'Is that a dog or a pony?': Owner of Zeus, the world's tallest dog, says her giant canine is so big children thinks he is a horse

A 44in Great Dane has been named the world’s tallest dog by Guinness World Records.

Aptly named Zeus weighs 155lbs and reaches an astonishing height of 7ft 4in standing on his hind legs.

Owner Denise Doorlag from Michigan says the three-year-old is so big little children often thinks he is a horse.

Scroll down to 'meet Zeus'...



Big dog: Great Dane Zeus measures 44in from paw to withers and owner Denise, right, says young children often mistake him for a horse

No bowl: Zeus serves himself some water from the tap at the Doorlag family home in Michigan

She said her family was honoured by their pet’s place in the Guinness Book of World Records, launched today.

‘We are just a regular family from Michigan, so to be able to say that we own the world’s tallest dog is very exciting, and the kids are just so excited.’

Mrs Doorlag added that the most common reaction to Zeus, who munches through 30lbs of food every day, is that of astonishment.

‘We frequently get:” Hey do you have a saddle for that horse?” or “Is that a dog or is that a pony?” some people are just floored. It’s very amusing.’

Standing tall: On his hind legs Zeus, pictured with owner Kevin Doorlag, measures 7ft4in

She added: 'It’s fun to see people’s reactions, especially little kids - they think that he really is a horse!’

According to the new edition, Zeus break the previous record held by another Great Dane named Giant George, with one inch.

First published in 1955, The Guinness Book of World Records has sold more than 120 million copies to date in over 100 countries.