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Do you know which dog breeds have the strongest bite force?
This blog post will discuss the top 17 dog breeds with the strongest bite force. We will also include some biting statistics for these breeds and discuss the most dangerous and likely to bite.
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
What Is PSI Bite Force?
PSI stands for pounds per square inch and is a unit of measure for pressure or pounds.
The PSI bite force is the amount of pressure that a dog can generate with its bite.
This information is vital because it can help you determine how much damage a dog can do if it were to bite someone.
The average human has a PSI bite force of about 150. Therefore, the average person can generate 150 pounds of pressure with their bite.
On the other hand, dogs have a much higher PSI bite force. The average dog has a PSI bite force of about 200 to 400 PSI.
How Is A Dog’s Bite Force Measured?
A dog’s bite force can be measured in a few different ways. The most common method is by using a device called a “bite sleeve.”
A bite sleeve is a large, padded sleeve that goes over the arm. It has a handle so the person testing the dog can hold onto it.
The dog is then encouraged to bite the sleeve as hard as possible. The amount of pressure the dog generates is then measured on a scale. Inside the sleeve sits a pressure sensor that records the PSI.
Another way to measure a dog’s bite force is using a “bite stick.” A bite stick is a large, padded rod the dog bites onto. The amount of pressure the dog generates is then measured on a scale.
To measure a dog’s bite force, researchers try to get the dog to bite down on something with a PSI recording device. This way, they can get an accurate reading of how much pressure the dog can generate with its bite.
However, various factors can affect a dog’s bite force.
These factors include:
- The size of the dog
- The breed of the dog
- The age of the dog
- The health and activity of the dog
So a dog breed’s average PSI bite force can vary depending on these.
Now that we’ve discussed how a dog’s bite force is measured let’s
What’s The Average Bite Force Of A Dog?
The average dog has a bite force of between 200 and 400 PSI, but some dogs have a significantly stronger bite force.
Let’s look at the top 17 dog breeds with the strongest bite force.
Top 17 Dog Breeds With The Strongest Bite Force
17. Doberman Pinscher (Bite Force Of 245-305 PSI)
Doberman Pinschers are a powerful breed of dog with jaws that can exert 245 to 305 pounds per square inch (PSI). Their bites have been compared to vices, making it impossible to open their mouth once closed. As a result, Dobermans make excellent guard dogs and protectors.
Further Reading: How Strong Is The Doberman Bite Force PSI & Statistics
16. German Shepherd (238-280 PSI)
The German Shepherd’s bite force ranges from 238 to 268 PSI. German Shepherds are protective and loyal dogs commonly employed as working dogs in various industries.
They have a strong bite that can be used for self-defense or apprehension, making them perfect for police canine work!
15. American Bulldog (305 PSI)
The American Bulldog is a popular dog breed, often used as working dogs and family pets. They have powerful jaws with an average bite force of 305 PSI!
Stout, large, and strong, the American Bulldog wants nothing more than to be your next lap dog. They are not very active and don’t require much exercise.
14. Husky (320 PSI)
The Husky has a bite force of 320 PSI. Huskies are a strong, active breed of dog frequently used for sledding or working dogs.
They are recognized for their strength, endurance, and intellect. In addition, they tend to be vocal and have a lot of energy, making them great for families with kids!
13. Rottweiler (328 PSI)
Rottweiler bites have a maximum bite force of 328 PSI. Rottweilers are large, strong, loyal, and protective dogs.
They were originally bred to be working dogs, and their size and strength make them excellent guard dogs. They have had a bad reputation in the past. Still, with proper training, they are extremely gentle and loving family pets.
12. American Pit Bull Terrier (330 PSI)
The bite force of an American Pit Bull Terrier is 330 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Pit Bulls are muscular, powerful dogs with a powerful bite. They have previously been referred to as aggressive dogs. Pitbulls can be quite docile and loving, but they need proper socialization and training to become well-rounded family pets.
When improperly trained, any dog may become aggressive. Dogs are unique individuals who may be taught to be friendly, kind companions.
11. Leonberger (399 PSI)
The Leonberger bite force is 399 PSI. The Leonberger is a lush-coated giant breed of dog originally bred in Germany. They are good-tempered, loving dogs that make excellent family pets.
Leonberger dogs are known for being intelligent but can be stubborn when training. It’s not known for being an aggressive breed, but they can be a bit reserved around strangers. It’s unlikely you’d ever get bitten with their 399 PSI of force.
10. Akita Inu (400 PSI)
The bite force of an Akita Inu is 400 PSI. They are loyal, protective dogs that make great pets for families with older children. They originated in Japan and were originally bred as hunting dogs.
The Akita is an intelligent and courageous dog that has a strong bite. They are recognized for their strength, bravery, and intellect.
9. Boerboel (450 PSI)
The Boerboel bite force is 450 PSI. The Boerboel name means “farmer’s dog” in Afrikaans. This large breed was originally bred in South Africa.
They are working dogs known for their strength, agility, and intelligence. They can stand up to 27 inches tall and weigh up to 200 pounds.
Further Reading: How Strong Is The Boerboel Bite Force PSI & Statistics
8. Dogo Argentino (500 PSI)
The Dogo Argentino bite force is 500 PSI. The Dogo Argentino is a large white dog breed originally bred in Argentina. They are pack-hunting dogs known for their strength, courage, and intelligence.
Large, explosive, and athletic, the Dogo Argentino gives an impression of power and energy. In addition, Dogo Argentinos have a powerful bite that was used to help catch dangerous game, like wild boar and puma.
7. Presa Canario / Dogo Canario (540 PSI)
The Dogo Canario, also known as the Presa Canario, has a bite force of 540 PSI. This large breed was originally created in the Canary Islands.
They are strong and bold, but they can be intimidating. They make excellent guard dogs and herders.
6. English Mastiff (550 PSI)
The English Mastiff bite force is 550 PSI. The English Mastiff is a type of mastiff that was originally developed in England. They are gentle giants and excellent family pets.
Mastiffs are known for their loyalty, strength, and size. They can weigh up to 230 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall. They are typically very docile but can be aggressive if not properly trained.
5. French Mastiff / Dogue de Bordeaux (556 PSI)
The French Mastiff, also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, has a bite force of 556 PSI. This large breed of dog was originally bred in France. They are gentle, loving dogs that are popular family pets.
They can weigh up to 110 pounds and measure 26 inches tall, with a docile disposition. They are recognized for their devotion, patient temperament, and agreeable nature.
4. Tosa Inu (556 PSI)
The Tosa Inu bite force is 556 PSI. The Tosa Inu is a large dog breed originally bred in Japan. They are known for patience, calmness, and bravery. However, it’s uncharacteristic for this breed to be aggressive towards humans.
The tosa is one of the world’s largest dogs, with a maximum weight of 200 pounds and a height of 23 inches. They are also known as the Japanese fighting dog or the Japanese mastiff.
3. Cane Corso (650-700 PSI)
The Cane Corso bite force is 650-700 PSI. The Cane Corso is a large breed of dog originally bred in Italy. The Cane Corso is an excellent choice as a family pet due to its friendly and affectionate nature.
Cane Corsos are large, powerful dogs weighing up to 200 pounds and standing 28 inches tall. They require.
Further Readings: How Strong Is The Cane Corso Bite Force PSI & Statistics
2. Bandog (730 PSI)
The Bandog bite force is 700-730 PSI. The Bandog is a large, powerful dog originally bred for hunting, fighting, and protecting. They are 21 inches tall and can weigh up to 120 pounds.
Although they are considered to have above-average aggressiveness if not trained or socialized. However, they can be gentle, loving dogs with enough training and socialization.
1. Kangal (743 PSI)
The Kangal has the most powerful bite force of any dog breed, with a whopping 743 PSI.
The Kangal is a large, protective, territorial dog that’s also very smart and loyal. They can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand 29 inches tall.
Their impressive bite force makes them ideal for guarding and protecting.
Does A Stronger Bite Make For A More Dangerous Dog?
No, not necessarily. A dog’s bite force is one factor determining how dangerous they are. The biggest factor in determining a dog’s danger level is their temperament.
It’s important to remember that all dogs have the potential to be dangerous if they aren’t properly trained or socialized.
While their size might make it easier for them to hurt someone, big dogs are some of the most gentle breeds. So while their size might seem scary, it doesn’t make them innately dangerous.
Dog Bite Statistics
Which Dog Bites The Most?
Before we dive into stats about dog biting and aggression, is is important to remember these acts of violence usually stem from a poor household, bad training, and improper socialization as a puppy.
All dogs can be trained to be loving, gentle companions with the right owners. However, dogs can also be accidentally trained or raised to be aggressive, territorial, or violent.
That’s why it’s even more important to be a responsible owner with large dog breeds that can do serious damage.
So, which dog bites the most?
The answer really depends. No real data shows dogs biting people unless it’s reported. And even then, it can be hard to get an accurate number of how often each breed bites since there are so many different types of dogs worldwide.
All we really have to go off is reported dog bites and some character traits.
Here is a list of the most likely dogs to bite (in no particular order):
- Chihuahua
- Rottweiler
- English Bulldog
- BulldogPit Bull
- German Shepherd
- Australian Shepherd
- Lhasa Apso
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Cocker Spaniel
- Bull Terrier
- Pekingese
- Papillion
Which Dog Kills The Most Humans?
A 20-year study from 1979 to 1998 by the CDC, the study found that:
- There were about 238 fatal dog attacks in the U.S during that time period.
- Pit bulls accounted for about 66 of those fatalities (27%).
- Rottweilers accounted for 39 of those fatalities (16%).
- In third and fourth place were German Shepherds and Husky.
To follow this information further, a more recent study done from 2005 to 2017 found that with fatal dog attacks:
- 65.5% came from Pit Bulls (284)
- 10.4% came from Rottweilers (45)
- 4.6% came from German Shepherds (20)
- 3.9 % came from mixed-breeds (17)
- 3.5% American Bulldog (15)
- 3.2% Mastiff/Bullmastiff (14)
- 3% Husky (13)
So based on 33 years of history, the most likely dog to kill a human seems to be a Pitbull. However, I would go a step further to say that the most likely dog to kill a human is one that is not adequately trained, socialized, and looked after.
Pit bulls were bred to fight other dogs in a blood sport called bull-baiting. This gave them a reputation as aggressive dogs that would attack without provocation.
When dog fighting was outlawed in the 1800s, some people started using pit bulls as guard dogs or for illegal dog fighting. This further increased their reputation as aggressive, dangerous dogs.
Today, most pit bulls are not bred for fighting. However, their reputation as aggressive dogs remains. As a result, some people think that all pit bulls are dangerous and should be banned.
Other people believe that pit bulls can be gentle, loving dogs if they are properly trained and socialized.
The truth is, any dog can be aggressive if it is not properly trained and socialized. It is up to the owner to make sure their dog is well-behaved.
Final Thoughts
Most large and giant breeds will have a large jaw and strong bite. And while their size might make them seem more dangerous, it’s really up to the owner to ensure their dog is properly trained, socialized, and cared for.
When it comes to a dog’s bite force, a variety of things can affect their PSI. And just as there are outliers when it comes to human athletes, this can also apply to dogs.
So some dogs could have much higher bite forces than what is listed here, so keep this in mind.
However, in general, these are the breeds that have been known to have the strongest bite forces!
Other posts you may find interesting:
51 Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (Hypoallergenic Dogs)
The 5 Reasons Why Dogs Live Less Than Humans
How to Get Work Done at Home With a Furry Companion by Your Side
Citations:
Dog breed information comes from AKC.
