Looking for a muscular dog breed with stocky bodies and an intimidating appearance? You’ve come to the right place. We have gathered 7 of the most strong dog breeds for you who have powerful builds, a sturdy presence, and fierce loyalty for their owners.
These powerful and intelligent dogs may seem lazy but in reality they are ideal for protection work. These powerful dogs may be aloof and reserved with strangers but portray and affectionate and loving temperament around their owners.
Read on to learn more about these canines, their exercise needs, and what makes them the strongest dog breeds.
Most Muscular Stock Dog Breeds
1. Australian Cattle Dog
Also known as the Queensland heeler, Australian cattle dogs are compact yet strong dogs with a lot of energy to burn as stated by the American Kennel Club. These muscular dogs thrive in an active household and require enough space to stretch their legs and run around.
Australian Cattle dogs are friendly, loyal, and sweet dogs who are fully devoted to their family members. They love being around humans and being the center of attention. These dogs were used to herd cattle which is why they have a lot of strength and stamina that allows them to cover long distances without getting tired easily.
These canines are great at protecting their territory and family which makes them the best guard dogs. They are intelligent and full of energy which makes it easy to train them. These pups must be socialized from an early age so they remain well behaved and obedient dogs.
2. Great Pyrenees
Immensely powerful working dogs with great protective instincts, Great Pyrenees were originally bred to deter wolves and protect livestock on snowy mountains. These large dogs are calm, well behaved, and serious who are known to get along well with everyone in the house and children who know how to behave around dogs.
These muscular dogs have a thick fur which makes them appear gigantic. This beautiful breed is sure to melt your heart with their charm and affection. These guard dogs have a lot of physical strength and power. Their protective nature and alertness makes them a great watchdog.
These well mannered breeds should be raised and trained in the right environment to ensure they remain obedient. These are low energy dogs and do not require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. They can also be left alone without worrying too much making them an ideal pet for busy individuals.
3. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Intelligent, patient, and profoundly loyal, Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are protective and territorial dogs who were originally bred for guarding livestock. They are calm, friendly, and affectionate with their family members. They are suspicious of strangers and act very fast if they feel like something is not right.
These strong dogs have a powerful build and muscular body which is covered by their dense coat that protects that from harsh weather conditions. These guard dogs have high energy which is why they need a good amount of exercise along with mental stimulation to stay happy, healthy, and satisfied.
These big dogs don’t like training sessions but it is important to socialize them from an early age to have them get along well with other dogs and animals in the vicinity. According to Purina UK, this strong breed must be kept in a leash to ensure they stay in your control and don’t end up fighting with other animals.
4. Kuvasz
A working dog breed with an imposing size, undeniable and incredible strength, Kuvasz is a smart, beautiful and fiercely loyal canine. They have high guard dog instincts but because of their easy going nature and proper training they can be kept in control.
Kuvasz are gentle giants who get along well with all family members and children who know how to behave around strong dogs. They are tolerant of other animals and dogs in the vicinity, given that they are socialized with them early on.
These are without a doubt among the strongest dog breeds and will gladly risk themselves to protect you from threats. Adult males are larger and stronger while females are small in size. They may not be a traditional choice for these roles but Kuvasz is an excellent police dog, service dog, and military dog. With consistent training, these strong dogs prove to be the most amazing pets.
5. Tibetan Mastiff
Watchful, aloof, and intimidating, Tibetan Mastiff are loyal gentle giants who love to spend time with their owners. They have a calm nature but require a good amount of exercise and activity to feel happy and satisfied. They were originally bred for being guardians for livestock, humans, and property.
According to PDSA, these intelligent dogs respond well to consistent training and positive reinforcement methods. They form strong bonds with you and always look up to you for direction. These dogs thrive with experienced owners who understand this breed and knows what they want.
Tibetan Mastiff’s should not be kept alone for a long time or they may tend to show unwanted behaviors. Because of their protective nature, these strong dogs tend to be very vocal in order to alert their owners. This is why proper training and early socialization is essential for these strong dogs.
6. Komondor
Hungarian sheep dog originally bred for guarding livestock and herding sheep, Komondor are calm, steady, and intelligent canines. These dogs have a sheer size, are powerful, and have an extremely distinctive white coat that makes them look like a big mop.
Their thick coat not just gives them their unique look but also helps to protect them from predators and intruders. This canine is one of the strongest dog breeds and are fiercely loyal which is why they require an experienced owner to handle them and provide optimal care.
Komondor is a surprisingly strong and powerful guardian and are equally intelligent which allows them to assess situations quickly and take action accordingly in order to protect their family and home. They have a muscular build, are athletic and agile which is why they require 30 minutes to one hour of physical activity and daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.
7. Pyrenean Mastiff
A centuries old and rare dog breed from Pyrenees mountain of Spain, Pyrenean Mastiff is a livestock protector who was used to ward off and hunt wolves, bears, and wild boar and keep the sheep protected. They are laid back, social, loyal, and do not say no to hard work.
Though certain breeds who are livestock guardians are high energy, these pups are a complete opposite. They have low energy and are a little lazy. According to PetMD, obedience training and low impact exercise is essential for these canines to prevent any health issues.
Other than being strong dogs, these canines are easy going and get along well with everyone in the house. All it takes is proper and consistent training along with early socialization to ensure these pups stay well behaved indoors.
Conclusion
These canines are the strongest dog breeds who prove to be both powerful and loving companions for humans. These dogs have a powerful build, are broad chested, have impressive strength and can pull carts and move heavy loads easily while also warding off intruders and predators.
All these pups require is an owner who understands them in and out and knows what they want and when they want it. They get along well with everyone in the house and even other animals or pets as long as they get proper training and early socialization.
So, if you’re looking for a strong dog breed who is both a great protector and a loving family pet, these breeds are the answer to your question.
