Top 20 Dogs With Strongest Bite Force
By Mlbrun Team | On 16 April 2024 09:51 AM
Bite force in a dog is a crucial tool for hunting and chewing. In the wild, it helps them catch and subdue prey. In domestic dogs, it can be used for activities like playing and chewing on toys.
Different dog breeds have varying levels of bite force. A dog with strong bite force can be considered more dangerous, but proper training and temperament of the dog also affect whether they are deadly or not. The bite force of a typical domestic dog can range from 150 to 450 psi (pounds per square inch) or more.
Here we have listed the top 20 dogs with the strongest bite force in the descending order of their PSI estimate.
20. Alaskan Malamute - Up to 125 PSI
Alaskan Malamute dogs have around 125 pounds pers square inch bite force. These sledding dogs used to pull heavy loads and travel long distances in harsh conditions. Their strong bite force was essential for these tasks.
Alaskan Malamutes are known for having a strong protective instinct. They are loyal to their family and home, and they may bite if they feel threatened.
19. Malinois - Up to 195 PSI
Belgian Malinois dogs have a bite force of 195 pounds per square inch (PSI). They were originally bred to be working dogs, specifically herding and guarding livestock. They also have a strong prey drive, which means that they are naturally inclined to hunt and kill animals. So, their strong bite force is an adaptation that helps them to perform these tasks.
Malinois dogs are known for having a "bite-hard-and-hold-on" instinct. This means that they are likely to clamp down on something and not let go until they are told to. This can be a valuable trait in a working dog, but it can also be dangerous if the dog is not properly trained and socialized.
18. Newfoundland - Up to 221 PSI
It has a bite force of up to 221 pounds per square inch (PSI). Newfoundland dogs have a strong bite force because they were originally bred as working dogs. They were used to pull fishing nets, haul heavy loads, and rescue people from the water. A strong bite force was essential for these tasks.
They are generally considered to be gentle and loving dogs. However, they can be protective of their family and home, and they may bite if they feel threatened.
17. Dutch Shepherd - Up to 224 PSI
Dutch Shepherd dogs are a medium-to-large herding dog breed that originated in the Netherlands. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and trainability. They are often used as working dogs in law enforcement, the military, and for search and rescue.
These Dutch dogs are generally considered to be safe dogs, but they can be aggressive if they feel threatened. They have a strong bite force, but they are not typically considered to be deadly. Their bite force of 224 PSI is less than some other working breeds such as the German Shepherd (238 PSI) and the Rottweiler (328 PSI).
16. Doberman Pinscher - Up to 228 PSI
Doberman Pinschers have a strong bite force of around 228 PSI. However, their bite force isn't among the highest in the canine world. There have been several reported incidents of Doberman Pinscher attacks resulting in death including the one where a 2-year-old boy in Texas was killed by a Doberman Pinscher.
The severity of their bites depends on various factors, including the dog's temperament, training, and socialization. Fatalities typically result from factors like the victim's age, size, and any pre-existing health conditions, along with the circumstances leading to the bite.
15. American Pit Bull Terrier - Up to 235 PSI
The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is a muscular dog breed with a strong bite force of around 235-328 PSI. This is similar to the bite force of other medium-sized dogs, such as German Shepherds and Rottweilers.
APBTs are often misunderstood as being aggressive dogs, but this is not generally the case. They are known for being loyal, loving, and affectionate companions.
14. Great Dane - Up to 238 PSI
Great Danes are large, muscular dogs with a strong bite force of around 238 PSI. They have deadly bites but like all dogs, Great Danes can bite only if they feel threatened or provoked. Otherwise, they are not so aggressive.
They are among the largest dog breeds in the world with a lifespan of around 7-10 years. They are wonderful companions but should be supervised when around children and other animals.
13. German Shepherd - Up to 238 PSI
German Shepherds are medium-to-large-sized working dogs known for their intelligence, loyalty, and trainability. They have been used as working dogs for centuries, and are commonly used as police dogs, military dogs, and guide dogs. German Shepherds are also popular family pets, and are known for being gentle and protective of their loved ones.
The average German Shepherd has a bite force of around 238 PSI. However, the bite force of an individual German Shepherd can vary depending on factors such as size, age, and health.
12. American Bulldog - Up to 305 PSI
The American Bulldog is a medium-sized, muscular breed of dog with a strong bite force of around 305 PSI. The American Bulldog's powerful bite force was originally bred into the breed for the purpose of bull-baiting and hog hunting. However, today, American Bulldogs are more commonly used as family pets and working dogs.
Their bite force is due to a number of factors, including its large jaw muscles, strong teeth, and short snout. While the American Bulldog's bite force is powerful, it is important to note that this breed is not inherently aggressive.
11. African Wild Dog - Up to 317 PSI
African wild dogs are highly intelligent and adaptable animals, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and even mountainous regions. They are apex predators, and play an important role in the ecosystems they inhabit.
African wild dogs are known for their powerful bite force, which is the strongest of any extant mammal in the order Carnivora. Their bite force is measured at around 317 PSI, which is significantly higher than that of other large predators such as lions and hyenas.
10. Rottweiler - Up to 328 PSI
Rottweilers have a bite force of around 328 PSI. This makes them very powerful animals, and their bites can be extremely dangerous. They are often used as working dogs, such as police dogs, guard dogs, and military dogs. Their powerful bite force is a valuable asset in these roles.
Rottweiler's powerful bite force is contributed by their large jaw muscles. These muscles allow them to close their jaws with a great deal of force. Similarly, they have strong teeth that are sharp and well-suited for gripping and tearing flesh. Moreover, they have a relatively short snout which allows them to close their jaws more forcefully than dogs with longer snouts.
9. Wolfdog - Up to 406 PSI
Wolfdogs have one of the strongest bite forces of any dog breed, at around 406 PSI. This is due to their large jaw muscles, strong teeth, and short snout.
The Wolfdogs are often used as working dogs because of their powerful bite force, but they can be unpredictable and dangerous animals.
8. Dogo Argentino - Up to 500 PSI
The Dogo Argentino is a large, muscular breed of dog with a powerful bite force thanks to their large jaw muscles, strong teeth, and short snout. Their short snout allows them to close their jaws more forcefully, and their strong teeth help them to grip their prey.
Their jaws are strong enough to crush bones, and they have been known to take down animals much larger than themselves. Their bite force is measured at around 300 to 500 pounds per square inch. This is significantly higher than the average bite force of a domestic dog, which is around 235 PSI.
7. Caucasian Shepherd - 550 to 730 PSI
The Caucasian Shepherd is a massive dog breed that look like bear. You'll be struck by its immense size and thick double coat, which serves as insulation in cold climates. These dogs were traditionally used to protect livestock and properties, displaying unwavering loyalty and a strong protective instinct
Their bite force is impressive, with an estimated range of 550 to 730 PSI, making them effective guardians. Due to their protective nature, Caucasian Shepherds require experienced handlers who can provide proper training and socialization to ensure they make loving and reliable family protectors.
6. Tosa Inu - Up to 556 PSI
The Tosa Inu is also among the highest recorded bite forces among dog breeds, with an estimated bite force of around 500 to 556 pounds per square inch (psi). This impressive bite force is a testament to their strength and natural guarding abilities, making them formidable protectors.
This majestic and powerful dog breed possesses a loyal and protective nature. You'll notice its massive stature, characterized by a muscular build and a dignified, imposing presence. In the hands of a responsible owner, they are gentle and affectionate, especially with children.
5. Saint Bernard - Up to 556 PSI
Saint Bernards are large, affectionate dogs that are known for their rescue and working abilities in harsh mountain environments. They are more likely to use their size and strength for protection rather than relying on their bite force.
Their bite force is estimated to be around 500-556 psi. Even though they are renowned as gentle dogs, responsible ownership and training is essential to ensure that they are well-behaved around people and other animals.
4. Mastiff - Up to 556 PSI
Mastiff breeds have strong jaws and can exert a significant bite force. While it's challenging to provide an exact psi measurement for English Mastiffs, it is estimated to be around 550-600 psi, which is quite substantial.
However, their bites are generally not considered deadly because their temperament is typically gentle, and they are not inclined to use their bite aggressively. These dogs are known for their loyalty and protective nature, but they are more likely to use their size and presence to deter threats rather than relying on their bite.
3. Cane Corso - Up to 700 PSI
The Cane Corso is an Italian breed known for its muscular build and protective nature. These dogs have a bite force around 700 psi, making them formidable protectors. They are loyal and devoted to their families, requiring early socialization and proper training to manage their protective instincts.
Cane Corsos are excellent guard dogs but need responsible ownership to ensure they are well-behaved and do not pose a danger to others.
2. Bandog - Up to 730 PSI
A Bandog is a term used to describe a type of working dog that is traditionally bred for guarding, protection, and sometimes as a catch dog for hunting large game or holding livestock.
These dogs are known for their strong jaws and can exert a formidable bite force of up to 730 PSI. With their muscular jaws and strong teeth, they can exert immense pressure, causing severe damage when they bite. Their bite force can easily crush bones and inflict serious injuries. While their bite force is indeed deadly, it is important to remember that responsible ownership and training can help mitigate any risks.
1. Kangal - Up to 743 PSI
Kangals possess one of the world's strongest dog bite forces, estimated at around 743 psi. These powerful jaws are primarily used for protecting livestock. However, you'll find that dangerous bite incidents involving Kangals are relatively rare.
This Turkish breed is known for its stable temperament and protective instincts, making them loyal and gentle with their families. To ensure their formidable bite force is controlled and directed toward guarding rather than aggression, make sure you provide them with proper training and early socialization.