Meet the World’s Tallest Dog, Zeus!
Like most large dogs, it wasn’t surprising to read that the world’s tallest dog also likes to sit on laps! Zeus is a 200 pound Great Dane, who now holds the Guinness World Record for being the tallest dog!
Zeus, The World’s Tallest Dog
Zeus’ owner, Brittany Davis had longed for a big dog, and really wanted a Great Dane. The pup was brought to her unexpectedly though. Her brother, Garrett, knocked on her door back in February 2020 and handed over a 3-month-old, grey and white American Great Dane. He’s gotten the dog from a friend whose dog had recently had a litter of puppies.
Zeus the Puppy
At only 3 months old, Zeus was about 25 pounds, and had huge paws! Brittany was definitely surprised and excited to have the dog she’d always wanted. She named him after the Greek God of sky and thunder.
Brittany never imagined Zeus would wind up being the size of a person (or larger). But, now at 2 1/2 years old, Zeus stands more than 7 feet tall on his hind legs, and weighs about 200 pounds!
Submitting for Guinness World Record
While it was Brittany’s father who submitted paperwork for the Guinness World Records, it was her cousin who brought it up. The previous record was held by a Great Dane from the U.K. named Freddy. Freddy was 3 feet, 4 inches tall, but unfortunately, he passed away in January 2021 at the age of 8.
To correctly measure Zeus’ height, they use a stick called a wicket. It’s something they use to measure horses. Zeus’ height was measured and verified by a vet, with 3 witnesses.
Early Days
Early on, Brittany knew Zeus would be a big boy. His large paws and enormous appetite was hard not to notice. Some of his favorite snacks? Carrots, fried eggs, deer antlers and ice cubes.
And because of his height, you have to be careful leaving food out. He’s pretty much at eye level with counters and tables. Zeus does steal food from Brittany’s sons! He also likes to drink water from the sink, and steal pacifiers from the kitchen counter.
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Brittany’s son does take Zeus for walks daily, but a lot of his exercise comes from playing around the house.
Zeus has other fur siblings, three miniature Australian shepherds, which you can imagine, he towers over!
Big Dogs Have Fears Too!
When it comes to things this big boy is afraid of, thunderstorms and wind top the list! Which is a bit ironic, since he’s named after a god that could throw lighting bolts. He doesn’t like rain or sprinklers, or even hanging his head out the car window. But, he does love boat rides!
If you’re ever out at the Dallas Farmers Market, you might catch a glimpse of this big boy! Most of the locals in the area know him, and shower him with attention and treats. His mom says, “Whenever we go out, he’s a big hit. He’s the best dog ever and we’re happy to share him.”
Source: Washington Post
