Every breed of dog has something that makes it unique and each offers its own special set of characteristics.
We’ve compiled a list of 24 of the strongest dog breeds in the world, ranked based on their bite force pounds per square inch (PSI).
If you’re looking for some of the greatest working breeds, a great watchdog, or just a dog that has a bark that’s not worse than their bite, read on!
Top 10 Strongest Dogs in the World (Pound for Pound)
| Dog Breed | Bite Force (psi) |
|---|---|
| Kangal | 743 psi |
| Bandog | 730 psi |
| Cane Corsos | 700 psi |
| Boerboel | 700 psi |
| English Mastiff | 552 psi |
| Tosa-Inu | 500 psi |
| Leonberger | 440 psi |
| Rottweiler | 328 psi |
| American Bulldog | 305 psi |
| Newfoundland | 240 psi |
Strongest Large Dog Breeds
15. Alaskan Malamute
Bite Force: 222 PSI
One of the strongest dogs in the world, the Alaskan Malamute, is often mistaken for another breed, the Husky, a dog which we will explore later on in our list.
However, there are significant differences between these two breeds. The main one being the size of the Alaskan Malamute.
Malamute’s are very large working dogs, reaching up to 100 pounds.
They are strong and muscular which enables them to pull very heavy cartloads. At its best, an Alaskan Malamute can pull up to 1500–2000 pounds for short distances.
As their name would suggest, Alaskan Malamute’s thick double coat gives them the ability to thrive in cold climates.
If you are looking for a high-energy, intelligent breed with a great work ethic, look no further!
14. Irish Wolfhound
Bite Force: 224 PSI
One of the largest strong dog breeds on our list, the Wolfhound can reach up to 200 pounds in weight with a bite force of 224 pounds per square inch.
So, it may be no surprise that what it has in size, it matches in strength.
This dog is great at tracking and hunting down prey.
But don’t let this scare you. Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants, whose demeanor is not typically aggressive or stubborn.
Wolfhounds are good with children and work well in houses that have other pets.
Regular exercise is a must for this breed.
Also, training is a good idea to ensure any potentially aggressive behavior is curbed early.
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13. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Bite Force: 224 PSI
Recognizable by the “ridge” of fur down their backs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are also known in literature as the “African lion dog”.
They have a bold personality to match.
Notoriously independent and strong-willed a Rhodesian Ridgeback needs a firm hand and steady training from the time they are puppies.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks love to roam large distances, so they aren’t recommended for apartment living or families with limited space.
12. Great Dane
Bite Force: 238 PSI
Great Danes are not only one of the tallest dog breeds, they happen to be featured on our list of fastest dogs.
Another breed that can weigh up to 200 pounds, the Great Dane is a great runner thanks to its strong and developed muscles.
Though very large, the Great Dane is often referred to as a gentle giant. They are mild-mannered, patient and good with families, children, and other pets.
Sadly, these dogs’ great size also means shorter lifespans, with few Great Danes living past 10 years.
11. Saint Bernard
Bite Force: 235 PSI
You may recognize this purebred dog breed from some of your favorite movies or shows a Saint Bernard is one of the world’s most powerful dogs.
Saint Bernard’s gentle personality and high intelligence make them great candidates for not only the big screen but also as working dogs.
This breed rose to notability in the Swiss Alps, where they used their impressive strength, dense coat, and size to assist in rescue missions.
The breed was so successful in their role, that they became the national dog of Switzerland.
Saint Bernard’s coat of fur make them popular in the Alps, but warm weather friends may think twice before adding one to the family.
Thick coats make warmer climates difficult for this breed and they may grow uncomfortable in hot weather.
10. Great Pyrenees
Bite Force: 240 PSI
Another working dog, the Great Pyrenees is identifiable for its large size and striking white beautiful coat.
Bred to protect livestock from predators, Great Pyrenees dogs have impressive strength and are highly intelligence.
The Great Pyrenees’ muscular body also has a long history of sledding and carting work. They can pull large loads for long distances in cold conditions.
And given that a Great Pyrenees bite force is 240 pounds per square inch, they can grab hold with their jaw effectively too.
Temperament for this breed is generally steady. However, their predatory instincts have been known to make appearances from time to time.
If trained correctly, the Great Pyrenees can be a loyal and reliable dog for an experienced owner.
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9. Newfoundland
Bite Force: 240 PSI
Referred to as “Newfies” by lovers of this giant breed, these strong dogs are known to have historically accompanied sailors on long voyages.
It should come as no surprise then that Newfoundland’s are excellent water dogs. Their strong powerful frames and webbed feet propel them through the water with ease.
Another working-class breed, Newfies have been used for their strength in sledding expeditions or carting jobs.
Though big, Newfoundlands are popular for their sweet and obedient demeanor.
A Newfoundland is great for families who love to boat or take regular trips to the lake.
8. Rottweiler
Bite Force: 328 PSI
One of the toughest dog breeds, Rottweilers can weigh up to 130 pounds and with their muscular appearance they are often misunderstood.
A well-trained Rottweiler will never actually attack unless it is provoked.
They can make a loyal family companion who are intelligent and make great work dogs.
With a bite force of 328 pounds per square inch, it’s obvious why Rottweilers are one of the strongest dog breeds.
Most people don’t know that Rottweilers were originally bred as guardians, soldiers, and herders.
7. Leonberger
Bite Force: 440 PSI
The Leonberger has a long history in Germany as a farm dog as well as making for excellent guard dogs.
Did you know that they have webbed feet and are expert swimmers? Making the Leonberger great water rescue dogs used all around the World.
A giant dog breed, a Leonberger can stand 31 inches at the shoulder and weigh as much as 170 pounds.
Powerful but friendly, they are good family dogs and are easier to train than other strong breeds.
The Leonberger breed is loyal, intelligent, playful, and friendly. All appealing traits when searching for the perfect dog.
6. Tosa-Inu
Bite Force: 500 PSI
The Tosa Inu originates from Japan and is a unique-looking powerful breed.
Its squared-off muzzle and very muscular frame is proof of its impressive strength.
The Tosa-Inu was bred as a fighting dog in Japan but nearly went extinct after the second world war.
Luckily, they rebounded after those times, and today this dog is beloved in the country of Japan.
Prospective owners should be aware of this dog’s quiet but willful temperament.
Loyal and affectionate to owners, without proper training or socialization, this breed may have aggressive tendencies.
This can be avoided with the right handler.
Tosa-Inu should have access to plenty of mental stimulation and room to run or they may become destructive in the home.
5. English Mastiff
Bite Force: 552 PSI
The English Mastiff was brought over on the Mayflower with Pilgrims and has continued to evolve as a breed ever since.
Bred for fighting and defense against bulls and bears, the Mastiff is not only one of the strongest dog breeds, but also the largest in terms of mass.
Male dogs can weigh up to 250 pounds, with a very large body and broadhead.
Although powerful, they are courageous, loyal and gentle, making them a great family addition. Since they are large, be sure to give them plenty of room to enjoy dog life.
If you’re not a fan of drooling, this may not be the breed for you. The English Mastiff is known for its tendency to slobber.
Like the Great Dane, you can expect a shorter life from an English Mastiff, aging only to 6-10 years due to their large size.
4. Boerboel
Bite Force: 700 PSI
Part of the Mastiff class, the Boerboel is a stocky, muscular, and large breed.
This dog has a dominant and independent personality and needs very strict training from the time they are born.
This helps ensure even temperament and prevents issues with aggression.
Bred for protection in Africa, the Boerboel is a natural guard dog and is driven to defend against any predator who they perceive as a threat to their home or territory.
Like others nearing the top of our list of dogs with the strongest bite, the bite for this breed is arguably worse than its bark.
For this reason, a Boerboel is not recommended for inexperienced or first-time dog owners.
2. Cane Corsos
Bite Force: 700 PSI
An ancient breed, the Cane Corso is a powerful dog with a bite force of 700 psi. Also known as an Italian Mastiff they are sometimes confused with the next dog on our list, a Bandog.
Cane Corsos are territorial and protective becoming aggressive if they feel their owner is being threatened.
The exercise requirements of a Cane Corso are similar to any energetic dog in that they need regular runs or long hikes.
Given they were bred to work just laying around all day isn’t in their DNA.
Inexperienced dog owners might not be able to handle the brute strength of this powerful dog.
2. Bandog
Bite Force: 730 PSI
The strength of the Bandog is obvious, with its stocky build and muscular frame.
Although this dog gets a bad reputation for being aggressive, this behavior typically stems from the owner and how they raise them.
Their size and strength make experienced ownership and proper training an absolute must.
With the right handling, the Bandog can make a loyal companion, a great work dog and a stellar protector of homes and livestock for experienced dog owners.
1. Kangal
Bite Force: 743 PSI
Topping our large breed category, The Kangal is the world’s strongest dog with a bite psi topping out at 743 pounds per square inch.
This may seem extreme, but their bite was bred as a favorable trait. The breed was raised as a guardian dog to protect flocks against large predators.
Perhaps it shouldn’t be surprising that the Kangal has a protective instinct. Although with the right trainer, the Turkish Kangal dog can be an affectionate and loyal companion.
This dog is very active and requires plenty of exercises.
Averaging around 125 pounds, they are much smaller than the English Mastiff or Great Dane making the Kangal the strongest dog breed pound for pound.
Strongest Medium-Sized Dogs
7. Malinois
Bite Force: 195 PSI
The Malinois is the first Shepherd class dog on our list, but will not be the last.
Like other Shepherd breeds, the Malinois is not only incredibly strong but also very smart and has a deep love for work and pleasing its owners.
With their athletic bodies, Malinois were bred to work outdoors and need daily exercise to be satisfied.
Without room to run and a job to do, the Malinois may become bored and cause havoc in small homes or apartments.
6. Siberian Husky
Bite Force: 224 PSI
The smaller twin to the Alaskan Malamute, the Siberian Husky finds its way onto our list of strongest dog breeds.
The Husky is one of the greatest working dogs and its endurance is nearly unrivaled by any other breed.
Known as a great sledding dog, Huskies can pull over its body weight for extended periods without tiring due to a modified metabolic rate.
In addition to their incredible strength and stamina, the Siberian Husky also has an excellent temperament.
This makes them a good family dog who is a friendly, inquisitive, and great learner.
Related: Dogs That Look Like Huskies
Prospective owners should be aware of the daily exercise needs of a Husky and adjust their lifestyles accordingly.
Room to run and regular walks are a must to avoid damaging boredom in the breed.
5. Chow Chow
Bite Force: 220 PSI
Easily recognizable for their short faces and fluffy coats, the Chow Chow is a favorite breed of dog shows.
What is less known about them is their impressive bite strength and single-minded personality.
Though loyal to owners, Chow Chow’s may show signs of aggression towards strangers and may not be great in family or children settings.
The Chow Chow is notorious for its laziness and doesn’t need a great deal of exercise.
If you’re up for the task of socializing and training a stubborn breed, then the Chow Chow is the perfect dog for you.
4. Doberman
Bite Force: 228 PSI
Also listed on our fastest dog article, the Doberman makes the cut for one of the strongest dog breeds for their impressive muscular build.
This feature may come second, however, to their intelligent and sensitive nature.
Dobermans are less likely to be aggressive than some other breeds on this list.
But, like all dogs, they should be trained and socialized accordingly.
The Doberman’s striking features make them a highly sought-after breed in the United States and around the globe.
3. Boxer
Bite Force: 230 PSI
The name and presentation of a Boxer may suggest an aggressive breed, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The Boxer is known for its sweet and friendly disposition.
They make excellent dogs for nearly any home.
Good with children and other pets, the athletic bodies of Boxers make them great jumpers and excellent candidates for flyball or frisbee.
Just be sure you can provide them with the right amount of daily exercise, as a bored Boxer is no fun for any household.
2. American Pit Bull
Bite Force: 235 PSI
American Pit Bull Terriers may be one of the most misunderstood strong dog breeds on our list.
They were bred into fighting rings, a pastime that showed their strength. Dogfighting is inhumane and gave Pit’s a bad reputation for aggression.
Many American Pit Bull experts will be quick to note the dog’s loveable demeanor and their intense affection for people and their owners.
This isn’t to say prospective families shouldn’t do their research.
It can be easier to ensure a lack of aggression from Pit Bulls’ that are trained and handled from birth.
But, adopting an older American Pit Bull with an unclear history is doable with proper training and knowledge.
Related: Dogs Breeds That Look Like Pit Bulls
It’s unfair to stereotype the entire dog type because of a tragic history or reputation.
If you’re interested in Pit Bulls, do your homework and make sure you are equipped to handle training a dog.
1. German Shepherd
Bite Force: 238 PSI
Rounding out our strongest dog breed list of medium-sized pups is the German Shepherd.
Intelligent and eager to please, this strong breed is one of the most utilized dogs in work settings.
Mainly known for being police dogs, German Shepherds have a sharp mind and strength that is effective on law enforcement and military rescue missions.
Not to mention a German Shepherd’s great sense of smell makes them ideal for drug-sniffing tasks.
Although a great working dog, the German Shepherd also makes an excellent companion.
When introducing this breed into a family, it is important to train and socialize them early as they tend to become overprotective if not.
Strongest Small Dogs
2. Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo)
Bite Force: 220 PSI
Otherwise known as the “Xolo” or the “Mexican Hairless”, this breed comes in three sizes, standard, intermediate, and miniature.
The Xoloitzcuintli is one of the oldest and strongest small dogs and among the first to step foot on the North American continent.
This dog is great for those with strong hair or dander allergies, however many are unaware of the temperament of the Xolo.
Xolo puppies can be very energetic and vocal, but as they mature they are known to have a calm demeanor.
If training is neglected, a Xolo’s aggressive or protective nature may be exhibited.
Exercise is a must with this breed. Otherwise, they find ways to entertain themselves, like becoming escape artists.
1. American Bulldog
Bite Force: 305 PSI
As one of the most popular dog breeds, the American Bulldog rounds out our list of strong dogs with its short, stocky, and powerful build.
Historically, Bull Dogs were bred to herd and takedown bulls – hence their name – but have since become notorious lap dogs.
Though they may seem intimidating with their muscled body and strong jaw, the American Bulldog is great for families with kids.
These dogs don’t need much exercise nowadays and are usually notably lazy, loving the couch potato lifestyle after a short daily walk.
Wrapping It pUp
Hopefully, you enjoyed this compilation of the strongest dog breeds in the world.
There’s a lot to consider when looking for your perfect furry friend.
No two dog breeds are the same and if you’re considering adopting a new member of the family, it’s important to look for a breed that fits your lifestyle.
From speed to size, various dog breeds have different needs. So it’s no surprise that you should always consider strength and temperament when doing your research.
A strong dog with a strong will needs an owner that is prepared to invest time and energy into proper training.
However, breeds such as the American Bulldog or Great Dane offer all the perks of a strong breed with fewer temperament concerns.
With this in mind, if you’re looking for a guard dog, a companion to accompany you on hunting trips, or simply a great dog to join your family, one of these breeds may be for you!
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