Top 10 strongest dog breeds

We love to feel protected. This is natural for humans. This is basically why people get big angry dogs. This is how they try to keep uninvited guests away. However, there are not only positive aspects to owning such animals. There are also many disadvantages. The strongest dogs in the world, the breeds of which we will discuss below, are, for example, not the best option for families with children. Most of them also require special conditions. We tried to present the pros and cons of owning these beautiful and at the same time dangerous animals.

American Bandog

This breed was created by crossing a mastiff with a bulldog.

Pros: Bandogs are used as guard dogs, and they do an excellent job. Brave and strong, these dogs will give their lives for their owners. These massive animals have short, easy-to-groom fur. Bandogs can be affectionate and loyal to their owners, but they are not recommended to be allowed near children and other animals.
Cons: Because they are primarily guard dogs, they can be very dangerous. Need intense training. They are wary and distrustful of strangers, so from birth dogs must be taught not to rush at the first person they meet. For many, the Bandog is considered a mongrel. If you are not completely sure that it is the Bandog that you need, then it is best to choose another breed.

Bernese Mountain Dog

This woolly dog prefers cool climates. The breed is also called the Bernese Shepherd or Greater Swiss Dog.

Pros: While Bernese Mountain Dogs are considered one of the strongest breeds, they are also great with children and other pets. These are affectionate and friendly dogs. Mountain Dogs love to work and enjoy learning tricks and playing sports. Thanks to their natural intelligence, these giants are easy to train. It is very important for them to please their owners. There is no aggression in these fur giants and they are friendly to everyone they meet.
Cons: they are very beautiful, but beauty requires constant care, and the long coat makes this task tiring. The Bernese Shepherd also sheds quite a lot. If you don't like being licked, this slobbery beast is not for you. Due to its excessive playfulness, the breed needs obedience training from a very early age.

German boxer

This breed has an imposing stature that belies its personality. Usually it won’t hurt a fly, but if the dog is not trained, it can attack smaller animals.

Pros: They are affectionate dogs that are very good with family, including children and other dogs. Boxers are intelligent and easy to train. They do not bark so often and do not try to escape from their owners. This energetic family member will be able to adapt to apartment life if given exercise.
Cons: Due to their muscular body, boxers have an intimidating appearance, but this is a false impression. In fact, due to their excessive friendliness, they are not even used as guard dogs. Boxers love mild climates, so care must be taken when going outside in cold or hot weather. Although this is one of the strongest breeds, these dogs do not tolerate loneliness well and do not like to be left alone for a long time.

American Bulldog

Also included in the top list of the rating as one of the strongest dogs in the world is the American Bulldog.
During the formation of the breed, breeders noticed that the American Bulldog was not characterized by speed of movement. Therefore, it was decided to cross him with a terrier. Thus, new species appeared, but not each of them was characterized by fighting qualities. Actually, the American Bulldog itself, although strong, is not the most ferocious breed in the world. However, they have enough aggressiveness, as you can see for yourself by looking at the photos and videos. These animals are easy to care for and love affection, despite their menacing appearance. Pets from puppyhood become attached to their owner and do not tolerate long separations very well. So if you're away from home for a while, you might be surprised by the squealing and whining you'll hear from your pet when he sees you again.

Bulldog (pit bull, American, English, etc.)

Bulldogs have a bad reputation because of their similar appearance to pit bulls. In fact, dogs of any breed can be obedient if trained correctly.

Pros: Smart and loyal, these muscular companions are easy to train. Due to their short coat, bulldogs do not require long-term grooming. Known as “nanny dogs,” they love children. They are playful and caring. Most dogs of these breeds are calm and quiet.
Cons: Make sure you get your pet from a reputable breeder who does not breed fighting dogs. Like other strong breeds of dogs, bulldogs need to be trained.

Third place

Pitbull
As for the European continent, the pitbull Tyson took the pedestal there. He has an interesting story: he got to his first competition literally from the street. Oddly enough, he took first place there, having 37 kg, after which he was “adopted” by Alexander Meleshin. His personal record for tugging is 500 kg by 4.8 meters, but he shows determination and has every chance to set the record even higher.

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Now it's time for American records. Don’t be surprised, the numbers here will be lower due to more stringent conditions.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

This dog is capable of killing wolves and bears to protect its charges. This is the main reason why it is included in the list of the strongest dog breeds in the world.

Pros: This breed was designed to survive in barren, wet lands and bitter cold. This is a tough nut to crack. Independent and confident, these dogs usually cope well with being alone. Brave and loyal, this breed commonly helps police and rescue workers in the former Soviet Union.
Cons: if you have children, it is better not to get Caucasian Shepherds. Due to their thick fur, dogs do not tolerate warm climates well. If you want to use this dog as a guard dog or just as a pet, it will need to undergo serious training. Also, the Caucasian Shepherd should be taught loyalty to strangers.

Other breeds of pumped up dogs

If you are planning to get a puppy for guarding the local area or active physical activities, pay attention to the following list of strong and muscular dog breeds:

Staffordshire Terrier - are excellent guards and companions. These dogs are incredibly strong and have a steely grip and considerable endurance.
Many people are afraid of these dogs, as they can get excited and show aggression very easily and quickly. Therefore, keep in mind that they need competent, strict training and daily long walks.
The French Bulldog is a small, muscular dog. French Bulldogs are small in size and have a proportionate, strong, muscular build with short, strong legs. French Bulldogs are very brave and have quick reactions. They can take on larger opponents. These dogs are very curious and love to go to new places.
Dogo Canario - tall dogs of this breed have a massive, pumped up body and a difficult character. Canary dogs can be excellent hunting assistants and excellent guards. In addition, they are bred to participate in battles. They are mainly purchased by owners of private houses.
Siberian Husky - a large muscular dog. Huskies are distinguished by the beauty of their luxurious coat, strong muscles and almost always different eyes. The Husky's character is not very flexible. They are proud and quite difficult to train. But the main thing in this matter is for the owner to show patience and perseverance. In addition, you will need to carefully care for your pet's thick coat. Positive qualities include unpretentiousness and endurance.
The miniature pinscher (mini-Doberman) is a small, strongly built, muscular dog that belongs to the service breeds. The character of dogs of this breed is quite complex and therefore they are difficult to train. But the miniature pinscher moves very quickly and maneuverably and successfully hunts rodents.

IMPORTANT! Mini Dobermans do not get along with other animals in the same house, but they love children and active pastime.

The Rottweiler is a well-known beautiful, stately dog with thick, shiny fur. Dogs of this breed become the best watchdogs and devoted companions. But due to their capricious nature, they frighten many people. However, with good, properly organized education and training from a very young age, you can achieve success in this matter and get a devoted and intelligent pet.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are muscular dogs used in ancient times to hunt lions. In the modern world, they most often act as guards of private houses and their surrounding areas. In addition, they are taken with them on hunting and sports competitions.
Alabai is the strongest dog breed in the world. Externally, these tall dogs are distinguished by a strong physique with large muscles and a large head, resembling the head of a bear. Alabais can live well in a booth on the street and do not require home maintenance. However, feeding them will be quite expensive due to the fact that they eat quite a lot. Dogs of this breed can withstand heavy loads and their jaws have an iron grip. So for strangers, encounters with Alabai can be very dangerous. Despite all this, a breed such as Alabai is one of the most common and popular today.

Doberman

Surely, you are not surprised by the presence of the Doberman in our rating. These dogs grow to large sizes. Despite this, they are incredibly graceful. Dobermans belong to the mastiff family.

Pros: Dobermans are brave and loyal dogs, affectionate with all family members. They make excellent watchdogs. They are easy to train.
Cons: Due to their excessive energy and playfulness, these dogs must be exercised regularly to avoid becoming aggressive predators and to have the opportunity to burn off excess energy. Although this dog gets along well with the children it lives with, Doberman Pinschers cannot be considered a breed that is friendly to all children. Some puppies of this breed can be skittish, so they need a good trainer.

Review of breeds: the most pumped up animals

Before you get yourself a beefy dog, you need to familiarize yourself with the list of the most muscular dogs. There are several breeds with well-developed muscles.

Dogo Canario

Dogo Canario - a tall and muscular dog

This jock dog is ideal for keeping at home. The Dogo Canario is distinguished from other breeds by its tall stature and impressive muscle mass. It was because of these characteristic features that dogs were used in brutal battles. Now such dogs are simply kept in an apartment or kept to protect territories.

Additional Information! The Dogo Canario has a difficult character. Therefore, the owner will have to initially demonstrate his authority to the pet so that it is more obedient.

English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is a breed of dog with muscles that is popular among dog breeders in different countries. It is impossible to confuse this dog with other dogs due to the peculiarities of his appearance. According to the accepted standard, a mastiff looks like this:

The head is quite voluminous, with sharp corners.
The body is strong and slightly elongated, with well-developed muscles.
Limbs - widely spaced, straight and strong.
The coat is short and lies tightly to the skin of the animal.

Bull Terrier

This is a rather unusual variety, since its representatives can differ radically from each other. However, despite this, they all have one thing in common - well-developed muscles. Most bull terriers grow up to 60 centimeters in height. At the same time, they weigh about 40 kilograms.

These dogs have very short coats. Most often it is painted white. However, there are dogs with red, brown and brindle coat colors.

Additional Information! There are dwarf bull terriers whose height does not exceed 35 centimeters.

Doberman

Doberman Pinscher is one of the most famous varieties of beefy dogs.

The Doberman is a dog with muscles, which is especially popular among lovers of pumped-up doggies. According to the template of the accepted standard, such dogs are quite muscular, with an athletic build. Males grow up to 70 centimeters. Females are slightly shorter and therefore their height does not exceed 65 centimeters. Dogs do not weigh very much - 40-45 kilograms.

The coat of Dobermans is short, smooth and a little harsh to the touch. The wool is dyed black with a slight grayish tint.

Estrela Shepherd

This is a relatively new breed, having only been included in the AKC registry in 2004. Although the official breed standard was adopted 70 years earlier - in 1934. Another name for the breed is Estrela Mountain Dog.

Pros: These loyal and energetic dogs make excellent watchdogs. Thanks to their innate endurance and health, dogs of this breed live on average about 16 years. This is quite a lot for dogs of this size. This pooch's long, beautiful coat does not get dirty easily, making it easy to maintain. Estrel Shepherds love children.
Cons: Like many strong dogs, this fur bear is independent and willful. For proper training, you will have to hire a good trainer. Although mountain dogs are generally good with children, they are not fond of other animals. This breed is recommended for experienced dog owners.

Staffordshire Terrier

The breed was developed in England around the middle of the 19th century. From the very beginning, this breed was bred for dog fighting, so the staffs have excellent fighting qualities.

Dogs of this breed have a wayward character, so only a powerful, authoritative owner can tame it. A properly trained dog becomes adequate and obedient. Staffordshire Terriers are excellent guard dogs for home, family and property.

German Shepherd

These are smart “working” dogs. German Shepherds are used as police dogs, guide dogs, and herding dogs. Also widely used as watchdogs.

Pros: This breed makes excellent watchdogs. Dogs are energetic and love to play, but they also know when to be calm and reserved. Puppies of this breed are smart and sensitive to the wishes of their owners, so they are easy to train. These child-friendly dogs are agile and confident, making them suitable for active families.
Cons: German Shepherds shed a lot, so it's good if you don't have carpet in your home. Dogs of this breed usually do not like other dogs. Hide shoes and any breakable items because these dogs love to gnaw and chew on everything. German Shepherds are suspicious of strangers.

The strongest dog weighing up to 45 kg

Alaskan Malamute
The record in weight up to 45 kg belongs to the Alaskan Malamute Raider - 2072 on a cart. In general, Alaskan Malamutes are considered the most draft dogs: this is primarily due to their repeated cases of helping people in the polar zones.

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To summarize, it must be said that any sporting achievements of your pets are, first of all, victories for you. Based on this, owners are obliged to monitor the health of their “wards” and love them with all their hearts.

German dog

If you love horses, then this breed is for you. They grow to the size of ponies. Although Great Danes are one of the strongest dog breeds, they are gentle giants by nature.

Pros: They are loving and loyal dogs. They get along well with other pets and children. They have average intelligence, but are very easy to train. These giants are very energetic and playful, making them a great fit for an active family that loves to travel.
Cons: Almost every negative aspect of Great Danes has to do with their size. They can easily knock over children and knock over furniture. They need an experienced trainer to teach them how to control their body while they are still quite small. This breed grows quickly in a short period of time. This is why they get injured more often than other dogs.

Alabai

The first in the top ranking of the best fighting breeds was the Alabai. This pet is characterized by high intelligence, a brilliant mind and excellent fighting characteristics. By the way, in some countries of Central Asia competitions are still held in which these fighting dogs participate.

It should be noted that a real Alabai will never finish off his opponent even if he is exhausted and attempts an attack. By their nature, Alabais are generally aggressive towards other animals, plus they are a very strong dog, so it is better to take this into account when buying a puppy. But if a dog is trained specifically to participate in battles or protect territory, then aggression will certainly be present in its character.

Great Pyrenees

These beautiful dogs are as strong and resilient as the mountains they are named after. Another name for the breed is Pyrenean mountain dog.

Pros: These dogs are absolutely gorgeous, with white fluffy coats and soulful brown eyes. Gentle and loving pets, they get along well with children. The Pyrenees does well in both warm and cold climates, but prefers the cold. These energetic dogs need an active family where they will feel useful.
Cons: Like other dogs of similar size, Pyrenees need to be trained before they become too large and cause harm to others. These are excellent guard dogs, so you need to choose your pet with care, because... some lines are bred to be more aggressive. Another disadvantage is that these dogs shed heavily.

The most pumped up dog in the world

Big Wendy is the most muscular dog

Many people are interested in whether the most muscular dog in the world exists. Now such a dog is considered Big Wendy, which differs from other animals in its developed muscles. This is a real beefy dog who acquired this appearance due to a genetic mutation. Big Wendy's appearance has the following features:

abs consisting of 24 cubes instead of six;
height about 60 centimeters;
short black fur;
small head;
elongated body.

Additional Information! Many experts agreed that due to gene defects, this dog, unlike other representatives of the Whippet breed, would not be able to live long.

Despite the fact that Big Wendy has a rather menacing appearance, she has a very calm character. The dog loves spending time outdoors with other animals. Wendy also gets along well with children and strangers.

Irish Wolfhound

These dogs are not only strong. They are also quite fast. Some dog breeders even call them “Irish Greyhounds.”

Pros: These massive dogs deter criminals from attacking, but they'd rather lick them to death than hurt a person. The friendliness of Irish wolfhounds knows no bounds. They get along with everyone.
Cons: Dogs of this breed cannot tolerate hot climates. They have a well-developed hunting instinct, so they need to be trained as puppies. Irish Wolfhounds are playful, but they need training to avoid harming their playmates. They do not live long - 8-11 years.

Leonberger

This breed has not gained much popularity. She is created from several other breeds, including the St. Bernard, Landseer and Great Pyrenees.

Pros: Affectionate and playful, this dog is great for little ones. These active pets love being part of the family and want to do what you do. Leonbergers are active and curious. Suspicious of strangers, this dog makes an excellent watchdog.
Cons: Puppies love to chew, bite and bark, so training is required to curb these desires. Although they love children, Leonbergers are massive and can easily harm a child. Like most large dogs, they require a lot of space, making it difficult for them to live in apartments.

Mastiff

These gentle giants have come a long way from their warlike ancestors. Mastiffs have come a long way to develop into the loving dogs they are today.

Pros: The Mastiff is a great dog for families with children and other pets. They also make excellent guard dogs. They are attached to family and friends, and mastiffs do not like strangers or animals. Dogs of this breed have short hair and shed little. They are not as energetic, so they need less exercise.
Cons: Dogs of this breed tolerate cold weather well, but are not adapted to heat. Mastiffs have low intelligence and are a bit stubborn. They need an experienced trainer. They are known to drool profusely.

Newfoundland

Powerful and muscular, these pets can easily perform almost any job. They can be trimmed in the summer to help dogs cope with the heat better.

Pros: Patient and kind, these furry family members actually prefer the company of children. Great family dog! These loving animals are very sociable and friendly. Despite its size, the Newfoundland does not require intense exercise, but it loves to play. They are easy to train and know no greater joy than to please their owner.
Cons: Newfoundlands do not do well when left alone. Therefore, if you are often away from home, consider getting a different breed. This pet sheds and drools. If you have a private house, make the fence higher, because... the dog will hunt every bird and squirrel it sees. Newfoundlands are very curious.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

This breed is great for people looking for a large, beautiful dog. They have a distinctive line (ridge) of hair on their spine. Another name for the breed is African Lion Dog.

Pros: These powerful dogs are great if you're looking for a pet that will live primarily outdoors. This makes them excellent candidates for guard dogs. The breed is energetic and easy to care for, ideal for an active family.
Cons: Ridgeback is a large, powerful and independent breed, so the dogs need training. Otherwise they may become aggressive. Ridgebacks have developed hunting instincts, so they love to roam around the area in search of prey. For this reason, they need a strong fence and a strong owner. If they are bored, they may start destroying everything around them.

Rottweiler

These are calm, brave and heavy dogs. They can weigh up to 60 kg.

Pros: Intelligent and attentive, Rottweilers make excellent working dogs. They are surprisingly friendly and sociable. Despite their reputation, when trained correctly they are gentle and family friendly.
Cons - Training should begin as soon as possible, while they are still small enough to be easy to handle. Rottweilers generally do not like other animals. They do not like to be alone and become destructive and aggressive if they are bored.

Saint Bernard

Imagine that you are in a movie. The screen shows that someone is stuck in a snowstorm. Suddenly, to the accompaniment of heroic music, a friendly dog appears with a keg of hot soup around his neck. This is the St. Bernard.

Pros: Affectionate breed. The Saint Bernard is great for families with children and other pets. Dogs are a little lazy and do not show much activity. Thanks to this, they easily adapt to life in an apartment, even if it is small. The main thing is that animals can sometimes go outside and exercise.
Cons: They don't handle heat well. Despite their friendliness and intelligence, these giants are difficult to train. They like to do things their own way. They love to drool and shed heavily. Be prepared for some intense cleaning.

Xoloitzcuintle

Is it difficult to pronounce? Just call this breed “Xolo”. Also known as the “Mexican Hairless,” this breed is considered hypoallergenic.

Pros: Xolos have no hair, so they don't need to be brushed. They don't drool. These traits, combined with good health, make Xolos some of the easiest to care for.
Cons: a little aggressive. These dogs are not very good with children and other animals. To prevent the development of innate aggressiveness, they need to be trained starting from an early age. Due to the absence of some teeth, these dogs sometimes have a gap-toothed smile.

Tibetan mastiff

In our top list of strong dogs there is a real king of beasts. The origin of this breed is mysterious and enigmatic, since animals appeared long before the emergence of writing in the regions of Tibet.

The first recorded facts concerned the Chinese Emperor Wu, who received as a gift such a trained dog, which was intended for hunting and home guarding. Today, the Tibetan has retained his guard skills, barking loudly when danger arises, preparing for an attack.

Unsuitable for keeping in an apartment due to its huge dimensions. Gets along well with children and some small animals.

Standard height ranges from 55 to 67 cm, and weight is 67-78 kilograms.

The appearance of the mastiff is as follows:

Thick coat, which makes it difficult to feel the muscles.
Strong middle limbs and shoulder muscles.
Muscular neck, there is a slight advantage in the figure.
Large head and wide wrinkled muzzle.
Color: chestnut, bright red, brown, black. Possible combinations of several shades on the paws and face.

Such a formidable and majestic breed, at first glance, knows how to show tenderness and awe towards family members, and is capable of sincerely becoming attached to the owner.

Siberian Husky

These affectionate fur bears are friendly and sociable. Siberian Huskies have average intelligence, but they are also independent and mischievous.

Pros: If you want not only one of the strongest dog breeds in the world, but also the most beautiful dog, then the Husky is for you. Thanks to its beautiful coat and blue eyes, this breed attracts a lot of attention. Friendly, affectionate, Huskies get along well with children, pets and strangers.
Cons: Dogs of this breed are escape artists. They need a strong owner. They have a double coat and prefer mild and cold climates.

Cane Corso

This dog is a descendant of the fighting dogs of Ancient Rome, which were brought to gladiator fights for greater entertainment. Representatives of this breed are born bodyguards, helping in the service, hunting and in the field.

Cane Corsos have a very cool temperament, but are moderately obedient. The animal is absolutely selfish and cannot stand other dogs. If another dog appears at home, the Cane Corso will strive to defeat its opponent.

The standard weight of a pet is from 40 to 50 kg, and the height at the withers is equal to 60 cm. Quite large “tailed” animals, in size, are in the category with Akita Inu and Leonberger.

Read Top 20 largest dogs in the world - large breeds

External data:

black, gray and red wool;
pronounced pectoral muscle;
The surface of the coat is smooth, almost glossy.

Alaskan Malamute

First on the list is the Alaskan Malamute. This breed prefers to live in areas with a cool climate. With rare exceptions, Malamutes do not know how to bark, so you are guaranteed a restful sleep at night.

Pros: Dogs of this breed are very strong. They can pull sleds, carry supplies, and carry cargo. Alaskan Malamutes love to roam and climb mountains. THEY enjoy being part of an active family that enjoys countryside holidays. It is important for Malamutes to be useful, so owners need to pay special attention to this aspect. Friendly and affectionate, these dogs get along well with children.
Cons: This breed generally does not like other animals. Due to their thick fur, these fluffy bear cubs do not tolerate heat well. Malamutes are reserved when interacting with strangers and need special training from an early age to avoid becoming fearful and aggressive predators. They love to dig, so be prepared for some digging in your yard

These are the strongest dogs in the world. The breeds need experienced trainers, even though the dogs are very good. Always remember this! Such dogs are not suitable for a lazy, flabby office employee. They must feel the strength in the owner so as not to do anything stupid and harm others.

Greyhound

The first mention of this dog dates back to about 4000 BC. In the 16th century in Great Britain, dukes liked to organize horse races and similar dog competitions as fun.

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The breed combines lightness and speed, which helps it to be an excellent runner and hunter of forest animals, thanks to the structure of its long, thin limbs. When hunting, he shows calmness and restraint, becoming a good companion.

It stands out among other individuals for its loyalty and devotion to its owners. The caudate requires a number of physical activities every day.

The height at the withers reaches 68-75 cm, the approximate weight is 27-40 kg.

External data of the greyhound:

A specific, thin figure with a sloping back.
Developed muscular frame.
Elongated triangular head.
Short-haired animals, which greatly simplifies care.
Color standards are black, red, white and fawn.

It is noteworthy that he ranks first in the list of the fastest individuals in the category - field game hunting and racing. After all, the dog simply needs to increase its speed in a professional environment.