Meet the 10 Strongest Dogs In The World
Many people like the idea of owning a strong dog, and for good reason. These dogs are often gentle giants that are loyal, active, and loving. Depending on the breed you choose, strong dogs can be fearless protectors, gentle companions, and energetic workers. Each breed is unique and this guide can help you find the best dog for your family.
Firstly, How Do You Define A Strong Breed?
There are many ways to measure strength in a dog, the most common ways are bite force and pound-for-pound strength which can be measured by weight pulling. It’s hard to say definitively which breed is the strongest as the measurements are impacted by the individual animal and the circumstances.
While most of the strongest dogs are large in size, strength and size don’t always correlate (you can have smaller dogs that are stronger pound-for-pound). More often than not, strong dogs make loving companions when trained and handled appropriately.
1. Tibetan Mastiff
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The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed and is one of the strongest dog breeds in the world. They were originally used to protect homes in the Himalayas and have an incredible bite force. Tibetan Mastiffs are intelligent, loyal, and independent. Although playful and occasionally boisterous, these dogs are calm when at home with their family.
Height: 36-41cm
Size: Huge
Character: Strong-willed, intelligent, quiet
Life Expectancy: 9-15 years
2. St. Bernard
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The rescue dog of the Swiss Alps, St Bernards are large dogs that are able to endure below-freezing temperatures. St Bernards are placid, trustworthy, and highly intelligent. These dogs are excellent in a family environment.
Height: 65-90cm
Size: Huge
Character: Affectionate, sweet-natured, loyal
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
3. Siberian Husky
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Siberian Huskies were used to pull heavy sleds across the arctic and boast incredible strength and stamina. These dogs are one of the most popular breeds in the UK, they are fast, energetic, and have big personalities. Siberian Huskies are friendly but are best suited to experienced owners.
Height: 51-61cm
Size: Medium
Character: Active, loyal, mischievous
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
4. Great Dane
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The size of a small horse, the Great Dane is a huge but gentle dog. They are incredibly strong and active so they need lots of exercise to keep them happy. The intimidating size and physical strength of a Great Dane can make their patient, friendly, and kind nature unexpected.
Height: 71-81cm
Size: Huge
Character: Playful, easy-going, gentle
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
5. Rottweiler
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Rottweilers are not as big as some of the other dogs on this list, but they are heavily muscled and fiercely protective. Rottweilers are fearless but when home they love to snuggle with family and are very affectionate.
Height: 56-69cm
Size: Large
Character: Protective, confident, affectionate
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
6. Rhodesian Ridgeback
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Rhodesian Ridgebacks were used to track lions in Africa; they are fast, independent, and fearless. These dogs are protective and are devoted to their human family. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the top guard dog breeds.
Height: 61-69cm
Size: Large
Character: Even-tempered, strong-willed, independent
Life Expectancy: 9-15 years
7. Irish Wolfhound
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One of the tallest dogs in the world, the Irish Wolfhound is also one of the strongest. These dogs were originally bred to hunt big game such as wolf and elk. At home, Irish Wolfhounds are calm, affectionate, and friendly.
Height: 70-90cm
Size: Huge
Character: Social, active, gentle
Life Expectancy: 6-8 years
8. Newfoundland
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The Newfoundland is a huge dog that is not only strong but has incredible endurance and the ability to swim exceptionally well. Although they are one of the biggest dogs in the world, Newfoundlands are known for being gentle and they have a natural affinity with children. These dogs put their strength to good use as they are often used as rescue dogs.
Height: 65-90cm
Size: Huge
Character: Patient, gentle, protective
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
9. German Shepherd
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German Shepherds are known as excellent work dogs, they are highly intelligent, fearless, and protective. This breed is one of the best guard dogs around thanks to its focused and dependable nature. German Shepherds are easy to train, calm at home and incredibly hard-working.
Height: 55-65cm
Size: Large
Character: Protective, intelligent, dependable
Life Expectancy: 9-13 years
10. Alaskan Malamutes
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Alaskan Malamutes are able to pull sleds and carry supplies without an issue. They love to be busy and can spend all day roaming around outside. Alaskan Malamutes are affectionate with their family but they tend to be reserved with strangers and they aren’t keen on other animals. These strong dogs can be dominant so are best suited to experienced owners.
Height: 58-71cm
Size: Large
Character: Dominant, intelligent, playful
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Looking For A New Dog?
Strong dogs can be great companions as long as they are well socialised and trained from an early age. If you’ve found the right breed for your family and lifestyle, use Puppies to ensure your new family member comes from a reputable breeder.
