Top 25 Dogs with a Strongest Bite by Breed Most Dangerous Dog Breeds Strongest Dog Breeds Most Powerful Dog Breeds Dog Breeds Blacklisted by Insurance Companies Dog's Bite Force PSI
What Makes a Dog Breed Strong?
Muscular Build: A well-developed, athletic physique gives these dogs the power to excel in physically demanding tasks.
Bite Force: Measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), a powerful bite is a hallmark of many strong breeds and often linked to their guarding or hunting roles.
Endurance and Stamina: Strength is not just about short bursts of energy - it is about the ability to keep going, whether herding livestock or protecting their territory.
Protective Instincts: True strength also lies in courage and loyalty. Many of these breeds are fearless guardians with an unwavering commitment to their families.
Historical Roles: The strongest breeds often have roots in roles like guarding estates, hunting large prey, or hauling heavy loads - tasks that required both physical and mental fortitude.
some researchers have noted that at maximum attack mode, a wolf's bite force can be over 1000 PSI. Did your dog make the cut? All these dogs are ranked by their bite force which is measured in Pounds per Square Inch or PSI. This is not a reflection of any single animal and should only be taken as a scientific study.
What is PSI? PSI is a unit made to calculate the pressure released upon any given point. The full meaning of psi is "Pound per Square Inch" or "Pound-force per Square Inch". PSI is a measured result of all the pressure applied over one square inch of a pound. It is a very commonly used system and is easy to understand for even some of the most scientifically challenged people. To understand this a little better, take a tire for example. The average tire's pressure generally falls around 32 psi or pounds per square inch. PSI is the scientific method used to explain the force that a dog is able to put forth through their bites. This list documents the twelve strongest dogs based on the psi system.Meanwhile, the PSI that the jaws of animals will make use of is normally average.
However, the pressure may vary based on - What gets bitten, Feelings of the dog - its mood, The dog itself. If compared, while humans make use of an average bite force that ranges from 120-140 PSI, the Nike crocodile's bite force is 5,000 PSI. Well, the bite force of the average dog is placed around 230-250 PSI even though some of these dogs have more strength. Measuring the exact bite force of dogs gets very complicated.
What Dog has the Strongest Bite?
1. Kangal Dog with the Strongest Bite! Bite Force - 743 PSI Kangals are guard dogs originating from Sivas City in Turkey. They are the strongest dogs in the world and hold the crown for the top bite. These dogs have been used as guard dogs to protect sheep and other flocks against bigger predators such as wolves, jackals, and bears. They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and for their gentleness towards children and other animals. This breed is not the best when it comes to strangers due to their protective nature. This means that taking them out for a walk can be a little troubling at times. As with all breeds, be sure to give them proper socialization at a young age to keep them used to meet new people. Luckily, this only adds to the amazing job they can do when involved with the police force or as a home protector. This dog breed can easily take down any medium-sized predator in minutes with their strong muscles and agility. They have great amounts of strength and when talking about bite force, they have the highest pressure per square inch currently recorded. According to the many research tests available, evidence points to the Kangal as having the strongest dog bite in the world.
2. American Bandogge - 730 PSI Just one look at this big boy and you will know it's a dog not to mess up with. If you think its burly frame is fearful enough to behold, wait till you learn how much pain its jaw can inflict! The Bandog has a bite strength of 730 PSI, which is strong enough to tear a limb and haunt you with scars. The American Bandogge is not a standardized breed recognized by the American Kennel Club or any major canine organization. Simply known as "Bandog" since the Middle Ages, it is used to refer to any muscular and heavily built crossbreed whose parents fall underneath the Molosser category, particularly war dogs who participated the Holy Crusade. Bandogs were developed with the sole purpose of serving as a formidable guardian. The term "Bandog" was derived from the fact that strong metal chains were used to bind this ferocious beast. The exact origins of the Bandog remains a moot point but one thing is for sure, this dog has man and beast stopping capabilities!
3. Cane Corso - 700 PSI Second on our list is Italy's most valued canine, the Cane Corso. This large and imposing dog is the descendant of the great canines of Roman antiquity. In the recent past, dogs of this breed served as catch dogs in rural areas. They were also employed as sentries and attack dogs by carters, night watchmen, and tax collectors. The Cane Corso's most prominent feature is its large and imposing head. It also flaunts a lustrous short coat that is either jet black or fawn in color. The Cane Corso has an atrocious bite force of 700 PSI. Hence, this puma-like dog is a fearless opponent to anyone who poses a threat to his master. Although the Cane Corso packs a considerable bite strength, these dogs are obedient and affectionate to their family members once they display a definite preference. They are quite intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them practically easy to train. However, their strong prey drive and overprotectiveness should concern you if you have pocket pets or if you always seem to have frequent visitors at home.
4. Dogue De Bordeaux - 556 PSI Next up is the oldest Molosser-type hailing from Bordeaux, the port city in southwestern France. The Dogue De Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff and Bordeaux Mastiff, has been around since the 14th century. Fanciers of this breed made sure to preserve the line pure in future generations. In the distant past, these dogs were assigned to various capacities involving brute strength. They pull carts, haul heavy objects, guard livestock, and watch over the mansions of the nobles they serve. Today, the Dogue De Bordeaux is best known as a laidback companion who snores and drools a lot. Inside the home, these dogs are calm and quiet. Likewise, they are quite tolerant of kids, unlike other mastiffs. As long as you won't hurt or threaten this dog, there is no reason for him to demonstrate his bite strength of 556 PSI. The Dogue De Bordeaux has a powerful build and a monstrous skull, which is claimed as the largest in the canine world. So, it comes as no surprise that its jaw packs a lot of punch.
5. Tosa Inu - 556 PSI The Tosa Inu is the product of crossbreeding European dogs with the purpose of creating the fiercest canine gladiator. Tosa breeding was at its peak between 1924 and 1933. Back then there were roughly 5, 000 breeders in Japan who aspired to create an impregnable hybrid. It has a bite strength of 556 PSI but unless you are a thief, you won't have to worry about getting your arm lacerated. Like a samurai, these dogs are honest, dignified, and loyal. Tosa Inus can easily cope with a variety of activities as long as they receive proper training and good leadership. However, the Tosa Inu is often presented as a wild menacing dog due to its dark history. Many countries, including Australia, Denmark, Germany, Norway, and Malaysia, have currently banned the ownership of the said breed.
6. English Mastiff - 556 PSI English Mastiffs are a larger breed of dog. These dogs tend to be calm and very powerful when needed. The ancestors of the Mastiffs are the "Molossus", who were noted as being ferocious and talented war dogs. Today English Mastiffs are very calm and gentle dogs. Despite this dog being giant in stature, they are an extremely gentle breed who will even watch over your children with caring and grace. This dog is also noted to be one of the largest dog breeds in the world and can be a bit of a lazy partner at times. They do not require as much play as some of the other breeds on this list, but they do require a huge portion of food to keep them going daily. Their bite force is enormous and they have one of the highest "bite forces" recorded in dog breeds with 556 pound per square inch. With this enormous about of bite force, the breed can easily break any bone in your body.
7. Presa Canario - 540 PSI This majestic dog hails from the beautiful Canary Islands and is a far cry from the gentle, dainty canary. The Perro de Presa Canario, simply known as Dogo Canario, is considered as one of the most lethal canines. In fact, it has been linked to numerous fatal attacks to date. The Dogo Canario is a historical war dog and were also used in dog fighting before it was illegalized in the 1940s. This bad boy shows off a heavy, rectangular body and a massive head. It can slam its powerful jaw shut with 540 PSI thus, causing serious injury or even death due to hemorrhage. Dogo Canarios are still prominently aggressive. So, it comes as no surprise that this breed is outlawed in many countries. Regardless, the Dogo Canario is much loved in its native land. They have proven themselves an exemplary guard dog and a lovely family member. Do take note that this dog is not ideal for the average family. They need a big yard to play, regular mental stimulation, and most of all, an unyielding Alpha. If your dog thinks he is a better Alpha than you, he is more than willing to take the role.
8. Dogo Argentino - 500 PSI The Dogo Argentino was developed in Argentina for the purpose of creating a dog that would exhibit tenacity in hunting as well as an unshakeable resolve in protecting its owner. It descended from the Cordobra Fighting Dog along with other vigorous breeds. With a bite strength of 500 PSI, quick reflexes, and a heavy stature, the Dogo Argentino is unsurprisingly feared by many. These dogs can take on wild boars and buffalos with ease. They are also quite neat. True, the Dogo Argentinos are inherently aggressive but they do not snap without a reason. With early socialization and obedience training, these dogs can be a wonderful addition to the family, a relentless guardian, and a skilled hunter that will bring you dinner.
9. Wolfdog - 406 PSI This dog is a hybrid between a wolf and a domestic dog. Due to this, keeping them can be slightly more dangerous than keeping your average dog. They also can be a bit harder to come by when looking for a breeder to purchase one from. The physical characteristics can also be a little unpredictable due to the complicated process of mating dogs with feral wolves. Even when the wolf is not completely feral, there currently is no completely domesticated wolf to breed from. That being said, these dogs have a pack mentality and can be extremely loyal.
10. Leonberger - 399 PSI The Leonberger hails from the city of Leonberg in Baden-Wรผrttemberg, Germany hence, the breed's name. They were bred to resemble lions but truth be told, these dogs look more like cuddly teddy bears, do not they? Despite their enormous size, Leonbergers are as gentle as they are adorable! These giants are prized by their playfulness, nimble wits, and leniency towards small children and the elderly. Families who have owned a Leonberger mentioned how this breed thrives in close-knit families and also gets along well with other pets. They are also quite sensitive, which makes them ideal therapy dogs. Although the Leonberger may have a big heart, it is best not to push this gentle giant to its limits. When angered, it can unleash a bite force of 399 PSI. These dogs are also aggressive chewers and excessive barkers. And although they love children, it is wise that you supervise playtime with these dogs as their size can easily knock down a toddler.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
11. Akita Inu - 350-400 PSI Does the name Hachiko ring a bell? Hachiko was the Akita Inu that waited at the Shibuya Train Station for 10 long years to see his master return. The dog's story caught media attention and was later adapted into films and storybooks. The Akita Inu is showered with love and admiration not only by the Japanese but also by the entire world because of the stout heart and working spirit they possess. While this breed has a couple of commendable traits, the potential is there for this dog to attack with deadly consequences. The Akita Inu can slam its scissor-like jaw shut with up to 400 PSI and you really could not force the dog to open its mouth until it decides to let go. Its sheer size alone is a reason why this breed is feared by some. Despite having an irresistibly cute fox-like face and fluffy coat, some find the Akita Inu intimidating due to its strong striking physique. The Akita Inu, in general, do not have the tendency to bite although they can be stubborn at times. As expected of a brave and loyal dog, they only attack other humans and animals if their family members are in danger. Their territorial personality makes these dogs prone to defend their human family, even if it costs them their lives.
12. Rottweiler - 328 PSI Rottweilers are a toughened breed of dogs. Originally, they were bred to help with work such as pulling carts and guarding the homestead. They were one of the first dog breeds formally adopted by the police, which still help out in the force today. They are medium in size with a great build and amazing amounts of strength. They are very agile and have high levels of endurance to keep them going. They are also commonly used in many different search and rescue missions by the police and military. This breed is a wonderful combination of strength, intelligence, and endurance. Rottweilers are considered to be fearless, good-natured companions that can beat out just about any breed with their good behavior. This breed is also very alert and can go into defense mode in a matter of seconds when threatened by danger. This dog is used in police operations due to their confidence and powerful build. The bite force in an average Rottweiler is 328 pounds per square inch. That is more than double the weight of this dog's breed.
13. Siberian Husky - 320 PSI Huskies are delightful pets! They will always be a sled dog by heart so you need to provide them with a huge playground and energy-depleting activities. Otherwise, they will run around your house like a lunatic or cause a community meltdown with their loud howling. Aside from being annoyingly playful at times, there is nothing negative to say about this breed. But do take note that these gentle, happy go lucky dogs have a tremendous bite force of 320 PSI. So, it is quite a relief that they only inherited the lupine facial features of their wild and menacing ancestors, not their temperament.
14. African Wild Dog - 317 PSI Unlike most of the other dogs included in this list, this breed falls under the rare category of being a "cape hunting dog." This means that this breed is seen as a type of ultimate hunter. This dog breed is a relative of the Sub-Saharan Dog and it is one of the largest dogs in this particular family. They are also known for being hypercarnivorous meaning that at least 70% of their diet is made up of meat. It is also worth noting that according to the IUCA, this breed is considered an endangered species. African Wild Dogs are very social animals and tend to live in packs. They even have been observed to have social hierarchies for bothmales and females within the pack. This breed tends to be a great hunting dog by nature. You can estimate this animal's competitive hunting nature by comparing them to wild animals such as hyenas. This animal is very agile at catching their prey and is only topped in game by bigger threats such as the lion. One of the breed's favorite types of prey is the antelope, which they can easily catch as they can be found in large numbers throughout the Sahara. Of course, living in the wild combined with many years of evolution has made their jaw very strong. Their amount of bite force is enough to break any bone in a deer.
15. American Bulldog - 305 PSI American Bull Dogs are a strong and powerful breed of dog. They tend to be well built with muscular body types and sport a large head with strong neck muscles. These dogs make great family pets and can adapt to your home's daily life rather easily. They tend to care for their owners and will form strong bonds to anyone they are in regular contact with. While this breed is a cuddler, they are very strong and confident in their abilities. One thing you may want to watch out for is their reaction to strangers. While this dog can be very loving at home, the breed tends to regularly not be trusting of new people. This, of course, can be overcome by regular social interaction in their puppy hood. Also, be warned that this breed can get a bit destructive if not given proper playtime and exercise daily. This breed has quite a bit of power behind them when needed and won't hesitate to confront any attackers if they are truly threatened. Their build topped with the agility of the breed makes them a force to be reckoned with for all intruders that may try to enter your home. They are powerful not just with body stature, but also with their jaw strength.
16. Doberman - 245 PSI Dobermans are a medium to a large sized dog which are very popular as a domestic house pet. This breed came to be around during the late 19th Century when a tax collector from Germany named "Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann" developed the breed. Doberman dog breeds are highly intelligent, alert, and strong by nature. This extremely loyal breed will stick beside their owner no matter the circumstances, and because of this has become a favorite among owners looking for a dog to protect their home and family. Dobermans are very adaptive and when trained they behave gently with little kids and adults alike. They are very muscular in build and have an athletic body type, which gives them extra points in defense. While many Doberman have tails, you can find a significant number in the breed that have knobs or are generally lacking in the tail department. These dogs are extremely strong and have the build and intelligence to prove it. Their jaw is a bone-breaker and this is why they are also used by many different police forces as guard dogs.
17. German Shepherd - 238 PSI The German Shepherd ranks as one of the most commonly found domestic dogs in the world. In countries like the United States of America, the German Shepherd ranks as the second most popular dog breed. This breed was initiallybred as a working class dog in Germany. They are highly intelligent dogs and can often be found being used in roles where rescue missions are being carried out by the local police force or even the military at times. These dogs are hard working, easy to train, and can easily adapt to a new environment. Shepherds are known to be very gentle in nature and extremely calm around children or in family settings. They also make wonderful guard dogs due to their intelligence, loyalty, and overall strength. While these dogs are generally passive, they can become defensive if they or their families are put in danger. Their biteis strong enough to break any bone in the human body or to confront any other animal that may threaten them.
18. Great Dane - 238 PSI The Great Dane, also referred to as the โApollo of Dogs,โ will surely intimidate you with its imposing size. This dog can take up your couch, bed, and the rear seat of your car. However, this elegant and well-muscled canine has a heart as big as he is! Great Danes are sensitive creatures. Their patient, sweet, and loving disposition is an irony to their gargantuan size. These dogs can thrive when they are in contact with their family members. Otherwise, they become mentally unstable and aggressive to boot.
19. American Pit Bull - 235 PSI American Pit Bulls are a medium size dog that can hit between 30 to 90 lbs in weight by the time they are adults. They are a powerful, muscular, and strong breed that is popular throughout the U.S.A. In fact, they currently own the honor of being the strongest dog in their size category. The American Pit Bull was initially bred to guard livestock and watch over them in the event of an attack by predators. While this breed has had a bad rap in recent years, their nature can generally be translated to that of being an overgrown child. These dogs are extremely gentle to those they guard and will only turn vicious in the face of a threat to their families. That being said, this breed will give their own life in defense of those it cares about and is an extremely loyal partner to anyone who is willing to take one into their home. Pit Bulls are a very athletic breed of dog and require you to exercise with them daily. If you miss playing time, do not be too surprised to find some up-turned couch cushions when you return home the next day. They have a wide face with a powerful jaw which is their main defense. They can easily break many hard to damage things if they desired.
20. Labrador Retriever - 230 PSI America's favorite dog for three consecutive decades is the Labrador Retriever. It comes as no surprise as they are energetic, outgoing, goofy, and simply affectionate. But according to Animal Friends, the family favorite is also a culprit of canine attacks and they all seem to dislike delivery workers. Labradors are notable for their soft mouths. They were originally bred as sporting dogs whose special talent includes retrieving their master's game unharmed or unmarked. Later on, they were employed to operate various tasks as they are quite intelligent, gentle, and eager to learn. Aggression, however, has not exited from this breed's genes, only suppressed. True, Labradors rarely cause fatal harm to their victims but you cannot deny that these dogs pack a powerful punch.
21. Dutch Shepherd - 224 PSI Dutch Shepherds are sheep herding dogs, originally used by farmers to keep check of their flocks. The breed is originally from the Netherlands where they were primarily bred as a working-class pet. This particular breed is not too choosey or demanding in nature and has the ability to easily adapt to different habitats around the world. They have similarities to the Belgian Shepherd as well as the German Shepherd in their nature. Dutch Shepherds are said to be one of the most active dog breeds out there. More than anything they love to be involved with their family and sink into play time with your kids. This breed is also known for being very calm, but due to their working-class origins will need plenty of daily exercises to wear them out! This breed is commonly used by police and other security agencies as well, due to their powerful jaw and outstanding intelligence compared to other breeds. They are calm and gentle until danger finds them or their loved ones.
22. Alano Espaniol - 227 PSI Being really big dogs, they come from a line of bull baiting dogs in Europe. They were once the battle dogs off the Middle East. Very serious and reserved, they are not loud and always in your face. They love being at the top and can actually be obedient its owners. They are energetic and acts best with an emergency owner too. Cautious of strangers, they desire a powerful leader of the pack. This leader will be trained to avoid being dangerous. They do better as outside dogs than being inside.
23. Boxer - 230 PSI This breed does have a powerful bite. Originally bred to hunt, the Boxer was essentially "designed" to have power in the jaw. In effect, the head itself was perfected to allow the dog to be a successful hunter. The wide, undershot jaw was thought to give the dog strength to lock onto prey and hold it in place as his humans worked their way over. It is thought that the wide nose and open nostrils were features bred in to allow a Boxer to breathe easier while his mouth was locked into his prey.
24. Chow Chow - 220 PSI This breed of dog originally hailed from northern China. They were bred to be a general purpose working dog and despite their fluffy appearance have overseen the safety of livestock for years. Some records have even indicated that this dog might have helped support Mongolian armies in battle. This dog is built quite sturdily and even has a double coat to protect it from bad weather. These dogs do have a tendency to be aggressive or over-protective as adults, so they will require proper socialization when young. This dog can be a good choice for smaller living arrangements such as in an apartment due to the fact that they have lower amounts of energy than most breeds.
25. Malinois Dog - 195 PSI Malinois is a medium breed of dog that is also known as "Belgian Shepherds". They originated in the French city of Malines, hence the given name of the breed. This breed is recognized for its amazing sense of smell. They are commonly used as detection dogs to help detect explosives and narcotics that otherwise may go unnoticed by most human senses. These dogs are easy to train by nature and have a very high level of intelligence. If you choose to bring one home to your family, expect them to be extremely playful and able to calmly handle your children. This breed was originally bred to become working dogs and this has stayed true to their nature over the years. Many police agencies in the world are using Malinois within their squads still today. In fact, you can find these dogs working everywhere from the United States Secret Service to the Royal Australian Air Force, they are helping to find dangerous explosives and uncover illegal drugs. This breed is very powerful and built to be strong. They also have an impressively strong jaw. An average adult Malinois has a bite force of 195 psi. This means when they bite, 195 pounds of pressure is applied to each square inch. That is more than enough to break one of your bones in one try.
GERMAN SHEPHERD PSI (bite force): 238 - 291 PSI German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. These strong working dogs have a reputation for both their intelligence and their warm personalities. German Shepherds are incredibly smart and loyal dogs, which is why they are often used as police or service animals. These dogs thrive on mental and physical stimulation, so they are best suited for active households.
SIBERIAN HUSKY PSI (bite force): 320 PSI
Siberian Huskies were bred for the heavy-duty work of pulling sleds through snow and ice. Today, these dogs are known for their intelligence, high energy levels, and stubborn streaks. Due to their vocal and dramatic personalities, do not be surprised if you experience a husky "tantrum" or two!
ROTTWEILER PSI (bite force): 328 PSI Rottweilers have been around for a very long time. In fact, their ancestors helped herd and guard livestock in the ancient Roman empire. In more recent times, these powerful dogs have worked as guard dogs, rescue dogs, and police dogs. But they have a playful and goofy side, too. They are very, very adaptable to training. She adds that they are best-suited for experienced pet parents who have plenty of time for physical activity.
ALASKAN MALAMUTE PSI (bite force): 400 - 500 PSI While Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies look quite a bit alike, the Alaskan Malamute has an even stronger and more muscular body. They typically weigh 75 to 80 pounds on average. Huskies, on the other hand, have an average weight range of 35 to 60 pounds, with females being smaller than males. This powerful, independent breed is well-suited for active, outdoorsy families. They do best in homes with space to roam.
GREAT DANE PSI (bite force): 238 PSI Great Danes originated in the Middle Ages as boar hunters in the wilds of Germanyโnot Denmark, like their name suggests. Nicknamed the "Apollo of dogs" they can weigh up to a whopping 175 pounds! But while these dogs are undoubtably one of the strongest dogs you will come across, they are also gentle giants with surprisingly low energy levels. They can be friendly with some strangers as well as their families, but their sheer size means they are not right for everyone, especially older adults or families with young children.
DOBERMAN PINSCHER PSI (bite force): 245 - 305 PSI Doberman Pinschers were first bred as guard dogs in 19th century Germany. These sleek, athletic, and intelligent dogs thrive in police or military work. That said, they also have plenty of loyalty and affection for their people, which can make them devoted pets. Their high energy levels and intelligence means they need plenty of training and mental stimulation, says Nancy Barrett, an AKC-registered breeder of merit, certified judge, and owner of Magis Dobermans. They can make loving companions for people who have plenty of time, not to mention the energy to keep up!
NEWFOUNDLAND PSI (bite force): 220 - 240 PSI Newfoundlands got their start as rescue dogs on Newfoundland Island. Their powerful build and fluffy coat allows them to swim long distances in cold water, but Newfoundlands also have plenty of strength and stamina for pulling and draft work. They are incredibly patient, especially with kids, and their calm demeanor makes them fantastic family dogs. They are ideal for homes with enough space and access to water. Just keep in mind these are big dogs - they can weigh up to 150 pounds!
SAINT BERNARD PSI (bite force): 230 - 250 PSI The Saint Bernard is a Swiss breed trained to use their keen sense of smell to rescue travelers lost or trapped by avalanches. These strong and loyal dogs also have a reputation for their warm and affectionate natures, which makes them good family pets. Nana from Disney's Peter Pan is one example of a loyal and loving family guardian. As gentle as they are, they are still giant dogs who can weigh up to 180 pounds! They need plenty of training from confident pet parents and homes with plenty of space!
BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG PSI (bite force): 230 - 250 PSI Bernese Mountain Dogs also come from Switzerland. They can trace their roots back to Roman times, where their ancestors pulled heavy carts and guarded livestock. Today, most Bernese Mountain Dogs still love having a job to do and thrive with dedicated obedience training. Their bark may sound intimidating, but they are generally too friendly and open with strangers to make ideal guard dogs. Of course, you will probably forgive them for being such giant, cuddly puppies at heart.
MASTIFF PSI (bite force): 556 PSI These ancient working dogs have existed since about 3000 BCE. Mastiffs are muscular and built like small tanks. In fact, some of the largest ones can up to 230 pounds! Their strength and size helps them excel as guard or police dogs, but that does not rule them out as pets. They are patient and lovable, and they can make loyal family companions with consistent training. Like all dogs, they respond well to gentle, positive training.
AKITA PSI (bite force): 300 - 400 PSI The Akita can trace its origins back to Japan, where these dogs were first bred to hunt bear, boars, deer, and more. These strong, sturdy dogs are renowned for their intense loyalty to their families. In fact, Hachikล, one of the most famous dogs in the world, was an Akita. However, Akitas do not always get along with unfamiliar dogs, and they can have a stubborn streak. They need plenty of positive reinforcement training from an experienced pet parent.
RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK PSI (bite force): 200 - 300 PSI This strong, muscular dog was bred to guard livestock and homes in South Africa. Their name comes from the narrow strip of hair on their back, which grows in the opposite direction of the rest of their coat. They are also called African Lion Hounds, since they hunted lions! While many of these dogs have jobs as hunters and guardians, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can also make a devoted pet for experienced pet parents. They need plenty of training, socialization, and love - like every dog!
KANGAL PSI (bite force): 734 (!) PSI The Kangal originated in Turkey in the 11th century, which makes them one of the world's oldest livestock guardian dog breeds. Kangals can weigh up to 140 pounds and will fearlessly defend their flocks against wolves, coyotes, and smaller predators. Experts generally agree that these dogs have the strongest bite. These dogs are incredibly loyal to the people they love, but their large size makes socialization and consistent training particularly important.
IRISH WOLFHOUND PSI (bite force): Above 400 PSI Like their name suggests, Irish Wolfhounds were originally bred to hunt wolves. These massive dogs can stand over 3 feet tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 180 pounds. But despite their hulking frame and power, they tend to make poor guard dogs, since they are just too sweet! Irish Wolfhounds are also gentle with children and make good family companions - if super-sized ones!
CANE CORSO PSI (bite force): approximately 700 (!) PSI
The ancestors of the Cane Corso, or Italian Mastiff, were used as war dogs in ancient Rome. These giant dogs have also worked as livestock guardians and hunters. Cane Corsos are confident, alert, and loyal to their humans. Their protective instincts and muscular build make them intimidating to any would-be intruders. That said, they need consistent training and in-depth socialization, so they do best with experienced dog parents.
DOGO ARGENTINO PSI (bite force): 500 PSI This big, powerful dog was bred in Argentina to hunt big game like wild boar and pumas. These muscular, short-coated dogs can weigh up to 100 pounds, and their strength and bravery makes them ideal guard dogs. They have intense personalities and need an experienced pet parent who can provide dedicated, consistent training.
AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER PSI (bite force): 240 - 330 PSI Pit Bull technically isnโt a single dog breed. This term can refer to several different dogs collectively known as bully breeds. These breeds include the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the American Bulldog, and other mixes. In the past, people often bred these dogs for illegal dog fighting, but pit bulls are not violent or aggressive by nature. In fact, they are often very sweet! They can be stubborn, but they are also fast learners who can excel at obedience training. They make great companions for patient and dedicated pet parents.
ENGLISH BULLDOG PSI (bite force): 210 PSI English Bulldogs have a stocky build, underbite, and flat faces with plenty of wrinkles. This breed has a short stature but plenty of heft and strengthโthey can weigh up to 50 pounds, on average. Many people love these dogs for their gruff charm. Despite their tough appearance, they are incredibly loving toward family members and do very well with kids. Their cautious nature also makes them excellent watch dogs.
CHOW CHOW PSI (bite force): 220 PSI Chow Chows were originally bred by Mongolian tribes as working dogs. Their stocky bodies and dense bone structure helped them excel at sled pulling, hunting, and guarding. These dogs may resemble teddy bears, but they are not particularly cuddly. They tend to be more independent and shy with strangers. Even so, theyโre loyal to their families and can make devoted companions.
BELGIAN MALINOIS PSI (bite force): 358 PSI The Belgian Malinois is a graceful, powerful dog bred for herding. Due to their high intelligence and desire to please, they are often trained for police and military work. In fact, they are the favorite breed of Navy SEAL teams. That said, they do not always make the best service dogs, as this hilarious video shows. These dogs can thrive as pets, but they need intense exercise and mental stimulation. They need pet parents who have plenty of time and energy to devote to training and physical activity.
CARPATHIAN SHEPHERD PSI (bite force): Above 400 PSI
The Carpathian Shepherd is a taller dog with a strong build. They are known for their fearless attitude, and are not willing to back away from danger. Their ancestors protected farms against bears and wolves. Most families can enjoy this protective nature along with their sloppy, wet kisses! They are sweet and gentle family pets.
TIBETAN MASTIFF PSI (bite force): 550 PSI
Both one of the world's most ancient breeds and one of the strongest, the Tibetan Mastiff was used to protect homes in the Himalayan region. They have a powerful physique and their bite can apply a remarkable 550 pounds of pressure.
CAUCASIAN SHEPHERD DOG PSI (bite force): 550 PSI The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a massive and powerful guardian breed, developed to protect livestock from predators in the rugged Caucasus Mountains. Known for their fearlessness and sheer strength, these dogs were bred to fend off wolves, bears, and intruders. Weighing up to 170 pounds, their heavily muscled frame and dense coat provide both protection and resilience in harsh conditions. Their strength is not just physical; their confident, independent nature makes them natural protectors who will defend their territory and family without hesitation. While their imposing presence is a deterrent on its own, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog requires experienced handling and training to channel their protective instincts. For those seeking a loyal and powerful guardian, this breed offers unparalleled strength and devotion.
WOLFDOG PSI (bite force): 400 PSI The Wolfdog is a unique hybrid breed, blending the strength and instincts of wolves with the loyalty and trainability of domestic dogs. These hybrids often inherit remarkable physical and behavioral traits from both sides, making them powerful and strikingly wolf-like. Weighing up to 120 pounds, Wolfdogs boast a muscular build, thick coats, and a high level of intelligence. Their wild ancestry often contributes to their strong prey drive and independent nature, requiring dedicated training and experienced handling. While not suited for every household, Wolfdogs can thrive with owners who understand their unique needs. Their blend of strength, loyalty, and wild spirit makes them truly one of a kind. For more insights on wolfdogs, refer to the International Wolf Center.
14 DOG BREEDS BLACKLISTED BY INSURANCE COMPANIES This information is proudly presented by WWW.PSYCHOLOGY TODAY.COM and Stanley Coren
Dog bites are a major financial burden for the insurance industry. While you might love your dog, the companies that carry the insurance for your house, apartment, or condominium might not. In fact, your dog's breed might determine whether or not an insurance company is even willing to provide coverage for your home. The motivation for denying insurance to households with certain breeds of dogs is based on financial considerations.
In association with National Dog Bite Prevention Week a number of insurance companies have issued their lists of dog breeds that they consider dangerous and according to their rules can result in denial of coverage. The companies argue that the only way to reduce their financial risk is to ban certain dog breeds from coverage. Most of these blacklisted dogs not only the specific breed but any mixed breed that presumably included a genetic relationship to one of the banned breeds:
1. Pit Bull Terrier
2. Staffordshire Terrier
3. Rottweiler
4. German Shepherd
5. Presa Canario
6. Chow Chow
7. Doberman Pinscher
8. Akita 9. Wolfdog-Hybrids
10. Mastiff
11. Cane Corso
12. Great Dane
13. Alaskan Malamute
14. Siberian Husky
Nonetheless, remember that each company draws up its own list based on its opinion of the risk the dog breed presents. No specific scientific criteria are required for a dog breed to be blacklisted, and it is possible that simply one report in the media might be enough to cause an official in an insurance company to decide that one or another dog breed is dangerous. That situation is bound to lead to some odd choices as to which breeds are uninsurable.
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