Weight pulling is a high-intensity sport where dogs drag weighted sleds or carts over a short distance. Not all breeds are suited for this demanding activity. The best competitors have a combination of strength, endurance, and drive. Here are the top dog breeds that excel in weight pulling, along with specific reasons why they dominate the sport.
1. American Pit Bull Terrier – Pound-for-Pound Champion
The American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is widely regarded as one of the best weight-pulling dogs. Despite their medium size 30–60 lbs (13.6–27.2 kg), they possess incredible muscle density, high pain tolerance, and an unmatched work ethic. Their determination, or “gameness,” ensures they don’t give up easily. Many record-holding weight pullers are APBTs, often out-pulling much larger breeds.
2. American Bully – Muscular and Driven
With their compact, heavily muscled frames, American Bullies thrive in weight pulling. They share the Pit Bull’s relentless drive but have a bulkier build, making them well-suited for raw strength-based competitions. Variants like the Standard and XL American Bully are particularly strong contenders in weight-pulling leagues.
3. Alaskan Malamute – Arctic Powerhouse
Originally bred to haul heavy sleds, Alaskan Malamutes are built for pulling. They weigh between 75–100 lbs (34–45.4 kg) and have exceptional endurance. Their thick double coat allows them to perform well in winter weight-pulling events. Malamutes excel in long-distance endurance pulling rather than short bursts of extreme weight.
4. Siberian Husky – Endurance Overload
While not as powerful as the Malamute, Siberian Huskies dominate endurance-based pulling competitions. They were bred to pull light loads over vast distances. Their lean yet strong build enables them to maintain impressive pulling speeds over time. Huskies with a strong prey drive and excellent harness training can be surprisingly competitive in weight-pulling sports.
5. American Bulldog – Stocky and Strong
The American Bulldog is another weight-pulling powerhouse. These dogs are heavier than Pit Bulls, typically weighing between 60–120 lbs (27.2–54.4 kg), with thick bones and immense jaw strength. Their muscular structure allows them to excel in competitions requiring bursts of explosive strength. With the right training, they can pull thousands of pounds.
6. Rottweiler – Sheer Pulling Power
Rottweilers, originally bred as cattle-driving dogs, have massive strength. Weighing between 80–135 lbs (36.3–61.2 kg), they possess powerful hindquarters and a broad chest, making them excellent weight-pulling competitors. Their loyalty and determination make them easy to train for competitive pulling events.
7. Cane Corso – Italian Muscle and Drive
The Cane Corso is a naturally powerful breed with strong pulling capabilities. Originating as a war and farm dog in Italy, this breed has a muscular, athletic build and weighs between 90–120 lbs (40.8–54.4 kg). Their high intelligence, eagerness to work, and natural inclination for pulling make them strong contenders in weight-pulling competitions. With proper training, Cane Corsos can develop exceptional pulling strength while maintaining agility.
8. Mastiff Breeds – The Heavyweight Contenders
Mastiffs, such as the English Mastiff and Neapolitan Mastiff, have the sheer bulk to move extreme weights. Some of these dogs weigh over 200 lbs (90.72 kg), giving them a natural advantage in heavyweight categories. However, their lower endurance levels and slower movement mean they require strategic training to excel.
9. Saint Bernard – Mountain-Bred Strength
Saint Bernards were originally bred for rescue work in the Swiss Alps. They have immense power and a thick frame, often weighing 140–180 lbs (63.5–81.6 kg). Their calm temperament and ability to pull heavy loads make them strong contenders in weight-pulling competitions. However, their larger size means they need careful conditioning to prevent joint issues.
10. Newfoundland – Water and Weight-Pulling Expert
Newfoundlands are natural-born draft dogs. Originally used for pulling nets and carts, they possess thick bones, powerful muscles, and webbed feet, giving them a unique advantage in wet conditions. Their endurance and steady pulling pace make them excellent competitors in organized weight-pulling events.
11. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog – Natural Draft Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a true working breed designed for pulling heavy loads. Weighing 85–140 lbs (38.5–63.5 kg), these dogs were used for draft work in the Alps. Their patience and natural pulling instinct make them exceptional in structured training programs for weight-pulling sports.
12. Kangal – Raw Power and Stamina
The Kangal, a livestock guardian breed from Turkey, is not commonly seen in weight-pulling competitions, but its raw power makes it a potential contender. With an average weight of 90–150 lbs (40.8–68 kg) and an athletic frame, Kangals possess the muscle strength and drive to excel with proper conditioning.
13. Belgian Malinois – Lightweight Competitor with Intense Drive
While Belgian Malinois are not typical weight pullers, their intense drive and high energy levels allow them to outperform their size. With proper training and harness work, some Malinois have achieved impressive weight-pulling feats, relying on their incredible work ethic rather than brute strength.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Dog for Weight Pulling
Competitive weight pulling requires a combination of genetics, training, and drive. Breeds with a strong work ethic, high muscle density, and natural pulling instincts tend to excel. If you’re looking to get into weight-pulling competitions, consider these breeds and focus on strength conditioning, harness training, and motivation techniques to maximize performance.