Although your dog should never have to use their bite, it’s still good to know how powerful it can be! This list of dog breeds with the strongest bite force breaks down each breed by their psi.
In this list, we write about the dogs with the strongest bite force. It’s important to know how much power is behind your dog’s bite and the dangers that come with it. From playing with toys, eating, and pulling open the garbage can, this is a breakdown of your dog’s bite force. So, which dog has the strongest bite? Keep reading to find out!
| Dog Breed | PSI Force |
|---|---|
| Kangal | 743 |
| American Bandogge | 730 |
| Cane Corso | 700 |
| Dogue De Bordeaux | 556 |
| Tosa Inu | 556 |
| English Mastiff | 556 |
| Dogo Canario | 540 |
| Dogo Argentino | 500 |
| Wolfdog | 406 |
| Leonberger | 399 |
22 Dog Breeds With The Strongest Bite Force
The dogs on this list have jobs that require a higher bite force PSI. Due to this, they are considered to be more aggressive. However, all dogs can be aggressive if put into stressful situations that induce anxiety and vulnerability.
1. Kangal – 743 PSI
Kangal bite force has been measured at an average of 743 PSI. The Kangal is a popular dog breed in Turkey, used for defending their owners and homes. They have the strongest dog bite force out of any dog breed worldwide. The Kangal grows 75-84 cm and 110-145 lbs on average. While this dog has a very high bite force PSI, it is a gentle giant for younger children and its human family members.
This breed requires proper socialization and training even when they’re still a puppy to ensure it is okay to meet strangers at an older age. The Kangal is not only known for its powerful bite but also for being one of the largest dog breeds! For this reason, heavy-duty dog toys are a must for this pup.
2. American Bandogge – 730 PSI
American Bandogge’s bite force has been measured at an average of 730 PSI. To put that in perspective, the Lion only has a bite force PSI of 650. This puts the American Bandogge over 50 PSI higher than the King of the Jungle! This difference earns it a spot on the list of dog breeds with the strongest bite force. This breed is a crossbreed between a Bulldog and a Mastiff The American Bandogge is a breed that needs proper training or may become out of hand. They also need physical and mental stimulation such as using puzzle feeders and providing enough exercises.
The American Bandogge is not a standardized breed with the American Kennel Club or any other major canine group. After training this breed, they are a great companion and family friend.
3. Cane Corso – 700 PSI
Cane Corso’s bite force has been measured at an average of 700 PSI. The Cane Corso was bred in Italy and are descendants of the Roman Empire. In recent years these pups have been used as catch dogs in some rural areas. Despite their stoic appearance, they are soft and affectionate dogs who make great friends with the whole family. With a 700 bite force PSI, this breed is a threat to anything that poses a danger.
To make these dogs comfortable with strangers, training as socialization as a puppy. Like many other guard dog breeds, the Cane Corso does best if it is the only animal in the house. Once trained, these playful pups are eager to learn and a very intelligent breed.
4. Dogue De Bordeaux – 556 PSI
Dogue De Bordeaux’s bite force has been measured at an average of 556 PSI. The Dogue De Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is one of the largest dog breeds. These dogs are less active than some other breeds on our list. However, their 556 bite force PSI can make them a threat to anything harmful.
Compared to other breeds of Mastiff, like the Tibetan Mastiff, the Dogue De Bordeaux is lazier and won’t need as much exercise. They are loyal companions and can make great family dogs.
5. Tosa Inu– 556 PSI
Tosa Inu’s bite force has been measured at an average of 556 PSI. These dogs were originally fighting dogs, and the stereotype now exists that the Tosa Inu is an aggressive breed. These dogs grow to be a minimum of 21.5-23.5 inches in length and 100-200 pounds. Despite the stereotype of being an aggressive dog, the Tosa has a calm composure and high levels of obedience. In modern times, this breed is used as a watchdog and only poses a threat to criminals.
These dogs have a relatively low energy level and won’t need as much stimulation as other breeds. To ensure your Tosa Inu will welcome strangers, socialization is essential as a puppy.
6. English Mastiff – 556 PSI
The English Mastiff’s bite force has been measured at an average of 556 PSI. The English Mastiff is one of the more well-known dog breeds on our list. Praised by those who own the breed, this Mastiff is good with families, including those with younger children. Despite being a gentle giant, the English Mastiff has a high bite force and takes another title as one of the largest dog breeds in the world! They grow up 27-32 inches at the shoulder and 130-220 pounds.
Although the English Mastiff gets along very well with its human family members, they do not do well with other dogs. Socialization is good for this dog when it is a puppy.
7. Dogo Canario – 540 PSI
Dogo Canario’s bite force has been measured at an average of 540 PSI. Also known as the Perro de Presa Canario, the Dogo Canario was bred to be a war dog. Many people know the Dogo Canario as an aggressive dog breed with an impressive bite force. Due to its aggressiveness and bite force, this breed is outlawed in many countries but well-loved in its homeland of the Canary Islands.
This dog is not a good breed for the average family. They need lots of mental stimulation, a large backyard, and exercise. Training is important for this breed as they can become unruly and dangerous.
8. Dogo Argentino – 500 PSI
Dogo Argentino’s bite force has been measured at an average of 500 PSI. In Argentina, the primary use for the Dogo Argentino was hunting and unwavering loyalty to its owner. This breed is a descendant of the Cordoba Fighting Dog and other powerful breeds. These dogs have a high bite force PSI, so they shouldn’t be released without reason. Socialization and training are a must for this dog but once trained; they can make excellent family dogs. Their training and socialization must stay consistent with keeping the dog good with strangers and family.
The Dogo Argentino grows to be 23-27 inches and 80-100 pounds. They live for an average of 9-15 years and will be loyal throughout their life. They make a wonderful addition to the family with good training and upkeep and can be great guard dogs.
9. Wolfdog – 406 PSI
Wolfdog’s bite force has been measured at an average of 406 PSI. The Wolfdog breed has a strong bite force due to being a mix between the wolf and domestic dogs. As mix of the two, they can be more dangerous than the average breed. They are a difficult breed to get ahold of and can be a bit unpredictable regarding physical characteristics. Many would argue that the Wolfdog is mismanaged and misunderstood. Some consider them wonderful pets, but others argue that they are untrainable and inherently dangerous.
The Wolfdog breed is permitted in some countries and banned in others. They appear on breed ban lists alongside the Pitbull and other “dangerous” dog breeds.
10. Leonberger – 399 PSI
Leonberger’s bite force has been measured at an average of 399 PSI. This dog breed is one of the largest dog breeds on our list and grows to be 25-31 inches tall and 120-170 pounds. This breed has traits to resemble a lion but looks more like a teddy bear!
They are playful and great family dogs, good with young children and the elderly. They are great therapy dogs as they are a sensitive breed. This breed mixes Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and the Great Pyrenees.
11. Akita Inu – 350-400 PSI
Akita Inu’s bite force has been measured at an average of 350-400 PSI. Many know this breed for its working spirit and strong love for its owner. Although this breed is well-loved, they do have a potential for danger. This breed grows to be 24-28 inches tall and 50-130 pounds. They are curious dogs and have a natural guardian instinct. They are a very vocal breed and seem to talk back at you with yowls and yips!
This breed is naturally wary of strangers, so socialization is a must as a puppy. This will help soften their defensive and wary side. This dog breed is bad for families with young children or other pets.
12. Rottweiler – 328 PSI
A Rottweiler bite force has been measured at an average of 328 PSI. The Rottweiler is a powerful and intelligent breed. These dogs are calm, loyal, smart, and very attentive to their owners. They are friendly and social when properly trained and socialized as puppies. They do not do well with alone time, which can cause high anxiety.
The Rottweiler does best in a house without other dogs. They are easy to groom but have a relatively high level of shedding. They are 22-27 inches tall and 85-130 pounds.
13. Siberian Husky – 320 PSI
Siberian Husky’s bite force has been measured at an average of 320 PSI. The Siberian Husky is a high-energy breed that needs lots of stimulation and exercise. Despite its friendly nature, the bite force of a Husky can still do some damage! Many people know this dog for its talkative nature! These dogs are incredibly happy and do well with families of all sorts. They do well with small children, other dogs, and even strangers.
Huskies have a very high energy level, so they need lots of exercise and playtime! This breed grows to be 20-23 inches tall and 35-60 pounds, so it is on a smaller scale than some other breeds on our list.
14. African Wild Dog – 317 PSI
African Wild Dog’s bite force has been measured at an average of 317 PSI. The African Wild Dog is a lesser-known dog on our list. This dog is a ‘cape hunting dog’, meaning it is a brilliant hunter. This breed grows to be 30 inches tall and 40-70 pounds. They are an endangered species with only a population of less than 1,500. This breed reaches up to 44 miles per hour at a full sprint. Combined with their 317 bite force PSI, they can be a deadly opponent for their prey.
Being on the list of dogs with the most powerful bite is no surprise to this breed. The African Wild Dog is called hyper-carnivorous, meaning their diet is made up of 70% meat. This includes the antelopes and gazelles which they prey upon.
15. American Bulldog – 305 PSI
American Bulldog’s bite force has been measured at an average of 305 PSI. The American Bulldog is a great family dog that can adjust well to you and your family’s everyday living. These dogs live 10-16 years, grow to be 20-28 inches tall, and weigh 60-120 pounds. They are a kid-friendly breed but would do best being the only dog in the household. Despite being a friendly breed, all dogs have their dangers. They are easy to train and relatively intelligent – they also have a high energy level and need lots of exercise and stimulation. American Bulldogs are playful and loving pets that make loyal companions and great friends.
This breed does not do well with being alone for long periods and is not very good for apartment living. They need experienced owners who can keep them happy and entertained, or they may become destructive if bored. To keep them entertained, you can provide them with interactive toys such as treats dispenser, puzzle feeders, and throw ball.
16. Doberman – 245 PSI
Doberman’s bite force has been measured at an average of 245 PSI. The Doberman is a large-sized dog breed that has become a popular companion. They need socialization and training at a young age but can become well-adapted to family life. With a bite force PSI of 245, stimulating dog toys are a must for this breed to keep them happy and busy.
This breed grows 24-28 inches at the shoulder and weighs 60-80 pounds. These dogs do decent with apartment living but should be kept active like every dog breed. Dobermans do well with kids but prefer to be the only dog in the household.
17. German Shepherd – 238 PSI
German Shepherd’s bite force has been measured at an average of 238 PSI. These dogs are well-known and loved by many. Although they won’t use it unless needed, this breed packs a punch with its high bite force PSI. This hyper-intelligent breed is well-known for being service dogs, farm dogs, and police dogs.
German Shepherds don’t do well with strangers if not socialized as puppies and do best being the only dog in the house. These dogs are high maintenance when it comes to grooming as they have thick coats that need lots of brushing.
18. Great Dane – 238 PSI
Great Dane’s bite force has been measured at an average of 238 PSI. Great Dane is known as one of the tallest dog breeds in the world and have an impressive bite force PSI to match their incredible size! Commonly referred to as the ‘Apollo of dogs,’ the Great Dane is a great family dog and a loving companion. This breed grows to be 26-34 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 100-200 pounds.
They have a very high energy level, so exercise is necessary for these pups. They are easy to train and should be trained and socialized at a young age.
19. American Pit Bull Terrier – 235 PSI
The American Pit Bull Terrier‘s bite force has been measured at an average of 235 PSI. This Pit Bull bite PSI is one of the least strong on the list. These dogs grow to be 17-19 inches tall and 30-85 pounds. They have a lifespan of 12-16 years, through which they will be your loyal companion and friend. American Pit Bull Terriers are brilliant with family and great with young kids but prefer to be the only dog in the house.
Despite many believing that the American Pit Bull is an aggressive dog, they were originally nanny dogs due to their gentle nature around children.
20. Labrador Retriever – 230 PSI
The Labrador Retriever’s bite force has been measured at an average of 230 PSI. This breed is on the list of dog with strongest bite force which may surprise some. These dogs are playful and loving and make great family dogs for children and other animals. They were bred to be sporting dogs who retrieved their master’s game unmarked.
These dogs don’t adapt well to apartment living as they are energetic and need lots of outdoor time and exercise. You will need to be ready to clean up after your Labrador Retriever as they are high shedders and need lots of grooming.
21. Dutch Shepherd – 224 PSI
Dutch Shepherd’s bite force has been measured at an average of 224 PSI. Bred to be sheep herding dogs, the Dutch Shepherd was originally a working-class vet with a strong bite force. They are adaptable and easily trained, as well as incredibly intelligent. These dogs are good for families with children and other dogs so long as they are socialized at a young age.
This breed grows to be 21-25 inches tall and 50-70 pounds. They are playful, loving, and sure to be your loyal companion.
22. Chow Chow – 220 PSI
Chow Chow’s bite force has been measured at an average of 220 PSI. The Chow Chow was bred to be a working dog despite its fluffy bear-like appearance. They have been protectors of livestock since their breeding in northern China. It is also believed that the Chow Chow served alongside the Mongolians in war. As adults, this breed can tend to be aggressive or over-protective, so socialization is very important when this dog is a puppy. Being protectors is where their bite force comes in handy.
These dogs grow to be 17-20 inches tall and 40-70 pounds. They are loving and loyal, but you should be sure to train and socialize your breed throughout its life.
How Is Dog Bite Force (PSI) Measured?
The PSI bite force is the strength that your dog can bite with. You measure a dog’s bite force in Pound-force per Square inch (PSI), or “Pounds per Square Inch.” Researchers measure using digital bite meters. The strength of a dog’s bite force has been researched in many ways. They are placed into nine categories based on their skull shape and breed size.
PSI is used to measure the pressure that a dog uses at any given point. It’s a very common measurement system, even used to measure the pressure of a car’s tires! Even the most scientifically challenged people can understand PSI. The pressure released by a dog’s jaws differs based on the item they are biting. So, for example, a dog would not release the same amount of pressure biting a toy as it would in a defensive situation.
Do Dogs With a Strong Bite Force More Dangerous Than Others?
According to studies, there are no specific dog breeds responsible for multiple or severe bite incidents to humans or other dogs. The study found that dogs from shelters and crossbreed dogs, regardless of breed, are more prone to have defensive aggression against humans and other dogs around them resulting in biting.
Therefore, having a strong bite force does not necessarily mean being more dangerous than other dogs. Additionally, another study concluded that the causes and risks of getting a bite depend on human behavior around dogs and the dog breed’s personality.
Comparing Dogs To Other Animals
Now that we’ve given the list of dog breeds with the strongest bite force, let’s compare their PSI bite force to other animals for you to have an idea of how strong these bites are. This is an important comparison so that people and dog owners can fully understand how dangerous and strong a dog’s bite can be.
| Bite Force of Other Animals | PSI |
|---|---|
| Dogs | 150 to 180 (average) |
| Lion | 650 |
| Grizzly Bears | 1,160 |
| Gorillas | 1,300 |
| Hippopotamuses | 1,800 |
| American Alligators | 2,125 |
Most dogs on this list are considered to be aggressive breeds. It is important to remember however that any breed of dog can become aggressive if neglected and abused. Dogs, while man’s best friend, will do what they need if they feel they must protect themselves. If you don’t want to worry about your dog’s behavior, select some of the least aggressive dog breeds.
11 comments on “22 Dog Breeds With The Strongest Bite Force”
This comment can be super long. But everything I have read about your #2 dog is bull. A cross between a Bulldog and Mastiff!?!?!! That breed already exists and it’s called the Bullmastiff. The part about the Dogue de Bordeaux is bull and I will not even start on the bit about the Cane Corso. I own one. I have seen other Corso owners have more than one dog in the house and they do just fine. The Kangal has a bite of 800 to 810 PSI. The Boerboel aka South African Mastiff have bites that range from 820 to 850 PSI. Both breeds of dog are used as guardians. The Central Asian Sheppard has a PSI of 700 to 710.
I was thinking the same. I was like wth is the Boerboel?!?!? They were bred in Africa to fight off lions for gods sake. No list is complete without them in the top 3. The Tibetan Mastiff as well. This list and all the little known “facts” that accompanied each dog’s description is trash. Lol
A technical observation – it’s pounds, not PSI.
Pounds = a unit of force
PSI = a unit of pressure
Pounds is consistent, PSI varies wildly depending on the surface area of the tooth
PSI is short for “pounds per square inch”
Hey where is Tibetan mastiff
The 406 was for a full blooded wolf, and it is extremely erroneous, as it was a “nip,” not a bite from the rear teeth, which could exceed 1,500 pounds, depending on the size of a grey/timber wolf. The 238 figure for Alsatians is extremely hackneyed and most unreliable.
According to your statistics Giant Schnauzers should be at number 4 as they have a 556 psi bite force.
Pit bulls were created by combining Bulldogs and terriers to create strong and aggressive dogs that would take down bears and bulls and then later to fight each other to death in a pit.
Why do dog owners of certain breeds think it is acceptable to dock their dogs ears? In my opinion anyone who does this should not own a dog. I challenge anyone to give any proper reason for carrying out this barbaric practice. I think this practice should be banned as it has no benefit for the dogs at all. How would these people feel if they’d had their ears cut, just because someone thought they would look better? This disgusting, needless practice needs to brought to people’s attention. There should greater emphasis on educating people about responsibilities of dog ownership.
Why does the Great Pyrenees always get over looked. When they have one of the stronger bite psi’s
You somehow forgot the real king of biteforce when it comes to breeds. The South African Boerboel. A Boerboel has recorded a biteforce of 850 psi which surpasses the kangal.