15 Dogs With the Strongest Bite Force
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Dogs can be a mans best friend, but they can also be dangerous. While most people do not seek out a dog with a strong bite force, it is important to understand what it is.
Understanding a dog’s bite force allows owners to know how much training is needed to prevent bites, meaning it won’t be a factor. Keep in mind that a strong bite force is not an indicator of a breeds aggression, but will be if they do bite someone.
How Dog Bite Force is (PSI) Measured
The Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) or bite force, is the strength that a dog can bite with. A dog’s bite is measured in force in pounds per Square inch (PSI), and researchers measure using digital bite meters. The strength of a dog’s bite force has been researched in many different ways and are put in different categories based on their skull shape and breed size.
PSI is used to measure the pressure that a dog uses when biting down. It is also the same system of measurement used to measure the pressure of car tires. However, the pressure released by a dog’s jaws differs based on what they are biting, such as a toy, which would be different than defensive bite pressure.
Breeds With the Strongest Bite Force
Let’s look at the breeds that have scored the highest on bite-force tests in order from low to high PSI.
1. Doberman PSI Force, PSI Force 229
The Doberman is very sleek and pretty, and the bite force for this dog is 229 PSI, meaning this breed has a pretty strong jaw. They are considered large dogs and have earned a bad rap in the dog world when it comes to their protective nature, but they’re loyal, loving dogs.
Doberman’s are fearless and passionate when it comes to guarding their family. They are also playful and active dogs that require a lot of exercise, which helps keep them less aggressive. It is best to raise a Doberman with children from a puppy so he can lead the pack.
2. German Shepherd, PSI Force 291
The German Shepherd is a breed that is well-known for its strength and is closely related to the Belgian Malinois but with a more ferocious bite. This breed is often used as a working dog for law enforcement, military and other security based agencies.
German Shepherds make good family pets due to their loyalty and obedience. They are quite easy to train and need socialization to flush out aggression. They do have a goofy and loving nature and love to play with their humans.
3. American Bulldog, PSI Force 305
The American Bulldog is a strong breed of dog with a powerful bite of 305 PSI. They do require firm training because they can be stubborn and have been known to snap around strangers.
American Bulldogs are not as energetic as other breeds so they don’t need a lot of exercise. They do make great family pets but prefer to be lapdogs. Usually they are friendly and behave well around children but tend to do better alone than other breeds.
4. American Pitbull Terrier, PSI Force, 330
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a breed that is known for its strength and bite force of 330 PSI. Pitbull terriers are legal in the United States but banned in many parts of Canada. They are also banned in the UK. Puerto Rico had a two-decade ban on the breed until 2018.
This breed is very playful yet protective. This breed has been demonized and is considered unsafe and a menace but they are actually very loving family dogs. While it’s true that they have a high bite force and are prone to biting, they are smart and can be easily trained.
Rottweiler, PSI Force, 328
The Rottweiler is known for its strength and intelligence with a bite force of 328 PSI. This breed is often used as a guard dog because they come off as big and intimidating.
Rottweilers are very lovable pups and known for being a little bit clingy with their owners. They do need a lot of training and socialization to keep them from causing harm.
6. Leonberger – PSI Force 399
The Leonberger is an enormous, fluffy, gentle giant of a breed. Even though they have a loving nature, this breed has a shocking bite force of 399 PSI. It is believed they were originally bred to guard livestock, while fighting off wolves, bears, and other predator’s. Despite this, Leonbergers are often used as therapy dogs.
Leonbergers are great for families with children and other pets . However, this breed is very large and is known to accidentally knock people down, especially children during play time.
7. Akita Inu – PSI Force 400
The Akita Inu became popular after the movie Hachiko was released and was based on the true story of a dog and his heartbreaking loyalty to his owner. However, the breed’s compassion and extreme loyalty doesn’t change it’s bite force of 400 PSI.
The Akita Inu is an affectionate and loyal family dog but can be aggressive toward other dogs. They can be challenging when training and known for being a stubborn breed.
8. Dogo Argentino -PSI Force 500
The Dogo Argentino breed has a bite force of 500 PSI, so the strength of the jaw is considered significant. This breed has great reflexes and an intimidating strong stature.
The Dogo Argentinos are hunters, like to exercise and play. They are considered a friendly and active breed, which makes them a good family dog. It is important to train and socialize this breed to avoid aggression.
9. Dogo Canario – PSI Force 540
The Dogo Canario is historically known as a battle dog and are highly aggressive and strong. Humble and courageous, they make great guard dogs but have a bite force of 540 PSI.
The Dogo Canario does well in families as long as they get a lot of stimulation. It is best if they have a large yard or get out regularly to exercise. This breed also does well with children and other household animals.
10. Dogue De Bordeaux PSI Force – 556
Dogue De Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large dog that is known for being lazy and drool a lot. With a bite force of 556 PSI, this is not a breed you want to mess with.
This breed does make loyal companions and good family dogs. They also do well with children but can be suspicious of strangers. They do not need much exercise, but it’s important that they are trained and socialized.
11. Tosa Inu PSI Force – PSI Force 556
This is a Japanese breed but thought to have Great Dane lineage in them. The Tosa Inu makes a great watchdog because they come off as self-assured and intimidating in appearance. They’re highly protective and have a bite force of 556 PSI.
This breed is large but has low energy levels and won’t need as much stimulation when compared to other large breeds. They do need obedience from puppyhood, or they can easily injure people and things.
12. English Mastiff PSI Force PSI Force – 556
The English Mastiff does have a bite force of 552 PSI, so it needs careful and full training. This breed is independent and strong-willed and make great guard dogs.
The English Mastiff is a good family dog, but can be destructive when bored. They’re good with kids but not with other dogs. This breed does need daily exercise, this dog is great for the active family.
13. Cane Corso PSI Force – PSI Force 700
Cane Corsos have high strength and were once used as battle dogs and have a bite force of 700 PSI. It is important that they are trained to be around humans and other dogs.
This breed is a good family pet but would prefer to be the only dog in the house. Cane Corsos need socialization to be comfortable with strangers starting as a puppy. This breed is very eager to learn and intelligent.
14. American Bandogge – PSI Force 730
American Bandogge have a very diverse ancestry, and have a bite force of 730 PSI. They can be protective of their families which can make them dangerous if not trained and socialized.
American Bandogge has a protective personality, loving with their family but is suspicious of strangers. This breed is good with children and other pets if raised from puppy hood.
15. Kangal PSI Force – PSI Force 734
The Kangal is a Turkish breed of dog with a bite force of 743 PSI. This breed is used to herd and to protect them from wolves, bears, and jackals with their intimidating size and protection skills. The Kangal comes in first place as the dog with the strongest bite around the world.
This breed should be the only animal in the house but is good with children. They are good family dogs but do need daily exercise and a large yard.
Final Thoughts
While dog bites are possible with any dog breed there are some breeds that are more likely to bite. It’s important to learn about bite strength but proper training and socializing can make any dog the perfect family pet.
