30 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds
Dogs are the favorite pet animals that many of us have or want to have. There are a wide variety of dog breeds across the world that are known for some specialty or the other. Some are cute, and some are dangerous, but categorizing domesticated dogs into the dangerous category would be wrong.
Determining the “most dangerous” dog breeds can be a contentious topic and varies based on numerous factors including individual temperament, training, socialization, and circumstances. However, certain breeds have been associated with more reported incidents due to their physical strength, size, or historical breeding purposes. Here’s a list that’s sometimes considered more prone to aggressive behavior:
Pit Bull Terrier
Originating from bull-baiting ancestors, Pit Bull Terriers transformed into versatile farm dogs. Their inherent loyalty and desire to please their owners, unfortunately, became manipulated for dog fighting, tainting their reputation. This breed’s natural disposition is affectionate, especially towards children, earning them the moniker “nanny dogs.” Strong and muscular with a powerful jaw bite power that can crack bones, it’s understandable why this breed is still considered one of the most aggressive and dangerous and why so many people continue to have a fear of Pit Bulls.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers pose a greater threat to people and other animals and can be a dangerous dog breed mostly due to their size. This working breed dog is built to protect. At 22”-27” tall and weighing up to 130 lbs, you don’t want to get on the wrong side of one. Rottweilers are well known to be powerful, protective, and loyal, and can be dangerous when they attack intruders. Although Rottweilers are not a threat to the family, they are usually very aggressive when they protect their owners. Rottweilers, when properly socialized and trained, exude affection and playfulness. Their deep-rooted loyalty leads to strong family bonds.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is primarily a livestock dog. They are very protective of their flock or family. One of the reasons for the number of attacks from German Shepherd dogs to be higher is that many people own these dogs. Not everyone fully understands and manages their dogs correctly. They are most popular, friendly and intelligent. German Shepherd is easy to train and extremely calm. However, they can be aggressive when introduced to an unknown person or animal. This working breed has earned its name as the best police dog breed but can become aggressive and dangerous when it is not doing anything constructive to let out all that energy.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies hail from the cold regions of Siberia, bred by the Chukchi Tribe for sled-pulling and companionship. Although they weigh only 60 pounds, they’re strong for their size and are very independent animals. These dogs are highly motivated by catching prey. Most animals that are smaller than them, including humans, can look like prey to them. It was initially bred for pulling light loads. When agitated, they can cause serious injury to people, kids, and other dogs. However, if trained properly, they are the most affectionate and well-natured breed.
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are energetic dog breeds that can get quite aggressive if not trained well. You must ensure the positive use of their energy. These dogs always feel like hunting for prey. So, you need to take extra care when having an Alaskan Malamute as your house pet. Another point to remember about this breed is that they learn slowly, which will ask for your patience while training them. Malamutes are friendly, affectionate, and, if raised in a family setting, get along well with children and other animals. Their powerful physique requires regular exercise, and without proper outlets for their energy, they can become destructive.
Doberman Pinscher
Bred in the late 19th century by a German tax collector, the Doberman Pinscher was crafted for protection and companionship. Their statuesque appearance, while striking, sometimes leads to misperceptions about their nature. Though initially guard dogs, modern Dobermans meld affection with alertness. Although Dobies are highly unlikely to turn on their guardians, never leave one unattended with children or other animals. They are used by the police and are good guard dogs. This breed is protective and strong. If trained well, they can get along with children and other dogs.
Bullmastiff
Although attacks by bullmastiffs are relatively infrequent, the fact is that these dogs are so large that when they do attack a person or another animal, the damage is severe. They can reach 130 pounds and stand 27 inches tall or more. These enormous dogs must have plenty of room to roam and exercise. A take-charge guardian would work well with this breed since they can be stubborn. They should also be socialized at an early age and never be left alone with small children or other animals. To avoid any unpleasant incidents while having them as house pets, you need to give them proper training and make them obedient.
Wolf Hybrid
As this dog’s name suggests, it is a hybrid between a domestic dog and a wolf. Owing to this, it is a huge challenge to train and socialize them, so it is a more dangerous dog breed than any other. Also, this breed possesses unpredictable physical characteristics. Since they hold the characteristics of wolves, they are regarded as fierce breeds in the world. These are unpredictable dog breeds that have a mind of their own. They are wild, demanding, and dangerous. Many states in the United States of America have banned owning a Wolf Hybrid as a pet.
Boxer
Boxers are interesting dogs because they are simultaneously incredibly dopey in terms of their looks, but they were bred to be working dogs. These dogs have a lot of energy, and they can weigh up to 80 pounds of muscle. The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting; colors are fawn or brindled, with or without white markings. Boxers are brachycephalic (they have broad short skulls), have a square muzzle, mandibular prognathism (an underbite), very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to a large prey.
Great Dane
The Great Dane is one of the world’s tallest dog breeds. Their chest is very wide. They are very powerful and noble animals. They have a dignified appearance that makes them seem regal and noble. Great Danes are the gentle giants of the doggie world. Their docile and friendly nature makes them excellent family pets. Despite their size, they’re typically patient with children and form close bonds with their families. Early training and socialization are key, mainly to manage their size and strength. Great Danes were big-game hunters, and these dogs used their large size to stop and hold games such as the wild boar.
Saint Bernard
Originating from the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards were initially used for rescue operations. Their keen sense of direction and resistance to cold made them invaluable in saving travelers from snowdrifts. Recognized by their large size and expressive eyes, they’re gentle and love being around families.
Their temperament is usually calm, and they are especially patient with kids. It’s their sheer size and deep bark that can sometimes be intimidating, but they’re more likely to greet strangers with a wagging tail than any form of aggression.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is ranked high on the list as one of the most dangerous dog breeds in the world because they’ve been known to turn on their handlers simply because they get bored. Chow Chow are active and require intense physical activity, devoid of physical activity; they can become destructive and aggressive. All working dogs need a positive outlet for unspent energy. Most attacks on people occur because of mismanaged dogs. As with most of the dangerous dogs on this list, the Chow Chow must be properly trained and socialized at a young age to avoid aggression issues.
Akita
Akitas have roots in Japan, where they were initially bred to hunt large game-like bears. Two types exist: the Japanese Akita Inu and the American Akita. Both are known for their intense loyalty and can be reserved with strangers. Their strong protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs.
Akita Inu has a strong and striking physique which makes it one of the dangerous dogs. Although they are kind, generous, and loyal to their masters, they can be stubborn at times. They have a territorial personality; this breed can slam its scissor-like jaws to protect their family and master.
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Mastiff
Mastiffs are incredible dogs! They’re known for their massive size and gentle nature. These breeds often make excellent guard dogs due to their imposing presence, but they’re also quite affectionate and loyal to their families. Their history traces back to ancient times when they were used as guardians, hunters, and protectors. Their large size can be intimidating, but their temperament is typically calm and loving. They are very large dogs with short, tawny coats and massive heads. Originally bred for battle, the Mastiffs are now used as guard dogs.
Bull Terrier
Originally bred in the 19th century in England, Bull Terriers were created by crossing Bulldogs with various terrier breeds for dogfighting, ratting, and as companions. Their short, dense coat comes in various colors, including white, brindle, black, and a combination of these colors. They are intelligent but can be independent-minded, requiring patient and consistent training. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they interact well with other animals and people. Bull Terriers, with their unique appearance and vibrant personality, make entertaining and loving companions for individuals and families.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, a majestic and powerful Italian breed, embodies strength, loyalty, and a protective nature. They require an owner who can provide proper training, socialization, and a structured environment. The Cane Corso, with its impressive stature and steadfast loyalty, can make a wonderful addition to the right family. Their protective instincts, coupled with their affectionate nature, can create a strong bond between the dog and its family. Due to their strong attachment to their family, they thrive on companionship and may exhibit signs of anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The original purpose of these dogs was to protect farms from lions. They are also called the African Lion dog because of their ability to keep African lions at bay. They are loyal, intelligent, and robust breed. These dogs are not for novice dog owners, and they require consistent leadership and training to prevent aggression. The breed requires good socialization skills, positive reward training, and avoidance of any kind of rough treatment. It might develop an aggressive side, if not taken care of properly.
Tosa Inu
This Japanese breed of dog is fearless and is specially developed as a fighting dog. Thus they ought to be aggressive. They are bold courageous, and extremely dominant. Thanks to their vast body structure, Tosa Inu is also known as the Sumo of the canines’ world. It is pretty challenging to train them, and if not socialize early, they could be a threat to anyone around them. This dog breed is known to bite their owners, and it doesn’t help that they have mighty jaws. As you have probably already guessed, the Tosa Inu is not a family pet and will not do well with children.
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino (or Argentinean Dogo) is an athletic, muscular hunting dog. The Dogo Argentino has been used for many types of hunting, including wild boar, deer, and jaguar. This breed was created by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez, a Nobel Prize winner from the Institute Pasteur de Montevideo in Uruguay. This dog breed was specifically developed to display traits like being brave and protective, and that is exactly what was achieved. Given their mean streak, it is safe to say that the breeders may just have done their job a little too well.
Presa Canario
Originating from the Canary Islands, Presas Canarios were bred for working livestock. Their powerful build combined with a sharp instinct makes them effective guardians. They can be very dominant and require a handler who understands canine behaviors and can establish themselves as the pack leader. With proper training and socialization, they can be calm and affectionate companions. However, due to their strong guarding instincts and potential for aggressive behavior if not correctly raised, they are not recommended for first-time dog owners.
American Bulldog
Unlike their British counterparts, the American bulldog is still a powerful working animal that has not been overbred to uselessness. Standing just shy of 30 inches high, these dogs can pack on muscle and weigh over 100 pounds. They’re thick, strong dogs that are very dangerous when they attack. Although that is not a large number, it’s significant when one considers that this breed is rarely mentioned alongside some of the other dangerous dogs. This breed has a powerful bite and the ability to jump high enough and hard enough to knock an adult flat on their back.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, often affectionately called the “Staffy,” is a medium-sized, muscular breed known for its loyalty, courage, and affectionate nature. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s roots trace back to 19th-century England, where it was bred for bull-baiting and later became a popular participant in dogfighting rings. Staffordshire Bull Terriers, when raised in a loving environment and given the right training and care, exemplify the best traits of a devoted and affectionate family pet.
Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois are remarkable dogs, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and incredible work ethic. They’re often seen working in various roles such as police work, search, and rescue, and as service dogs due to their high energy levels and eagerness to learn. Their sharp intelligence makes them quick learners, and they thrive on mental stimulation and physical exercise. These dogs are highly driven and require an active lifestyle to keep them both physically and mentally fulfilled. Their protective instincts and loyalty to their families make them wonderful companions for those who understand and can meet their needs.
Boerboel
The Boer Boel is a huge, Mastiff dog breed belonging to South Africa. The dog was bred as a guard dog for a farm or house. They were used as a first line of defense against the predators. These are very smart in attacking and holding down a wounded victim. They are loyal dogs that are very protective of their owner and family. This is another dog that needs a strong handler due to its size and somewhat strange attitude. It’s best to keep them away from children and other animals unless they were raised alongside them as puppies.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians are such striking dogs! They’re known for their distinctive spotted coat and lively, outgoing personalities. Originally bred as carriage dogs, they would run alongside carriages and horses, serving as guardians and providing companionship. They’re energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Dalmatians are often great with families, but their high energy levels might be a handful for some households. Their unique appearance and spirited nature make them quite popular pets.
Caucasian Ovcharka
The Caucasian Ovcharka, also called Caucasian shepherd was originally bred to protect the livestock. A Caucasian Ovcharka is strong-willed, assertive, and courageous. They’re quite territorial and independent and have “killer” watchdog instincts. They make strong bonds with family members, including other animals, but with strangers and unfamiliar dogs, they can be wary.
However, they only pose a threat and exhibit unmanageable and ferocious tendencies when not properly trained and socialized. They do not accept people and thus, lack the powerful urge to defend. If you are not ready to take care of a dangerous dog as a Caucasian Ovcharka, you should go for the smallest breeds of dogs.
Gull Dong
Known in Pakistan, where it was originally bred, as the Bully Gull Terr or the Pakistani bulldog, these canines were bred to be working dogs. They can weigh up to 140 lbs. and aren’t the best choice to be a family dog. The Gull Dong was bred by being crossed with a Bully Kutta, which is a Pakistani Mastiff. They can be quite aggressive, read, and dangerous, and need only the most experienced guardian. This dog is a rare breed throughout the world but is popular in Pakistan. They can be found in fighting rings even where the activity is illegal.
Kangal Shepherd Dog
Known as Sheepdogs, Kangal lives with the flock of sheep to protect them from predators. They were originally used to guard against bears, wolves, and jackals in Turkey. Owing to its jaws that resemble a monster, the breed is often considered the most dangerous dog breed in the world. Adding to it, his unpredictable temperament makes him one of the most aggressive dogs in the canine family. This Turkish dog is defensive and loyal to its family. Raising this breed could be challenging, and if not trained well, they can misbehave and bite anyone in the family.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever is a hunting dog that was bred to work alongside human beings. They’re fairly large dogs, weighing up to 80 pounds and only standing about 2 feet tall. Labradors are often prized as family-friendly dogs, and they make poor guard dogs for their trustworthy nature. So, how is it that Labradors became responsible for 2.1% of all the deaths in the study? Most of the time, it’s believed that the Labrador is defending its territory or even its food. Sometimes, humans inadvertently back their dog into a corner and make it feel threatened when they’re correcting its behavior.
Himalayan Sheepdog
Himalayan Sheepdog is a medium to large size dog from India. Nomadic tribes living in the Himalayas rely on this dog for sheep herding and protection from wolves and snow leopards. Himalayan Sheepdog is intelligent, powerful, and alert. These traits make them exceptional guard dogs. The Gaddi people who own these dogs say that these dogs have a stubborn temperament and can be challenging to train. The Himalayan Sheepdog is a descendant of the Tibetan Mastiff
Conclusion:
It’s crucial to emphasize that a dog’s behavior depends heavily on its temperament, training, socialization, and the environment it’s raised in. Responsible ownership, proper training, early socialization, and providing a loving home are key factors in a dog’s behavior, regardless of breed. Furthermore, breed-specific legislation targeting specific breeds varies by location and is a subject of debate among experts in the field of animal behavior.