Have you ever wondered which breed of dog has the strongest bite? We have listed the 10 dogs with the most powerful bites, according to the PSI rankings.
PSI: Pound per Square Inch (Pound per square inch “or” Pound-force per square inch)
Let’s face it, a dog’s mouth is like the swiss army knife for dog tools. He picks up his toys with, eats with, opens the lid of the trash, tears up the bag of treats, drools, barks, smiles and licks … But he can also bite when he feels distressed, personally or as a member of the pack threatened and, while some will pinch to warn, others will have a little more strength. PSI is what is used to measure the bite force of a dog and to give it a little context, humans have a PSI of about 120-140, a gray wolf of about 406 and a Grizzly bear lands in the range of 1,250 PSI. So where do our canine friends fall and which ones have the strongest bite?
How dog's jaw pressing force is measured?
Bite force is measured in newtons (N), which can be converted to kilogram-force (1 kgf = 10 N). For fighting dogs, it is important to know this parameter, because it speaks of a strong jaw of the animal, which meets the standards of the breed. Additionally, the strength of capture is learned during the training of assistance dogs, which are then used to incapacitate criminals.
It is impossible to measure the force of a dog’s bite at home, as it is within the reach of specially trained people using special armbands with built-in sensors.
The pressure force of the dog’s jaw is measured in several ways. The simplest, but not very precise – the dog is forced to grab a wooden pine block during the attack, then the depth of the bites is measured. Now dog handlers refuse such a method and use special sleeves with built-in sensors.
It is important to understand that when indicating the grip strength, an average number is used, since in different parts of the jaw the pressure on the object of the bite will be different. The deepest puncture is made, of course, by the fangs, but above all the victim is pressed by the dog’s molars; the incisors have less force because they are farthest from the muscles responsible for closing the jaw.
Types of bite
In general, in the world, there are two types of jaw strength measurement. For example, in some countries the unit of measurement is Pounds Per Inch or PSI. In others, using the familiar SI system, newtons are used – one newton equals 10 kgf.
18. Malinois dog
The Malinois (Belgian Shepherd). This worthy look-alike of the German Shepherd is from Belgium and was bred for herds – so you know that hunting and biting can be part of the package. Despite a somewhat voluntary streak, this handsome dog is as intelligent as his doppelganger and learns quickly – which is good because with a bite force of 195 PSI, you’ll want his flock desire to be a thing of the past.
17. Bulldog
The Bulldog has a short, stocky body and relatively loose skin, especially on the head, neck and shoulder blades.
Its fierce appearance usually gives a false impression. These dogs are generally affectionate, calm and quiet, although they are also tenacious when they want something. They are generally very patient with children and make excellent pets, but they are not very active dogs.
When the bulldog gets angry however, it is an animal to fear. When defending his territory, his family or his property, he is a brave dog and capable of causing much damage.
The bite force of the Bulldog is 210 PSI.
16. Chow Chow
Now, this cheerful-looking boy with a fluffy face and purple tongue is known to have a little “study” when it comes to other dogs. Like many dogs, the chow chow was originally bred for hunting, so it also has a bite where its bark is found. Make sure you socialize him from the start and with a bite force of 220 PSI, make sure he can play well with others.
15. Boxer
The boxer generally behaves like a puppy throughout his life, which makes him quite problematic. Active, strong and loyal, it is a great pet for the whole family, both for adults and for children, but it can be lively, so it is not recommended in homes with very young children.
This dog has a stature which has no connection with his personality. Although it does not harm a fly, and with a bite force of 230 PSI, it will not waste time killing furry animals if it is not properly trained and socialized. He is friendly with family, dogs and children.
14. American Pit Bull Terrier
With all of the bad biases this dog has faced, you would expect this dog to have one of the best PSI scores of all dogs. But no, the American Pit Bull Terrier is not even at the top of the list, with a bite force calculated at 235 PSI. Like most animals, it will react if it feels threatened or stressed, but with early socialization, it is no more dangerous than any other dog.
13. German Shepherd Dog
We have all seen videos of this dog practicing police drills to split and hang on padded arms and legs until his master arrives. No wonder then that this incredible search and rescue dog has a bite force of 238 PSI, which means that when the German shepherd hangs on, he is there for the long haul.
12. Doberman
It’s no wonder the American Kennel Club has ranked this handsome boy among the 15 most popular dog breeds in North America. Its dramatic appearance and its soft and often shy disposition make it a family favorite who adores its human pack and with a bite force of 245 PSI, the doberman also makes an impressive and efficient watchdog.
11. American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a powerful and muscular dog is a loyal and loving family dog who, when properly socialized, gets along with everything he meets. No wonder, like its stocky and determined size, it has a strong bite that ensures that no tennis ball is safe when it is playing for research. His 305 PSI puts this dog in line with a leopard (300 to 310 PSI) in terms of bite force.
10. Rottweiler
The pearly whites of the sociable Rottweiler offer more than just an engaging smile. This big boy can bite into a but – whether he snatches a treat in the air, struggles with a tug rope or confronts an intruder. Packing a full 328 PSI with each bite, this beautiful dog can be a loving pet or a pretty effective guard dog.
9. Leonberger
Of German origin, the leonberger is a beautiful dog, with long brown hairs. It is balanced, tall and muscular, able to measure up to 80 centimeters at the cross and reach a weight of up to 75 kg. He has a calm temper, but an imposing presence.
With a bite force equal to 399 PSI, the leonberger is one of the strong dogs of the canine world, but that does not prevent it from being a very playful dog, adorable for children and likes to be part of the family circle.
8. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is one of the most popular dogs in the Americas. It is a bulldog-type molossoid. It is distinguished by its large size, its white fur and its powerful appearance. It is undoubtedly one of the most impressive dogs that exist.
The Dogo Argentino is a large breed Argentine prey dog, perhaps one of the strongest and most robust in the world (its bite power of 500 PSI). Its structure is solid and resistant, square and muscular, designed to hunt any animal without rest.
7. Perro de Presa Canario
The Perro de Presa Canario is a breed of molossoid type dog, originally bred to work with cattle. The breed is sometimes also called Dogo Canario. It is the animal symbol of the island of Gran Canaria.
The Perro de Presa Canario is a medium to large size dog. Its appearance is imposing and although its height at the cross is similar to that of the German shepherd, it is much more robust and muscular, even with a bite power of 540 PSI, the Perro de Presa Canario is a calm and balanced dog, very docile and loyal to its owner, although due to its strong watchdog instinct it can be aggressive with strangers and has often been included in the category of potentially dangerous dogs.
6. Mastiff
The mastiff is a breed of dog of molossoid type, with characteristics similar to the bulldog, and of large size even giant. It is an animal of great proportions, very striking in its physique, and with an enviable temperament. It is characterized by its strength and build, even as a puppy, and because it has been one of the companion breeds of human beings for a long time. Their bite force is enormous from the mastiff is 552 PSI.
The Mastiff is a balanced and calm dog, which, however, can break a person’s legs with its bite. Mastiffs were originally used for fighting, but it was soon noticed that the dog’s peaceful disposition was more suitable for performing guard functions. This ancient breed owes much of its strength to weight.
5. Tosa Inu
According to the official standard, the Tosa Inu has a patient, bold and very valuable temperament. This dog is very loyal to the family, very sure of itself and of its physical capacities. He is generally a bit shy and reserved for those who do not know him, who will hardly pay attention, but very devoted to those who treat him with affection and tenderness. With a bite force equal to 556 PSI, it is a large robust dog with a certain majestic air, and is among the most powerful dogs that exist.
Most often, Tosa Inu dogs are used as personal bodyguards, as they are inherently non-aggressive. This is a very reliable dog that is easy to train, has patience and remarkable calmness. However, with the command, the Tosa Inu will be ready to instantly attack the target. It is worth remembering that although they have a soft character, their jaws have tremendous strength and even a puppy can easily bite into a solid object.
4. Dogue de Bordeaux
Do you remember the movie Turner and Hooch? Well, the drooling dog Hooch was actually a Dogue de Bordeaux and he ranked 3rd on our list with a bite force of 556 PSI. Another gentle giant, this boy is loyal and loving to his human pack … but can intervene on the plate if he feels he is threatened.
3. Cane Corso
Another guard dog, this dog comes from Italy and is considered to be part of the “mastiff” family. With a bite force of 700 PSI, this aptly named “protector” outperforms a lion (691,700 PSI) when it comes to biting. When the Cane Corso is well trained, it is considered not only affectionate and loyal, but even docile, which makes it an excellent companion dog.
You can safely entrust the child to them, the Cane Corso will lay down his life to protect the master’s offspring. It is not an easy task to defeat a dog, consisting of 50 kg of iron muscles, possessing agility, fearlessness and incredibly sharp fangs. In the family circle, the Cane Corso is calm and good-natured.
This dog should not be allowed to dominate, in which case the Cane Corso is obedient and controlled. He does not have excessive aggression, but no one is allowed to offend the owner or encroach on his property.
2. Bandog
It is an extremely large and muscular dog, and has short hair. The bandog is intelligent, loyal, protective and sometimes very aggressive; he has fantastic watchdog and protection skills.
This dog has a bite force of 730 psis, which is strong enough to tear a limb and haunt with scars. The American bandog is not a standardized breed recognized by the American Kennel Club or by any major canine organization.
1. Kangal Shepherd Dog
This big boy is originally from Turkey, where he was raised to be used as a guard dog to protect cattle from wolves and bears. With a bite force of up to 743 PSI, the Kangal Shepherd Dog is certainly a dog that any predator would think twice before facing. And although he is ready to face any stranger, he is actually quite gentle with children and other members of his human pack.
This kangal is superior to other breeds. The dog is not aggressive, but without training it is able to pounce on any stranger at the slightest threat. However, the pet is infinitely loyal to the owner.
Knowing about the strength of your pet’s bite is useful even for breeders of dogs without fighting inclinations, since knowing the capabilities of your pet will help prevent many injuries and even a tragic outcome. It is important to remember that even a well-mannered and calm dog can cause irreparable harm to a person if provoked or angered.