We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
And one thing you might like to consider is that, depending on the breed, that cute little puppy could grow into a fairly huge animal.
That means a big food bill and being sure you have access to plenty of space - otherwise they’ll never be done knocking stuff over.
So, here are the 12 biggest breeds of dog in the world.
9. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the Bordeaux Mastiff or French Mastiff, is a very muscular dog than can weigh up to 65kg. They are one of the most expensive dogs to buy and care for, so are not necessarily suitable for a family pet. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Black Russian Terrier
Most terrier tend to be small dogs, but not the mighty Black Russian Terrier. These glorious fogs can reach a height of 80cm and weigh up to 63kg. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Great Pyrenees
Another dog bred to protect livestock, the Great Pyrenees is also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog and can weigh in at a hefty 54kg. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Bernese Mountain Dog
Taking its name from the Berne area of Switzerland, where it was bred to pull carts, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a real gentle giant, weighing around 50kg. | Canva/Getty Images