Whether it’s racing across miles of frozen tundra or working hours besides their policeman counterparts, these 10 breeds have more than earned their status as the strongest dogs:
1. Rottweiler
A confident guardian that has worked to guard, drive and hold cattle throughout Europe since Roman times, the Rottie became a well-known police dog in the early 20th century. These dogs are large, powerful and robust. They’re very strong, have inherent protective instincts, and are extremely loyal. They need at least two vigorous workouts a day.
2. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky was developed for pulling sleds and warning of approaching animals and people. They are a medium-size dogs and they excel at working on a team. Siberian Huskies require plenty of exercise, are known to be affectionate and, while they don’t necessarily bark a lot.
3. Alaskan Malamute
The largest of the Arctic breeds, the Inuit tribes of western Alaska used the Alaskan Malamute to hunt and carry freight through the deep snow. Malamutes are large, powerful and heavy boned. They possess great strength and endurance, as they’re designed to carry large loads over long distances. They also have a high activity level, which requires daily exercise, and although they are quite affectionate and devoted to their families, they also have independent natures.
4. Great Dane
Great Danes are an extremely large and immensely strong breed originally used as boar hunters. The breed has a powerful, muscular body. They’re spirited and courageous, but also known for their sensitive, gentle nature. Great Danes are moderately active, needing a few good walks a day.
5. Cane Corso
Originally used as a hunting, guard and farm dog throughout Italy, the breed was also used as an “auxiliary warrior” in battles. These dogs are athletic, muscular, and large boned. They are very strong with a moderate activity level, needing daily exercise. While the Cane Corso has strong protective and territorial instincts, it is also known to be quiet, docile and affectionate.
6. Norwegian Elkhound
“Elkies” are another very old breed of dog. A medium-sized dog with a strong jaw and neck, they’re very strong, and their protectiveness of their owners makes them a good watchdog. Elkhounds are a very versatile dog, excelling in tracking, obedience, sled pulling and weight pulls. They are extremely loyal to their family and will protect it against all odds. This breed is easily trained to do any task.
7. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman originated in Germany as a reliable guard dog and companion. Since then, the breed has been widely used as a war dog and police dog. Dobermans are compact, muscular dogs that possess great endurance and speed. They are intelligent, powerful, agile and have a high activity level. They need lots of mental and physical activity.
8. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is an all-purpose working dog and master long-distance swimmer with lifesaving instincts in the water. Newfoundlands are large, strong dogs that are heavy boned and muscular with powerful hindquarters. The breed is well-known for its temperament - these are sweet, good-natured, gentle dogs that are devoted to their families and notoriously good with kids.
9. Saint Bernard
Impressive to look at, the Saint Bernard is known for its heroic, lifesaving duties in the Swiss Alps. The breed was used as a rescue dog, draft dog and guard by the monks and saved travelers from avalanches and snow drifts. The Saint Bernard has broad, powerful shoulders and is strong and muscular. This breed is loyal, gentle, affectionate and intelligent. Daily walks and romps in a fenced in yard will keep him happy.
10. American Staffordshire Terrier
Courageous, well-balanced and muscular are a few of the words used to describe the American Staffordshire Terrier. These dogs are athletic and have a strong, powerful head. Despite its historical background as a fighting dog, the American Staffordshire Terrier is known for its affectionate disposition. American Staffordshire Terrier are sociable, very people-oriented and have a lot of energy and endurance which means they require plenty of exercise.