This has been the case for thousands of years. Even though we no longer rely on the protection of our four-legged friends these days, they are still exceptionally well-equipped with an enormous bite force. Every dog breed has its own distinct bite force. To make this measurable in a standardised way, scientists developed a unit of measurement.
A dog's bite force is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). For comparison, a human has a bite force of approximately 120 to 140 PSI, while a hippopotamus can bite with approximately 1820 PSI.
Bite force is measured in PSI (Pounds per Square Inch), but it is difficult to measure and compare exact values as they depend on many factors such as the dog's size, muscle mass, and jaw structure. There is no precise data on which dog breeds have the strongest jaws, as a dog's bite force can vary greatly depending on factors such as age, size, and individual differences. Every dog must be considered individually, regardless of their breed.
A high bite force does not necessarily correlate with higher aggression or danger.
The following ranking shows an estimate of the strongest bite forces of dog breeds in pounds per square inch (PSI). However, the exact bite force can vary from dog to dog.
Rottweiler
This breed was originally bred as a guard dog. Rottweilers are so strong they can even pull a cart. This dog is very confident, capable, and enduring. Its fearless nature sets it apart. Rottweilers are frequently used by police forces. The Rottweiler can bite with 328 PSI.
Leonberger
The Leonberger is a large dog breed from Germany. They are characterised by their friendly, balanced temperament. Leonbergers are intelligent, obedient, and good-natured. These large and active dogs should not be kept in a city apartment. They thrive in a rural environment with plenty of space and freedom to move around. To protect their owner, this strong and clever dog will bark loudly at unwanted visitors. These gentle powerhouses love to romp and play and need plenty of daily exercise. Long walks in nature are a must.
Its bite has a force of 399 PSI.
Akita
The Akita is a Japanese dog breed. They are known for their loyalty, vigilance, and protective instinct. The Akita is one of the most popular and well-known dog breeds in Japan. In its homeland, it was originally used as a reliable hunting dog. Today, it symbolically stands for loyalty and devotion. Due to its appearance, it is one of the dog breeds with the most similarities to the wolf. Akitas are intelligent, confident, and independent. Early socialisation and consistent training are important. They make excellent guard dogs and family dogs.
Its bite force is 400 PSI.
Dogo Canario
The Dogo Canario (also known as the Presa Canario) is a large, powerful dog breed originating from the Canary Islands. They have a muscular build and a strong jaw, and were originally used as guard dogs and cattle herders. Presa Canarios can be challenging to handle due to their size and strength, requiring careful socialisation and training. They are generally calm and balanced, but can become aggressive if not properly trained. In some countries, keeping Presa Canarios is restricted or even prohibited. The Presa Canario is not a beginner's dog, as its dominance and self-confidence require experienced dog owners who can be consistent and assertive.
The Presa Canario's bite force is 540 PSI.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large, powerful dog breed from France, also known as the French Mastiff. The breed is known for its massive head and powerful jaw, as well as its short, glossy, typically reddish-brown coat. Dogues de Bordeaux are generally calm and loyal dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners. However, they require careful socialisation and training, and due to their size and strength, they are not suitable for every owner as they need plenty of space and exercise.
The Dogue de Bordeaux can bite with 556 PSI.
English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is one of the very large dog breeds. Despite its size, it has a quick reaction time when danger arises. The name says it all for this breed, as it means "protector." Despite its intimidating mass, it is very calm. This gentle giant has an enormous body size and an enormous bite force. Its jaw is, like the rest of its body, large and powerfully built.
With 556 PSI, the Mastiff has a very powerful bite.
Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu is an impressive dog with a combination of imposing stature and a calm temperament. This places it in fourth position in our ranking of the strongest bite forces. The Tosa Inu originally comes from Japan. The dog was originally a Japanese fighting dog. The dogs are not allowed to injure each other in fights. Special judges assess the mental strength of the dogs. These dogs must not show any aggression. They are not even allowed to growl. Growling means immediate disqualification. Tosa Inu dogs are considered calm and patient dogs that are often used as companion dogs today. They are affectionate and, with proper training and socialisation, form a very close bond with their family. However, it is essential that owners take responsibility for the extraordinary strength of this breed and lead their Tosa Inu with respect, patience, and love.
The Tosa Inu possesses a remarkable bite force of up to 556 PSI.
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is an impressive hunting dog from Argentina. This powerful four-legged companion takes third place on our list of the strongest bite forces. They are white muscle-packed dogs with a big heart and are excellent companions. The Dogo Argentino was specifically bred for wild boar hunting. Its impressive bite force helps it effectively take down large prey. Although the Dogo Argentino possesses an impressive jaw strength, it can be a loving companion with proper training and socialisation. However, it is important that the owner takes responsibility for this remarkable strength and guides and trains the dog appropriately.
The Dogo Argentino shows its strength with a bite force of up to 600 PSI.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso Italiano is an Italian Molosser breed. This powerful breed holds second place on our list of the strongest biters. In Italy, the Cane Corso was long used to guard fields and farms. Its impressive jaw strength is a testament to its power and protective abilities. Despite its imposing bite force, the Cane Corso is an affectionate and loyal family dog when properly trained. However, it must not be forgotten that responsible ownership and training are essential to control and channel the impressive strength of this breed.
The Cane Corso, an Italian Molosser, impresses with a bite force of 670 to 700 PSI.
Kangal
The Kangal, a mighty Turkish shepherd dog, leads the list of the strongest bite force in PSI. It is astonishing that this impressive strength comes from an animal known for its protective instinct and loyalty. Its strong jaw muscles enable the Kangal to effectively protect its flock from predators. They primarily guarded sheep against wolves, jackals, and even bears. While it is certainly willing to protect its human "pack," it is very loving and gentle towards them. Despite its impressive bite force, the Kangal is a gentle giant with good socialisation and training. Nevertheless, as an owner, you should always take responsibility for this remarkable strength and lead your Kangal with respect and love.
With an incredible bite force of 700 to 750 PSI, it surpasses many other breeds.
Top 10 Summary
However, it is important to emphasise that these dog breeds are very different, and every dog must be considered individually regardless of their breed.
Conclusion
Dogs are incredibly fascinating and diverse animals that never cease to surprise and inspire us. Bite force is just one of many characteristics that make dogs unique and distinguish them from other animals. The diversity of dog breeds and their different characteristics allow us to find the perfect companion for our lives that suits our lifestyle and personality.
We should not focus solely on bite force and on other important factors such as temperament, intelligence, and training, to give our dogs a happy and fulfilling life. With love, patience, and training, we can make our dogs wonderful companions that bring us joy and enrich us and teach us much about life and ourselves.
So let us celebrate our dogs in their uniqueness and give them the love and care they deserve, because they are much more than just a set of jaws.
