Dog bites can lead to devastating injuries, and the severity often depends on the strength behind the bite. In fact, over 800,000 people in the United States receive medical attention for dog bites each year. While any dog can bite under certain circumstances, some breeds have significantly more powerful jaws than others.
Understanding bite force—measured in pounds per square inch (PSI)—can help shed light on why some dog bite injuries are more severe and how different breeds compare when it comes to jaw strength.This article explores what dog has the strongest bite, what factors influence jaw power, and what this means for dog owners and the public.
What is Bite Force?
Bite force refers to the amount of pressure a dog can exert with its jaws when it bites down. It’s typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI)—a unit that quantifies the crushing power of the bite. The higher the PSI, the more powerful the bite.
This measurement isn’t just a number—it represents a dog’s potential to cause harm in a bite incident. For example, a breed with a bite force of 700 PSI can inflict significantly more damage than one with 200 PSI. While bite force alone doesn’t determine whether a dog is dangerous, it does give insight into the physical capability of certain dog breeds, especially those originally bred for protection, hunting, or guarding.
It’s important to remember that bite force can vary even within the same breed. Individual dogs may have stronger or weaker jaws depending on their size, muscle tone, jaw shape, and training. That said, some breeds are consistently ranked among those with the strongest dog bite force due to their genetic build and original roles as war dogs or guard dogs.
Top Dog Breeds by Bite Force
While many breeds are known for their loyalty, intelligence, or temperament, a select few stand out for their exceptionally strong bite force. These breeds were often bred specifically for roles that required power and protection—guarding livestock, defending property, or assisting in battle. Below are some of the most notable dogs with the strongest bite force, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
Kangal Bite Force – 700–750 PSI
The Kangal holds the title for the strongest dog bite force ever recorded. Native to Turkey, this large and powerful breed was originally bred to guard livestock from predators like wolves and bears. With a bite force ranging between 700 and 750 PSI, the Kangal can deliver more crushing pressure than many wild predators. Despite its immense strength, the Kangal is known for its calm demeanor and loyalty—qualities that make it a great guard dog when properly trained.
Cane Corso Bite Force – 650–700 PSI
The Cane Corso, an Italian mastiff, was originally bred for hunting large game and protecting property. With a bite force close to 700 PSI, this breed is both muscular and imposing. The Cane Corso’s natural guarding instincts and physical power make it one of the most powerful dog breeds in the world. Proper training and early socialization are crucial for this breed, especially in urban environments.
English Mastiff Bite Force – 500–700 PSI
Known as a gentle giant, the English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds by weight, and its jaw strength matches its size. With a bite force of up to 700 PSI, this breed has historically been used as a war dog and estate protector. Despite their power, English Mastiffs are often great family pets when raised in loving homes.
American Bulldog Bite Force – 305 PSI
The American Bulldog is a muscular, athletic breed known for its loyalty and protective instincts. Originally bred as a working dog on farms, it was used for guarding property, herding livestock, and even catching wild game. With a bite force of around 305 PSI, the American Bulldog ranks among the breeds with the most powerful bite force.
Though strong and imposing, American Bulldogs can be great family pets when raised with proper training and socialization. However, their strength means they require experienced handling, especially around children or other animals. When poorly managed, their bite strength can lead to severe injuries, underscoring the need for responsible ownership and bite prevention awareness.
American Pit Bull Terrier Bite Force – 235–330 PSI
The American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the most controversial breeds due to its history in dog fighting. With a bite force that can reach up to 330 PSI, this medium-sized dog is capable of significant damage. However, the Pit Bull’s behavior often depends on its training, environment, and socialization. In the right setting, many are affectionate and loyal companions.
German Shepherd Bite Force – 238–291 PSI
Known for their work as police dogs and military canines, German Shepherds possess a respectable bite force between 238 and 291 PSI. Their intelligence and strong bite make them ideal for law enforcement and protection work. German Shepherds are also one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States due to their versatility and trainability.
Factors Affecting Bite Strength
Several key elements influence a dog’s bite force, and it’s not just about being a big dog. While size plays a role, anatomy, breed purpose, and even environment all contribute to the bite strength a dog can deliver.
1. Jaw Size and Skull Structure
Dogs with larger heads and more robust jawbones tend to have a stronger bite. Brachycephalic breeds—those with broad skulls and short snouts like the Cane Corso and English Mastiff—often demonstrate higher PSI due to the muscular arrangement in their jaws.
2. Muscle Mass and Body Weight
The amount of muscle a dog has, especially in the head and neck area, directly affects bite strength. Large breeds with solid muscle tone, such as the Kangal or American Bulldog, are capable of delivering a powerful bite force because of their sheer physical structure.
3. Breed History and Genetics
Many breeds with high bite force were originally bred for specific working purposes—guarding livestock, pulling sleds, or even fighting. These historical roles often required a strong jaw for protection or dominance. Fighting dogs, such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, were selectively bred for bite persistence and strength.
4. Training and Temperament
A dog’s behavior and response to stress also impact how and when it uses its bite force. Well-trained dogs may exhibit more restraint, while untrained or anxious dogs may react impulsively. Proper training and socialization can significantly influence whether a dog ever uses its bite strength in a threatening situation.
5. Health and Environment
Pain, fear, or environmental stressors can trigger a bite, especially if the dog feels cornered or provoked. Even a dog with an average bite force can cause serious injury under the right conditions, underscoring the importance of dog attack prevention tips and understanding a dog’s body language.
Dog Attack Prevention Tips
Understanding a dog’s bite force is just one piece of the puzzle. Whether you’re a dog owner or simply someone who interacts with dogs in public spaces, knowing how to prevent dog attacks is essential for personal safety and animal welfare. Many bite incidents can be avoided with the right awareness, training, and environmental precautions.
For Dog Owners:
If you own a breed known for its powerful bite force, it’s especially important to take proactive steps to ensure the dog is safe and well-adjusted in any environment:
- Prioritize early training and socialization. Teaching dogs to respond to commands and interact calmly with people and other animals reduces the likelihood of aggressive behavior.
- Use proper containment. Secure fencing at home and leashing in public are non-negotiable, especially for large breeds with high bite strength like the Cane Corso or Kangal.
- Monitor behavior. Be aware of signs of stress, fear, or agitation. These can increase the chances of a bite, even in normally well-behaved dogs.
For the Public:
Even if you don’t own a dog, understanding basic dog body language and behavior can go a long way in preventing a negative encounter:
- Never approach an unfamiliar dog without the owner’s permission.
- Avoid direct eye contact with dogs that seem tense or nervous—it can be perceived as a threat.
- Teach children to be gentle and cautious around dogs. Many bite incidents involve kids who inadvertently provoke a dog while playing.
Recognizing Warning Signs of Aggression
Understanding how dogs communicate is essential in preventing bite incidents—especially when interacting with breeds that possess a strong bite force. While many dogs give clear warnings before biting, those signs are often missed or misunderstood by humans. Recognizing these behaviors can help you de-escalate a situation before it turns dangerous.
Common Warning Signs Include:
- Raised fur (piloerection): If the fur along a dog’s back or shoulders is standing up, it may be feeling threatened or overstimulated.
- Growling or snarling: This is one of the most direct signs of discomfort or aggression. Growling should never be ignored—it’s a dog’s way of asking for space.
- Rigid body posture: When a dog suddenly becomes still and stiff, it may be preparing to lunge or bite.
- Direct staring or wide “whale eyes”: If a dog locks eyes with you while showing the whites of its eyes, it’s likely feeling defensive.
- Ears pinned back and tail held high or low: These are signs of stress or dominance, and in some dogs, may precede an attack.
What to Do If You See These Signs:
- Avoid sudden movements. Quick gestures can escalate the dog’s anxiety or perceived threat.
- Do not turn your back or run. Instead, slowly back away without direct eye contact.
- Give the dog space. Allow it to retreat or calm down on its own.
These warning signs apply to all dogs, but they’re especially critical when dealing with breeds known for high PSI bite strength. A bite from a German Shepherd (238–291 PSI) or a Pit Bull (up to 330 PSI) can cause significant injury—even if it happens in a matter of seconds.
Being aware of a dog’s emotional state and respecting its boundaries is one of the most effective ways to prevent an encounter from turning into a bite incident.
Dog Bite Injury and Liability
At the Law Offices of Peter Briskin, P.C., we’ve seen firsthand how devastating a dog bite injury can be. These cases aren’t just about physical wounds—they often involve emotional trauma, long-term scarring, and financial hardship. When a bite is inflicted by a dog with a high bite force, such as a Kangal or Cane Corso, the consequences can be especially severe.
Many of our clients come to us after suffering deep lacerations, nerve damage, or even fractures caused by the crushing pressure of a dog’s jaws. In some cases, reconstructive surgery and prolonged therapy are necessary. And for young children or elderly victims, recovery can be even more complex.
Strict Liability in New Jersey
New Jersey law is clear: dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets—even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before. That means a victim doesn’t have to prove negligence. If the bite occurred in a public place or lawfully on private property, the dog owner is financially responsible for the damages.
However, each case is unique. Certain defenses—such as provocation or trespassing—may be raised by the dog owner’s insurance company. That’s why it’s essential to work with a legal team that understands both the legal framework and the realities of dog behavior and breed characteristics.
Our Role in Dog Bite Cases
At our firm, we take a comprehensive approach to building your case. We evaluate the extent of your injuries, the dog’s breed and behavior, and all available evidence to determine fair compensation for:
- Emergency and ongoing medical treatment
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional distress, particularly in child victims
With more than 25 years of combined experience, we’ve represented clients in some of the most complex dog bite cases throughout New Jersey and New York. We know how to hold dog owners and their insurance companies accountable—and we don’t back down when the injuries are severe or the dog is known to have a powerful bite.
Dog Bite Cases and Legal Responsibilities
When a dog attack occurs, the aftermath can be chaotic and overwhelming. Medical care comes first—but once the immediate crisis is over, the legal process begins. At the Law Offices of Peter Briskin, P.C., we help victims understand their rights and pursue justice in even the most challenging dog bite cases.
In New Jersey, the law generally favors the victim. Under strict liability statutes, a dog owner is responsible if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property. It doesn’t matter if the dog was never aggressive before or if the owner took precautions. The bite itself triggers legal responsibility.
However, not every situation is straightforward. We often see cases where insurance companies try to reduce their responsibility by arguing that:
- The victim provoked the dog
- The victim was trespassing
- The owner took reasonable steps to prevent the incident
That’s why legal representation is so important. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a case that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Why Breed and Bite Force Matter
When a case involves a breed with a notoriously powerful bite force—such as a Mastiff, Cane Corso, or American Bulldog—insurance companies may push back harder. They know the medical bills, pain and suffering, and potential long-term impact are greater with these injuries.
Our team is experienced in navigating these high-stakes cases. We understand the significance of bite force statistics and how they relate to injury severity, liability, and compensation. When necessary, we bring in veterinary or canine behavior experts to support your claim.
Compensation in Dog Bite Cases
Victims of dog attacks may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
At the Law Offices of Peter Briskin, we take the time to understand every aspect of your injury—not just the physical damage, but also the emotional impact and how the attack has altered your daily life. Every case is personal to us.
