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15+ Strongest Dog Breeds

By Kerry
Updated on

There are some dogs out there that can be incredibly strong and powerful when they decide to be…

This can be quite the blessing if you are looking for a guard dog to deal with any unwanted intruders as they deserve to be treated. But it can also be a bad thing if they grab hold of something expensive in their teeth and want to play tug of war.

Either way, it’s good to know what the strongest breeds of dog are when you’re in the market for a new pet, because you need to  know what to expect before you take the plunge.

In this article, we’re going to show you more than 15 of the world’s strongest breeds of dog.

Here goes!

1. Great Dane

Black and white great dane staring at camera

The Great Dane is one of the largest breeds of dog, standing at around 20 inches tall on average. They have a very large head, which gives them an intimidating look. These dogs were originally bred to hunt wild boar, but now they are used as family pets all over the world.

They do require a lot of exercise, so make sure that they have plenty of room to roam when walking these guys.

2. Mastiff

English mastiff

The mastiff breed was developed by ancient Romans who wanted a big, fierce dog that could protect them from thieves and other dangers. The name comes from the Latin word “mastigare”, meaning “to beat”.

They are known for being extremely loyal and protective towards their owners. However, they are not recommended for beginners due to their size and strength.

3. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman on a field

The Doberman Pinschers are known for being extremely loyal and protective towards their owners. This makes them great guard dogs, but they can be aggressive towards strangers.

Their intelligence level is high, making them excellent watchdogs. They are also highly trainable, which means they can learn many different commands.

4. Bulldog

Portrait of english bulldog

Bulldogs are often described as having a “bullish” temperament, which means they are friendly and outgoing. They are said to be very intelligent, although they can become bored easily.

They are very good guard dogs, but they may growl or bark at people that they don’t like.

5. Rottweiler

Rottweiler dog in the park
The Rottweilers are known for being extremely protective of their families. They are also very smart, making them ideal guard dogs.

However, they are also very territorial, so ideally they should only be kept inside your home or in your backyard. They will also try to dominate other animals, so make sure you keep them away from small children.

6. German Shepherd

German shepered

The German Shepherds are known for being extremely devoted to their owners. They are also very intelligent, making them ideal guard animals.

However, they can be aggressive towards other dogs, especially smaller ones. They are also very strong, so make sure you keep them away from small children.

7. Saint Bernard

Saint bernard puppy with sweet expression

The St Bernards are known for being incredibly loyal to their owners. They can be very gentle, too.

This makes them perfect companions for older kids and teenagers. They are also very protective, which makes them great guard dogs. They are also very affectionate, making them great playmates for younger kids.

8. Cane Corso

Cane corso breed

The Cane Corsos are known for being extremely powerful and agile. They are also very loving and playful, making them great companion dogs.

Although they are very active, they can also be very calm and relaxed. They are also very sensitive, so make sure you treat them with care. They are also very independent, so it’s best to housebreak them immediately.

9. Boxer

Boxer dog

The Boxers are known for being very loyal and protective towards their families. They are very energetic, making them great guard dogs.

However, they are also very playful, which makes them great companion dogs. They are also quite intelligent, making them ideal watchdogs.

10. Irish Wolfhound

Irish wolfhound dog

The Irish Wolfhounds are known for being extremely faithful and protective towards their owners, making them great guard animals.

However, they are very large, which makes them difficult to handle. They are also very fast, making them great chase dogs.

11. Siberian Husky

Portrait photo of siberian husky

The Siberian Huskies are known for being very intelligent, making them great guard and watchdog dogs.

However, because of their size, they can be dangerous when provoked. They are also very athletic, making them excellent sled dogs. They are also highly trainable, making them great pets.

12. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan malamute breed

The Alaskan Malamutes are known for being very obedient and loyal to their owners. They have a lot of energy, making them great guard dog breeds.

They are also very protective, making them great watchdogs. However, due to their size, they can pose a danger to children.

13. Newfoundland

Newfoundland on grass
The Newfoundlands are known for being very friendly and affectionate towards people. They are also very playful, making them great family dogs.

These dogs are also very smart, making them ideal guide dogs. They are also relatively easy to train, making them great therapy dogs. They are also extremely loyal, making them great guard breeds.

14. Saint Bernard

Saint bernard breed

Saint Bernards are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They’re also very gentle, making them good companion dogs.

They are also very big, making them difficult to housebreak. They are also very protective and very patient, making them great watch dogs.

15. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian ridgeback breed

The Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for being very devoted and affectionate towards their owners. They are also very gentle, making the perfect companion dog.

What’s more, they are also both strong and very alert, making them excellent as a watchdog. They are also very loyal, making them ideal guard dogs.

16. Kangal dog

Kangal dog breed

The Kangals are known for being very affectionate and playful towards their owners. They also have a lot of energy and stamina, making them great guards or hunting dogs.

They are very intelligent, making them ideal guide or service dogs. They are also very agile, making them great agility dogs.

17. Bull Terrier

White bull terrier dog

The Bull Terriers are known for being very aggressive and stubborn towards strangers. They are also very powerful, making them great guard, attack or working dogs.

They are not recommended for beginners, but if you’ve got experience with other breeds, then this could be a great breed for you.

18. Tosa Inu

Tosa inu dog

The Tosa Inus are known for being very loyal and devoted to their owners. They are very active, making them great guard dogs.

They are often used in police work, so they can be trained well. They are also very patient, making them ideal therapy dogs as well.

19. Dogo Argentino

Dog dogo argentino - full length portrait. Argentinean mastiff. Beautiful white dog. Close-up. Copy space

The Dogo Argentinos are known for being very courageous, making them great guard animals. They are also very calm, making them great companions.

They are also quite large, making them suitable for larger homes. They are also very loving, making them great family pets.

20. Bandog

Closeup picture of bandog

The Bandogs are known for being very brave, making them great guard and attack dogs. They are also energetic, making them great hunting dogs.

They also tend to bark a lot, however, making them quite unsuitable for those who live in apartments.

21. Akita

Akita ina puppy portrait

The Akitas are known for being very gentle and docile towards strangers. They are very loyal and affectionate, making them great family pet dogs.

They are usually very athletic, making them great guard/hunting dogs. They are also fairly quiet, making them great companion dogs.

22. Boerboel

Boerboel dog

The Boerboels are known for being very friendly and affectionate towards strangers. They are generally very calm, making them suitable for apartment living.

They are also incredibly strong, making them great guard /working dogs. They are also good at retrieving, which makes them great agility/tracking dogs.

23. Leonberger

Leonberger dog

The Leonbergers are known for being very faithful and affectionate towards their owner. They are also very smart, making them ideal guide dogs.

They are also very calm, which makes them great companion dogs. They are also extremely loyal, making them a great guard dog.

24. Great Pyrenees

Great pyrenees breed

The Great Pyrenees are known for being very protective of their families. They are also very friendly, making them great companions and family dogs.

They are pretty big, making them suitable for large and medium-sized homes. They are also intelligent, making them ideal service dogs.

25. Malinois

Malinois dog in nature

The Malinois is known for being very obedient and trustworthy towards strangers. They are extremely loyal and affectionate, which makes them great family dogs.

They have a high energy level, making them great guard or attack dogs.

Wrap Up

So, there we have it, a list of over 15 different breeds of dog that are super strong. Experienced dog owners would do better with them, to train them not to be aggressive until necessary.

 

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About the author

Kerry

Kerry White is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Kerry has been writing for PetDT for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners.Kerry has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Kerry knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.