Introduction
When it comes to powerful dog breeds, the Pitbull is often considered one of the strongest. Pitbulls have muscular bodies and strong jaws that give them incredible bite force. However, there are some breeds that can overpower a Pitbull due to size, strength, and bite force. In this article, we will look at the dog breeds that are more powerful than Pitbulls.
The criteria used to determine the most powerful dog breeds include their size, bite force, musculature, temperament, and history. Bite force is measured in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) and determines the pressure a dog’s jaws can apply. Size and musculature also play a role, as larger, muscular dogs can exert more strength. Temperament indicates a breed’s tendency for aggression and capacity for damage. History provides insight into what specific roles and tasks breeds were developed for. Based on these factors, we will outline the top dogs breeds that are considered more powerful than the Pitbull.
The Pitbull
The Pitbull is a common name for several breeds of dogs, originally bred for bull baiting and dog fighting in the 1800s. The major breeds classified as Pitbulls include the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Despite their history, Pitbulls were once known as “nanny dogs” because of their reputation for being gentle and protective of children.
The American Pit Bull Terrier in particular has many positive traits – they are smart, loyal, affectionate, and eager to please their owners. However, because of unethical breeding practices and their use in dog fighting, some Pitbulls have developed aggressive tendencies. They are very muscular, with a stocky build and strong bite. Their average weight range is between 30-60 pounds.
When it comes to bite force, Pitbulls are estimated to have a bite force somewhere between 200 and 300 PSI (pounds per square inch). This means their bite has significant power and strength compared to other dogs. However, bite force is not the only factor in a dog’s capacity for damage – temperament, training, and treatment also play a major role.
According to one source, “With a bite force of 235 pounds per square inch (PSI), the pit bull is one of the strongest dog breeds when it comes to jaw pressure” (Pitbull Bite Force: Unveiling the Power of this Mighty Breed). While powerful, a responsible pit bull owner can train their dog to control its strength and be a gentle family companion.
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a large, powerful breed of dog that originated in Germany. According to the Rottweiler Bite Force: Unveiling the Power Behind the Jaws, Rottweilers have one of the strongest bite forces among dog breeds. Their bite force ranges from 328 to 350 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Rottweilers were originally bred as cattle driving dogs by the Romans and used by traveling butchers during the Middle Ages to guard money pouches tied around their necks. Their name comes from the small town of Rottweil, Germany where they used to drive cattle to market. Rottweilers nearly went extinct in the 19th century but made a comeback as police dogs and companions.
The Rottweiler is a robust, large breed with a thick neck and broad head. Males can reach 24-27 inches tall and 95-135 pounds. Females are 22-25 inches tall and 80-100 pounds. They have a short, black coat with rust to mahogany markings on their cheeks, legs, chest and eyebrows. Their triangular ears stand erect. Rottweilers are known for being strong, fearless, confident and obedient.
With their forceful bite and strong protective instincts, Rottweilers make excellent guard dogs. Their bite force gives them the ability to restrain large prey or intruders. However, Rottweilers are also loyal pets that form close bonds with their human families. With proper training and socialization, theirnatural aggression can be toned down to make them suitable companions.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog (Ovcharka) originated in the Caucasus region between Europe and Asia as a guardian dog. They are thought to have existed since ancient times. The breed was standardised in the Soviet Union in the 20th century, although there are records of similar large dogs used for guarding and protecting livestock dating back hundreds of years. Over time, they were bred for traits like strength, endurance in mountain terrain, protectiveness, and a suspicion of strangers (1).
Physically, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a very large, rugged dog with a thick double coat. They stand between 25-28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 99-176 pounds. Their large head, musculoskeletal build, and thick coat contribute to their powerful appearance. The Caucasian Shepherd Dog has one of the strongest bite forces measured of any domesticated dog. Their bite force measures between 550-700 PSI, comparing to other powerful breeds like the Kangal at 743 PSI and American Pit Bull at 235 PSI (2). This extreme jaw strength makes their bite one of the most dangerous of any dog breed.
The combination of the Caucasian Shepherd’s protectiveness, size, strength, and powerful bite force has led to their reputation as being one of the most capable guardians and protectors. At the same time, their physical abilities mean they require extensive socialization and experienced handling. While possessive of their family, they can be aloof with strangers and need early supervision.
(1) https://animalso.com/breeds/caucasian-mountain-shepherd/
(2) https://wagwalking.com/breed/caucasian-mountain-dog
Bandog
The Bandog is a powerful molosser-type breed developed from crossing mastiffs and bulldogs with working dog breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier. The aim was to create an intimidating guard dog with high stamina, alertness, strength, and extreme loyalty to their family.
The origin of the Bandog dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe when mastiffs were crossed with fighting dogs for guarding and protecting livestock and estates. This early working Bandog was utilized up until the mid-1900s. Modern breeding programs recreated the Bandog using specific breeds like the Neapolitan Mastiff, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, and other bully breeds.
The Bandog is a large, stocky, and muscular dog that possesses incredible bite force and physical power. They have broad heads, strong jaws, and the tenacity of a bulldog combined with the strength of a mastiff. According to testing, the Bandog has a bite force of 730 PSI, allowing it to exert over 3,000 pounds of pressure with its jaw. This enormous bite force places the Bandog above the pit bull and just under breeds like the Kangal in terms of raw power.
Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu originated in Japan and is a rare, massive dog breed. It was originally bred in the mid-19th century as a fighting dog and is known for its courage and loyalty (1). Despite their imposing size and strength, Tosa Inus can be affectionate and calm if well-socialized and trained.
Some key facts about the Tosa Inu:
- Males can reach between 110-200 lbs and stand 24-32 inches tall
- They have a broad, large head with a short muzzle
- The breed has a short, smooth coat that comes in colors like fawn, apricot, or brindle
- Tosa Inus have one of the strongest bite forces measured of any dog. It’s estimated around 555 psi (2).
- Due to their potential danger, Tosa Inus are banned in many countries including the UK.
While the Tosa Inu has a powerful bite force that exceeds a pitbull’s, they are very rare outside of Japan. Their bite force and fighting history does make them a potentially risky breed to own.
(1) https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wildlife/dog-breeds/a39699921/dogs-strong-bite-force/
(2) https://spartacuslawfirm.com/las-vegas-dog-bite-lawyer/strongest-dog-bite-force-the-complete-guide/
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a powerful, muscular breed originally developed in Argentina for big-game hunting, including wild boar and puma. It was first bred in 1928 by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez from the Cordoba Fighting Dog along with other breeds like the Great Dane, Boxer and Bulldog.
This breed has a strong bite force of over 500 PSI. Their massive jaws and powerful bite were developed specifically to help bring down large prey.
Some key physical traits of the Dogo Argentino include its large head, thick neck and deep chest. Males can reach over 100 lbs and 30 inches tall at the shoulder. The breed has a short, plain and smooth white coat that sheds minimally.
While they can be affectionate with their owners, the Dogo Argentino is not recommended as a pet due to its strong guarding instincts, tendency for dog aggression and extremely powerful bite. Early socialization and firm handling are essential for this breed.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso originates from Italy and has been used as a guard dog and to hunt big game. This mastiff breed has a large, muscular build with a broad head and intimidating expression. Their coat is short and stiff and comes in various shades of black, gray, fawn, and red. Male Cane Corsos typically stand 25-27.5 inches tall and weigh 90-120 pounds. Females stand 23.5-26 inches tall and weigh 70-100 pounds.
One of the key traits of the Cane Corso is its incredibly powerful bite. According to this source, the average bite force of a Cane Corso is estimated to be around 700 PSI (pounds per square inch). This places them among the top breeds in terms of bite force. Their strong jaws coupled with their protective nature make them excellent guard dogs capable of inflicting major damage on an intruder if provoked.
Dogo Canario
The Dogo Canario, also known as the Perro de Presa Canario, is a large Molosser-type dog breed originally bred for working livestock. The name of the breed is Spanish, meaning “Canarian Molosser” or “Canary Mastiff”, and is often shortened to “Presa Canario” or simply “Presa”.
The Dogo Canario originated in the Canary Islands in the 18th and 19th centuries. They were developed from crosses of the island farm dogs known as “Majorero”, “Bardino Majorero”, and “Presa Canario” with imported breeds like the Bulldog and Mastiff. Local folklore states that the indigenous people of the Canary Islands kept these dogs to guard and drove livestock. Over time, the dogs developed the skills and physique needed for their work duties.
Dogo Canarios are imposing, powerful dogs with thick necks and broad heads. They typically stand 21.5 to 26 inches tall and weigh 80 to 130 pounds. Their short, coarse coat comes in various shades of brindle, fawn, and verdine. This breed exhibits typical Molosser traits like a brachycephalic head, strong jaws, heavily muscled frame, and low-set tail.
The Dogo Canario is believed to have an exceptionally powerful bite force, measured around 500 pounds per square inch (PSI). For perspective, this is more than double the bite force of a Rottweiler or German Shepherd. Their massive jaws and muscular build enable Dogo Canarios to exert tremendous clamping force with a bite. As guard dogs, their bite strength aids in restraining intruders or threats.
However, responsible ownership and socialization are essential for this breed due to their potential to inflict serious injury. While Dogo Canarios can be affectionate and loyal with proper handling, their protective nature and strength demand an experienced owner.
Conclusion
In summary, the most powerful dog breeds include the Rottweiler, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Bandog, Tosa Inu, Dogo Argentino, Cane Corso, and Dogo Canario. While the Pitbull is certainly a strong and powerful breed, these other breeds edge it out when it comes to pure strength and power due to their larger size and incredibly muscular builds. The criteria that make a breed the most powerful include having the strongest bite force, being the largest in size, and possessing the most physical strength. While pitbulls are compact and strong for their size, they simply cannot compete with the raw power of these giant breed dogs.
When evaluating the most powerful dog breeds, it’s important to look at their history, body type, size, strength, and bite force. Certain breeds like the Mastiff have been bred for centuries to be guard dogs and to take down large predators. Their enormous size is a huge asset. Other breeds like the Rottweiler and Dogo Argentino have incredibly muscular bodies and were bred specifically for disciplines requiring strength. While pitbulls are undoubtedly strong dogs, especially for their medium size, they do not possess the same sheer magnitude of power that some of these giant breeds do.
In the end, selecting the right dog breed is about finding the perfect match for your lifestyle and needs. While some seek out the most imposing and powerful breeds due to perceptions of status or protection, these dogs require experienced owners ready to provide extensive training and proper socialization. Every dog deserves a loving home, so be sure to choose the breed that aligns with your circumstances. If you prefer a lower maintenance dog with steadfast devotion, a pitbull could still be the perfect canine companion.