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What Dog Has the Strongest Bite?

September 9, 2024

Before you adopt a dog and bring it into your home, there are numerous factors and characteristics to consider. Firstly, you must think about what type of dog aligns best with your home environment, family dynamics, and lifestyle. Secondly, it’s important to prioritize the safety of yourself and your loved ones, especially if you have very young children. Because of the safety factor alone, many prospective dog owners may wonder: what dog has the strongest bite? Narrowing down your choices by thinking about breeds with the strongest bite force can help you pick the most family-friendly and safe dog for your household.

Remember, if you or a loved one suffers severe injuries and financial loss from a dog attack, you may have grounds to take legal action against the dog owner through a personal injury case. Call Rice & Kendig’s Shreveport dog bite lawyers today at 318-222-2772 to schedule a free consultation.

What is Dog Bite Force?

Dog bite force refers to the amount of pressure exerted by a dog’s jaw muscles when it bites down. This force is typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), which represents the amount of pressure applied to a unit area. In simpler terms, PSI indicates how much force a dog’s bite exerts on a specific area, such as a person’s skin or an object. Understanding dog bite force in terms of PSI is essential as it helps assess the potential severity of injuries inflicted by a dog bite. A higher PSI indicates a stronger bite force, which can lead to more significant injuries and complications, particularly in cases involving vulnerable individuals such as children or the elderly.

How is Dog Bite Force Measured?

Measuring dog biting force involves various factors that collectively determine the strength of a dog’s bite, including the weight of the dog, jaw size, the type of object or surface being bitten, the hardness of the surface being bitten, and the angle of the dog bite.

Weight of the Dog

The weight of a dog is a crucial factor in determining its bite force. Generally, breeds with the strongest bite force are larger and heavier. Meanwhile, smaller dogs tend to have a much less powerful bite force. This correlation is primarily due to the increased muscle mass and leverage that larger dogs possess. When a heavier dog bites down, its greater mass contributes to the pressure applied by its jaws, resulting in a higher bite force. Consequently, dog breeds known for their bite strength often have substantial body weight, enhancing their ability to exert significant force with their bites.

Jaw Size

The size and structure of a dog’s jaw significantly influence its powerful bite force. Dogs with larger and more robust jaws have a greater potential for generating powerful bites. The broader skull and enlarged jaw muscles of certain breeds provide them with a biomechanical advantage when it comes to biting force. Additionally, the arrangement and alignment of teeth within the jaw can impact how effectively a dog can exert pressure with its bite. Dogs with well-developed jaw structures are capable of delivering more forceful bites, making them potentially more dangerous in situations involving aggression or defensive behavior.

Type of Object or Surface Being Bitten

When measuring dog bite force, the type of object or surface being bitten is a critical consideration. Dogs may adjust their bite force depending on the material they are biting into, whether it’s flesh, clothing, or a hard object. For example, when biting into flesh, dogs may apply greater pressure to overcome resistance and secure a grip. In contrast, when biting into harder materials like wood, dogs may modulate their bite force to prevent damage to their teeth or jaws. Understanding how dogs adapt their bite force to different surfaces provides insight into the potential severity of injuries inflicted in various scenarios.

The Hardness of the Surface Being Bitten

In addition to the type of object, the hardness of the surface being bitten influences the measured bite force. Dogs may vary their bite force depending on whether they are biting into a soft or hard surface. When biting into softer surfaces, such as flesh or fabric, dogs may apply more pressure to penetrate and secure a grip. Conversely, when biting into harder surfaces, such as bone or wood, dogs may exert less force to avoid potential injury to their teeth or jaws. The hardness of the surface being bitten thus plays a crucial role in determining the intensity of a dog’s bite and the resulting damage inflicted.

The Angle of the Dog Bite

The angle at which a dog applies pressure with its jaws can significantly impact the measured bite force. Dogs may bite from different angles depending on the situation, such as during play, aggression, or defensive behavior. The angle of the bite affects the distribution of force across the surface being bitten, with variations in pressure depending on the orientation of the dog’s teeth and jaw muscles.

Which Dog Breeds Have the Strongest Bite Force?

Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments. However, among the myriad characteristics that define different breeds, one aspect often captures attention: bite force. Understanding which dog breeds possess the strongest bite force is not only a matter of curiosity and figuring out which four legged friends may be best for a household, but also a consideration of practical importance, particularly in contexts such as personal safety, working roles, and legal liability.

Kangal – 743 PSI

The Kangal is among the top domesticated dog breeds with the highest bite force – 743 pounds per square inch (PSI). It’s a large, muscular Turkish breed, known for its impressive strength and protective instincts. Their formidable jaws make them great guard dogs, historically tasked with protecting livestock from predators.

Bandog – 730 PSI

The Bandog is a powerful and athletic crossbreed, typically a mix of various mastiff-type dogs and bull breeds. Characterized by their imposing size and muscular build, Bandogs are also among the top dog breeds with the strongest bite force – 730 PSI. Bred specifically for guarding and protection, they are renowned for their strength and tenacity. If you don’t have young children in your home and you’re looking for an excellent guard dog, the Bandog may be a good choice for you.

Cane Corso – 700 PSI

Originating from Italy, the Cane Corso is a large and muscular dog breed renowned for its loyalty and intelligence. With an impressive bite force of 700 PSI, Cane Corsos are excellent protectors and excel in various roles, including guarding, tracking, and companionship.

Mastiff – 556 PSI

Mastiffs, known for their impressive size and strength, come in several varieties, including the English Mastiff and the French Mastiff (Dogue de Bordeaux). The English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds, characterized by a massive, muscular build, a broad head, and a short coat that typically comes in fawn, apricot, or brindle. In contrast, the French Mastiff, or Dogue de Bordeaux, is slightly smaller but equally powerful, with a distinctive wrinkled face, a robust physique, and a reddish-brown coat.

Both mastiff breeds possess a remarkable bite force of 556 pounds per square inch (PSI), reflecting their historical roles as war dogs and family guardians. Despite their strength, both the English and French Mastiffs are known for their gentle, loyal, and affectionate nature towards their families.

Tosa Inu – 556 PSI

The Tosa Inu, also known simply as the Tosa, is a large and powerful breed originating from Japan, historically bred for dog fighting. These fighting dogs are distinguished by their imposing stature, muscular build, and short, dense coat. With a strong bite force of 556 pounds per square inch (PSI), the UK government has actually banned its people from owning the Japanese fighting dog under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Despite its powerful bite and imposing presence, the Tosa Inu is known for being calm, loyal, and affectionate with its family, making it a protective and devoted companion when properly trained and socialized.

Presa Canario – 556 PSI

The Presa Canario, also known as the Canary Mastiff, is a large and muscular breed originating from the Canary Islands. These dogs have a powerful and robust build, with a broad head, strong jaws, and a short coat. Known for their strength and tenacity, Presa Canarios have a bite force of 556 pounds per square inch (PSI), making them great guard dogs. Despite their strength and intimidating appearance, Presa Canarios are loyal and affectionate with their families, making them devoted companions when properly trained and socialized.

Dogo Argentino – 500 PSI

Originally bred for big-game hunting, the Dogo Argentino is a muscular and athletic breed from Argentina. With a bite force of 500 PSI, Dogo Argentinos possess impressive strength and agility and are suited for a variety of tasks, including hunting, tracking, and protection.

Wolfdog – 406 PSI

Wolfdogs, as the name suggests, are hybrid breeds with wolf ancestry. Combining the strength and characteristics of wolves with domesticated dogs, Wolfdogs have a bite force of 406 PSI, reflecting their powerful nature and close resemblance to their wild counterparts.

Leonberger – 399 PSI

The Leonberger is a gentle giant, known for its calm demeanor and affectionate nature. Despite their friendly disposition, Leonbergers possess a bite force of 399 PSI, underscoring their strength and potential as both protectors and companions.

Akita – 400 PSI

Akitas are a Japanese breed known for their loyalty, courage, and dignified presence. With a bite force of 400 PSI, Akitas exhibit strength and resilience, making them excellent guardians and companions.

Rottweiler – 328 PSI

Rottweilers are renowned for their strength, confidence, and protective instincts. With a bite force of 328 PSI, Rottweilers possess powerful jaws, reflecting their historical roles as working and protective dogs.

American Bulldog – 305 PSI

The American Bulldog is a strong and muscular breed, known for its athletic build and confident demeanor. These dogs have a broad head, powerful jaws, and a short coat. The American bulldog bite force is around 305 PSI, making them effective working dogs and protectors. Originally bred for farm work, including guarding livestock and property, they are known for their determination and tenacity. However, bulldogs can also make gentle and loyal companions, especially after receiving proper training and socialization from an early age.

German Shepherd – 238 PSI

German Shepherds are intelligent, versatile, and highly trainable dogs known for their loyalty and courage. With a bite force of 238 PSI, German Shepherds are the most popular dog breed for service roles. For example, German Shepherds are commonly used as police dogs, search and rescue dogs, and service dogs for those who are disabled. Aside from their strength and intelligence, a German Shepherd can make a great family pet as well.

American Pit Bull Terrier – 235 PSI

American Pit Bull Terriers, despite their small to medium size, possess a strong bite force of 235 PSI. Known for their athleticism, agility, and tenacity, Pit Bulls are versatile dogs with a history of serving as working dogs, family pets, and companions.

Boxer – 230 PSI

The Boxer is a medium to large-sized breed known for its muscular build, strong bones, and short coat. These dogs are easily recognizable by their distinctive square-shaped head, strong jaws, and powerful neck. Despite their somewhat imposing appearance, Boxers are known for their playful, energetic, and affectionate nature. With a bite force of 230 PSI, Boxers possess a significant amount of jaw strength, making them capable protectors and excellent guard dogs as well.

Labrador Retriever – 230 PSI

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, cherished for their friendly disposition, intelligence, and versatility. They are medium to large-sized dogs with a sturdy, athletic build, characterized by a dense, water-resistant coat that comes in colors such as black, yellow, and chocolate. Labradors have a broad head, expressive eyes, and a strong jaw, contributing to their bite force of 230 PSI. These friendly, strong, and loyal dogs excel in various roles, from family pets to working dogs in search and rescue, therapy, and assistance tasks, where their strength and reliability are invaluable.

Doberman Pinscher – 228 PSI

Doberman Pinschers are an elegant, medium to large breed known for their sleek, muscular build and striking appearance. They have a short, smooth coat that usually comes in black, blue, red, or fawn, often with rust-colored markings. Dobermans have a distinctive, wedge-shaped head, a powerful jaw, and a proud, alert stance. With a bite force of 228 PSI, Dobermans are excellent protectors, well-suited for roles in security, law enforcement, and personal protection.

Other Factors That Contribute to the Severity of a Dog Attack Other Than Dog Breed Bite Force

A dog’s bite force is not the only factor that can lead to severe injuries. The average dog can still have a very powerful bite and cause serious damage depending on their tooth shape and sharpness, jaw structure, and bite location. The intensity and duration of the attack plus the risk of infection can also increase the risk of serious injury.

Tooth Shape and Sharpness

The shape and sharpness of a dog’s teeth significantly impact the severity of injuries inflicted during an attack. Dogs with pointed, sharp teeth are more likely to penetrate skin and cause deep puncture wounds compared to dogs with duller or blunter teeth. Additionally, certain tooth shapes, such as those designed for tearing or gripping, may result in more extensive tissue damage and bleeding.

Dog Jaw Structure

Variations in jaw structure, including the length, width, and alignment of teeth, can influence a dog’s bite effectiveness and the resulting injuries. Dogs with wide jaws and strong jaw muscles can exert more force with their bites, potentially causing greater tissue damage and trauma. Additionally, differences in bite mechanics, such as underbites or overbites, may affect how a dog’s teeth interact with the victim’s skin or flesh during an attack.

Bite Location

The location of the bite on the victim’s body can significantly impact the severity of injuries sustained. Bites to vulnerable areas such as the face, neck, or hands may result in more extensive damage compared to bites on less critical areas of the body. Additionally, bites near major blood vessels, nerves, or vital organs pose a higher risk of severe complications and long-term consequences.

Intensity and Duration of Dog Attack

The intensity and duration of a dog attack can greatly influence the severity of injuries inflicted on the victim. Attacks characterized by prolonged aggression and sustained biting may result in deeper wounds, increased tissue damage, and a higher risk of life-threatening injuries. Moreover, factors such as the dog’s size, strength, and level of agitation can impact the force and frequency of bites during an attack, further exacerbating the severity of injuries.

Risk of Infection

Dog bites carry a significant risk of bacterial infection due to the introduction of bacteria from the dog’s mouth into the victim’s skin and tissues. Common pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., and Pasteurella spp. can cause infections ranging from mild cellulitis to severe soft tissue infections and systemic illnesses. Prompt medical treatment, including wound cleaning, antibiotic therapy, and tetanus vaccination are crucial steps to take after a dog attack to reduce the risk of infection and prevent complications.

Dog Attack Prevention Tips

Preventing dog attacks requires a combination of understanding a dog’s behavior and implementing safety measures to minimize risks. Here are some tips to help reduce the likelihood of dog attacks:

Understand a Dog’s Body Language: Learn to recognize signs of stress, fear, or aggression in dogs, such as growling, bared teeth, raised hackles, or stiff posture. Avoid approaching or interacting with dogs exhibiting these behaviors.
Respect a Dog’s Space: Always ask for permission before petting or approaching an unfamiliar dog, and respect their personal space. Avoid startling or cornering dogs, as this can trigger defensive behaviors.
Supervise Interactions: Supervise interactions between children and dogs closely, teaching children how to approach and handle dogs gently and respectfully. Never leave young children unsupervised with dogs, even familiar ones.
Avoid Disturbing Dogs While Eating or Sleeping: Dogs may become defensive when eating or resting, so avoid disturbing them during these times. Teach children not to bother dogs while they’re eating or sleeping to prevent potential conflicts.
Do Not Tease or Provoke Dogs: Refrain from teasing, taunting, or provoking dogs, as this can trigger aggressive responses. Teach children not to engage in rough play or teasing behaviors with dogs.
Be Cautious Around Stray or Unsupervised Dogs: Approach stray or unsupervised dogs with caution, as their behavior may be unpredictable. If encountering a loose dog, avoid making sudden movements and slowly back away without making direct eye contact.
Secure Fencing and Gates: Ensure that your property has secure fencing and gates to prevent loose dogs from entering or escaping. Regularly inspect fences for any damage or gaps that may allow dogs to enter or exit.
Report Aggressive Dogs: If you encounter an aggressive or dangerous dog in your neighborhood, report it to local animal control authorities or law enforcement. Provide detailed information about the dog’s location, appearance, and behavior to facilitate appropriate action.

Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bite injuries can vary in severity and may include:

Puncture Wounds: Deep puncture wounds caused by a dog’s teeth can lead to tissue damage and infection.
Lacerations: Sharp teeth can cause cuts and lacerations, potentially damaging muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.
Fractures: The force of a dog’s bite can result in bone fractures, especially in vulnerable areas such as the hands and arms.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Dog bites can cause bruising, swelling, and damage to soft tissues such as skin, muscles, and tendons.
Infections: Bacterial infections are common complications of dog bites, requiring prompt medical treatment to prevent serious consequences.
Psychological Trauma: A dog bite injury can not only result in severe physical injuries and deformities, but psychological trauma as well. Victims may need to undergo counseling to heal from their mental wounds resulting from the attack.

Can You Sue for a Dog Bite in Louisiana?

Yes, dog bite victims in Louisiana have the legal right to pursue compensation for their injuries and damages. Louisiana follows the strict liability standard regarding dog bites, which means that dog owners are typically held liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of its aggressiveness. This means that the dog owner is responsible for any harm caused by their dog’s actions, even if they were not negligent in controlling the animal.

For example, if a person is bitten by a dog while lawfully on public property or on the owner’s property with permission, the dog owner can be held strictly liable for the resulting injuries, regardless of whether the dog had previously exhibited aggressive behavior or the owner had taken precautions to prevent such incidents. This strict liability standard simplifies the legal process for dog bite victims, as they do not need to prove negligence on the part of the dog owner to recover damages. However, there are certain exceptions and defenses that may apply in dog bite cases, such as provocation by the victim or trespassing on the owner’s property without permission.

Consulting with experienced Shreveport personal injury attorneys like those at Rice & Kendig can help dog bite victims understand their legal rights and pursue appropriate legal action to obtain compensation for their injuries.

Dog Bite Damages

When a person suffers injuries from a dog bite in Louisiana, they may be entitled to various types of damages. Damage recovery for your Shreveport dog bite injury may include:

Medical Bills: This includes reimbursement for all medical treatment related to the dog bite, such as hospitalization, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation. It covers both current and future medical expenses necessary for the victim’s recovery.
Lost Income: Dog bite victims may be compensated for wages lost due to time taken off work for medical treatment, recovery, or disability resulting from the injury. This includes both past and future lost income, including diminished earning capacity if the injuries affect the victim’s ability to work.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for pain and suffering compensate victims for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish resulting from the dog bite. This includes the psychological impact of the attack, such as fear, anxiety, and PTSD.
Disfigurement: If the dog bite results in permanent scarring, disfigurement, or other cosmetic defects, the victim may receive damages for the physical and emotional effects of their altered appearance. This includes compensation for any necessary cosmetic surgery or treatments to improve the appearance of scars or disfigurement.

Call Shreveport Dog Bite Lawyers at Rice & Kendig Today

Have you been bitten by a dog in Shreveport? If so, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance from the experienced personal injury attorneys at Rice & Kendig. With a deep understanding of Louisiana’s strict liability laws regarding dog bites, our legal team is dedicated to helping victims pursue the compensation they deserve for their injuries and damages. We offer compassionate and personalized legal representation, guiding clients through every step of the legal process and advocating fiercely for their rights. Contact us today at 318-222-2772 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you obtain justice and financial recovery for your dog bite injuries.