Strong Dog Breeds Ranked: What’s The Strongest Dog in the World?

Quick takeaway: When it comes to dogs, strength is measured in many forms – from bite force to pulling power and muscle mass. In PetLabCo.’s ranking of the world’s strongest dogs, the Kangal takes top spot as the no.1 strongest dog, followed by the English Mastiff and Saint Bernard. Other notable breeds included in the strongest dog rankings are the Rottweiler, Great Dane, German Shepherd and the Doberman Pinscher.

20 Strong Dog Breeds: PetLabCo.’s Ranking of The World’s Strongest Dogs

Are some dogs stronger than others? Which is the strongest dog in the world? We’ve ranked 20 of the strongest dog breeds, according to their power, endurance, and impressive physical capabilities.

Rank	Breed	Size (M/F)	Lifespan	Strength Level	Interesting Facts
1	Kangal	110–145 lb	12–13 yrs	Strongest bite force	This Turkish livestock guardian has a bite force reported by some sources to exceed 700 PSI, one of the highest recorded.
2	English Mastiff	160–230 lb	6–10 yrs	Massive frame & muscle mass	Known as one of the heaviest breeds; originally bred for guarding estates.
3	Saint Bernard	120–180 lb	8–10 yrs	Heavy-duty pulling power	Originally bred for mountain rescue in the Alps; known for endurance and strength.
4	Rottweiler	80–135 lb	9–10 yrs	Muscular & compact power	Once used to herd cattle and pull carts; incredibly strong jaws and body.
5	Great Dane	110–175 lb	7–10 yrs	Height + strength combo	While tall and elegant, they also have a powerful frame capable of incredible force.
6	Newfoundland	100–150 lb	9–10 yrs	Strong swimmer & puller	Bred for water rescues; strong enough to pull nets and small boats.
7	Tibetan Mastiff	70–150 lb	10–12 yrs	Strong-willed & powerful	Fierce guardian breed, known for strength and independence.
8	Alaskan Malamute	75–85 lb	10–12 yrs	Built for heavy sled pulling	Bred for hauling loads over long distances in arctic climates.
9	German Shepherd	65–90 lb	9–13 yrs	Agile and strong	Working dogs in police and military roles; strong bite and excellent drive.
10	Boerboel	150–200 lb	9–11 yrs	Powerful guardian	South African farm dog bred for protection and strength.
11	Bernese Mountain Dog	70–115 lb	7–10 yrs	Draft dog strength	Originally used to pull carts and work on farms in Switzerland.
12	American Bulldog	60–120 lb	10–15 yrs	Compact power & stamina	Bred for farm work and guarding; muscular with surprising agility.
13	Dogo Argentino	80–100 lb	9–15 yrs	Hunting strength	Bred to hunt large game like wild boar; muscular and fearless.
14	Caucasian Shepherd Dog	100–220 lb	10–12 yrs	Intimidating and powerful	Used for guarding livestock; extremely strong and protective.
15	Cane Corso	90–120 lb	9–12 yrs	Athletic & muscular	Italian working dog with incredible strength and guarding instincts.
16	Doberman Pinscher	60–100 lb	10–12 yrs	Strong with speed	A sleek, powerful dog with high agility and muscle definition.
17	Irish Wolfhound	105–120 lb	6–10 yrs	Tall with endurance	Once used to hunt wolves; large frame with surprising power.
18	Leonberger	90–170 lb	8–9 yrs	Strong, gentle giant	Often used in water rescue; calm but physically powerful.
19	Rhodesian Ridgeback	70–85 lb	10–12 yrs	Endurance hunting strength	Bred to track and corner lions; muscular with high energy.
20	Siberian Husky	45–60 lb	12–14 yrs	Lean, efficient puller	Known for stamina and strength in sled racing; small but mighty.

How We Ranked The Strongest Dogs In The World:

There are lots of different ways to rank dog strength, based on physical power and capability. The information included in our Strong Dog Breeds Ranked table were drawn from reputable, non-medical public sources that specialize in dog breed standards, working dog roles, and physical capabilities. Bite force values are generalized estimates, not standardized clinical measurements. Data was drawn from a mix of breed club standards, observational reports, and comparative rankings (see citations below).

What Makes a Dog Breed “Strong”?

“Strength” in dogs can refer to several traits:

• Muscle mass and body weight
• Bite force (PSI – pounds per square inch)
• Pulling power or endurance
• Working capacity (e.g., guarding, rescue, sledding)

The dogs in this list all rank high in at least one of those categories, and many dominate across the board. While bite force often grabs headlines, true strength includes stamina, coordination, and even mental resilience.

Is The Kangal The Strongest Dog In The World?

When it comes to raw physical power, many dog enthusiasts point to the Kangal as a top contender for the strongest dog in the world. Originally bred in Turkey to guard livestock against predators like wolves and bears, the Kangal is renowned for its exceptional bite force, with some estimates placing it above 700 PSI, one of the highest recorded among domestic dogs. But strength isn’t just about bite. Kangals are also known for their impressive size, protective instincts, and muscular build. While their power is impressive, these strong dogs require early training, socialization, and plenty of space to thrive. They’re not just strong, they’re also loyal, intelligent, and incredibly devoted to their families.

Why Is The English Mastiff So Strong?

The English Mastiff is often recognized as one of the strongest dog breeds in the world, thanks to its sheer size, powerful frame, and muscular build. Weighing in at up to 230 pounds, the Mastiff’s strength lies not just in muscle mass, but in its broad chest, sturdy limbs, and heavy bone structure, which give it the ability to generate immense force when moving or holding its ground. Historically bred for guarding estates, hunting large game, and even being used in ancient warfare, this breed was developed to be physically imposing and remarkably durable. While not the fastest or most agile, the English Mastiff’s strength is measured in its presence, pulling power, and stability, making it one of the most physically dominant breeds in the canine world. Despite their intimidating appearance, Mastiffs are also known for being gentle giants with calm, affectionate temperaments.

Is Saint Bernard One of the World’s Strongest Dogs?

Absolutely. The Saint Bernard earns its place among the world’s strongest dogs thanks to its immense size, muscle mass, and working heritage. Originally bred in the Swiss Alps to assist with mountain rescues, these dogs were designed to navigate deep snow, pull heavy sleds, and even drag injured travelers to safety. Adult males can weigh over 180 pounds, and their broad frame and powerful limbs give them serious pulling strength. While they may not have the same bite force as breeds like the Kangal, their combination of brute strength and endurance makes them one of the most powerful working dogs in history. Plus, their calm, gentle nature adds to their legendary reputation as strong but compassionate giants.

Is A Strong Dog Breed Right for You?

While these strong dog breeds are undeniably impressive, they’re not always the best choice for every pet parent. Powerful breeds require:

• Consistent training and socialization
• Adequate space and exercise
• A confident, experienced owner
• Plenty of mental stimulation

Thinking of adding a strong breed to your home? Consider speaking with a breed-specific rescue or doing a temperament assessment first. Many of these pups make amazing companions, but only with the right environment.

How Can I Tell if My Dog Is Strong?

A “strong” dog isn’t just about size or muscle – canine strength can show up in different ways, including endurance, agility, bite force, or the ability to pull and carry. Signs your dog may be physically strong include a well-defined, muscular build, high energy levels, and the ability to jump, run, or climb with ease. Some dogs also show strength through their working drive, excelling at tasks like tugging, retrieving, or pulling. However, strength can vary by breed, age, and body type. If you’re unsure, your vet can assess your dog’s body condition and muscle tone during a checkup. And remember: even small or lean dogs can be surprisingly strong, especially when they’re active, well-exercised, and properly nourished.

Final Thoughts: The Strongest Dog Breeds in the World

From the towering English Mastiff to the bite-force champion Kangal, these dogs are more than just muscles, they’re loyal, hardworking, and full of heart.

Whether you’re here to find out what the strongest dog in the world is, or you’re simply curious about strong dog breeds, this list shows just how incredible canine strength can be.

Sources

• American Kennel Club (AKC) – akc.org: Used for breed size, lifespan averages, historical roles, and working group classifications.
• A-Z Animals – a-z-animals.com: Used for bite force estimates, breed purpose, and breed strength comparisons.
• Rover.com Blog – rover.com/blog/strongest-dog-breeds: For accessible explanations of strength traits (bite force, pulling power, working ability).
• TopDogTips – topdogtips.com: Used for breed comparisons, temperament traits, and strength-oriented rankings.
• World Atlas Dog Rankings – worldatlas.com: Used to cross-reference bite force statistics and working breed roles.

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