20 Dogs With The Strongest Bite Force That Will Amaze You

Last Updated on April 22, 2023

All dogs bite, but did you know they have a different bite force from one another? For example, a Greyhound has a different bite force than a Pomeranian. However, that doesn’t make the Pomeranian’s bite force any less dangerous.

Let’s learn all about dog bites and take a look at the dogs with the strongest bite force.

What You Need to Know About Dog Bites

Dog bites are more serious than you think. In fact, dog bites occur often. Each year, about 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs.

Stray or unfamiliar dogs can bite people, but the majority of these bites come from familiar dogs. In other words, people are being bitten by dogs owned by their family members or friends. Most of the time, these bites end up needing medical care.

In addition, most of the dog bite victims are children between the ages of five and nine. This is one reason why it’s important to always supervise dogs and children playing together. 

Whether it’s a teething puppy who cut too deep or an adult dog who nipped when it got nervous, dog bites are no joke. Keep in mind that every dog can bite, no matter their personality, age, or temperament.

One myth about a dog’s bite force is that some dog breeds have a PSI of 2,000. This is not true. That’s more than the PSI of a Hippo’s bite force, which isn’t possible.

These studies were measured in Newtons, which caused confusion. PSI was misinterpreted as Newtons. So, instead of 2,000 PSI, it was actually around 450 PSI.

Finally, every dog bite is dangerous. However, smaller dogs will have a smaller bite force than large dogs. This is because the strength is measured based on the dog’s overall body size, skull size, and jaw shape.

How Do They Measure a Dog’s Bite Force?

Believe it or not, a dog’s bite force is measured the same as measuring a bike tire pressure or the atmospheric sea level pressure.

A dog’s bite strength is measured in PSI, which stands for Pound Per Square Inch or Pound-Force Per Square Inch. This is because the amount of applied pressure is measured in a square inch of one pound.

The pressure is measured based upon the size of the dog’s body, the size of their skull, and their jaw shape. So, naturally, the bigger the dog, the stronger their bite force. However, there are a few other factors involved.

For example, the pressure also depends on the dog’s feelings and whatever they’re biting down on. For instance, if a dog feels threatened or angry, it may bite harder than when they’re simply playing.

Also, your pooch is bound to bite harder on a rope toy rather than a plush dog toy.

How Intense is a Dog Bite?

According to Dr. Ian Dunbar’s dog bite scale, there are six intensity levels of a dog bite. This is how dog behaviorists evaluate dog bites.

The level one bite is when the teeth do not make contact with the skin of the other dog or human. The dog most likely bit to scare rather than to hurt.

Level two bites are when the teeth make contact with the skin, but they do not puncture the skin. Level one and level two bites are the most typical as these are tactics from dogs to scare away the other dog or human.

A level three-bite occurs when one to four of the dog’s teeth punctures the skin. This is when the dog is considered a threat to both humans and other animals.

Like the level before it, level four bites occur when one to four teeth puncture the skin, with at least one of the punctures being deeper than half of the dog’s teeth. Bruises will appear around the wound.

Again, the dog will be considered a threat and will need to be evaluated by an expert.

Level five bites occur when a level four bite happens, and the dog assaults the other dog or human. The dog is then considered dangerous and approved to be put down not to need to live in solitary confinement. 

Finally, level six bites are the same as level five, except when the victim dies. Luckily, this level rarely occurs.

Which Dog Breeds Have the Strongest Bite Force?

Now that we know the measurement, let’s compare. A bike tire pressure is about 32 PSI, while a human bite force is between 120 and 140 PSI. Now, let’s take a look at some of the dog breeds with the strongest bite force.

1. Kangal – 743 PSI

The Kangal is not only one of the largest dog breeds in the world, but it also has the strongest bite force. Luckily, the Kangal dog is a gentle giant when it comes to its family members.

This doggo from Turkey needs early socialization from a young age, so it’s okay meeting strangers.

2. American Bandogge (Bandog) – 730 PSI

While not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the American Bandogge has the second strongest dog bite. They will make a great family dog as long as they receive proper training.

This breed of dog is a crossbreed between the Bulldog and the Mastiff. This pooch will need plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

3. Cane Corso – 700 PSI

Descended from the Roman Empire and bred in Italy, the Cane Corso has a strong bite. They make excellent family pets and are great guard dogs.

However, they would prefer to be the only dog in the house and need socialization to be comfortable with strangers from a young age. Luckily, this doggo is eager to learn and intelligent.

4. Dogue De Bordeaux – 556 PSI

Also known as the French Mastiff, the Dogue De Bordeaux is a large dog that can be a bit lazy and drool a lot. Despite this dog’s bite force, they are loyal companions to their family. They won’t need much exercise either.

5. Tosa Inu – 556 PSI

Tosa Inus are Japanese dogs who were originally fighting dogs, thus giving them the reputation of being an aggressive dog breed. However, this dog is pretty calm and will only pose a threat to intruders. They make great watchdogs.

In addition, this pooch has low energy levels and won’t need as much stimulation compared to other dogs.

6. English Mastiff – 552-556 PSI

You may have heard about the English Mastiff. It’s a well-known pup, and it’s also one of the largest dog breeds. Despite their strong bite force, this pooch is a gentle giant. They will get along well with their family members.

However, they don’t do too well with other dogs, so early socialization as a puppy is necessary.

7. Dogo Canario – 540 PSI

The Dogo Canario was also known as the Perro de Presa Canario, which was bred to be a war dog. They won’t be a good dog for the average dog owner as they need a lot of stimulation, a large yard, and plenty of exercise.

In addition, they are more unruly than the average dog. Without proper training, Dogo Canarios can be dangerous dogs.

8. Dogo Argentino – 500 PSI

The Dogo Argentino was bred as hunting dogs in Argentina. They have a powerful bite and need consistent training and socialization to be okay with strangers and other family members.

Once they are well-trained, they’ll be loyal to their family for life and make excellent guard dogs.

9. Wolfdog (Wolf-Dog Hybrid) – 406 PSI

The Wolfdog is a hybrid between a wolf and a dog, such as the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog or the Kunming Wolfdog. This breed is hard to come by and considered to be a dangerous dog to some.

Other people think they have a bad reputation, similar to other “aggressive” dog breeds. However, they can be wonderful family pets.

10. Leonberger – 399 PSI

Did you know the Leonberger is a mix between Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, and the Great Pyrenees? They are large dogs but will be your best friend.

This doggo is sensitive and can make great therapy dogs. These strong dogs are good with anyone in the family, from young children to the elderly.

11. Akita Inu – 350-400 PSI

Akita Inus are adorable pups that are well-loved and will love their family in return. However, they do have the potential to be dangerous with a PSI bite of up to 400.

This doggo is curious, vocal, and a natural guard dog. They won’t do well with young kids and other pets in the house, but early socialization and training will do them well. 

12. Rottweiler – 328 PSI

The Rottweiler is another well-known dog that’s powerful. However, they make great family pets when they are the only dog in the house. This pooch is intelligent, calm, and loyal to their family.

In addition, when properly socialized, they’re friendly and social. But, on the other hand, they’re prone to separation anxiety when left alone too long.

13. Siberian Husky – 320 PSI

The Siberian Husky is a pup that’s super friendly with its family, young kids, other dogs, and strangers alike. They have high energy levels, needing a lot of playtime.

They’re also pretty vocal and love hearing themselves talk. Unfortunately, although they’re sweet, this pooch can do a lot of damage with their bite.

14. African Wild Dog – 317 PSI

The African Wild Dog is a brilliant hunter with a deadly bite for its prey. They eat meat, including gazelles and antelope primarily. In addition, they can run up to 44 miles per hour when hunting.

Unfortunately, this breed isn’t as well known, and they are an endangered species.

15. American Bulldog – 305 PSI

The American Bulldog is a great pet for experienced dog owners. They are kid-friendly and will adapt well to any family. However, this pooch would prefer to be the only dog in the house.

This doggo is easy to train, intelligent, and needs much exercise and stimulation due to its high energy levels.

16. German Shepherd – 238 PSI

The German Shepherd dog is one of the most popular dog breeds. These working dogs are well-known as police dogs, farm dogs, and service dogs.

This breed is intelligent, but they will need early socialization and training from puppies to get along with strangers.

17. Great Dane – 238 PSI

The Great Dane is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. This gentle giant is a great family dog and a loving companion.

This pooch does have high energy levels so that it will need a lot of activity. However, great Danes are intelligent and easy to train and socialize with. 

18. Doberman – 228-245 PSI

The Doberman Pinscher is another popular dog breed. This pooch will do well with young kids and adapt to any family, but they would rather be the only dog in the house.

Despite their large size, this doggo will do okay in an apartment. However, they do need room to stretch their legs and exercise.

19. American Pit Bull Terrier – 235 PSI

Despite being labeled an aggressive dog breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier used to be called nanny dogs.

They have a gentle nature and are sweet, especially with children. They will be your best friend and is a loyal companion. This loving pooch will fit in with any family.

20. Labrador Retriever – 230 PSI

Labrador Retrievers are loving, playful, and gentle. They’ll fit in well with any family and get along with young children and other dogs.

However, they used to be bred as sporting dogs and are very energetic. They need plenty of room to run around outside, so they won’t do well in an apartment.

Are There Other Dog Breeds that Rank Highly for Bite Strength?

The list doesn’t end there, though. Most breeds can have a strong bite force, but other dog breeds rank high for bite strength.

• Boxer – 230 PSI
• Alano Espanol – 227 PSI
• Dutch Shepherd – 224 PSI
• The Chow Chow – 220 PSI
• English Bulldog – 210 PSI
• Malinois Dog – 195 PSI

FAQ: Some Common Questions About Dogs with the Strongest Bite Force

What dog has a stronger bite than a lion?

Did you know a lion has a PSI bite force of 650? There are a few dog breeds on this list that have a bite force stronger than that. For example, the Kangal, American Bandogge, and Cane Corso all have PSIs higher than 650.

Which dog has the weakest bite force?

Some dogs with the weakest bite force are the English Bulldog, Malinois Dog, Bullmastiff, and Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu has a PSI under 75.

How do you deal with dogs with a massive bite force?

Whether you want your dog to protect your home and family from intruders or you want to control their huge bite force, professional training is a must.

A professional trainer can help teach your dog how to use their bite force and when it’s appropriate to do so.

For example, your pooch can protect your home by scaring off an intruder, but a trainer will help your dog learn to be gentle and friendly around kids and other family members.

In addition, your dog will also learn when you use their bite force on command.

For example, you don’t want your dog to assume a neighbor walking down the street is an intruder, so they decide to chase after them. It’s best to teach your dog commands so they know when to stay calm.

Which Dog with the Strongest Bite Force is Right for You?

It’s best to keep in mind that any animal has the potential to harm you and others. Every dog is an individual, and while its breed may typically have a calm temperament, they all have the potential to snap.

For example, if a dog feels threatened or feels too afraid, it may bite you or a friend. This is why it’s best to research dog breeds before adopting them. Make sure they have an average temperament that will fit in with your lifestyle.

Regardless, socialization and proper training as a puppy are a must. To nip bad behaviors in the bud and allow your dog to get along with others, it’s best to start training early. Then your pooch will be friends with you and everyone else. 

Do you have a dog breed at home that’s on this list? Let us know in the comments below!

Further Reading: More of the Best Dog Breeds to Consider

• Best Aggressive Dog Breeds
• Best Dog Breeds for Running