How Do We Measure Canine Strength?
"Strongest" can refer to different metrics: bite force (PSI), pulling capacity, work stamina, or overall power. Each breed excels in different aspects of strength.
Bite Force (PSI)
Pounds per square inch (PSI) measures jaw strength. Kangal Dogs are often cited for the highest bite force estimates (700+ PSI), followed by Mastiffs and Rottweilers.
Pulling Power
Some breeds excel at pulling heavy loads. Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, and Bernese Mountain Dogs are legendary sled dogs, capable of pulling many times their body weight.
Work Capacity
Endurance and ability to perform work over time. Working breeds like German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Rottweilers combine strength with stamina and trainability.
The World's Strongest Dog Breeds
These breeds demonstrate exceptional strength across different metrics, from bite force to pulling power to work endurance.
German Shepherd
Rottweiler
Doberman Pinscher
Tibetan Mastiff
Belgian Malinois
Dutch Shepherd
Alaskan Malamute
Cane Corso
Presa Canario
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
Tosa Inu
Bite Force Rankings
Approximate bite force measurements in PSI (pounds per square inch)
1. Kangal Dog: 700+ PSI
Turkish Kangal Dogs are often cited as having one of the highest bite forces among domestic dogs. Bred as livestock guardians, their powerful jaws evolved to protect flocks from predators.
2. English Mastiff: 556 PSI
While known more for their massive size, English Mastiffs also possess formidable jaw strength. Their combination of size and power makes them incredibly strong dogs.
3. Rottweiler: 328 PSI
Rottweilers combine moderate bite force with exceptional overall strength, athleticism, and trainability. They're used in police and military work worldwide.
4. Doberman Pinscher: 245 PSI
Dobermans may have slightly lower bite force measurements, but their speed, agility, and working ability make them extremely effective in protection work.
5. Cane Corso: 700 PSI (estimated)
Italian Cane Corsos are powerful mastiff-type dogs with strong bite force. They were bred as guardians and hunters, requiring experienced ownership.
Note: Bite force measurements vary by study and individual dog. These are approximate values. Factors like jaw size, muscle mass, and individual variation affect actual measurements.
Pulling Power Champions
Sled Dogs: The Ultimate Pullers
Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies are legendary for their pulling power. These breeds were developed to pull heavy sleds over long distances in harsh conditions. A well-trained sled dog team can pull several times their combined body weight.
Weight Pull Competitions
Dogs in weight pull competitions regularly pull 10-50 times their body weight. Breeds like Alaskan Malamutes, American Bulldogs, and Pit Bulls excel in these events, demonstrating incredible strength relative to their size.
More Powerful Breeds
Kangal Dog
Leonberger
Boerboel
Bullmastiff
English Mastiff
American Bulldog
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the strongest dog measured?
Strength can be measured by different metrics: bite force (PSI), pulling capacity, and real-world work performance. Kangal Dogs often rank highest for bite force, while breeds like Mastiffs excel in absolute power, and working breeds like Rottweilers combine strength with trainability.
What is the strongest dog in the world?
Depends on the metric. For bite force, Kangal Dogs are often cited (700+ PSI). For sheer mass and power, English Mastiffs are contenders. For balanced strength and trainability, Rottweilers excel. Each breed demonstrates strength in different ways.
What dog has the strongest bite force?
Turkish Kangal Dogs are often cited as having one of the highest bite forces among domestic dogs, with estimates of 700+ PSI. English Mastiffs also have formidable bite force (556 PSI), followed by breeds like Rottweilers, Cane Corsos, and Dogo Argentinos.
Are strong dogs good family pets?
Many strong breeds can be excellent family pets with proper training and socialization. However, powerful breeds require experienced owners, consistent training, and responsible handling. Breeds like Rottweilers, Mastiffs, and Dobermans can be gentle family companions when properly raised and trained.