Largest breeds: Spitz and primitive types

Among the 23 breeds in the “Spitz and primitive types” group, this ranking lists the ten with the highest average adult weight (the midpoint of the typical range). Ties are broken by average height, then alphabetical order. Individual dogs can fall outside these ranges.

No. 1 — American Akitaabout 45.5 kg on average (32–59 kg)Heavier than the Japanese Akita, the American Akita is a powerful, calm and very loyal guardian for experienced owners only.
No. 2 — Alaskan Malamuteabout 38.5 kg on average (34–43 kg)A powerful Arctic sled dog, the Malamute is affectionate and playful but very poorly suited to hot climates.
No. 3 — Akitaabout 37.5 kg on average (30–45 kg)Japan's national dog, the Akita is dignified, calm and legendarily loyal, but independent and intolerant of other dogs.
No. 4 — Chow Chowabout 26 kg on average (20–32 kg)With its lion-like mane and blue tongue, the Chow Chow is a dignified, calm and independent dog that is very sensitive to heat.
No. 5 — Thai Ridgebackabout 25 kg on average (16–34 kg)An athletic Thai dog with a ridge of hair along its back, the Thai Ridgeback is independent, loyal and perfectly suited to heat.
No. 6 — Eurasierabout 25 kg on average (18–32 kg)A modern German spitz, the Eurasier is calm, balanced and devoted to its family, a quiet and easy-going companion.
No. 7 — Samoyedabout 23.5 kg on average (17–30 kg)Famous for its 'smile' and white coat, the Samoyed is gentle, sociable and playful, but copes very poorly with heat.
No. 8 — Pharaoh Houndabout 22.5 kg on average (20–25 kg)Slender and fiery-red, the Pharaoh Hound from Malta is a fast, playful and affectionate hunter that 'blushes' when excited.
No. 9 — Norwegian Elkhoundabout 22.5 kg on average (20–25 kg)A sturdy grey Nordic spitz, the Norwegian Elkhound is brave, tireless and affectionate with its family.
No. 10 — Ibizan Houndabout 22 kg on average (19–25 kg)A slender hunter from the Balearic Islands with large upright ears, the Ibizan Hound is athletic, gentle and capable of spectacular jumps.