15 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds (Weight and Bite Force)

While any dog breed can bite and cause dangerous wounds and infections, certain dog breeds are statistically more likely to cause severe injuries. Some dogs have a very strong bite force that can cause devastating injuries or even death. That’s why understanding California dog bite law strict liability is essential for victims seeking compensation after an attack. If you were injured in a dog attack, consider consulting with our skilled Northern California dog bite lawyers. Our attorneys have helped dog bite injury victims recover compensation they needed and can help you explore your legal options.

Below, we cover the 16 most dangerous dog breeds by bite force, ranked from strongest biteforce to lowest.

Most Dangerous Dogs

1. Kangal Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 743 PSI (widely cited; see below)
Average Weight: 110 – 145 lbs.

The Kangal is a Turkish livestock guardian breed developed to protect sheep and goats from predators such as wolves, bears, and jackals. These dogs are known for their calm demeanor, loyalty, and territorial nature. They are not typically aggressive without provocation, but their size and power make them formidable protectors.

The 743 PSI figure commonly attributed to the Kangal is frequently cited, but many researchers and veterinarians caution that measuring bite force in dogs is technically difficult. There have been very few reliable scientific studies on the bite force of specific dog breeds. Some sources suggest that the 743 PSI figure may come from a single isolated test of an exceptionally large individual and does not represent the breed average. Other estimates place the Kangal’s average bite force in the range of 250–400 PSI. Therefore, claims about bite force should be interpreted with healthy skepticism.

2. Cane Corso Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 700 PSI
Average Weight: 100 – 110 lbs.

Cane Corsos are large, powerful dogs with a strong protective instinct. Originally bred to guard livestock and property, they are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and courage. However, their size, strength, and protective nature can make them a dangerous dog breed if not properly trained and socialized. Cane Corsos can exhibit aggressive behavior without proper training, especially toward strangers.

3. Bullmastiffs Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 552 PSI
Average Weight: 130 lbs.

Bullmastiffs are often described as gentle giants and are known for their loyalty and protective nature. However, their massive size and powerful bite can make them dangerous if not properly trained and socialized.

4. Presa Canario Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 540 PSI
Average Weight: 80 – 140 lbs.

This large and powerful breed is known for its aggressive nature and strong protective instincts. Initially bred for fighting dogs, Presa Canario are often considered one of the most dangerous dog breeds. They require extensive training and socialization to mitigate its inherent aggression. Presa Canario dogs are capable of inflicting severe injury.

According to an Animals 24-7 compilation of published stories about dog bites in the U.S. and Canada over a 32-year period, they were involved in 111 attacks, resulting in 18 deaths and 63 maiming incidents. This breed is also restricted in several countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Ukraine, and Romania.

5. Wolf Hybrid Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 500+ PSI
Average Weight: 70 – 100 lbs.

A cross between a wolf and a domestic dog, wolf hybrids are often unpredictable and can pose a significant risk to public safety. Their wild instincts, combined with their strength and powerful bite, make them a dangerous breed. Wolf hybrids are not domesticated animals and require specialized care and training.

6. Alaskan Malamute Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 400 PSI
Average Weight: 70 – 95 lbs.

These large, powerful, and energetic dogs resemble Siberian Huskies in appearance. However, they are significantly larger, often weighing up to 95 pounds. While these dogs can be loving and loyal companions, they also possess a strong independent streak and a tendency to disregard commands.

7. Rottweiler Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 328 PSI
Average Weight: 120 lbs.

Before pit bulls gained notoriety, Rottweilers were considered one of the most dangerous dog breeds. These powerful dogs, which weigh 120 pounds, are known for their protective nature toward their family and can be fiercely territorial toward strangers. Rottweilers possess the strength to inflict serious injury, according to a surgical study on dogs by Academia. During the study period, Rottweilers were responsible for 45 fatal attacks, highlighting the potential danger they pose.

8. Huskies/Siberian Huskies Bite Force

husky

Average Bite Force: 320 PSI
Average Weight: 35 – 60 lbs.

With their striking resemblance to wolves, Siberian Huskies are often admired for their beauty and athleticism. However, their wild instincts can sometimes lead to dangerous behavior. Initially bred for their endurance and ability to withstand harsh conditions, Huskies are strong and independent, possessing a high prey drive. This can manifest in aggressive behavior when they feel threatened or provoked.

9. American Bulldog Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 305 PSI
Average Weight: 100 lbs.

American Bulldogs are powerful working dogs with a more muscular build than their British counterparts.

10. German Shepherd Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 240 PSI
Average Weight: 60 – 80 lbs.

Renowned for their intelligence and strength, German Shepherds have a long history of service in law enforcement and military roles. German Shepherds average 90 pounds and have a muscular build.

11. Pit Bull Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 235 PSI
Average Weight: 35 – 65 lbs.

A broad category encompassing various bulldogs and terriers, pit bulls are responsible for approximately two-thirds of all fatal dog bites in the United States, resulting in 284 deaths over the 13 years studied, according to a DogsBite.org report. This alarming statistic is particularly concerning when considering that pit bulls only comprise about 6% of the total dog population. Bred for centuries as hunting and fighting dogs, pit bulls possess powerful jaws and muscular bodies.

12. Heeler/Australian Cattle Dog Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 230 – 250 PSI
Average Weight: 20 – 50 lbs.

Heeler/Australian Cattle Dogs are intelligent, energetic, and often stubborn breeds. While they can make wonderful companions, their strong herding instincts and high energy levels can sometimes lead to behavioral issues if not properly trained and exercised. Providing these dogs with ample mental and physical stimulation is crucial to prevent destructive behavior and potential aggression.

13. Boxer Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 230 PSI
Average Weight: 55 – 70 lbs.

With their playful and goofy demeanor, Boxers are also a powerful and protective breed. These muscular and energetic dogs have a history of aggression, particularly when they feel threatened or perceive a danger to their family. It’s crucial to provide early socialization, training, and proper handling of boxers to mitigate the risks associated with their ownership.

14. Doberman Pinscher Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 230 PSI
Average Weight: 75 – 100 lbs.

With its distinctive appearance and alert demeanor, the Doberman Pinscher is a breed renowned for its prowess as a guard dog. Bred for centuries to protect and attack, Dobermans possess a strong prey drive and a powerful bite force of 230 PSI. Despite their relatively low number of fatal attacks, Dobermans remain a potentially dangerous breed. Their aggressive nature, coupled with their intelligence and athleticism, makes them formidable adversaries. Responsible ownership and proper training are essential to mitigate the risks associated with this breed.

15. Chow Chow Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 220 PSI
Average Weight: 55 – 60 lbs.

This distinctive breed, with a lion-like appearance, has a long history dating back to ancient China. Initially bred for guarding, hunting, herding, and carrying supplies, Chow Chows have a strong protective instinct and can be aggressive towards strangers.

16. Golden Retriever Bite Force

Average Bite Force: 190 PSI
Average Weight: 55 – 75 lbs.

Despite their reputation as friendly and docile family dogs, Golden Retrievers have been implicated in a significant amount of dog attacks. These large, athletic dogs, weighing up to 80 pounds, can inflict serious injury. The National Canine Research Council notes, citing the American Veterinary Medical Association, that media accounts tend to under-represent incidents involving breeds not already associated with aggression in news coverage, which can skew public perception of which breeds are dangerous. While their friendly demeanor is well-known, some retrievers can become aggressive when they feel threatened or cornered. This highlights the importance of responsible ownership, proper training, and understanding their potential for aggression, even in seemingly gentle breeds.

Bite Force and Weight Chart

Breed	Bite Force (PSI)	Weight (lbs)	Notable Statistics
Kangal	743*	110 – 145	Widely cited as the strongest bite force; see note above on measurement accuracy
Cane Corso	700	100 – 110	—
Bullmastiffs and Mastiffs	552	130	—
Presa Canario	540	80 – 140	111 attacks, 18 deaths, 63 maimings (32-year data)
Wolf Hybrid	500+	70 – 100	—
Alaskan Malamute	400	70 – 95	—
Rottweiler	328	120	45 fatal attacks
Huskies/Siberian Huskies	320	35 – 60	—
American Bulldog	305	100	—
German Shepherd	240	60 – 80	—
Pit Bull	235	35 – 65	~2/3 of all fatal dog bites (284 deaths over 13 years)
Heeler/Australian Cattle Dog	230 – 250	20 – 50	—
Boxer	230	55 – 70	—
Doberman Pinscher	230	75 – 100	—
Chow Chow	220	55 – 60	—
Golden Retriever	190	55 – 75	—

If you or a loved one has questions about dog bite injuries, contact Curtis Legal Group today. When you work with our Modesto Dog bite Lawyers you are not just a case number. Our attorneys take the time to understand your unique situation and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.