Dogs come in different shapes, sizes, and strength. When it comes to power, that’s where workhorse pups rule. They’re hardworking, loyal, and protective of their families. What are the strongest dog breeds on the planet today?
The Kangal Shepherd Dog is one of the strongest, if not the strongest dog breed in the world. When it comes to power, strength, and bite force, the Kangal is unrivalled. The Cane Corso, which is built like a tank and with a whopping 700 PSI bite force, is a close second as the strongest dog breed. The robust Rottweiler should also be mentioned as one of the strongest dog breed, commonly known for its outstanding job as a military dog and rescue service.
Whether you are looking to own a powerful dog or just curious to know who has made it in our list, here are dogdom’s 26 strongest breeds!
26. Siberian Husky
Siberian Husky Bite Force: 320 PSI
Energetic, playful, and happy-go-lucky, Siberian Huskies are one of the strongest dog breeds. They are bred to pull sleds, so you can just imagine how much muscle power these canines possess.
Do take note that these fluff balls are very independent creatures. They like to run around and explore, which is why a spacious, fenced yard is essential to let them have their playtime.
25. Great Dane
Great Dane Bite Force: 238 PSI
This massive beast may seem intimidating because of its build but Great Danes are actually one of the sweetest pups out there. These muscular canines have a heart that is just as big as its stature.
If you are a proud owner of a Great Dane, you can be sure that your pooch is always there to keep you safe from threats. But if you are outside of this big guy’s household, you better watch your back as they don’t hesitate to ward off intruders.
24. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamute Bite Force: 540 PSI
Alaskan Malamutes are the larger cousins of Siberian Huskies. They can easily pull heavy loads, sometimes up to 3,000 lbs!
These fluffy giants may not have the speed and elegance that Siberians have. But they are never short of cuteness and power. They are also much stronger and with a larger build, plus an impressive bite force that can easily break a bone or two.
23. Newfoundland
Newfoundland Bite Force: 350 PSI
With its enormous stature, it’s easy to tell that this pup is built for heavy-duty work. Newfoundland dogs were historically bred to haul wood or pull fishing nets out of the waters.
Considering the energy-intensive work they do, it only makes sense that they get their regular exercise to maintain a strong body. Regular walks and playtime are a must, which also keeps them happy and content.
22. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound Bite Force: 350 PSI
They’re leggy, strong, and oh-so-fluffy. Irish Wolfhounds are some of the tallest and strongest dog breeds in the world. These canines can easily perform farm work such as guarding cattle and protecting properties.
Irish Wolfhounds are not the dogs you want to mess around with. They can easily tell if danger approaches, and they don’t think twice about warding off threats.
21. Leoberger
Leoberger Bite Force: 399 PSI
Another gentle giant, the Leonberger is a mixture of other equally massive breeds such as the Saint Bernard, Newfoundland and Great Pyrenees. No wonder they have become the enormous snuggle-worthy teddy bears that they are!
These pups are playful, strong-willed, and affectionate. They can easily get along with anyone. But never attempt to push them to their limits, or they will easily unleash their infamous biting power at 399 PSI!
20. St. Bernard
St. Bernard Bite Force: 400 PSI
Weighing a whopping 200 lbs or so, the mighty Saint Bernard aptly belongs on our list of the strongest dog breeds. They originally served as rescue pups on the Great Saint Bernard Pass, saving the lives of travelers who got lost in their journey.
Today, they still maintain their mellow and caring nature. These canines are a friend to all – children, adults, seniors, and other pets at home. But when threatened by intruders, they are always ready to put up a fight.
19. English Mastiff
English Mastiff Bite Force: 556 PSI
Don’t be fooled by their gargantuan size – English Mastiffs are actually quite gentle and mellow towards their families. They are good with children and other pets in the house. If you are not the type who leads an active life, it should not be a problem with the laid-back and easy-going Mastiff.
Word to the wise – these dogs are highly devoted to their owners. No threat goes unnoticed to the eyes of the Mastiff, so be prepared to run for your life as this pup does not succumb to danger!
18. Bulldog
Bulldog Bite Force: 305 PSI
Famous for its abundant wrinkles and folds all over its rectangular body, the American Bulldog exudes an air of power, determination, and strength. They may seem intimidating because of their massive physique but they are quite sweet and affectionate.Bulldogs are cuddle bugs that love to nap right text to you or snuggle up while you read a book.
Their power lies not just in their enormous, muscular build but also their strong jaws. One bite has a PSI of 305, which is enough to leave one squirming in intense pain.
17. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees Bite Force: 500 PSI
Great Pyrenees are hardworking white fluffy giants that do what they do best – guarding, carting, and sledding. They are also great companion dogs as they are quite loyal and devoted to their owners.
Personality-wise, Pyrs are mild-tempered and mellow. But they go on defensive mode when they detect any danger, which is enough to unleash their bone-crushing 500 PSI bite force!
16. Pitbull
Pitbull Bite Force: 235 PSI
Trained as fighting dogs, Pitbulls are one of the strongest dogs around. They have a superb bite force of 235 PSI, which can easily ward off the “bad guys.”
But when trained properly and socialized at an early age, Pitbulls can be quite affectionate and loving to their families. They are also ideal for folks looking for a large dog that does not shed and is easy to groom, thanks to their super short, non-shedding coats.
15. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback Bite Force: 224 PSI
Perhaps they are not as bulky and massive as the other breeds on the list but Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not lack in power and strength. They are slender and elegant, yet stronger than the average pup.
These South African canines were bred to guard livestock. They are territorial and aggressive, and they don’t shy away from having to bite intruders when an intimidating bark does not suffice.
14. German Shepherd
German Shepherd Bite Force: 238 PSI
Commonly found walking side by side with military forces or leading police officers during rescue operations, German Shepherds are fearless and powerful. They are also intelligent canines that are easily trained to carry out critical tasks.
For the most part, they tend to be passive and calm dogs. But when their families are in danger, watch out – GSDs can be quite defensive. Their bites are so strong that they can crush one’s bone easily.
13. Dogo Argentino
Dogo Argentino Bite Force: 500 PSI
Hailing from Argentina, the Dogo Argentino is a tenacious breed from the line of Cordoba Fighting Dogs. Thus, it possesses the same intimidating features of its ancestors – quick reflexes, speed, courage, and a bite force of 500 PSI or so.
Although they are aggressive by nature, these dogs do not simply attack without any reason. They are calm and peaceful until danger presents itself and turns this pooch into one fighting machine.
12. Boxer
Boxer Bite Force: 230 PSI
Friendly and smart, Boxers are gentle to those that are kind to them. They are easy to train, which makes them suitable for first-time owners.
However, it is important to train them early in life to eliminate aggressive tendencies. When well-trained, they can be mellow to other members of the household. But without the right training, they can easily attack others without hesitation.
11. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog Bite Force: 200 PSI
A massive pooch that’s a native of Switzerland, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a giant farm dog. They are working dogs that are great at sledding, pulling, and hauling heavy loads.
Berners are strong, yet mellow. They do well with people of all ages, except for those that they detect as a threat. In that case, they can apply as much as 200 PSI with just a single bite.
10. Chow Chow
Chow Chow Bite Force: 220 PSI
Originating from China, Chow Chows are fluff balls that look almost like a lion because of their thick hair around the face and shoulders. They are sturdy animals but not very energetic, which makes them suitable in apartments.
Cute and cuddly as they are, these canines are actually quite aggressive when they believe their owners are in danger or threatened. Their bite equates to 220 PSI, which is strong enough to do some serious bone damage.
9. Dutch Shepherd
Dutch Shepherd Bite Force: 224 PSI
They are nimble, and quick, and surprisingly strong. Dutch Shepherds are herding canines that were bred to protect livestock. These pups are also calm but can be aggressive when under attack.
Dutch Shepherds don’t bite or attack quickly. But when they do, it is only when they notice a serious threat.
8. Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois Bite Force: 195 PSI
Also called “Belgian Shepherds”, the Malinois is a strong and sturdy pup. They are tough dogs that are great at detecting illegal drugs or dangerous explosives, thanks to their impeccable sense of smell.
But more than anything, they are powerful canines. Their jaws are so strong, that they have a bite force of up to 195 PSI.
7. Estrela Mountain Dog
Estrela Mountain Dog Bite Force: 200 PSI
Estrela Mountain dogs are a spitting image of the Leonberger, with their black face mask and brown and black coats. But they are a bit smaller and less bulky as the latter. These dogs weigh up to 130 lbs and are pretty strong.
Walking these big dogs can be tough especially when they start to pull on you. So, it is best to train them properly to overcome aggressive tendencies.
6. Caucasian Shepherd
Caucasian Shepherd Bite Force: 220 PSI
A strong and mighty fellow, the Caucasian Shepherd hails from the rugged Caucasus Mountains. They used to serve as guard dogs and their tenacity and strength make them excellent protectors against trespassers, thieves, and predators.
Today, they are regarded as police dogs in Russia and many parts of Europe. These are fearless pups that use brute and force to overcome danger and threats by intruders.
5. Doberman
Doberman Bite Force: 245 PSI
From their stature to their valiant personality, everything about the Doberman exudes strength and power. They are large dogs that serve as protectors and guardians of one’s properties.
These are intelligent canines that are easily trained by police forces to do their job in the military or search and rescue operations. Moreover, their impressive speed and bone-crushing jaw can easily deter intruders.
4. American Pitbull Terrier
American Pitbull Terrier Bite Force: 235 PSI
They may not be as massive as the other strong dog breeds on the list, but American Pitbulls are definitely just as powerful. In fact, they are the strongest among the rest with the same size and build. These are athletic dogs that require ample exercise to stay in shape and good health.
Their strong jaws can cause severe damages to those who attempt to invade these dogs’ territories. A 235 PSI bite force is what awaits unlucky trespassers and folks with evil intentions!
3. Rottweiler
Rottweiler Bite Force: 328 PSI
These 130-pounder pups are an image of power, courage, and strength. Over the years, they have served humans with their guarding and carting skills. Now, they do well in the police force, which they are quite great at.
With an impressive bite force of 328 PSI, that is literally more than half of this dog’s weight. It is enough to leave serious damage to intruders without a doubt.
2. Cane Corso
Cane Corso Bite Force: 700 PSI
The Cane Corso boasts of its outstanding bite force of 700 PSI, which is so intense, it can crush several bones in one bite. They are hunting dogs with a very keen sense of smell and courage to take on whatever danger there may be.
They may appear intimidating but Cane Corsos are actually gentle. These pups are also affectionate and loving to their families.
1. Kangal Shepherd Dog
Kangal Shepherd Dog Bite Force: 743 PSI
And up there on our list of the strongest dog breeds is the fearless and powerful Kangal Shepherd dog. These are Turkish dogs that serve as guard dogs and can easily ward off predators to keep the flocks safe.
With their agility, tactics, and strong muscles, they can take down medium-sized predators in just minutes. Couple all of that with their intense bite force of 743 PSI, that’s enough to leave intruders shaking and fleeing out of fear.
Related Questions
What Dog Has Killed The Most Humans? In the United States, the Pitbull has killed about 284 people in a 13-year period. This breed was also responsible for over 3,300 reported attacks that many resulted in serious damages and injuries.
How Strong Is A Wolf Bite? A wolf bite has a bite force of about 400 PSI. This is, however, the normal bite force. When under attack and attempting to protect itself from danger, it can go up to 1,200 PSI.
Which Big Cat Has The Strongest Bite? Among all the big cats in the world, Jaguars are known to have the strongest bite at 200 PSI. This is much stronger than the tiger’s bite, which is only 50% weaker.
