Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. When it comes to large grey dogs, there are a few possible breeds that are known for their big stature and grey coats. In this article, we will explore some of the most common big grey dog breeds and learn what they are called.
Great Danes
One of the most well-known gentle giants is the Great Dane. These dogs are one of the largest breeds, with males sometimes reaching over 30 inches tall and weighing up to 200 pounds. Great Danes have a short, sleek coat that often comes in shades of grey, from light silvery grey to dark charcoal. Some may have a black “mask” on their face. Their massive size makes them imposing, but Great Danes are actually known for being sweet, loyal, and playful pets. Their care needs match their proportions, requiring lots of space, exercise, training, and supervision around children.
Weimaraners
Weimaraners are graceful hunting dogs originally bred to pursue big game like deer and bears. They have a distinctive regal appearance with their silver-grey coats. An average Weimaraner stands around 25 inches tall and weighs 60-70 pounds. These energetic dogs require lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Without proper outlets, their inquisitive nature can lead to destructive behaviors. Weimaraners are intensely loyal with their owners but can be wary around strangers if not properly socialized. Their trainability and affection make them rewarding pets for an active household.
Irish Wolfhounds
As their name suggests, Irish Wolfhounds were bred to pursue wolves and large game. They are among the tallest dog breeds, with heights up to 34 inches at the shoulder. Their muscular build allows them to weigh 105-180 pounds. The Irish Wolfhound has a rough, shaggy grey, red, black, white or brindle coat. Despite its imposing presence, this gentle giant tends to be calm and dignified. Its great size comes with some health considerations like cardiac and bone issues. An Irish Wolfhound requires generous room to move as well as attentive veterinary care.
Neapolitan Mastiffs
Originally bred as guard dogs and fighters in ancient Rome, Neapolitan Mastiffs are impressively massive dogs today. Their heights range from 26-31 inches and they can weigh 130-200 pounds. Neapolitan Mastiffs have loose, wrinkly grey, black, mahogany or tawny coats. They move slowly and deliberately thanks to their heavy bones and muscles. With proper socialization and training, these dogs can be calm, watchful, and protective. Their wrinkles need care to avoid skin fold infections. Neapolitan Mastiffs do best in moderately cool climates and require lots of room.
Newfoundlands
The Newfoundland is a working dog from the Canadian island of the same name, where it was bred as a fisherman’s companion. This gentle giant can grow up to 28 inches tall and 150 pounds. Newfoundlands have a dense, water-resistant double coat that comes in black, brown, grey or black and white. These courageous dogs are known for their calm, sweet nature and loyalty. Their strength and swimming abilities made them ideal for water rescues. But they need plenty of room to move around and a cool climate. With their care needs met, Newfoundlands make endearing, polite pets.
Leonbergers
Originally bred as a multi-purpose farm and family dog in Germany, the Leonberger has a tawny coat with a black mask and can weigh up to 170 pounds. This muscular, regal breed stands 25-31 inches tall. The Leonberger has a water-resistant double coat that can be yellow, golden, red, reddish-brown or sand colored. Intelligent, playful, and obedient, Leonbergers get along well with children and other pets but need plenty of exercise and grooming. Owners appreciate their calm temperament and desire to please.
Standard Poodles
Though most commonly associated with elaborate show clips, Poodles come in a simple retriever clip that highlights their large, elegant build. Standard Poodles stand over 15 inches tall and can weigh 45-70 pounds. Their coat comes in various solid colors including grey, apricot, black, white, brown, silver, blue, cafe-au-lait, silver beige and red. Behind the regal, intelligent appearance, Poodles have an energetic, fun-loving personality. Their dense curly coat requires regular brushing and clipping. But Poodles are people-oriented dogs that thrive on being with their families.
Bouvier des Flandres
The Bouvier des Flandres originated as an versatile farm dog in Belgium, used for anything from herding cattle to pulling carts. Their compact, powerful build allows them to grow 24-28 inches tall and weigh 70-110 pounds. Bouviers have a shaggy, coarse outer coat in fawn, brindle, black or grey shades. Beneath is an insulating undercoat. This weather-resistant breed needs moderate grooming and exercise. Bouviers are bold, confident dogs that can be territorial and aloof with strangers. Early socialization and training helps bring out their steadfast, loyal side.
Akbash Dog
Native to western Turkey, the Akbash Dog was bred to be a livestock guardian. They are large, muscular dogs that can reach 34 inches tall and 130 pounds. Akbashes have a dense double coat primarily in white but sometimes with some light grey, sable or brindle shading. While wary of strangers, Akbashes are loyal and protective of their flock and family. They have an independent nature and strong territorial instincts. Owners need to socialize Akbashes extensively and establish themselves as the clear pack leader.
Komondor
The Komondor originated as a livestock guarding dog in Hungary. Beneath their distinctive corded coat, Komondors are large, strongly-built dogs up to 31.5 inches tall and weighing 80-100 pounds. Their coat forms when the soft undercoat and coarser outer coat mat together as the dog reaches adulthood. Proper care is needed to prevent the cords from becoming matted. Komondors are obedient, courageous, and dignified. Their protective instincts make them devoted guardians. Early socialization is key for this naturally wary breed.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hailing from the Swiss Alps, the Bernese Mountain Dog was bred as an all-around farm dog. Bernese Mountain Dogs can reach 25-27 inches tall and weigh 70-115 pounds. Their coat is thick and moderately long, typically with black and white markings. The Bernese Mountain Dog has a gentle, affectionate nature around family but is also hardworking and lively. Their lifespan is relatively short, usually 6-8 years. Socialization and training are needed for this large breed to reach its potential as a devoted companion.
Great Pyrenees
Used as guardian dogs by peasant shepherds in the Pyrenees Mountains, the Great Pyrenees is a majestic, giant breed that can weigh 100-160 pounds. Their thick double coat is weather resistant and comes in white or white with patches of grey, badger, reddish-brown or tan. Great Pyrenees typically grow 25-32 inches tall. Beneath their placid, patient exterior, Great Pyrenees are fearless and protective. Their nocturnal nature made them ideal night watchdogs. But they need substantial socialization to curb their natural wariness of strangers.
Common Health Issues
Due to their larger size, giant dog breeds can face certain health issues. Some common concerns to look out for include:
- Joint dysplasia – abnormal development leading to joint instability and arthritis
- Bloat – twisting of the stomach that traps gases and requires emergency treatment
- Cardiac problems – cardiomyopathy, valve issues
- Bone cancer – osteosarcoma
- Hypothyroidism – underactive thyroid gland
Larger dogs also tend to have shorter average lifespan of just 6-8 years. Providing excellent nutrition, regular vet care, and weight management can help reduce problems.
Comparison of Large Grey Dog Breeds
| Breed | Height | Weight | Coat | Personality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Dane | 28-34 inches | 100-200 lbs | Short, sleek | Friendly, playful |
| Weimaraner | 23-27 inches | 55-90 lbs | Smooth, short | Energetic, alert |
| Irish Wolfhound | 30-35 inches | 105-180 lbs | Rough, shaggy | Calm, dignified |
| Standard Poodle | 15+ inches | 45-70 lbs | Thick, curly | Energetic, smart |
Choosing the Right Dog
When considering one of these big grey dog breeds, it’s important to honestly assess whether you can meet their needs. Giant breeds require lots of space to move around, often needing a home with a yard. They can eat a lot of food, costing over $1000 a year. Big dogs also need training and extensive socialization to ensure good behavior. And their size makes veterinary care, medications, and supplies more expensive.
On the other hand, many large grey dogs have more moderate exercise needs and can thrive as calm house pets. Their size and protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs. With proper care, giant grey dog breeds can become loving, loyal companions that bring lots of joy to your life.
Conclusion
There are many big, beautiful grey dog breeds to choose from. A few of the most popular gentle giants include Great Danes, Weimaraners, Irish Wolfhounds, Standard Poodles, and more. Each giant breed has its own unique history, appearance, and personality. While their size has some drawbacks, proper care and training allows these majestic grey dogs to become wonderful additions to your home.