MASSIVE dogs in the UK?

This might be just a London phenomenon or it might just be my crazy-nutter imagination, but I have seen some BIG dogs here. I'll just be walking on the street and see an owner, walking a half-dog half-monster. I've never been intimidated by a dog here, though they look like they could eat me for a snack, but I'm just wondering if anyone else has noticed?   Also, the big ones I have seen here were mainly German Shepherds and Labradors, which I know aren't small breeds, but compared to the ones I've seen, look like they've been fed steroids.  

Might be partly because in the US a lot of rented accommodation stipulates that dogs have to be below a certain weight to be allowed so people might prefer smaller dogs in general. 

Also might be because there is less of a problem (although it's still a big problem here) with backyard breeders and puppy mills so pedigree dogs are of a higher standard.

This is all total conjecture though. 

There's a giant St. Bernard in my neighborhood (in central London) who also goes to my vet.  When he comes in the office and sits on the floor he takes up the entire waiting room.  

I've certainly never noticed this and I am dog-lover who always takes note of dogs.  Must be something in the water where you are

There's a giant St. Bernard in my neighborhood (in central London) who also goes to my vet.  When he comes in the office and sits on the floor he takes up the entire waiting room.  

D'awwwww 

Must be something in the water where you are

Are you talking about me or the dogs

We have a German Shepherd thats just turned 3. He weighs in at 44 kilos (37 is average)and towers over his parents. Hes soft as can be but when we walk him anywhere theres crowds its like Moses parting the Red Sea as people move out of his way.