Zeus, the tallest male dog, has tragically died following a diagnosis with bone cancer.
The Great Dane, who earned the iconic record title in 2022 after measuring in at 1.046 m (3 ft 5.18 in) tall, had to have his front right leg amputated after his cancer was discovered by vets.
But in a devastating turn of events, the three-year-old pooch developed pneumonia after the operation and lost his life in the early hours of Tuesday 12 September.
He would have turned four in November.
Donnie Davis, dad of Zeus's loving owner Brittany, said Zeus died with his head in his mom’s lap.
He applauded the “valiant” efforts of the oncologist and surgical team who did everything they could to save their beloved pet.
Zeus, who lived in Bedford, Texas, USA, enjoyed a lot of attention during his tragically short life thanks to his record-breaking size.
Brittany said: "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved dog, Zeus, the Guinness World Records title holder for the tallest living male dog. Zeus died Tuesday morning of amputation-related pneumonia. Zeus died with his head in his mom’s lap getting ear scratches and kisses until the very end. He was three-and-a-half years old.
"Zeus was a truly special dog. He was gentle, loving, very stubborn but always happy to see his family and many, many friends on his adventures around Dallas & Fort Worth. Zeus packed a lot of life into three short years and was primed to beat cancer’s butt.
"We are so grateful for the time we had with Zeus. He brought us so much joy and happiness to so many people. He will be deeply missed by our entire family. We are so thankful for the amazing team of humans who have been with us through this. Zeus had the absolute best doctors and nurses working around the clock to help him, but in the end, he was just too sick.
"We would also like to thank everyone who has reached out to us with their condolences. It means a lot to us during this difficult time.
We know that Zeus is in a better place now, running free and eating the good stuff off of the countertops in heaven. We will never forget him. Goodbye Zeusy, we love you! Cancer sucks!
Zeus’s plight had captured the hearts of people around the world after Brittany set up a fundraising campaign to get him the best possible treatment.
The gentle giant had been a gift to Brittany, who always wanted a Great Dane, from her brother.
He came into her life when he was eight weeks old and quickly became an important and vital part of the family.
Zeus turned plenty of heads on his walkies thanks to his giant stature, with Brittany saying people often asked if they could ride him like a horse. But of course, the answer was no.
Brittany described Zeus as “very laid back” but also strong-minded, admitting he wouldn’t do anything that he didn’t want to do.
He was so tall that he’d drink out of the kitchen sink and would steal food off the counters when he was feeling mischievous.
Rest in peace, Zeus. You’ll forever be an icon.
Craig Glenday, Editor-in-Chief of Guinness World Records, said: "Zeus always brought a smile to our faces - he was such a larger-than-life character and spread joy wherever he went. That's why it was so sad to hear that he was unwell, and now we're heartbroken to learn of his untimely passing. I just hope that his family look back over his star appearance in the GWR books with fond memories - a fitting tribute to a very special pet."
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