While dogs have been serving humans unconditionally for several decades, humans have genetically manipulated some breeds to serve their desires. They are spectacular, muscular, and intimidating in appearance.

Fighting dogs were bred specifically to be large, brave, and willing to fight even if they have to sacrifice their life for it. At the same time, breeders wanted them to be loving and loyal to their owners. So, they are strong, devoted, and determined. Some of them have the strongest bite force.

Dog fighting and baiting have been outlawed and are illegal in many regions of the world, including the United Kingdom and the United States. The canines that were used for this purpose have now become merely pets, but retain their muscular build and strong protective instincts.

Here are the 7 best fighting muscular dog breeds known for their role in history.

Best Fighting Muscular Dog Breeds in History

1. American Pit Bull Terrier

The ancestors of the American Pit Bull Terriers assisted humans in herding livestock, pulling loads, and guarding property. They were equipped with traits like strength, courage, and tenacity, which led to the bloody sport of bear and bull baiting.

American Pit Bull Terriers are athletic and muscular dogs with a deep chest, a noticeable waist, and ribs that can be felt but not seen. When bull baiting was banned, dog owners started using this breed as all-purpose dogs that guard the farms and even play with children.

As pets, American Pit Bull Terriers have a friendly and outgoing personality. They are intelligent, loyal, energetic, and loving. Pet parents should put an effort into keeping their American Pit Bull Terrier well-exercised to avoid undesirable behaviors, explains PetMD.

These pooches have earned the title of “Velcro dogs” due to the close bonds they form with their owners. When left alone for extended periods, they can suffer from separation anxiety.

2. American Staffordshire Terrier

Recognized by their broad head and compact build, American Staffordshire Terriers are muscular dogs. Amstaffs were bred as guard dogs and fighting dogs. Today, they are known as intelligent pets due to their appearance in certain movies.

Amstaffs are brave, courageous, and always ready to defend their loved ones. Due to their high prey drive, they are unsuitable for homes with smaller pets. Their history as ferocious protectors places them in the list of potentially aggressive dog breeds.

However, proper training and socialization help make them great family dogs. Their strong bite force of 235-250 PSI means their opponents should stay away from their people and territory. Amstaff’s high energy levels mean they need at least an hour of exercise every day.

WebMD explains that American Staffordshire Terriers are quick learners who can be trained easily. However, some of them may be irresistible.

3. Dogo Argentino

Originally bred as hunting dogs, Dogos are powerful dogs with sharp hunting instincts. Their brave heart, impressive stamina, and stress resistance enabled them to defeat opponents on the battlefield. These loyal and intelligent pooches also make excellent guard dogs.

This traditional sport dog has substantial limbs and a muscular build, able to withstand vigorous physical activity. These athletic fighting dogs are affectionate towards their family members. Dogo Argentino tends to dominate, which makes them not ideal for first-time owners.

These active dogs need plenty of daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Around one hour of exercise, including games of fetch and freely running in a fenced area, would suffice. Having a good nose, great lung capacity, and agility, Dogos are banned in several parts of the world.

4. Cane Corso

These fighting dogs were originally bred for hunting and protecting. Their powerful jaws, muscular build, and intimidating appearance have earned them the reputation of aggressive dogs. Cane Corsi are strong-willed dogs with a powerful personality.

They exhibit calm demeanor as pets and can have fun with their family and children. But as soon as they feel that they are in danger, they are ready to take action. Cane Corso is banned in several parts of the world due to their strong protective instincts and territorial nature.

Cane Corsi have the strongest bite force of 650-700 PSI, making them one of the most dangerous breeds in the world. These intelligent working dogs thrive on activity and love having a task to do. They excel in dock diving, agility training, and other activities that keep their minds and bodies engaged.

5. Dogue de Bordeaux

The famous dog from Tom Hanks’ movie Turner and Hooch, Dogue de Bordeaux, was bred in Rome to fight on the battlefield. This muscular dog is known for its immense power, courage, and an instinct to guard.

Dogue de Bordeaux’s intimidating presence, fierce loyalty, and devotion make them one of the best guard dogs, explains Purina. They are known for drooling and snoring, but are easy to care for because of their moderate exercise and grooming needs.

With their pet parents, Dogue de Bordeaux has a calm and endearing personality. They are also great with kids, especially when socialized from a young age. That is why these pooches are also known as “gentle giants.”

6. Fila Brasileiro

Fila Brasileiro or Brazilian Mastiff is a fighting dog breed originating from Brazil. These pooches were originally bred as guard dogs to protect livestock. Common in Brazil but rare in other parts of the world, the Brazilian Mastiff is a compact dog with a rectangular build.

Having strong front legs and muscular hind legs, the Fila Brasileiro is sporty and agile. The strength and agility of this muscular breed make it well-suited for experienced owners. Fila Brasileiro has a strong instinct to protect and a territorial nature.

These traits, combined with their strong work ethic, enabled them to excel on the battlefield. Today, Brazilian Mastiffs make loyal and loving companions to their families. These highly intelligent dogs have a sharp intuition and a mind of their own.

7. Japanese Tosa

Japanese Tosa, or Japanese Mastiff, is a large dog breed hailing from Japan. Originally bred as fighting dogs, they are banned in several regions of the world due to their unwarranted negative reputation, immense strength, high prey drive, and very strong protective instincts.

Japanese Tosa are naturally wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. Their muscular body and massive size can easily scare away intruders and even passersby. However, Japanese Tosa is never aggressive without a reason.

These pooches require daily exercise of around 45 minutes to one hour for physical and mental stimulation. Use this calculator to find your pup’s exercise needs:

However, they are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Their short coat does not provide adequate insulation in cold weather.

Conclusion

While some cute dogs are known for being lap warmers, other breeds have a long history as fighting dogs. Their muscular build, immense strength, impressive bite force, and imposing size enabled them to overpower their opponent.

Now that dog fighting and baiting have been banned, these dogs have become loving and loyal pets. However, they have retained their protective and territorial instincts. That is why they still make stealthy protectors and wonderful guard dogs.

Adopting a muscular dog breed means you have to consider various factors, such as your lifestyle and activity level. Make sure to give your dog obedience training and socialize them from an early age to control their overprotective nature.