12 Strongest Dog Breeds: The Floofiest Guards for Your Home

By: Nico Avelle  | 
Malamute
Other dogs are cute, but these breeds will protect you as fiercely as they love you. travelarium.ph / Shutterstock

Some dogs were born to pull sleds, chase down wild boars, or guard livestock with serious bite force. Others just look like tanks in a fur coat.

These are the strongest dog breeds—pups with power, presence, and a protective nature that can make them both excellent guard dogs and great family pets.

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1. Kangal

Kangal
Kangal. Karen Faljyan / Shutterstock

Known for having the strongest bite force of any dog breed (over 700 PSI), the Kangal dog breed was originally bred to guard livestock.

Calm but fearless, these powerful pups are incredibly loyal and protective, making them one of the strongest guard dog breeds around.

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2. Cane Corso

Cane-Corso
Cane Corso. Sbolotova / Shutterstock

A member of the mastiff breeds, the Cane Corso has a muscular build and a powerful bite. Bred specifically in Italy as a guard dog and hunter, this powerful dog breed thrives with proper training and consistent structure.

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3. German Shepherd

German Shepherd
German Shepherd. Tetiana Tychynska / Shutterstock

Used as police dogs, rescue dogs, and war dogs, German Shepherds are among the most versatile working dogs.

With strength, intelligence, and a strong bite, they make excellent guard dogs and devoted dogs when trained from a young age.

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4. American Pit Bull Terrier

American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terrier. NDanko / Shutterstock

Often misunderstood, the American Pit Bull Terrier is incredibly strong and agile. Originally bred for fighting, with proper socialization and obedience training, they can become loving companions and great family pets.

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5. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan malamute
Alaskan Malamute. In Green / Shutterstock

Built for hauling heavy sleds across icy terrain, the Alaskan Malamute is all muscle under that thick coat.

These active pups need plenty of exercise and thrive in environments where they can put their strength to use.

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6. Dogo Argentino

Dogo Argentino
Dogo Argentino. Murrr Photo / Shutterstock

This unique breed was developed in Argentina to hunt wild boars and other large game. Their strength and stamina are legendary.

With proper socialization, they’re also affectionate with family members.

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7. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinscher. OlgaOvcharenko / Shutterstock

Sleek, fast, and strong, Dobermans are powerful dogs known for their protective instincts. With obedience training and structure, they can be both excellent guard dogs and loving family pets.

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8. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiff. Anna Averianova / Shutterstock

With their lion-like mane and massive frame, Tibetan Mastiffs were bred to guard livestock in the Himalayas.

They’re incredibly strong and independent, requiring experienced pet parents to manage their stubborn streak.

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9. Belgian Malinois

Belgian Shepherd
Belgian Shepherd. OlgaOvcharenko / Shutterstock

Smaller than German Shepherds but just as intense, Belgian Malinois are powerful pups often used in military and police work.

They require consistent training and a job to do. Without one, they can be too much dog for the average home.

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10. Great Dane

Great Dane
Great Dane. Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock

Nicknamed gentle giants, Great Danes are large dogs with a calm demeanor and surprising strength. Though not bred for guarding or fighting, their size alone can deter threats, and they form strong bonds with family members.

11. Caucasian Shepherd

Caucasian Shepherd
Caucasian Shepherd. Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock

Also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka, this breed was used to guard livestock from predators.

They are one of the world’s strongest dog breeds, with thick coats and a natural distrust of strangers. They require early and proper training.

12. Irish Wolfhound

Irish wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound. Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock

These towering hunting dogs were originally bred to take down wolves. While they may look intimidating, they’re known for a calm and gentle temperament.

Still, their size and speed give them undeniable physical power.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

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