Is it a Horse? Is it a Giraffe? It’s a DOG!

Zeus. the world's tallest dog towers at 7' 4", photo: NY Daily News

The official tallest dog in the world has just been named! Introducing Zeus, a 3 year-old Great Dane who lives in Otsego, Michigan with the Doorlag family. Zeus is a towering 44 inches and stretches to 7 foot 4 when standing on his hind legs. Zeus made a big splash in the dog world when he won the title in the Guiness World Records 2013 for the world's tallest dog by beating out previous title holder, Giant George by an inch.

Zeus' tall stature allows him to drink from the kitchen faucet

Zeus is tall enough to drink water from the kitchen faucet without the need to lift his head. He also goes through an incredible 30lbs bag of dog food every two weeks.

According to the latest Guiness World Records interview, Dennis Doorlag Zeus' owner said, “To be able to say that we own the world’s tallest dog is very exciting. The kids are just so excited about it. It’s so cool! It’s just an opportunity of a life time.” Despite its size, Zeus is a gentle giant according to his owner. He loves to sit on laps and socialize with other animals and people.

Zeus' certificate from the Guiness World Record for world world's tallest dog

With all the publicity though, there comes controversy about Zeus’s weight. With only 155lbs for his size, some people are concerned that Zeus is underweight. Critics also point out that the shaking of his hind leg is abnormal. The Doorlag family issued a statement on Facebook addressing these concerns and slamming critics of all the negative comments and appreciate all supports:

Yes, we are aware that Zeus is thin and we are watching this closely and trying to help him put on some weight. We have had our vet do a complete exam on him and all the blood work and everything has come back normal. We really do appreciate your concerns and want you to know we are working on it.” ~ The Doorlag Family

Zeus appears to be lean on the featured video, but it never crosses my mind that his owner is not taking care of him. Zeus looks happy! Let’s focus on the fact that Zeus is now the tallest dog in the world which is much worthy of celebration.

Watch as we are invited into the world of Zeus, the world's tallest dog: