dogs in Great Britain. Today, due to their protective and loving nature, they are prized as family guard dogs. English Mastiffs are very gently and loving with their family and, like most large breeds, excellent with children, they are also very possessive of their family. Due to this tendency it is often recommended that these big fellows be socialized early, as they may be aggressive towards other animals.

Large dog breeds, which include the Great Dane, Newfoundland, and Saint Bernard as well as the Mastiff and Irish Wolfhound breeds, are often known for their loyalty and great demeanor with children. These large dogs can make great family pets, provided you have ample space indoors and out for them to stretch and run. The large dog breeds also are known to have issues with hip and elbow dysplasia as well as heart problems, and can require a lot of veterinary care.