Eleven Dog Breeds Whose Jaws Rival Wild Predators

Some dogs look soft and plush, yet their jaws conceal a force capable of cracking bones with ease. Measurements show that several breeds bite harder than a lion and can still be reliable family pets. It never comes down to the numbers alone, but to the responsibility of the owner and the way the dog is raised.

What Bite Force Means and How It Is Measured

Bite force refers to the pressure a dog’s jaws exert on a surface during compression. It is usually measured in pounds per square inch (psi), indicating how many pounds of pressure land on a small area of contact.

For humans, the average bite force is about 80 kilograms per square centimeter—strong enough to crack a nut, but far below the levels reached by large dogs.

Among dogs, the general rule is straightforward: the more powerful the body and the more developed the muscles, the stronger the bite. Still, there are exceptions. Some medium-sized breeds bite far harder than their weight would suggest. These “jaw giants” form the PETBOOK ranking of eleven breeds with the strongest bite forces.

Places 11–10: The Beginning of the List

The eleventh position belongs to the Belgian Malinois, with roughly 200 psi. An intelligent working dog widely used in police and military service, it is highly trainable — which is why its bite power is so well controlled.

Just above it is the Chow Chow with about 220 psi. In China it is known as the “pumped lion dog.” Independent and stubborn, the breed becomes a loyal companion with proper handling, displaying expressive facial features and a plush coat.

Places 9–7: Friendly but Powerful

Three breeds fall between 224 and 238 psi:

• the Dutch Shepherd (about 224 psi), an active, attentive dog that gets along well with children;
• the American Pit Bull (around 235 psi), playful, social, strongly built, and often misjudged by reputation;
• the German Shepherd (about 238 psi), a classic service and family dog valued for endurance and obedience.

All three demonstrate clearly that a strong jaw does not make a dog aggressive. Temperament is shaped by training, socialization, and the rules the owner establishes at home and outdoors.

Places 6–4: Muscular Strength and Working Heritage

From sixth place upward, the numbers become truly impressive. The American Bulldog reaches around 305 psi — roughly on par with a leopard. A sturdy, confident dog, it requires long walks, a steady owner, and consistent boundaries.

The Rottweiler, at about 328 psi, is historically linked with guarding and service. Despite its intimidating reputation, a properly trained Rottweiler is balanced, loyal, and deeply family-oriented.

Even stronger are the large Mastiffs, which can reach approximately 556 psi. Despite their massive size, they often display remarkable calm and tolerance when well socialized from puppyhood.

Places 3–2: Elegance and Absolute Strength

The third position is shared by two very different breeds with equally powerful jaws: the Doberman and the Caucasian Shepherd, both around 600 psi.

The Doberman is sleek, fast, attentive, and becomes a reliable protector under a confident owner, sensing human emotion with notable accuracy.

The Caucasian Shepherd is a large, serious guardian with a strong territorial instinct. It must be raised by someone who understands how to manage a large, powerful dog and why early training is essential.

Second place belongs to the Cane Corso Italiano with approximately 700 psi. Its muscular build and massive jaw are impressive, yet within a family that maintains clear rules, this dog is typically gentle, calm, and affectionate.

1st Place: The Absolute Record

The undisputed leader is the Kangal. This Turkish guardian dog reaches roughly 743 psi, reportedly biting harder than a lion. Bred to protect livestock from wolves and bears, the breed has a strong defensive instinct. Today, with proper training, Kangals become loyal, composed companions who command respect simply by their presence.

Breeds and Their Approximate Bite Force