Dogs with the Strongest Bite Force 2023 - Ranking the Top 10
by B Kishwar
Updated Mar 29, 2023
Dogs with the Strongest Bite Force
Bite force is the amount of pressure that a dog's jaws can exert. It is often measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). Dogs with the strongest bite force are those that are able to exert the most pressure with their jaws. Several factors can affect a dog's bite force, including the size and shape of its head, the size and strength of its jaw muscles, and the length and shape of its teeth.
Some dog breeds are known to have particularly strong bite force, such as the Rottweiler, German Shepherd, and Pit Bull. These breeds have been historically used for tasks such as guarding, hunting, and fighting, which require a strong bite. It's important to note, however, that a dog's bite force alone does not determine its overall strength or aggression level. Other factors, such as temperament and training, also play a significant role in a dog's behaviour and potential to cause harm.
Top 10 Dogs that have the Strongest Bite Force
The issue of dog bites is surrounded by numerous myths and misinformation. For instance, you may have come across claims that Chihuahuas are the breed most prone to biting, which is impossible to verify, or that Pit Bulls have locking jaws, which is entirely false. Similarly, there is much confusion regarding the strength of various dog breeds' bites, with some suggesting that certain breeds, such as Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers, have the strongest bites, or that these breeds can bite with incredible force. In this article, we aim to dispel these myths and provide accurate information about which dog breeds have the strongest bite and their actual bite strength, measured in pounds per square inch (psi).
S. No
Name of the Dogs
PSI Value
1
Kangal
743 PSI
2
Bandog
730 PSI
3
Cane Corso
700 PSI
4
Dogue de Bordeaux
556 PSI
5
Tosa In
556 PSI
6
English Mastiff
552 PSI
7
Presa Canario
540 PSI
8
Dogo Argentino
500 PSI
9
Leonberger
399 PSI
10
Rottweiler
328 PSI
Top 10 Strongest Dog Bite Force
1. Kangal
The Kangal is a large, powerful breed of dog that originates from Turkey. They are known for their incredible strength and protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs. Kangals are also recognized for their impressive bite force, which is one of the strongest of any dog breed. According to studies, Kangals can exert a bite force of up to 743 PSI. This makes them one of the strongest biters of any dog breed. Their powerful jaws and muscular build allow them to deliver a crushing bite that can easily take down a predator or intruder.
Kangals were originally bred to protect flocks of sheep from wolves and other predators, and their strong bite force was a necessary tool in defending their charges. Today, Kangals are often kept as companion animals or used as working dogs in security and law enforcement. While Kangals are incredibly loyal and protective of their families, their strong protective instincts can also make them wary of strangers. As with any large, powerful breed, early socialisation and training are essential to ensure they are well-adjusted and well-behaved.
2. Bandog
This breed, also known as the Bandog Mastiff, is thought to have originated in England sometime in the 13th century and is a cross between the Pit Bull Terrier and the Neapolitan Mastiff. Bullenbeissers is one among the most frequently mentioned options, although it's possible that there's other DNA mixed in there as well.
This breed is uncommon, and kennel clubs and other regulating bodies don't typically recognise it. They have quite the fearsome history, and the moniker stems from the fact that they were "banded up" — or chained — until they were needed as guard or battle dogs. Despite its terrible past, this species has a reputation for being emotionally dependent, so don't be shocked if you end up with a 125-pound lapdog.
3. Cane Corso
Italy and the Cane Corso, or Italian Mastiff, are the next stop on our tour of the Mastiff breed's geographic distribution. These dogs used to be extremely widespread throughout the nation, but now they are primarily restricted to the Puglia region in the south.
Cane Corsos often weighs "only" 110 pounds or thereabouts, making them slightly less huge than other Mastiff-type breeds. They are, however, often far more muscular than their cousins, which accounts for their ability to deliver such a powerful bite.
4. Dogue de Bordeaux
The French Mastiff, or Dogue de Bordeaux, is an ancient breed that has been around since at least the 14th century. On farms, these enormous canines were used for a variety of tasks, including as pulling carts and watching after cattle.
This is one of the oldest Mastiff-like breeds on the world, and many people think they are direct descendants of the Greek Molossus, a large battle dog that is regarded to be the ancestor of all Mastiff types today.
5. Tosa In
The Japanese Mastiff, or Tosa Inu, is just as big and commanding as any of its relatives. Yet, unlike many other Mastiff-type dogs, these canines are usually quiet and vigilant.
Although Tosa Inus generally have even temperaments, they still need a lot of socialisation and obedience training. You should pay close attention to how they interact with other dogs because they have a tendency to become aggressive and irritable when they perceive a threat to their families or property.
6. English Mastiff
Most kennel clubs simply refer to the English Mastiff as "the Mastiff," so they are frequently used as the standard for what a Mastiff-type dog should be. Yet, this is more likely a result of the fact that kennel clubs were founded in England than it is a result of the breed's historical claim to superiority.
Although they are capable of inflicting pain on a person with their jaws, English Mastiffs are generally a kind and patient breed of dog. Because of this, you won't often see these dogs being deployed by the military or by law enforcement, even though their frightening size alone can make them excellent protection dogs.
7. Presa Canario
For their intimidating size, the Presa Canario, or Spanish Mastiff, has long been admired. Over the course of their lengthy history, these dogs, which frequently weigh more than 150 pounds, have served as fighting dogs, security dogs, and even war dogs. These dogs can be affectionate, docile, and lovely, but they require a lot of socialisation and training to remain that way.
8. Dogo Argentino
This South American puppy is frequently mistaken for Pit Bulls or American Bulldogs, but they truly don't resemble either breed all that much. The now-extinct Cordoba Fighting Dog was first crossed with giant breeds including Great Danes, Dogues de Bordeaux, Irish Wolfhounds, and Pyrenean Mastiffs to make them.
Antonio Nores Martinez, a doctor, developed the breed in 1928. Martinez desired a pet that would be a devoted, loving friend as well as able to help with large game hunting and provide protection for his home. The outcome was a breed that is currently frequently used as a therapy dog and is very social (although they also do police work on the side).
9. Leonberger
Although they aren't the most well-known breed, these shaggy, goofy giants can pack a powerful bite given their size (they frequently weigh more than 150 pounds). However, unlike many of the other breeds on this list, Leonbergers are more commonly utilised for search-and-rescue operations than for security or law enforcement duties.
They were probably originally developed to protect cattle, which would need them to defend it from wolves, bears, and other dangerous animals (hence their massive size). Today, though, they are frequently used as water rescue animals, and all that strength is useful when you need to save a person who is drowning in a lake.
10. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler can put the most force behind each bite of the three dog breeds—Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers—that are most frequently thought to have the strongest bites in the canine world. But ultimately, they only just cracked the top 10.
Rotties are large, intimidating animals that, if improperly taught and socialised, can be harmful (particularly to strangers). Yet because they are extremely needy, having a Rottie may be like having a 100-pound baby who sobs whenever you leave the room.
What Dog has the Strongest Bite?
The Kangal is a breed of large livestock guardian dog originating from Turkey, and is known for its strength and protective nature. While there is no definitive study on the exact biting force of the Kangal, it is widely believed to have one of the strongest bites of any dog breed.
According to some sources, the Kangal's bite can exert a force of up to 743 pounds (337 kg), which is stronger than many other powerful breeds such as the Rottweiler and the Pit Bull. However, it is important to note that there is some debate among experts regarding the accuracy of these measurements. It is also worth mentioning that while the Kangal is a powerful and protective breed, they are typically very gentle and affectionate with their family members and those they are tasked with guarding. As with any breed of dog, proper socialisation and training are crucial to ensure that they are well-behaved and safe around people and other animals.
In addition to their impressive bite force, Kangals are known for their physical prowess and muscular build. They typically weigh between 90 and 150 pounds (40 to 70 kg) and stand 28 to 32 inches (70 to 80 cm) tall at the shoulder. Their coat is short and dense, and typically comes in a range of shades of fawn, ranging from pale cream to a reddish-brown. Kangals were originally bred to protect livestock from predators such as wolves and bears, and they continue to serve this purpose today. They are highly protective of their territory and will not hesitate to defend their charges against perceived threats. As such, they require an experienced owner who can provide them with consistent training and socialisation from a young age. Despite their protective nature, Kangals are typically calm and patient with children and other pets in their household. They are known to be affectionate and loyal to their family members, and will often form strong bonds with those they are tasked with protecting.
In addition to their role as livestock guardians, Kangals are also sometimes used as police dogs or search and rescue dogs. They are highly intelligent and trainable, and can excel in a range of tasks when properly trained and socialised. Overall, the Kangal is a powerful and impressive breed with a rich history of guarding and protecting. With proper training and socialisation, they can make loving and loyal family pets, as well as highly effective guardians for livestock and other valuable assets.
Dogs with the Strongest Bite Force - FAQs
A Kangal is a large and powerful breed of dog from Turkey, known for its strength, protective instincts, and impressive bite force of up to 743 PSI.
A Bandog, also known as the Bandog Mastiff, is a crossbreed between the Pit Bull Terrier and the Neapolitan Mastiff. They were once used as guard or battle dogs and have a reputation for being emotionally dependent.
A Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, is a breed of dog that originates from Italy. They are slightly smaller than other Mastiff breeds, but more muscular and capable of delivering a powerful bite.
A Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is an ancient breed that has been around since at least the 14th century. They were used for various tasks such as pulling carts and watching after cattle.
A Tosa Inu, also known as the Japanese Mastiff, is a large and commanding breed of dog. They have an even temperament, but require socialisation and obedience training, as they can become aggressive when they perceive a threat.