Introduction
It’s important to note that most dogs are not inherently dangerous. In fact, according to research, the vast majority of dogs exhibit no aggressive tendencies if properly trained and socialized. However, any dog has the potential to be dangerous if mistreated, abused, or not given proper training. There are particular breeds that require experienced owners and diligent training to minimize the risk of aggression. This list will focus on dog breeds that tend to be more aggressive towards strangers and other animals when not carefully handled. With dedicated training and socialization, even these breeds can become safe family pets. Still, it’s important to understand the breed characteristics and potential dangers before deciding to bring one of these dogs into your home.
When evaluating how potentially dangerous a dog breed can be, some key factors include:
- Breed history and purpose – Dogs bred for protection or fighting may be more prone to aggression.
- Size and physical power – Larger, muscular dogs can do more damage if they do bite or attack.
- Bite force – Some breeds have much stronger bites, which increases risk of injury.
- Aggression towards strangers – Some dogs are more wary around unfamiliar people.
- Prey drive – High prey drive makes some dogs more likely to chase or attack other animals.
- Training and socialization – Lack of proper handling can lead to fearful or aggressive behavior.
10. Chow Chow
Historically, the Chow Chow originates from northern China, where it was bred as a general purpose dog to guard property, herd livestock, hunt, and pull sleds and carts. Known for a very dense double coat and lion-like appearance, this medium-sized dog became popular among the Chinese nobility and was often given as a gift (https://www.reddit.com/r/chowchow/comments/80x9c2/chow_chow_aggression/).
Chow Chows are sturdily built, square in profile, with a wide skull and small, triangular, erect ears. Their blue-black tongue and straight hind legs also give the breed a distinctive appearance. Though their long coat makes them look like cuddly teddy bears, Chow Chows are known for having an independent and sometimes aloof personality (https://www.askthedogguy.com/chow-chow-aggression/).
While Chow Chows are loyal and affectionate with family, they are reserved with strangers and territorial of their property. Their wariness of outsiders along with strong guarding instincts mean early socialization is essential for minimizing aggression. Chow Chows require patient, consistent training, though their independent mindset can make them a challenge to handle for inexperienced owners.
Though not typically extremely aggressive by nature, Chow Chows will act to defend their family and property if provoked. Their strong jaw muscles and scissor-like bite makes their attacks very dangerous. Proper containment, socialization, and obedience training from puppyhood is important to prevent Chow Chows from becoming overly aggressive or territorial.
9. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany in the late 19th century. This breed was first developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector who wanted a fierce guard dog to accompany him on his collections (1). Dobermans are medium to large-sized dogs that typically weigh 60-100 lbs and stand 24-28 inches tall. They have a sleek, muscular build with a short, smooth coat that comes in colors of black, blue, fawn, or red. Their ears are often cropped for a pointy, alert appearance.
Dobermans are known for being intelligent, loyal, and highly trainable. However, they are also associated with aggression and have a reputation as being dangerous. Dobermans are working dogs that have strong protective instincts. Without proper training and socialization from an early age, Dobermans can become fearful, reactive towards strangers, or aggressive towards other dogs (2). Their large size and muscular build means that a Doberman attack can potentially cause serious injury. Reports of Doberman attacks often involve situations where the dog was encouraged to be aggressive, was isolated from positive interactions with people, or lacked training (3). With responsible ownership, early socialization, and firm but positive training, Dobermans can make excellent family companions. However, their natural protectiveness means they require experienced handlers who can provide structure, exercise, and training to prevent problematic behaviors.
Sources:
(1) https://dogscoopy.com/doberman-pinscher-aggression/
(2) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5n08d6ydWog
(3) https://mydobermanslife.com/do-dobermans-brains-outgrow-their-skull/
8. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd originated in Germany in the late 1800s as a herding dog breed. They were first introduced to the United States in 1907 and steadily grew in popularity for their intelligence, trainability, and loyalty as working dogs. German Shepherds typically have a double coat that can come in various colors like black, tan, sable, all black, or all white. They have a long rectangular body, large pointed ears, and a bushy tail. Their average height ranges from 22-26 inches and they weigh between 50-90 pounds.
When properly trained and socialized, German Shepherds are known for being very obedient, eager to learn, energetic, and protective. They form strong bonds with their owners and aim to please them. However, without proper socialization from a young age, German Shepherds can become territorial, possessive, and aggressive. Their large size, power, boldness, and natural guarding tendencies mean they can potentially be dangerous in the wrong hands or environment. Poorly bred dogs may be more nervous or reactive. German Shepherds require extensive obedience training, stimulation, and experienced handling to prevent behavior issues.
While German Shepherds can make loyal family pets, their size, energy level, tendency to jump up on people, and potential for aggression mean exta caution should be taken around small children or the elderly. Socialization and training from puppyhood are key to minimizing any aggressive tendencies (Source 1). With proper care, most German Shepherds can thrive in family environments, but their natural guarding instincts mean they require dedicated training and management.
7. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff originated in England in the mid-19th century as a guard dog. Breeders crossed the English Mastiff with the Bulldog to create a large, brave, and loyal protector. Despite their intimidating appearance, Bullmastiffs are usually quite docile and loving with their families.
Bullmastiffs have a powerful, muscular build and broad head. Males typically stand 25-27 inches tall and weigh 110-130 pounds. Their short coat comes in fawn, red, or brindle. Bullmastiffs do not require much grooming beyond occasional brushing.
These dogs are generally calm, devoted, and obedient. However, their protectiveness and territorial instincts can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior, especially towards strangers. Without proper training and socialization, Bullmastiffs may be overly defensive. They may also exhibit dominance with other dogs. But overall, the Bullmastiff aims to please its family.
6. Wolf Hybrid
Wolf hybrids originated from the intentional crossing of wolves and domestic dogs. The first record of wolf-dog hybridization occurred in the United States in the 1960s.[1] People bred wolves and dogs in an attempt to create an exotic pet with the temperament of a domesticated dog and the aesthetic of a wolf.
Wolf hybrids typically have long fur, upright ears, and a mix of wolf and dog features in their facial structure. Their coat colors vary greatly including black, gray, white, tan, and brown. Wolf hybrids are mid-sized canines, ranging from about 45-120 pounds depending on the breed mix. Their height ranges from about 25-32 inches at the shoulder.
The temperament of a wolf hybrid can be difficult to predict. While some exhibit more docile, domesticated dog personalities, others retain more wolf-like tendencies including skittishness, independence, prey drive, and potential aggression issues. Wolf hybrids tend to be challenging to train and socialize due to their wild nature and strong instincts.[2]
Wolf hybrids have the potential for aggression, especially toward unfamiliar people and dogs. Their predatory instincts and tendency to be skittish around strangers can lead to defensive or aggressive behaviors. Owners must properly socialize wolf hybrids from a young age to minimize aggression risks. Even with socialization, their genetic propensity for volatile behavior remains a concern in home settings, particularly with children.[3]
5. Pit Bull
Pit bulls were originally bred in England in the 19th century for the cruel sport of bull baiting. When that was banned in 1835, pit bulls were then bred for dog fighting. Today’s pit bulls descend from the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier breeds. They typically weigh between 30-65 lbs and stand 17-21 inches tall.
When properly trained and socialized, pit bulls are typically loyal, friendly, and make excellent family dogs. However, some pit bulls that have been poorly bred or raised do show aggression, especially towards other dogs. According to studies, pit bulls were involved in 60% of fatal dog attacks on humans between 1979-1998. Their strong jaws and tendency to bite and hold can cause severe injuries.
With proper training, socialization, responsible breeding and ownership, pit bull aggressiveness can be minimized. Pit bulls should be supervised around children and unknown dogs. Owners need to be alert to any signs of aggression and seek professional help from trainers and behaviorists if needed.
4. Husky
The husky originated as a sled dog in the Arctic regions of Siberia. They were bred by the Chukchi people to pull heavy loads long distances in cold temperatures. Huskies were brought to Alaska in 1909 for sled dog racing, and they later became popular family pets across North America.
Huskies are medium-sized dogs weighing 35-60 pounds. They have a thick double coat that comes in a variety of colors like black, white, gray, copper, or brown. Huskies have perky ears, a furry tail that curls over the back, and striking blue, brown, or amber-colored eyes. Their bodies are athletic and muscular.
Huskies are energetic, intelligent, and affectionate. They bond closely with their families but can be wary of strangers. Huskies thrive when exercised daily and enjoy activities like hiking, running, and dog sports. Without proper socialization and training, they may exhibit prey drive towards small animals or aggression towards other dogs.
Potential aggression issues in huskies often stem from lack of exercise, training, or socialization. Signs of aggression may include growling, barking, biting, snarling, and snapping. Many triggers can lead to husky aggression like fear, possession/food aggression, maternal aggression, or dominance/leash aggression. With consistent training methods and proper care, aggression can be minimized in this breed (https://www.snowdog.guru/how-to-deal-with-an-aggressive-husky/).
3. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler originated as a herding dog in the town of Rottweil, Germany, dating back to the Roman Empire. They were used to drive cattle to market and pull carts laden with meat and other products. Rottweilers are large, powerful dogs, with males reaching 24-27 inches tall and weighing 95-135 pounds. Females are 22-25 inches tall and weigh 80-100 pounds. They have a black coat with rust or mahogany markings on the cheeks, eyebrows, chest, legs and tail.
Rottweilers are confident, alert and fearless. They are loyal companions that bond closely with their human family. However, they can be territorial, wary of strangers, and potentially aggressive without proper training and socialization. Their large size and powerful bite make Rottweiler aggression especially dangerous. Proper training and socialization from puppyhood is essential to curb aggressive tendencies and ensure Rottweilers interact appropriately with people and other animals.
Rottweilers should be supervised around small children, as their herding instincts can cause them to bump or knock kids over. They may become overprotective of family members. Early socialization and obedience training can minimize this guarding tendency. Rottweilers require experienced owners who establish themselves as pack leader and provide firm, consistent training.
2. Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of domestic dog originally bred for hauling heavy freight because of their strength and endurance, and later made popular as a family pet.
Some key facts about the Malamute breed:
- Originated in the Arctic region of Alaska as part of the Mahlemut tribe.
- One of the oldest Arctic dog breeds, used historically for sledding, hunting seals, protect property from bears.
- Large, powerfully built dog with a broad head, erect ears, and thick, dense coat.
- Typically friendly, devoted, playful. Known as an affectionate family dog.
- Strong prey drive due to history of hunting/working dogs. May show aggression towards smaller animals.
- High energy breed that needs extensive daily exercise and activities.
- Prone to dominance issues if not trained properly, needs experienced owner.
- Can be destructive and escape artists if bored or not exercised enough.
While Malamutes are usually friendly dogs, their strength, energy level, and history as work dogs means they can develop aggressive tendencies without proper training and socialization. Their size and power means any aggression issues should be addressed immediately by an experienced trainer or owner.
1. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso originated in Italy as a farm dog used for hunting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their name derives from the Latin “cohors” meaning “protector”. Cane Corsos are large, muscular dogs with a signature wrinkled forehead and intimidating appearance. They typically stand 24-27 inches tall and weigh 90-120 pounds.
Cane Corsos are highly intelligent, confident, and loyal. They bond strongly with their families. Without proper socialization and training, Cane Corsos may be aggressive towards strangers and unfamiliar dogs. Their protectiveness and tendency to dominate can become problematic.
According to the ASPCA, Cane Corsos were responsible for 9 human deaths from 2005-2017. Their size, power, and strong guarding instincts mean early socialization and obedience training are essential. Potential aggression issues should not be taken lightly.
One expert notes “Cane Corsos have been described as docile family pets that are protective of their owners and family…This loyalty and protection can go terribly wrong when not handled properly” (Source). Proper training and supervision are critical to prevent aggression problems.
Conclusion
When considering dangerous dog breeds, there are certain factors that contribute, like poor training and socialization. However, some breeds are naturally more aggressive and require extra diligence. The top 10 most dangerous breeds included Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Bullmastiffs, Wolf Hybrids, Pit Bulls, Huskies, Rottweilers, Malamutes, and Cane Corsos.
It’s important to properly train and socialize any dog from a young age, regardless of breed tendencies. Look for professional dog trainers in your area that specialize in addressing aggressive behaviors if you adopt an older dog that exhibits problematic behaviors. Don’t attempt to train aggressive behaviors out on your own.
There are effective techniques and tools to curb aggression through positive reinforcement, exercise, and socialization [1][2]. With time, patience, and consistency, even notoriously aggressive breeds can become loving companions.