8 of the strongest dog breeds, and what owning one really involves

"Strongest" can mean different things: sheer size, pulling power, bite strength or stamina. There is no official ranking, and much of what circulates online, especially about bite force, is not based on reliable measurement. What the breeds below have in common is a powerful build that comes from the job they were developed to do.

That strength is a responsibility. The right owner can give these dogs a great life; the wrong set-up can be hard work, or risky, for the dog and the people around it.

1. Rottweiler

Originally used to drive cattle and guard, the Rottweiler is a muscular, confident dog. Well-bred, well-socialised Rottweilers are often calm and loyal, but they need consistent training from puppyhood, plenty of mental and physical exercise, and an experienced owner.

2. German Shepherd Dog

German Shepherds were developed for herding and are now widely used by police and armed forces. They are strong, athletic and very trainable, and they need a job to do. Without enough exercise and training, they can become anxious or over-protective. Ask breeders about hip and elbow scores.

3. Siberian Husky

Huskies were bred to pull sleds over long distances, so their strength is endurance. They are friendly with people but have a strong urge to run and a high prey drive, and many cannot be trusted off the lead. They need a great deal of exercise and a secure garden.

4. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a giant water dog with a long history of working with fishermen and in water rescue. Despite their size and strength, they are known for a gentle, patient nature. They need space, regular grooming of their heavy coat, and an owner prepared for drool and the costs of a giant breed.

5. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bred in Switzerland as farm dogs and to pull carts, Bernese Mountain Dogs are strong, good-natured and usually gentle with families. They are a giant breed with a relatively short average lifespan, so health testing and choosing a responsible breeder matter a great deal.

6. Great Dane

One of the tallest breeds, the Great Dane was historically used to hunt large game. Today most are gentle companions, but their sheer size means they need careful training and plenty of room. Giant breeds grow quickly, so ask your vet about feeding and exercise for a growing puppy.

7. Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard is a giant mountain dog famous for rescue work in the Alps. They are typically calm and friendly, but very heavy, and they can be hard to manage if they have not been trained to walk politely on a lead. Expect drool, shedding and the higher costs of a giant breed. Weight varies a great deal between individuals, so ask your vet what is healthy for your dog rather than relying on figures online.

8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Much smaller than the other dogs on this list, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is very strong for its size. Staffies are usually affectionate and people-loving, and they need training, socialisation with other dogs from an early age, and plenty of exercise and play.

What every owner of a strong dog needs to know

Training and socialisation

Start training on day one and keep it reward-based. Teach a reliable recall, loose-lead walking and a calm "settle". Introduce your puppy calmly to people, places and other dogs while they are young, and keep going through adolescence, when large breeds can test boundaries.

The law on controlling your dog

In every part of the UK it is an offence to let a dog be dangerously out of control, whatever its breed or size. In England and Wales this applies in private places too, including your own home, and a dog can be considered dangerously out of control if it injures someone or makes someone reasonably worried that it will. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own, similar laws.

XL Bully dogs in the UK

XL Bully type dogs are banned in England and Wales. It is an offence to own one unless it has a Certificate of Exemption. Conditions include keeping the dog on a lead and muzzled in public, and having it microchipped, neutered and covered by third-party insurance. Scotland has its own, similar rules. Northern Ireland has also introduced restrictions on XL Bully type dogs. If you are offered a large bully-type dog, check the government guidance before you go any further.

Equipment and insurance

Use a well-fitting harness or collar and a strong lead, and make sure anyone walking the dog can hold it. Many owners of large breeds take out third-party liability cover as well as vet fee insurance.

If you are still deciding which breed suits you, our breed finder can help you compare size, exercise and grooming needs.