In a somber turn of events, the world’s tallest dog, Zeus, has passed away at the age of three in Texas after a valiant fight against cancer. Standing at a staggering 3 feet 5 inches, with a hind leg reach of seven feet, Zeus had claimed the Guinness World Record for the tallest dog in 2022.
Who was Zeus?
Zeus, a magnificent Great Dane, faced his share of health challenges when he contracted pneumonia after having one of his legs amputated earlier this year. Despite these obstacles, his spirit remained indomitable.
His owners announced his passing in an interview with Guinness World Records. Brittany Davis, Zeus’s owner, lovingly shared that he took his last breath with his head nestled in “his mom’s lap.”
Zeus was more than just an exceptional canine; he was a beloved family member, described as gentle, loving, and, in Ms. Davis’s words, “very laid back” but strong-minded. His family and countless friends in Dallas and Fort Worth adored him.
When Zeus was diagnosed with cancer, his owners initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his treatment, amassing $12,244. The love and support from well-wishers were a testament to Zeus’s special place in people’s hearts.
Ms. Davis, who considered Zeus her “dog child,” received him as a gift from her brother when he was only eight weeks old. His remarkable size led her to contact Guinness World Records, where he was officially recognized as the world’s tallest dog in 2022.
Zeus’s immense stature was not without its humorous moments. His large frame allowed him to effortlessly snatch food from kitchen counters and even drink directly from the sink. His diet was as impressive as his size, with a daily consumption of up to 12 cups of food, occasionally supplemented with a fried egg.
Great Danes
Great Danes, known as gentle giants, have a relatively shorter lifespan of seven to ten years. However, they fill these years with boundless love and affection. As the world’s tallest dog breed, they can reach heights of up to 32 inches and weigh up to 175 pounds for males, with females slightly smaller at 30 inches and around 140 pounds.
