Dogs have been one of our most beloved and cherished pets for thousands of years, but even the gentlest canine can deliver a dangerous bite. These bites pose severe risks due to the combination of raw force, bacteria in dogs’ mouths, and the potential for deep tissue damage. While any dog breed can cause serious damage during an attack, certain breeds possess jaw strength that can inflict devastating injuries.
Contact our dog bite attorneys in Seattle to schedule a free consultation at (206) 919-3215 should you be involved in a dog bite attack.
How Is Dog Bite Strength Measured?
The force of a dog bite is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) using bite force transducers, which represents the amount of pressure exerted by a dog’s jaw muscles over a one-square-inch area. This measurement helps quantify the potential damage different breeds can inflict during a bite incident. The higher the PSI, the more force the dog can generate when biting down.
Dogs Ranked by Bite Strength
Different breeds exhibit varying levels of bite strength, influenced by factors like jaw structure, muscle mass, and genetic heritage. Some breeds developed powerful bites for specific working purposes, while others inherited strong jaws from their wild ancestors.
At 743 PSI, Kangals—Turkish shepherd dogs—possess the strongest bite of any domestic canine, using their strength to protect livestock from predators like wolves and bears. The Cane Corso, a popular guard dog breed, comes in second with a 700 PSI bite force.
Here are some other dog breeds ranked by bite strength:
- English Mastiff: 556 PSI
- Wolf Hybrid: 406 PSI
- Rottweiler: 328 PSI
- Siberian Husky: 320 PSI
- American Bulldog: 305 PSI
- American Pit Bull Terrier: 241 PSI
- German Shepherd: 238 PSI
- Belgian Malinois: 200 PSI
The Consequences of a Strong Dog Bite
A powerful dog bite can cause catastrophic injuries that forever change a victim’s life. The tremendous force behind these bites often results in severe tissue damage, crushed bones, and deep puncture wounds that may require extensive reconstructive surgery. Beyond the immediate physical trauma, dog bite victims frequently face lasting nerve damage, permanent scarring, and potential disfigurement. The psychological impact can be equally devastating, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and persistent fear of dogs.
Washington state law protects dog bite victims through a strict liability statute. This means dog owners bear full responsibility for injuries their pets cause, regardless of whether the dog had previously shown aggressive behavior. Victims have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the attack.
Contact a Washington Dog Bite Attorney Today
Dog bite claims can be challenging to handle alone—especially while you are recovering from the effects of a strong dog bite. If you were bitten by a dog in Washington, it is important to seek help from an attorney who focuses on animal attack cases and has a proven track record of securing favorable settlements for victims.
A personal injury attorney serves as a powerful advocate for dog bite victims. They understand the complexities of Washington’s dog bite laws and know how to build compelling cases that demonstrate the full extent of your physical, emotional, and financial damages. A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the incident, handle all communications with insurance companies, and fight aggressively to secure maximum compensation.
After the attack, seek medical care immediately and save all of your records. Then, schedule a free legal consultation with a Washington dog bite attorney online or by calling (206) 919-3215 and learn about your legal options.