In ancient times, in order to have a reliable guard and an excellent watchman in the house, people were engaged in breeding a special breed of dogs. They were terrifying dogs. Many of them served in the palace chambers, some were used to protect farms and pastures. Their formidable appearance, impressive parameters and loud barking were excellent deterrents for thieves and ill-wishers. Not everyone will have a desire to climb into a house where there is such a watchman.
How to determine which breeds are really large and intimidating? There are many criteria by which the largest dogs are selected. First, take weight into account. In order for a dog’s candidacy to be considered for the title of “largest”, its weight must be at least 45 kg. Secondly, of course, growth. Like horses, dogs are measured at the withers, the highest point on their shoulders. Of great importance when choosing is the formidable dog appearance.
The huge size of the dog is able to inspire others with fear. If he also has lush wool, then this visually makes him even more. And, therefore, even worse. Although individuals with short hair, cropped ears or tail, with small eyes sometimes also cause real horror in people.
No less important is the stoic nature of the dog. Many breeds were bred not just for protection, but also to live with people in the house. Therefore, seemingly formidable and scary dogs often have a strong, but balanced and calm character.
Experts have recognized that the largest dogs in the world are English mastiffs. This breed was bred in ancient times. The first mention of it was found about 5000 years ago. Some representatives of this breed weigh up to 160 kg. On average, the weight of a male reaches over 75 kg, and his height is 70-75 cm.
Dogs of the English Mastiff breed have sad eyes and drooping cheeks, and they do not look very attractive in appearance. But perhaps for this very reason many dog ​​breeders love the breed. And also for her incredible sense of dignity. Each movement of the English mastiff emphasizes greatness. Dogs have unprecedented strength, great courage and a dull sense of pain. In the old days they were used for hunting lions. Three adult mastiffs could calmly deal with any king of animals. It is argued that in the future, many dogs, large and aggressive, evolved from this breed.
But with all its severity, all of these biggest dogs are very good-natured and flexible. A little clumsy, obedient and responsive, smart and smart, they love children very much and can be the best nanny for them. But when it comes to protecting the family, they turn into real monsters.
Dogs of the Doberman breed are endowed with similar traits. This is a wonderful watchman, fearless and energetic. He is constantly on guard. It is almost impossible to take him by surprise. Doberman is always and everywhere ready to defend his master, to whom he is usually very devoted. But at first glance it becomes clear that such a dog will not lick his hands and wag his tail.
Many have the opinion that the largest dogs are particularly angry and unfriendly. However, this is not at all true. For all members of the family, the Doberman is an affectionate and kind friend.
In our lands there are many examples of fearlessness of dogs of this breed. For example, the brave Doberman Yurst was able to find a person 8 days after the earthquake that occurred in Armenia. He will never attack first, but he feels the stranger’s enmity for a mile away. There is a known case when a Doberman Sauer from South Africa, listed in the Guinness Book of World Records from South Africa, tracked a thief by smell, being 160 kilometers from him.