Top 10 Tough-Looking Dog Breeds

Remember, even though they look tough, most can be...

1. Bullmastiff

This hefty breed is both stocky and solid.

Photo: TeamK, Pixabay

While they may look like they will rip off one or two of your limbs, unless you’re a threat, you’re safe.

These sweethearts are typically very calm and even-keeled.

They will even get along swimmingly with strangers and other animals.

You may have one who is more aggressive than usual, but that isn’t an overall breed trait.

2. Rottweiler

These husky dogs have a reputation for being highly aggressive.

Photo: TeamK, Pixabay

While it’s true that they are often wary of new people and will defend if necessary, they typically don’t act on impulse.

When it comes to their families, they’re loyal and gentle.

They may be selective about who they trust, but that makes them excellent guard dogs.

You won’t have to worry about protection with these guys around.

3. Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans look like they mean business—and they probably do.

Photo: Pixabay

They are intensely protective dogs, feeling out every newcomer or new situation with suspicion.

They are smart as a whip and won’t let anything get passed them.

While they may not attack you without reason, they will have their eye on you if they don’t know your intent.

4. German Shepherd

They are incredibly intelligent and impressively strong.

Photo: _Asma_, Pixabay

This is another pick on the list that has quite a fierce character.

They didn’t get a job role of being police dogs for no reason.

Ready to act at a moment’s notice, they use their skills in various ways.

This breed knows they can’t reap rewards from laying idly by.

Shepherds are usually aloof, but they do make fantastic companions, work, and service animals.

5. Caucasian Mastiff

These dogs are bred for dangerous work.

Photo: Pxfuel

They were purposefully made to ward off large predators like wolves and even bears.

Some of these massive beasts can weigh up to 200 pounds or more.

That is an absolutely stunning size.

While they may make extraordinary guard dogs, you must have a firm hand.

They’re much bigger than you, and they know it.

Respectful training is needed to establish a hierarchy.

6. Rhodesian Ridgeback

These dogs are extremely hard workers, but they are also stubborn.

Photo: du_weist_schon_wer, pixabay

They can be tough to train because they have a mind of their own.

However, if you can successfully teach them, they are amazing companion animals.

Even though they have hunting dog roots, they may also be good with other animals if you raise them together.

7. Dogo Argentino

These canines look tough, and for a good reason.

Photo: joseltr, Pixabay

They were another breed used as fighting dogs throughout history.

Because of that, they have potentially innate aggression with other dogs.

They will need to be well-socialized with other animals early on.

However, when it comes to people, this breed is amiable, loyal, and fun-loving.

8. Cane Corso

This impressive lug is very unapproachable looking, especially when they have their ears cropped.

Photo: agutti, Pixabay

While they aren’t generally mean for no reason, they are somewhat indifferent towards outsiders.

They have no opinion of you or care much about you either way.

They don’t bother judging you until you do something to cross a line.

Then, they won’t hesitate to protect whomever they feel you’re threatening.

9. American Bully

You may look at this dog and wonder how many steroids they take regularly.

Photo: Pxfuel

They look like they could give Arnold Schwarzenegger a run for his money.

While this dog may seem intimidating, they are one of the friendliest bully breeds.

They tend to adore strangers, children, and even other pets.

These guys may be beastly, but their bark is much bigger than its bite.

10. Tosa Inu

Tosa Inus have been given quite the bad name, as they were once used as fighting dogs.

Photo: acceptphoto, Shutterstock

They have been referred to as vicious, killing machines.

However, the actual nature of this dog is anything but.

They are very tranquil and laid back, not acting out unless absolutely necessary.

While humans can foul things up in no time at all, the true essence of this dog is that of good nature and balance.

10 MoreTough-Looking Dog Breeds

Photo: Artush, Shutterstock

When it comes to dogs, sometimes looks can be deceiving.

You may have a cute, cuddly little ball of fluff ready to tear off a finger.

On the opposite end, you may have a giant, gnarly-looking beast that would curl up in your lap if they could.

Sometimes, however, things are precisely as they seem.

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