When dogs attack, the consequences can be deadly. Among several factors that can influence the severity of a dog bite injury is the strength of the animal’s bite force. This varies based on the breed of the dog, among other factors. Bite force is part of why certain breeds are linked to serious and fatal dog attacks more than others. Remember if you were injured in a dog bite attack to speak with an experienced San Antonio dog bite lawyer for legal guidance.
Comparing Bite Force Among Common Dog Breeds
The bite force of a dog is measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch of pressure in the dog’s bite. It is a measurement of the strength of the dog’s jaw, which can directly correlate with the severity of the animal’s bite in an attack. Several factors can determine bite force, including breed-specific traits.
The following common dog breeds tend to have the strongest bite force based on available information:
- Rottweiler: 328 PSI
- American Bulldog: 305 PSI
- German Shepherd: 238 PSI
- Pit Bull: 235 PSI
In addition to breed type, bite force can vary based on the size and shape of the dog’s jaw, the age of the dog, and its muscle development (i.e., the mandibles, TMJs and masticatory muscles). It can also depend on the circumstances surrounding the incident and the volatile nature of the individual dog.
Dogs Around the World With the Strongest Bites
Many international dogs that are not as commonly found in the United States have even stronger bites than those listed above; some are more than twice as strong. Worldwide, the breeds with the strongest bite forces are:
- Kangal (Turkey): 743 PSI
- Bandog (England): 730 PSI
- Cane Corso (Italy): 700 PSI
- Boerboel (South Africa): 660 PSI
- Tosa Inu (Japan): 556 PSI
- Dogo Argentino (Argentina): 500 PSI
Dogs with high bite forces must be handled carefully by their owners and trainers. They require experienced owners who can provide proper pet socialization, training and management.
Why Does Bite Force Matter?
Bite force makes an important difference in the severity of a dog attack. A dog that is capable of biting with an extreme level of force has the propensity to cause severe and life-changing injuries. This can include broken bones, puncture wounds and lacerations, neck and face injuries, and internal injuries.
A dog with a high PSI can inflict catastrophic or fatal injuries on a victim with just one bite. This is what makes these animals a higher injury risk than dogs with weaker bites. Even if a smaller dog statistically bites more often, a larger dog with a strong bite is more dangerous due to the potential force of its bite.
Dog Attacks Can Be Prevented Among Powerful Breeds
It is important to realize that a dog’s bite force is not everything. Even if a particular breed has an inherently powerful bite, whether the dog poses a risk to other people depends on the animal’s individual temperament and how it has been trained by its owner.
Responsible ownership, such as proper dog training and socialization, is critical for preventing dog attacks. If a pet owner fails to take reasonable measures to prevent a foreseeable dog bite injury, he or she can be held legally and financially responsible for the actions of a dog in Texas.
If you’ve been hurt by any breed of dog, contact the Texas dog bite injury attorneys at Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Lawyers for a free case review.