The Kangal is a large, muscular dog with the title of being the world’s strongest dog. This Turkish breed is known for its incredible strength and protective nature. So, what makes the Kangal so strong, and is it really the world’s strongest dog? Let’s take a closer look in this article and weigh up the evidence.
1. Kangal Dog Basics
A Kangal is a herding and protective dog from Turkey. It is very popular among the Kurdish shepherds of Turkey and is known for its loyalty and boldness. Kangal is the national symbol of Turkey and it has been used as a defender of livestock, flocks and herds for thousands of years.
History
The Kangal Dog is believed to be an ancient breed of livestock guardian. In the 8th century, this dog was mentioned in the great epic of Anatolia and existed prior to the Turkish Republic. Kangal Dogs were used by Anatolian shepherds to guard their flocks against jackals, wolves and bears. After the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1923, these dogs were bred in villages from Sivas to Diyarbakir.
Physical Characteristics
Kangal Dogs are large to giant sized, strong-boned dogs with powerful body and wind. They resemble the Mastiff breed in their noble look. These dogs are usually brown or grey with a darker mask, although white ones are also known. The average weight of an adult Kangal is about 95-150 lbs and their average height is about 32-34 inches.
- Body: Muscular and powerful
- Head: Slightly domed with high set ears
- Coat: Short, thick and usually grey or brown in color
- Eyes: Brown and oval
- Temperament: Loyal and playful
Purpose
Kangal Dogs were bred specifically as protectors of livestock and property. They have a natural ability to guard livestock and distinguish between predators and non-threatening animals. These dogs aren’t territorial or aggressive to people, but they will patrol and protect their territory from intruders.
2. What Makes Kangals So Powerful?
Kangals have some unique physical attributes, a favorable temperament, and a loyal disposition that makes them the ideal guardians.
The biggest factor in their power is their size. Kangals typically weigh up to 145 pounds, and are about 30 inches tall. Their thickly-matted coats range in color from solid white to a gray/brown, and their head is said to be larger than some other breeds. This gives them an imposing look that can quickly deter potential intruders.
Kangals also boast — quite literally — a powerful bite. They have a bite force of over 743 PSI, which is the strongest bite force of any living canine in the world! Their jaws are perfect for catching and holding any unsuspecting intruder.
Kangals have an even temperament, as well, which makes them great family protectors. They rarely bark, but will alert their owners when intruders approach. They are also typically smaller with people than other guard dogs, and their loyal nature makes them less likely to attack their owners or family members.
For those looking for a guard dog, the Kangal is the perfect choice. Their immense size, powerful bite, even temperament, and loyal demeanor make them the perfect guard dog for any household.
3. Are Kangals the Strongest Canine Around?
Kangals are a type of molosser, a working dog breed native to the Sivas province of Turkey. Despite not being the most popular working breed, Kangals are known to be some of the toughest and strongest canines out there. Here’s what gives these dogs their edge.
Size and Strength: Kangals are not the biggest war dogs, but what they lack in size, they more than make up for in strength. These dogs are among the heaviest of the molosser family, and their thick coats contribute to their solid build. They are also equipped with a broad chest and a wide face, which helps them look intimidating. Kangals are not only sturdy, they are also incredibly agile; they can reach a top speed of about 44 miles per hour.
Loyalty and Protectiveness: As guardians, these dogs can be very loyal and protective of their family members. In many places, they are used as guard animals, as they are known for being alert and vigilant. They are also said to be fairly territorial, making them quite successful as watchdogs.
Bite force: Kangals are said to have one of the strongest bite forces among dogs. They can clamp down with a force of up to 743 pounds per square inch. This level of biting force is more than enough to deter most predators that may come near the dog’s flock.
All in all, Kangals can definitely be considered one of the strongest canines around. While they may be less well-known than some other working breeds, these dogs are sure to make their presence felt in any given situation.
4. What Are Some Other Strong Dog Breeds?
Akita Inu
The Akita Inu is a powerful breed that comes from Japan. It is also sometimes referred to as Japanese Akita. The Akita has a distinctive thick, double-coated fur and wedge-shaped head. This breed is fiercely loyal and can be brave and protective. The Akita Inu is an intelligent and independent-minded animal that is not easily controlled and requires careful training and socialization.
Dogue de Bordeaux
Also known as a French Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a large and powerful breed that is both calm and loyal. This ancient breed is protective of its family and can make an excellent guard dog. Dogue de Bordeaux are quite large and muscular, with a broad head, deep chest and short tail. They can be wary of strangers and require proper socialization from an early age.
Boxer
The Boxer is a popular breed that is both intelligent and alert. These energetic dogs have a friendly and outgoing personality and make good companion animals. Boxers are muscular and athletic, with well-defined heads and strong jaws. This breed is brave and confident, and makes a good detective, guard or watch dog.
American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a breed that was initially bred for fighting. However, despite this dark past, Amstaffs can be great family dogs if well-socialized and trained. This breed is strong and courageous, with a powerful, muscular body. The American Staffordshire Terrier has a short coat and small head, and is typically loyal, brave and protective.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large breed that was developed as a working guard dog. The Bullmastiff is muscular and powerful, with a short coat and broad skull. They are naturally gentle, loyal and loving with their families, making them an excellent choice as a family pet. However, they are also alert and brave when it comes to protecting their homes and property from intruders.
5. What Are the Advantages of Owning a Kangal?
Kangals are a formidable and loyal breed of dog known for the protective instinct. They are strong and brave animals that will come to the defense of their owners and even attack potential threats. This alone makes them a desirable breed for people to own.
Independent Nature: Unlike many other breed types, the Kangal is incredibly independent. They can be left to their own devices, day or night, and they will be vigilant and alert for any potential dangers. So if you have reason to fear for your safety, a Kangal can give you that peace of mind.
Protector Instinct: The levels of protectiveness a Kangal can provide goes beyond any other breed type. They are instinctively inclined to understand the concept of a home and protect it from intruders, something a smaller breed can find difficult to do. A Kangal is also naturally suspicious of strangers which can put potential danger-makers on alert.
Trainability: Kangals are among the most trainable of all the breed types, and are particularly easy to train with positive reinforcement. They can be taught to perform a variety of tasks and excel at obedience training.
Caring Companions: Kangals make very caring companion animals as their protectiveness is extended to their family members, children, and other pets. They are gentle and love affection, making them an ideal pet for any family.
- Independent nature
- Protector instinct
- Trainability
- Caring companions
Overall, Kangals are a wonderfully loyal breed that can be a great addition to any home, giving comfort and protection to the family inside.
Conclusion
So there you have it! While the Kangal is certainly an impressive dog, there are other contenders for the title of the world’s strongest dog. Ultimately though, whichever dog you choose to bring into your home, don’t forget to treat them like the special cuddly pup they are!