Ranked: The Top 10 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds

Dogs are known as man’s best friend, but some breeds have a reputation for being dangerous. Many people believe that certain breeds are more prone to aggression than others, but the truth is that aggression is not limited to any specific breed. Any dog can become dangerous if not trained or socialized properly. Aggressive behaviour in dogs can manifest in several ways, including growling, biting, and barking. While it is essential to recognize the signs of aggression in dogs, it is equally important to understand that an owner plays a significant role in the development of aggressive behaviour in dogs. A dog’s environment, upbringing, and training are significant factors that can affect its behaviour. In this article, we will be ranking the top ten most dangerous breeds while emphasizing the role an owner plays in their dogs becoming dangerous.

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Pit Bull

According to Forbes, the Pit Bull is often considered the most dangerous dog breed. Pit bulls have a reputation for being aggressive and are responsible for many attacks and fatalities – more than half of all in the United States¹. However, it is essential to note that not all pit bulls are aggressive. Proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership can prevent aggressive behavior in pit bulls. The Humane Society emphasizes that dog aggression is a behavior issue, not a breed-specific problem. Any dog can become aggressive, and aggression is not limited to any specific breed².

Rottweiler

Another breed known for its strength and protectiveness, Rottweilers make for an excellent guard dog. However, they can become aggressive if not socialized and trained properly. Rottweilers are responsible for many attacks and fatalities, making them one of the most dangerous breeds. Like the pit bull, responsible ownership, training, and socialization can prevent aggressive behavior in Rottweilers.

German Shepherd

Intelligent, loyal, and protective; German Shepherds are among the most popular and dangerous dog breeds. They are commonly used as police, guide, and search and rescue dogs. What German Shepherds need are ways to be pushed intellectually while also getting adequate exercise, or else they become frustrated and aggressive. German Shepherds can be loyal and friendly family pets with proper training and socialization.

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Doberman Pinscher

Pinschers are intelligent, loyal, and fearless dogs, and like German Shepherds, are also commonly used as guard dogs and police dogs. Like many of the breeds on this list, Dobermans require early socialization and training to prevent aggressive behavior.

Husky

Huskies are intelligent, incredibly active, and independent dogs. They are commonly used as sled dogs and as pets. With the combination of strength, intelligence, and highly active nature, if not socialized properly, these dogs can become destructive – to both property and living things. It is wise to socialize, train your dog early on, and stay ahead of your active Husky’s lifestyle.

Alaskan Malamutes 

Like a Husky-German Shepherd mix but bigger, Alaskan Malamutes are intelligent, loyal, and independent dogs. They are also commonly used as sled dogs and as pets. However, because of their size, their aggression can be fatal if a Malamute is not trained properly. Like many of the breeds on this list, early socialization and training are the way to go. 

Chow Chow

These dogs are intelligent, independent, but aloof dogs. These fluffy guys are commonly used as guard dogs and as pets. However, Chow Chows can become aggressive if not socialized and trained properly. The Humane Society is an excellent resource to use when training dogs early on and when trying to break patterns of aggression.

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Dalmatian

These guys are active, energetic, and highly intelligent. Dalmatians are commonly used as pets but are the poster child for firehouses. However, Dalmatians are also famously aggressive towards children, and this is often because they are not socialized and trained properly at an early age. These dogs get a bad reputation for something outside of their control. 

Boxer

Boxers are playful and energetic, as well as intelligent dogs. Due to their intimidating stance and look, they are commonly used as guard dogs as well as pets. But beneath their authoritative-looking exterior is a playful puppy that wants stimulation and love. Train your Boxer early, and your friends will think your dog is an anomaly compared to the rest of the breed. 

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Presa Canarios 

Rounding out the list with the most interesting name, Presa Canarios are strong, loyal, and protective dogs. They are commonly used as, you guessed it, guard dogs and as pets and are only prone to aggression if not socialized and trained properly. 

Takeaways

What is most notable on this list is how every single breed on here is a highly intelligent dog. Not one “dangerous breed” is a mindless animal. It is important to note that dog aggression is a behavior issue, not a breed-specific problem. While some breeds have a reputation for being more dangerous than others, this is because they lack stimulation or are trained improperly. Less intelligent animals that require less stimulation will not turn aggressive when ignored or neglected, but these breeds are prone to turning aggressive when neglected. Aggression is a learned behavior, and as owners, we must do better to meet the needs of our pets. According to the Smithsonian Magazine, a study conducted by researchers at the University of Bristol found that owners play a significant role in whether a dog becomes aggressive or not³. The study found that dogs that were punished or poorly socialized were more likely to be aggressive.

Owners Are Responsible

Owners are responsible for ensuring their dogs receive proper training and socialization to prevent aggressive behavior. Dogs that are poorly socialized or not trained can become anxious, fearful, or aggressive. It is the responsibility of the owner to ensure that their dog receives early socialization and training. Socialization is the process of exposing a dog to different people, animals, and environments to help them feel comfortable and confident. Socialization should begin at a young age and continue throughout a dog’s life. Training is another essential aspect of preventing aggressive behavior in dogs. Basic obedience training can help a dog learn how to behave appropriately in different situations.

In conclusion

While some breeds have a reputation for being more dangerous than others, it is important to understand that any dog can become dangerous if not trained and socialized properly. Owners play a significant role in preventing aggressive behavior in dogs, and proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership can prevent attacks and fatalities. By understanding the signs of aggression in dogs and taking appropriate action, we can ensure that our dogs are safe and well-behaved pets.

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