dog with the highest bite force

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key point

• Many of the dogs with the strongest bites have bites over 400 PSI!
• One of the animals on this list is not technically considered a dog breed. But it has an amazing bite!
• Some of the dogs with the strongest bites were bred for guarding, which is why their bites are so powerful.

It makes sense that natural selection favored strong jaws, even large prey are more prone to incapacity, but human interest has also played a large role in the strong jaws of many modern dog breeds.

From guarding livestock to hunting animals to intimidating rivals, dogs with the ability to wreak havoc have been a priority throughout history. Dogs today are more likely to be companions than fighters, and a strong jaw does not equate to a mean temperament.

Our list will focus on the dog breeds with the strongest bites in the world, but with proper training and care, any breed can make a loyal and loving companion.

Various methods have been used historically to measure bite strength, but modern mathematics and engineering have provided researchers with a fairly accurate and straightforward model: measuring the shape and size of the skull. While there can be some variation even between different members of a breed, the facts are a good understanding of how and why bite force varies across breeds.

The result is relatively simple: the bigger the skull, the stronger the bite. The shape of the jaw and skull also plays a role, as dogs with shorter and wider noses are able to exert greater bite force. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the dog with the strongest bite that dominates our list is the mastiff breed.

Originally bred for fighting and protection of livestock and property, mastiffs are theorized to be descendants of the ferocious Molossus – a legendary war dog from the classical era of Greece.

But for the sake of variety—and to take into account that these measurements will vary based on individual traits—we've limited mastiff breeds to the first half of the list, so that breeds from other families such as bulldogs and bulldogs can get the spotlight too in this way.

Here are key facts about the 10 dog breeds with the strongest bites:

#10: German Shepherd

Bite Force: 238-291 PSI

With an amazing bite force of nearly 300 PSI, the German Shepherd breed is often used in law enforcement and military protection. They may have a powerful bite, but because of their loyal and obedient demeanor, they are often good family pets as well.

German Shepherds were originally bred for work and are often very intelligent. They tend to train quickly and in addition to being loyal to their owners, German Shepherds are athletic and fairly even-tempered. With all of these amazing traits in mind, these puppies make ideal candidates for police work.

Another reason police and military prefer these breeds over other breeds is their stamina, speed and strength. Their brave attitude and adaptability to almost any climate, including their keen sense of smell, is what the military looks for in their uniformed companions.

#9: American Bulldog

Bite Force: 305 PSI

The myth of dogs being able to lock their jaws persists in the Rottweiler conversation, but it's also obsessed with Pit Bulls. Still, the Bulldog's short, muscular jaw does allow it to harness as much power as possible. This bite force is necessary for the job these dogs were bred to do—control potentially dangerous livestock for butchers.

Although much shorter than cattle, their muscular bodies and jaws allow them to spring up and bite the throat of any bull that might pose a threat.

They have also been bred in the past to lure bears, bulls, and other sporting animals. The American Bulldog is larger, so it has a significantly stronger bite than the X PSI that the English Bulldog can achieve.

#8: Rottweiler

Bite Force: 328 PSI

Rottweilers can continue to grow beyond the age of three, but their amazing bite strength is especially affected by their large heads. While their bite is strong, some dangerous myths about the breed persist.

Rottweilers don't have locking jaws and aren't particularly prone to aggression. They are also not difficult to train. This German breed started out as essential herding workers who would bring cattle to market and pull carts for their caretakers.

Naturally docile as any other breed, these dogs are a highly regarded therapy dog breed.

#7: Akita

Bite Force: 350 to 400 PSI

The Japanese Akita does not have the bad reputation of the Tosa, but it does have a strong bite. Despite being much smaller and covering less surface area with the muzzle, the Akita's jaws work like scissors. This allows them to gain more leverage out of the bite and also makes them one of the strongest grips around.

In Japan, the Akita is known as the guardian of the family, which is an accurate evaluation. While they may be wary and territorial with strangers — they can even be dangerous and hostile if not properly trained — they can be endearing and goofy with their closest family members.

#6: Wolfdog

Bite Force: 406 PSI

A wolf can exert 1,500 pounds per square inch with its powerful jaws, and it mostly comes down to some very basic facts. Wolves have about 10 to 15 percent more surface area in their jaws than dogs, and their teeth are also larger and sharper.

It only makes sense that wolfdogs—not a recognized breed per se, but the result of breeding with any of the four wolves—would inherit some bite force. But wolfdogs also inherit the aggressiveness and strong predatory instincts of their lupine parents, so they are only recommended for the most experienced breeders.

#5: English Mastiff

Bite Force: 552 PSI

Despite the close pedigree—and sharing parenting responsibilities with younger Bullmastiff breeds—there are many characteristics that distinguish the English Mastiff from its French Mastiff. For starters, these dogs can reach a weight of 250 pounds and a full three feet in height. On the other hand, they tend to be more stoic and less expressive.

That doesn't mean these dogs aren't loving and capable. All they need is tender care and devotion. The English Mastiff is a special kind of working dog that is used in everything from farm labor to police operations to military expeditions.

#4: Tosa Dog

Bite Force: 556 PSI

Although it is sometimes called the Japanese Mastiff, the dog comes from different breeds, including the Saint Bernard, Great Dane, and German Shepherd. It is also often referred to as the Japanese Pitbull because it was bred for this purpose in the early 20th century. In today's Japan, where dog fighting is banned, Tosa is considered a national treasure.

Due to its aggressive reputation, the breed is restricted or outright banned in countries such as Romania and Australia, making it a rare breed. Although loving and affectionate with proper care, they are not recommended for first-time dog owners.

#3: Dogue de Bordeaux

Bite Force: 556 PSI

The Bordeaux may theoretically be descended from the Tibetan Mastiff, but the large, docile giant dates back to at least 14th-century France.

Also known as French Mastiffs, these breeds have shorter and rounder snouts than their French and English Mastiff contemporaries – a factor that would explain their slight advantage in bite force, despite being a more small dog breeds. French Mastiffs are intelligent dogs.

This means they can be stubborn queens at times – but they train quickly and are eager workers who love to learn tricks and tasks. They're also droolers, so be sure to bring a towel with you when they're around.

#2: Sugarcane

Bite Force: 700 PSI

The Cane Corso's pedigree began as guard dogs in ancient Greece, briefly served as warriors and gladiators during the Rise of Rome, and all but disappeared in the 1980s until a campaign to save the breed brought them back from the brink to extinction.

Thousands of years of breeding have naturally changed these dogs, yet they continue to retain the manner, demeanor, and physique befitting a veteran and stoic warrior.

The Cane Dog has been known to be a particularly empathetic breed, effective in providing not only physical protection but also emotional support.

#1: Kangal

Bite Force: 743 PSI

Turkey's premier shepherd dog is protective of its flock and its family — the Kangal can reach nearly three feet in height and possesses the strength to effectively guard both. Although these dogs are considered mastiffs, the breed dates back to the 12th century, bringing them closer to the family's wild ancestors.

Fortunately, their role as shepherds means they have been bred through the generations to be gentle with all of their children. These dogs can make great companions, although they need a lot of activity to stay happy and healthy.

Dog Lifespan: Learn About Dog Lifespan

Dogs are beloved companion animals and come in all breeds, sizes and personalities. One of the biological aspects of interest to many pet owners is their longevity. Dogs can live for many years, some breeds live more than ten years, while others may only live a few years.

A dog's lifespan depends on many factors, including its breed, size, diet, and overall health. For example, smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds, and dogs that receive proper veterinary care and a balanced diet tend to live longer.

In general, dogs who live in a healthy, stress-free environment live longer. This includes daily exercise, a balanced diet and regular veterinary care. Proper care and attention can help prolong a dog's lifespan and keep them healthy and happy for many years to come.

It's also important to note that older dogs may develop age-related health issues such as arthritis and cognitive decline. Regular veterinary checkups and a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of these health problems and ensure dogs continue to live happy and healthy lives in later life.

In summary, dog longevity is a complex issue, influenced by many factors. By understanding a dog's life cycle, pet owners can make informed decisions about the care and attention their furry friends need and ensure their happiness for many years to come.

List of dogs with the highest bite force

Here is a summary of the list of dogs with the highest bite strength:

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