A Great Dane who was named the world's tallest dog by the Guiness Book of World Records, died last week at the age of seven after a battle with cancer.  His owner had learned that the cancer had spread and there was no treatment available to save him, so she decided to euthanize him.

Gibson measured almost 43 inches tall at the shoulder, and stood over 7 feet when up on his hind legs.  In addition to his physical size, he apparently had a big heart as well - he was a certified therapy dog, and made appearances for Three Paws For The Cause, a campaign launched by his owner to raise awareness about dogs with cancer.  (Gibson was left with three paws after having one leg amputated to try and stop his cancer from spreading).

Any Great Danes out there who think they may be next in line for the tallest dog title can settle - Gibson's son Brewster, who at the age of one is already 38 inches tall at the shoulder, looks ready to follow in his father's paw prints.