15 Dogs That Were Bred To Take On Tough Wild Animals

Some dogs were bred for cuddles. Others? They were built to take on predators that most animals run from. For centuries, hunters and farmers relied on powerful breeds to track, chase, and even fight beasts like bears, wolves, and wild boars. If you think you’ve heard about all of them, wait until you meet these 15 dogs.

Kangal

A single Kangal can send a wolf running. This Turkish guardian dog has one of the most powerful bite forces of any dog, measuring over 700 PSI. Even a lion’s average bite force is about 650 PSI. Folks have used Kangal dogs for ages to protect livestock. Even today, people trust them to keep wild animals away from farms.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog

This huge breed was developed in the Caucasus Mountains of Eurasia. These dogs were meant to protect flocks from some of the toughest predators in the wild. A thick coat shields them from harsh weather, and their fearless nature makes them one of the most relentless guardian dogs.

Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dog)

Alabais don’t just defend livestock—they dominate any threat in their path. Bred for centuries across Central Asia, they were used to protect nomadic herds from wolves. Unlike many breeds, Alabai dogs have raw power, intense loyalty, and the natural ability to work without human commands.

Irish Wolfhound

Despite their calm personality today, the Irish Wolfhound was originally used to hunt wolves in ancient Ireland. They once helped clear entire regions of predators, and they are not even bulky. Irish Wolfhounds stand nearly three feet tall. It’s their speed and agility that made them a fascinating wolf-chasing machine.

Scottish Deerhound

The speed and endurance of Scottish Deerhound dogs were enough to chase down huge red deer. Unlike other hunting dogs, they relied on sheer stamina to wear down their prey before moving in for the kill. Only a few breeds match that grace, power, and hunting skill.

Dogo Argentino

This isn’t just a hunting dog from Argentina. It’s a predator’s worst nightmare. The Dogo Argentino was used for wild boar and puma hunting. It’s a muscular, fearless, and incredibly determined breed with high pain tolerance and relentless drive. They are one of the few dogs that can go head-to-head with the deadliest wild animals.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

No wonder why this breed is called the “African Lion Hound.” Rhodesian Ridgebacks were developed to track and corner lions! No, they weren’t meant to kill them but to outmaneuver and keep lions at bay until hunters arrived. With this athleticism, intelligence, and courage, Rhodesian Ridgebacks became reliable partners in African safaris.

Tibetan Mastiff

Call them a lion in disguise! Tibetan Mastiffs were, and still are, one of the best guard dogs on Earth. They protected livestock and monks against snow leopards in the Himalayas (maybe they still do), and their thick mane protects them against bites. Plus, they can grow over 150 pounds. This makes Tibetan Mastiffs an intimidating force as they patrol and make decisions independently.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

This Turkish dog has been keeping wolves and bears at bay for over 6,000 years. Anatolian Shepherds rely on intelligence rather than brute force, using strategic aggression to scare off predators rather than fight them head-on. Even today, they are used to protect endangered animals across the world.

Boerboel

In South Africa, Boerboels were the ultimate farm defenders, strong enough to take on leopards and baboons. Surprisingly, they were bred to work alongside families, which made them fiercely loyal. With a bite force possibly stronger than Lynxes and Cheetahs, Boerboels remain one of the toughest protection dogs.

American Pit Bull Terrier

While not the biggest, the breed’s tenacity, muscle density, and deadly bite make it a dangerous opponent in the wild. Originally bred to catch wild hogs, the American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the most determined breeds in history. They just refuse to back down once they lock onto a target.

Akbash Dog

Only a few people may know about the Akbash. These dogs come from Turkey and use a mix of stealth and sudden bursts of speed to ambush serious predators. With an imposing size and a fearless nature, few animals dare to challenge Akbash Dogs.

Presa Canario

Coming from the Canary Islands, the Presa Canario is a no-nonsense working dog with immense power. Unlike other mastiff breeds, they have high speed and endurance, which allows them to take down aggressive prey smartly. Their scary presence alone is enough to make most animals rethink their attack.

Russian Bear Dog (Caucasian Ovcharka)

This massive guardian was trained to take on some of the largest predators in Russia. Their thick fur and muscle mass give them an edge in cold environments. Russian Bear Dogs don’t just chase predators away—they actively engage them in combat when necessary.

Catahoula Leopard Dog

A Catahoula Leopard Dog can handle even reptiles like alligators in the swamps of Louisiana. The dogs have a fearless nature and an unmatched tracking ability. They use this intelligence and agility to corner their prey. Just a handful of breeds are as adaptable to extreme hunting conditions as this one.