One of the most common things I hear about Staffies is that they have “lock jaw,” which should be avoided regardless of whether someone is speaking positively or negatively about the breed.

When a Staffy bites something or someone, the dog’s mouth effectively clamps together, making it impossible to release.

Is this, however, correct?

American Staffordshire Terrier - Free photo on Pixabay
American staffordshire terrier bite force

What is Dog Bite?

Dog bites happen all the time, and they can come from the most unexpected places.

What we do know is that any dog in the wrong situation can bite someone, and it is our responsibility to set our dogs up for success.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) keeps track of important data about dog bites in the United States.

Each year, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs, according to the organization.

Though this figure appears to be extremely high, it’s important to remember that the CDC can only record bite cases that are reported to them, thus the actual number of bites is likely much higher than the present numbers indicate.

However, not all dog bites are the same.

Though certain dog breeds are more frequently included in bite complaints, others that bite only on occasion are subjected to significantly more negative attention.

Despite the fact that data shows that Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Jack Russell Terriers bite more frequently than their bully breed counterparts, pit bull-type dogs receive the majority of media attention.

Bully breeds are now being labeled as dangerous dogs, despite the fact that they account for a much lesser percentage of dog bites in the United States.

What is the reason for this?

Though a Dachshund bites more regularly, his chompers aren’t as powerful as those of a muscle-bound breed that looks more like a pit bull.

PPI (pounds per square inch) is the unit of measurement for bites (PSI).

When it comes to lethal blows, the force behind them, not the number of bites, determines the seriousness of the issue.

Pit bulls may not bite very often, but when they do, their bite has the potential to cause serious injury or even death.

This is the truth of how dog bites are documented and classified in today’s world, despite the fact that it is unjust.

This begs the question: which breeds are recognized to have the most powerful bite?

Which dogs are capable of causing the greatest damage with only one bite?

Measuring Dog Bites in Pounds Per Square Inch (PSI)

The power of a dog’s bite can be determined in a variety of ways. Dr. Ian Dunbar, a well-known veterinarian and dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement, has created a severity scale with levels.

There are six levels of biting situations, each with its own set of criteria that can assist reveal the purpose behind a bite.

The bite of a Level One is defined by a low-threat bite.

Despite the fact that it comes into direct contact with the skin, it is designed to warn rather than injure.

A Level Six bite is on the other extreme of the spectrum.

A dog that bites at Level Six intensity is truly hostile and is biting to kill.

Dogs with that amount of biting history are frequently unable to be rehabilitated and must be terminated for their own and the public’s safety.

Dr. Dunbar’s system, however useful it may be, is based on observation, which can be highly subjective.

The greater the potential of a dog to injure a living being via its bite, the bigger the measurement of the dog’s biting force.

Measuring a dog’s bite power is a scientifically precise way of determining how a bite delivered to human or animal flesh will effect the bite receiver.

Pounds per square inch, or PSI, is a unit of measurement for bite force.

PSI is a calibrated measurement that determines the amount of pressure applied to an object based on the surface area impacted and the force applied.

The PSI measurement of a dog can be influenced by a number of things.

What exactly is bitten?

At the time of the bite, the dog’s mental and/or emotional state

This is the dog in question.

Understanding the bite force of a human being is useful as a comparison.

The average human biting force is 120-140 PSI, which seems like a lot until you compare it to the crocodile bite force, which is 230-250 PSI.

When calculating a dog’s PSI, keep in mind that dogs have the ability to apply varying degrees of force at will.

The majority of the time, a dog will only employ all of its strength when provoked or in fear for its own life.

Furthermore, the dog’s physical makeup plays a significant role in determining its natural capacity to bite with a hard punch when necessary.

Is “Lock Jaw” a Real Thing in Staffies?

No, the term “lock jaw” is a myth. Staffies, like all other animals, do not have a lock jaw because it would be dangerous for an animal to be unable to release its grip if its prey was causing major injury to the animal.

Staffy breeds are known for their muscularity and power, which extends to their jaws.

They are, however, far from being powerful.

What is the maximum amount of pressure a Staffy can bite?

The American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff) bites with a force of 235 PSI, while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier bites with a force of 328 PSI.

Both breeds are now outside the top ten most powerful dog bite breeds, with Kangals having the most powerful bite (743 PSI).

If you’re curious about which dog bites the most, the table below lists the top 20.

The typical human biting force is 162 PSI, while the Nile Crocodile bite force is 5,000 PSI, making it the strongest bite force in the animal kingdom.

Which breeds have the most powerful bites?

Kangal – 743 P.S.I.

The Kangal takes the top spot as the dog with the strongest bite, with a bite power of 743 PSI.

The Kangal is the most strong dog in the world, having been developed to serve as a guard dog.

Kangals are known for their defense abilities and are devoted to both their families and the animals they are assigned to look after.

Large predators such as wolves, coyotes, and even bears have been known to attack the breed.

American Bandogge – 730 P.S.I.

The robust jaws of the American Bandogge pack a powerful punch, biting at a force of 730 pounds per square inch.

The Bandogge is thought to be the outcome of a crossbreeding between the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Neapolitan Mastiff by fans of the breed.

The Bandogge was created with the intention of being a game dog. Its primary purpose was that of a guard dog, eagerly protecting the home and hearth of its owner.

This dog breed is known for its enormous heart and devotion to those it loves the most, and it will gladly lay down its life for its family if it feels threatened.

To put the P.S.I of this formidable canine breed in perspective, a lion’s bite intensity is only 650, making the Bandogge’s jaws 80 P.S.I more powerful than one of the jungle’s most fearsome predators.

Cane Corso – 700 P.S.I.

A Cane Corso is depicted in this image.

The Cane Corso is a breed of dog that was created to be a guard dog.

With his strong head and muscular frame, the Cane Corso is a striking figure.

Many people are afraid of the Cane Corso, which is most usually seen with cut ears.

The PSI for this dog breed is 700, which is rather outstanding.

Bordeaux Dogue – 556 P.S.I.

The Dogue de Bordeaux is another Molosser descendant breed that originated in the Bordeaux region of France.

The Dogue de Bordeaux, popularly known as the French Mastiff, has a powerful bite, measuring 556 pounds per square inch.

This canine breed was revered for its strength, and it was frequently used in jobs that needed it, such as pulling big carts or moving huge goods.

The Dogue de Bordeaux was also utilized for security, guarding the homes and possessions of the wealthy and renowned.

Though a huge breed with a monster head, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a loving creature that enjoys resting at his master’s feet.

Tosa Inu – 556 P.S.I.

A Tosa Inu is a Japanese dog breed.

The Tosa Inu is a Japanese dog breed that has been around since the 1300s. It was designed to be a combat dog.

The Kochi, Shikoku, German Pointer, Mastiff, Great Dane, Saint Bernard, and Bull Terrier are all thought to be in the Tosa Inu’s genealogy.

The dog was dubbed the “Sumo wrestler of the dog world” in its native Japan because of its popularity.

In Japan, the Tosa Inu is revered and recognized as a national treasure.

The Tosa Inu’s bite force is 556 P.S.I., which is not surprising given its size.

The breed makes a loyal and faithful family pet, but can be violent against other animals due to its pit fighter ancestry.

English Mastiff – 556 P.S.I.

The English Mastiff, sometimes known as an Old English Mastiff, is a dog breed known for its gentle, friendly demeanor with its family and friends.

The breed is especially well-suited to families with kids.

Though this breed is recognized for its gentle, pleasant demeanor toward people, it nonetheless has a powerful biting force of 556 pounds per square inch.

The English Mastiff can be aggressive against other dogs.

The breed’s initial purpose was to serve as a protector or watchdog, which it excelled at because to its bulk and powerful bite.

Dogo/Presa Canario – 540 P.S.I.

Because of his robust, muscular build and trimmed ears, the Presa / Dogo Canario can appear rather frightening.

The Presa Canario, often known as a Canary Mastiff, has a bite force of 540 pounds per square inch.

This dog’s strong bite was one of his assets in his position as protector of his home and family, as he was originally meant to serve as a cattle guardian.

Argentine Dogo – 500 PSI

The magnificent Dogo Argentino is a magnificent canine whose original duty was to hunt enormous animals.

The Dogo is noted for his fearlessness, and he will not back down even when faced with a life-threatening situation.

The Dogo, a dog with a bite force of 500 PSI, does not have the strongest bite but can still cause significant harm with a single chomp.

Leonberger – 399 P.S.I.

The Leonberger is a German dog breed that originated in the 18th century.

This large dog breed was developed via meticulous crossbreedings of Newfoundland dogs, Saint Bernards, and Great Pyrenees.

The Leonberger is a highly social dog who enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

When family members quarrel, the breed has a delicate, sensitive side that it takes very seriously.

The Leonberger has a remarkable biting force of 399 P.S.I., while not being known for violence.

Akita Inu – 350-400 P.S.I.

The Akita Inu, another robust Japanese dog breed, has a biting force ranging from 350 to 400 pounds per square inch.

This dog breed makes a great guard dog, guarding people it loves from harm.

The breed is devoted to its family, yet it is wary of outsiders and will attack if it feels threatened.

The Akita Inu is a tough, serious dog who does not tolerate nonsense well.

When it comes to other animals, particularly dogs, the breed can be aggressive.

Because of their big size, Akita Inus are not suggested for families with little children.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier – 328 PSI

Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a breed of Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Despite his fighting origins, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is now a gentle family friend that is noted for being wonderful with children.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are no longer used for the purpose for which they were originally produced.

Despite having a bite force of 328 pounds per square inch, they are rarely implicated in bite accidents.

Rottweiler – 328 PSI

The Rottweiler, whose formidable jaws weigh in at 328 PSI, has a bite strength comparable to that of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

The Rottweiler is a courageous dog who is highly appreciated for his physical strength and imposing presence, and is widely utilized in police and prison work where a hard bite is highly needed.

Rottweilers are a sharp breed with the courage to match their intelligence.

They are not aggressive by nature and make excellent family pets.

American Bully – 315 P.S.I.

The American Bully, also known as the Bullypit or American Bully Pit, is a dog with a low-to-the-ground build and a lot of muscle.

The bite force of the American Bully is 315 pounds per square inch.

Bullmastiff – 305 P.S.I.

The biting force of the Bullmastiff, a breed bred to act as a guard dog, has been found to reach 305 PSI.

Bullmastiffs, on the other hand, are recognized for their friendly nature.

They are excellent family pets and are known for their steadfastness.

Aggression isn’t a characteristic that’s often connected with the breed.

Bull Terrier – 269 P.S.I.

With his shark-like head and almond eyes, the English Bull Terrier looks like a clown.

The Bull Terrier is a breed recognized for its obstinacy, and he has a robust build.

The bite force of the Bull Terrier is a whopping 269 PSI.

German Shepherd – 238 P.S.I.

The German Shepherd, one of America’s most popular dog breeds, has a biting force of 238 PSI, which puts him just ahead of the American Staffordshire Terrier.

This dog breed is extremely intelligent and is frequently used in guarding situations like the dutch shepherd.

The German Shepherd is a popular breed for police and military operations because of their courage, strength, and innate intelligence.

German Shepherds are devoted family companions who form strong bonds with their owners and will defend them with their lives if necessary.

American Staffordshire Terrier – 235 P.S.I.

The American Staffordshire Terrier dogs, usually known as an Amstaff, is a canine breed that has a bad reputation and is sometimes portrayed as aggressive.

Despite the fact that the American Staffordshire Terrier dog origins may be traced back to the pit fighting ring, the breed is cherished for its devotion for people, despite the fact that dog aggression is a prevalent feature.

The PSI of the Amstaff is 235, which is one of the lowest values among all of the dogs on this list.

American Pit Bull Terrier – 235 P.S.I.

The American Pitbull Terrier, sometimes known as a “Pit Bull,” has a bite force of 235 pounds per square inch, which is comparable to that of the American Staffordshire Terrier.

The American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier are essentially the same breed.

There are minor differences between the two breeds, the most noticeable of which being that the Amstaff is significantly smaller than the American Pit Bull Terrier and has a bit less game disposition.

The name change was made when the American Kennel Club wanted to acknowledge the breed but didn’t want to include Pit Bull in its original breed title due to its colorful and tragic history as a pit fighting dog.

The name American Staffordshire Terrier was adopted in its place, paying homage to the dog’s origins in the United Kingdom.

The American Pit Bull Terrier, like the American Staffordshire Terrier, is a terrific family friend.

This dog is devoted and loving to everyone, especially its family.

In this breed, human hostility should never be observed or allowed.

The authentic American Pit Bull Terrier, on the other hand, is frequently dog aggressive, a trait that is in keeping with the breed’s original function, even though these dogs are no longer used for that reason.

Boxer – 230 P.S.I.

The Boxer is a sweet and beloved breed, yet it is frequently mistaken for a pit bull due to its robust, muscular build.

Boxers are descended from a group of dog breeds known as “bullenbaiers,” which are a cross between Mastiffs, Great Danes, Bulldogs, and Terriers. The PSI of the Boxer is 230.

Labrador Retriever – 230 P.S.I.

The sweet-natured, joyful Labrador Retriever has a tremendous biting force that measures 230 P.S.I in total, despite its reputation as a lover rather than a biter.

The Labrador Retriever is a lovely family companion who is not commonly associated with biting accidents.

It is an active athletic dog recognized for its intelligence and joyful attitude.

The Labrador Retriever’s main job was to help fisherman retrieve fishing gear and other goods from the frigid seas of the north Atlantic Ocean off the coast of its native Atlantic Canada.

Rhodesian Ridgeback – 224 P.S.I.

A Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed of dog native to Rhodesia.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback belongs to the hound family of dogs.

The Ridgeback is a breed unto himself. Aggression is not in the breed’s DNA, despite its reputation for being standoffish and distant.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback, which was designed to hunt lions, has a biting force of 224 PSI, which is slightly less than that of an American Staffordshire Terrier.

What Factors Influence Bite Damage?

When determining the extent of damage that may be caused by a dog’s bite, there are a number of elements to consider.

The physical conformation of a dog is crucial in this regard. If tempted to bite, dangerous dog with blocky heads and strong, muscular jaws are already well-equipped to cause catastrophic injury.

The size of the bite is also an important factor to consider.

This is why fewer trips to the hospital for emergency care are made by smaller dogs who bite more frequently.

Another element to consider is the person who was bitten by the dog.

The skin of the elderly and little children is more sensitive, resulting in more bruising and skin that is more easily broken, even when only light pressure is applied.

This can make a bite appear far more serious than it actually is, especially if there is a lot of blood involved.

Dog attacks, on the other hand, must always be taken seriously. It’s always crucial to try to figure out what caused the bite and whether or not it might have been avoided.

Often, the dog was simply placed in an uncontrollable situation and responded to his heightened emotional state by using the only weapon he had to defend himself: his teeth.

The bite was caused by human error in this case.

However, dogs can suffer from mental health difficulties that cause them to bite without warning even their dog owner, putting themselves and others in danger.

What is evident is that, regardless of the motivations behind a bite, the adults involved must do a better job of protecting their dogs and those around them in order to avoid catastrophe.

Is it true that certain dogs bite harder than others?

Yes, not all dog bites are made equal when it comes to severity.

Some dog bite statistics are more strong than others as evaluated in pounds per square inch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How aggressive is a Staffordshire terrier?

Is the Staffordshire Terrier a Threat to Humans? Depending on the situation, each dog can be either placid or aggressive. However, because it is quicker to anger and attack than most other breeds, the American Staffordshire terrier is usually regarded as one of the most dangerous dog breeds.

Why do Staffies jaws lock?

No, the term “lock jaw” is a myth. Staffies, like all other animals, do not have a lock jaw because it would be dangerous for an animal to be unable to release its grip if its prey was causing major injury to the animal. Staffies are smart canines who like pleasing their people.

How strong is a Staffy jaw?

Staffordshire Bull Terrier can bite with a force of 328 PSI, while American Staffordshire Terriers (Amstaffs) can bite with a force of 235 PSI. This leaves both breeds outside the top 10 strongest dog bite breeds, with Kangals having the strongest bite (743 PSI).

What animal has the highest PSI bite?

With a bite force of around 1820 PSI, the Hippopotamus possesses the strongest bite of all land animals. The bite force of an American alligator is around 2125 PSI.

What dog can fight a lion?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a big dog breed that originated in Southern Africa.

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