If you’re interested in tough, robust and seriously strong dog breeds, you’re in the right place. In this article we’re going to look at some of the strongest dog breeds around, as well as explore what makes a dog strong and what you need to know before committing yourself to one of these powerful large breeds. We also spoke with experienced vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan for her expert insight into powerful dogs…
What makes a dog strong?
Before we take a look at some of the world’s strongest dogs, we need to clarify what makes a dog strong.
“The strongest dogs are large and giant breeds that have been bred for hard work. These dogs are muscular and built for endurance,” explains Dr MacMillan. Many such dogs have been recognised for their extraordinary talents and above and beyond work ethic, and as such now work alongside people in all manner of roles, from hunting and herding to military and service dogs. This makes many of these breeds biddable, hardworking and a pleasure to train.
“Rottweilers are a great example of a strong dog breed. These big dogs were bred to guard, so they need to be physically intimidating and have the strength to fend off would-be intruders. Alaskan Malamutes are designed to pull sledges in harsh, snowy conditions, so they need their physical strength to do their job,” says Dr MacMillan.
“Saint Bernards are gentle giants that are strong enough to help rescue people stranded on the side of mountains. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are another strong guarding breed, designed to guard livestock on farms in South Africa,” she adds.
Strongest dog breeds
Rottweiler
Hailing from the mastiffs of the Roman army, the Rottweiler might be a tough, hard worker, but within a family Rotties are affectionate, gentle and sometimes even silly.
Their thick muscular body can weigh as much as 135 pounds and they'll need two hours of exercise a day. If you've got the stamina to keep up, this chilled yet courageous dog can make for a wonderful family pet.
Alaskan Malamute
Bred as an arctic sled dog, the Alaskan Malamute looks every bit the part. With their muscular body, deep chest, strong shoulders and snowproof coat these dogs, who can weigh up to 85 pounds, are seriously tough.
And they have to be, they are the strongest of the sled dogs. Yet despite their brute strength, this pack animal is happy to cuddle up with its family once he's done pulling sleds (or, more likely, been exercised for two hours).
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is big, seriously big. A male can weigh as much as 180 pounds! Yet despite their size, they're known as the genial giant of the Swiss Alps. Excellent with children, these intelligent, strong dogs were originally bred by monks in the Swiss Alps to rescue travellers, as well as for guarding.
While they're still used as search and rescue dogs, the beloved breed is well suited to life as a family pet. Just make sure they get their hour of exercise a day!
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Hailing from South Africa where this scent hound was bred to track game, this athletic, powerful dog has a strong prey drive. The name comes from the ridge of hair growing in the reverse direction along its spine, which, according to local folklore, denotes courage.
Weighing up to 85 pounds, these athletes need upward of two hours of exercise a day. While they are loyal companions and very affectionate with those they are bonded to, this strong dog is not for the faint hearted.
Great Dane
Muscular yet elegant, sweet yet powerful, Great Danes are known as the “Apollo of Dogs”. Weighing up to 175 pounds and taller than most people when standing on their hind legs, this breed is imposing.
Bred from hunting dogs who sought wild boar, the hunting instinct is still present. Kind and protective to its family, the Great Dane makes for a wonderful addition to any family. Assuming they have a spare two hours a day to exercise this noble beast, that is.
German Shepherd
Brave, intelligent and powerful to boot, many consider the German Shepherd the ultimate jack of all trades. Certainly, they are used for a number of roles including police work, assistance dog, military duties, search and rescue and drug and explosive detection.
If you're looking for a loyal dog, you'd be hard pressed to beat a German Shepherd, a breed known for putting their life on the line to save a loved one. Just make sure you've got time to exercise your new best friend for at least two hours a day.
Newfoundland
A strong, adaptable working water dog, the Newfoundland’s name comes from Northeast Canada from when he originated.
Over the years this breed has pulled logs from the forest, hauled in fishing nets, retrieved equipment from the water and even jumped out of low flying planes in search and rescue missions. We told you, adaptable! In a family setting the Newfoundland is gentle and loyal, just make sure you can exercise yours up to an hour each day.
English Bulldog
Originally bred for bull-baiting and dog fighting, English Bulldogs are known for their bravery and tenacity. Short but powerful, the bulldog is a well muscled dog with a powerful jaw.
A distinctive looking dog, Bulldogs are renowned for their character and endearing mixture of qualities: they're easygoing yet courageous, tough looking yet friendly. Make sure yours is well bred, and gets walked at least an hour a day (unless it's hot, as being a brachycephalic breed they can have breathing issues in the heat).
Doberman Pinscher
The biggest pinschers, the Doberman takes its name from Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector who wanted a fierce looking dog in this line of work to protect him and deter any thieves.
Mixing breeds such as the Weimaraner, greyhound, Manchester Terrier, Rottweiler and German Shepherd, Louis Dobermann was able to get the combination he was after: super smart, fast, powerful and robust of character.
This combination of intelligence and biddable nature makes the Dobermann popular in the armed forces and police too. But this sleek, powerful dog makes for a great family dog too. Weighing in at up to 100 pounds, just be sure you've got more than two hours a day to exercise.
What you need to know before you get a strong dog
Strong dogs have got a lot going for them, they’re hardworking and admirable creatures. But they are not for everyone. Before you commit yourself to a strong dog, it’s worth considering whether you have the time and inclination to train and exercise them to the degree which they need.
Training is even more important
“For all these dogs, their strength and size serve a purpose. Owners of these dog breeds must appreciate this and ensure they appropriately socialize and train their pets. While you can get away with a Yorkshire Terrier pulling you on the leash, a 170-pound Saint Bernard is another matter,” says Dr MacMillan.
But how do you train a big, strong dog? It turns out, in much the same way you’d train any dog. The key, as always, is consistency.
“Owners should start early and use positive reinforcement training techniques. By praising and rewarding your dog for good behavior, you will be encouraging them to keep repeating this. Never use negative training methods, like shouting or physical punishment, as this could lead to anxiety and other behavioral issues. Consistency is also key. That means having firm rules and sticking with them, otherwise your dog may become confused making your training tougher,” adds Dr MacMillan.
Ensure they are well exercised
If you haven’t got time to exercise your strong dog as much as they need, you’ll both end up miserable. So it’s really important to think about your schedule and realistic amount of time you have to commit to your dog before coming home with a Rottweiler puppy!
“Many of these dogs are working breeds and will have certain exercise demands that will need to be met. Under-exercised dogs will be more likely to be boisterous and distractible during training, which can be hard work with a powerful breed,” says Dr MacMillan.
Get specialist help
But what about if you’ve already got a strong dog, and you’ve run into trouble? Perhaps they are not well trained and walking them has become impossible.
“If you are struggling with a strong dog, then speak to a dog trainer or qualified pet behaviorist for assistance. It is important to address problems early on rather than letting things get out of hand.
“Some owners look for a quick fix, like a different type of harness. While this may make some difference, appropriate training is going to be the only way to stop a strong dog from pulling you on the leash,” advises Dr MacMillan.
Edited by Georgia Guerin.
