Introduction
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but they all possess incredible jaw strength and biting power. Their powerful bites allow dogs to defend themselves, hunt prey, play with toys and even show affection. But which breeds have the strongest bite force of them all?
This article will countdown the top 10 dog breeds with the strongest bite force. The rankings are based on scientific bite force studies that measured the PSI (pounds per square inch) pressure of dogs’ jaws. Other factors like size, head shape and aggression are also considered.
Understanding bite force is important for evaluating a dog’s ability to cause injury if provoked. However, stronger dogs require more training and proper socialization to prevent accidents. While a dog’s physical power is genetic, responsible ownership plays a huge role in safety.
Whether you’re curious about your own dog’s jaw strength or want to discover the world’s most powerful chompers, read on to learn which pups made the top 10!
10. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany in the late 1800s. Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector, wanted a loyal guard dog that was also intelligent and alert. He bred several different breeds, including the Rottweiler, German Pinscher, and Weimaraner, resulting in the Doberman Pinscher. This breed is known for its sleek muscular build, wedge-shaped head, and cropped ears.
Dobermans have one of the strongest bite forces of any domesticated dog breed at around 305 PSI. Some sources indicate their bite force can reach up to 600 PSI. However, the National Geographic Channel estimates the bite force is closer to 229 PSI. Despite some variation in reported bite force, the Doberman Pinscher has significantly stronger jaws and biting power compared to most dogs.
Sources:
https://spartacuslawfirm.com/las-vegas-dog-bite-lawyer/doberman-bite-force/
9. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd (sometimes abbreviated as GSD) is a medium to large working dog breed that originated in Germany. German Shepherds were originally developed in 1899 as a herding dog and served in the German military and police force. They are now one of the most popular dog breeds around the world.
German Shepherds typically stand 22-26 inches tall and weigh between 50-90 pounds. They have a double coat and shed consistently year-round. Their coat colors include black & tan, sable, all black, black & silver, black & red, and liver (brown). German Shepherds have a long rectangular muzzle, medium-sized eyes that are brown, upright ears, and a bushy tail.
German Shepherds are known for having one of the strongest bite forces measured in dogs. They have a bite force of 238-291 PSI, which makes their bite force stronger than pit bulls and Rottweilers. The strength of their bite comes from the breed’s history as a herding and protection dog that needed to be able to physically stop and hold livestock. Their strong jaws and large teeth allow them to exert a tremendous amount of pressure when biting down.
8. American Pit Bull
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog breed known for its strength, confidence, and strong bite. Originating in England, Ireland, and Scotland, they were initially bred in the early 1800s for the bloodsport of bull-baiting. When that was banned in the 1830s, the dogs were then bred for dog fighting. Despite this brutal history, well-bred and well-socialized American Pit Bulls can be loyal, friendly, and excellent family companions.
In terms of physical traits, the American Pit Bull is a stocky, muscular dog with a short, smooth coat that comes in many colors and patterns. They have a broad head, thick neck, and powerful jaws. Their bite force measures between 235-250 PSI, one of the strongest in the canine world. This immense jaw strength comes from the dog’s origins, as they were bred to grasp onto bulls and other large animals. While Pit Bulls are athletic and energetic dogs that need daily exercise, they can thrive as pets in an active home with proper training and socialization.
7. Dutch Shepherd
The Dutch Shepherd originates from the Netherlands and was originally bred as an all-around farm dog that excelled at herding livestock. This energetic and intelligent breed has strong protective instincts and a forceful bite.
Dutch Shepherds have a powerful, muscular build and come in several coat variations, including short-haired, long-haired, and rough-haired. They typically stand 22-24 inches tall and weigh 50-70 pounds.
In terms of biting power, the Dutch Shepherd exerts an impressive 224 psi bite force. This ranks the breed among the top 10 strongest dog bites. Their strong jaws and willingness to defend their family make Dutch Shepherds excellent police and military working dogs. However, their energetic nature and tendency towards dominance require extensive training and socialization from an early age.
With their intelligence, athleticism, and forceful bite, it’s no wonder Dutch Shepherds excel at various working roles ranging from search and rescue to narcotics detection. Their protective nature and energetic temperament require an experienced owner able to provide proper training and exercise. When raised responsibly, the Dutch Shepherd makes a loyal companion and formidable guard dog.
6. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an ancient breed of dog that originated in northern China. They were used for hunting, herding, pulling sleds, and guarding property. Chow Chows have a sturdy build with a dense, fluffy coat and a distinctive blue-black tongue.
Some of the Chow Chow’s physical traits that contribute to its powerful bite force include:
- Strong, broad jaws
- Large head in proportion to their body
- Powerful neck muscles
The Chow Chow has a bite force of around 220 psi, according to https://spartacuslawfirm.com/las-vegas-dog-bite-lawyer/strongest-dog-bite-force-the-complete-guide/. While not the highest psi of all dog breeds, a Chow Chow can still inflict serious injury with their forceful bite.
5. Kangal
The Kangal Shepherd is a Turkish breed of dog that is known for its large size and impressive strength. Native to the Sivas city in the Kangal District of Turkey, this livestock guardian dog was bred to protect sheep and other livestock from predators like wolves, jackals, and bears. With a bite force of 743 PSI according to the Country Living article, this powerful dog has one of the strongest bite forces of any canine.
The Kangal Shepherd typically stands 28-32 inches tall and weighs anywhere from 90-150 pounds. They have a large, muscular stature with a broad head and strong jaws that give them an incredibly powerful bite. Their coat is short and dense and commonly tan in color, sometimes with black facial masks and ears. Known for their calm, devoted nature, Kangals are protective guardians but not inherently aggressive.
With their size, strength, and unmatched bite force, Kangals are formidable guardians able to ward off large predators. Their bite delivers an incredible 743 pounds of pressure per square inch, which is strong enough to break bones and immobilize enemies.
4. Bandog
The Bandog has a bite strength of 730 PSI, making it one of the dogs with the strongest bite force, according to this article. Bandogs were originally developed in the Middle Ages to guard and protect properties. They are a crossbreed between mastiffs and bulldogs, resulting in a large, stocky, and muscular dog.
Some key physical traits of the Bandog include:
- Weighs 80-150 lbs
- Stands 24-28 inches tall
- Broad chest and head
- Powerful jaws and bite
While the Bandog has an intimidating appearance and extremely strong bite force, they can make loyal guard dogs and companions when properly trained and socialized. Their protectiveness and strength does mean they require experienced owners.
3. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso originated in Italy and was bred as a guard dog and hunter. It is muscular and powerful with a rectangular body, large head, wide chest, and thick neck. The average Cane Corso stands about 25-28 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs anywhere from 70 to 120 pounds.
The Cane Corso has one of the strongest bite forces among dogs, measuring around 700 psi. This is even more powerful than the bite force of a Rottweiler or pitbull. The breed has a short coat in black, gray, chestnut, and fawn colors. The Cane Corso was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2010.1
Due to its strength and powerful build, the Cane Corso requires extensive training and socialization from an early age. When properly trained, the breed can be an excellent guard dog and devoted companion. However, the Cane Corso is not suitable for first-time or timid dog owners.
Conclusion
While all dog breeds have some bite force, certain breeds are known for having an especially powerful bite. Based on available research, the top 3 dogs with the strongest bite force are:
3. Cane Corso – This Italian mastiff has a bite force of 700 PSI. It was originally bred as a guard dog and for big game hunting.
2. Bandog – With 730 PSI of bite force, this mix between a mastiff and bulldog is used as a guard dog and in police work.
1. Kangal – The Turkish kangal takes the #1 spot with a bite force of 743 PSI. It’s a livestock guardian dog known for protecting sheep and other livestock from predators.
The high bite force in these breeds allows them to hold onto large prey and serves as a defensive mechanism. However, a strong bite force does not necessarily mean the dog is inherently dangerous. With proper training and socialization, these breeds can make wonderful companions.
In closing, a dog’s bite force gives us insight into its origins and purposes. But no single factor determines whether or not a dog will be friendly or aggressive. With thoughtful training and responsible ownership, even breeds with the strongest bites can thrive in family environments.