6 Long-Legged Dog Breeds (With Pictures)
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Long-legged dogs are hard to miss in a crowded area and tend to always appear calm and collected. There are advantages and disadvantages to owning a tall dog, so you should consider your lifestyle and get one with a temperament that is compatible with you and your family. The following list will introduce you to some of the tallest dogs that can become great companions for the right person.
The Top 6 Long-Legged Dog Breeds
1. Scottish Deerhound
One of the tallest breeds, Scottish Deerhounds can reach 32 inches tall. In the past, their long legs were instrumental in assisting them at stalking giant wild deer. They are gentle dogs with polite manners and become loyal companions with plenty of human interaction and training.
They are good family pets with older children and need to be involved in activities to stay happy. Though their wiry coat tends to be unruly, weekly brushing with an occasional bath does well to keep them looking neat and to combat their seasonal shedding.
Fun fact: The breed almost became extinct due to restrictions on breeding and exclusive ownership.
2. Akbash
The Akbash is considered to be an ancient pure breed. They have an independent attitude that makes them difficult to train. Since they have been guard dogs in the past, they have the tendency to bark incessantly since they are prone to suspicion and want to raise the alarm. Most will range in height from 28 to 34 inches, and they have a white/cream colored coat that is longer on the legs and tail.
They don’t need a large amount of exercise, since they were bred to sit on a hillside throughout the day to guard the flock, but they do need to stay in shape. Naturally, they can become quite protective of their family.
- Fun fact: They come from Turkey and have been around since about 750 to 300 B.C.
3. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are a long-legged dog with a long, silky coat. They usually stand around 27 inches and weigh between 50 to 60 pounds. When you see an Afghan, you’ll notice how regal they look, since they carry themselves so proudly. They can also be a bit aloof, especially around people they don’t know.
This is a high-maintenance dog because they are challenging to train and their coat requires constant grooming and weekly baths to prevent it from matting. They also need plenty of exercise to keep boredom at bay and are apt to chasing neighborhood pets if not properly trained. On the positive side, they can be loyal and affectionate when they form a bond.
- Fun fact: Picasso owned an Afghan Hound named Kabul.
4. Irish Wolfhound
Even though these dogs were once fierce wolf hunters, they are now considered serene and make ideal companions. They stand almost three feet at the shoulder and can weigh up to 180 pounds, so this dog will need extra space to run and play. A strong instinct to hunt will always remain at their core, but if you provide mental and physical stimulation, the Wolfhound will thrive.
Since they are gentle and calm, many have done well as service dogs, and they enjoy other sports like tracking and agility. Irish Wolfhounds are fast learners and very intelligent, and they crave company and enjoy activities that involve the whole family.
- Fun fact: They were known for their hunting abilities in pursuing the wolf and the gigantic Irish elk.
5. Great Dane
Not only are they a long legged dog breed, but they also have a large body. The Great Dane will range in height from 28 to 32 inches and can weigh up to 175 pounds. Anyone who has been around a Great Dane knows that even though they are imposing in size, they are gentle and have a big heart.
They are patient and do well with children and being part of the family. They have short hair that sheds seasonally, and they only need the occasional bath and brush to maintain their sleek coat. Daily exercise is important for them to maintain a healthy weight, and they enjoy agility and obedience events.
- Fun fact: The cartoon character Scooby-Doo was made a Great Dane because this breed was once thought to ward away ghosts and evil spirits.
6. Borzoi
This elegant-looking dog exudes grace and glamour even when running at a speed of 40 miles per hour. Their long legs allow them to cover great distances in a short amount of time. Underneath their shaggy coat, they have the appearance of a Greyhound.
The Borzoi makes a good family dog but doesn’t like to roughhouse, preferring to go on long walks or jogs beside their owners. Agility and lure coursing are great activities for these dogs. Their long coats require brushing three to four times per week to keep from becoming a tangled mess.
- Fun fact: They originated in 17th-century Russia and were bred by the Russian aristocracy for hundreds of years.
Conclusion
Long-legged dog breeds were bred with a specific purpose in mind, usually as hunting or guard dogs. Some will thrive within a city, as long as they interact with their family and receive plenty of exercise. Others will likely do better where they have plenty of freedom to run and explore. Either way, long-legged dogs can be ideal pets for many dog lovers.
Feature Image Credit: Pikist
