When it comes to dog breeds there are very strong beliefs about which dogs are violent and which are not. Sadly, often times there are misconceptions that are spread as truth. In actuality, all dogs have the capacity to be violent. There are many factors that can play into why a dog becomes aggressive including genetics, the way they were raised, and the events surrounding the situation such as if the dog was or felt threatened.
Many may be shocked to learn the truth about some of the “mean” dogs with the bad reputation and which dogs do have a predisposition for aggressive behavior that is unexpected. According to Dog Central, you should not just look at the breed when choosing a dog because even a “gentle breed” can be fierce. They also said that the breeds most likely to bite are the ones people least expect. Here is our list of the dogs with the worst reputations and the ones that should have bad reps.
The Dogs With The Worst Reputation
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Pit bulls. This breed by far has the WORST reputation. Pit bulls are actually quite gentle dogs. They have gotten such a bad standing because when there is a dog bite involving a pit bull, the media jumps all over it. With so much extensive coverage the public is made to believe they are all dangerous. The fact of the matter is that when attacks involve other dog breeds they do not get nearly as much attention from the media.
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Rottweilers. They get their bad rep because they are so protective. Rottweilers are known to be extremely loyal to their masters. That is where the repute comes from; rottweilers will get aggressive when they feel there is a threat to their master. They make very good guard dogs for that reason. If the dog trusts you, you need not fear them because they are capable of showing affection despite the stereotypes.
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Doberman Pinschers. In the past, this breed was utilized as police dogs. Perhaps that is where their bad reputation started. As with many of the other misunderstood breeds, people mistake loyalty and protectiveness to mean they are violent dogs.
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Boxers. These dogs are great with kids. Boxers are one of the best breeds to choose for a family dog because they are very energetic and charming. They make good guard dogs because of their alertness and strength. Despite the beliefs, they are friendly and have been known to be good guide dogs.
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German Shepherds. One of the most intimidating features about this breed is their size. What would be constituted as a playful jump with a smaller dog could knock a full-grown adult to the ground. Despite the rumors, German shepherds are great with kids even if they are so big. When they are trained properly they are gentle with guests.
Breeds That Are Surprisingly Aggressive
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Chow Chows. Don’t be fooled by their fluffiness, these dogs will bite. They do not do well with strangers and are very aggressive fighters. Chow chows need to be trained properly straight away to prevent their ferocious nature from taking hold.
Photo credit: Gyllen Dogs.
Chihuahuas. Despite being so small, they are not good with kids. It could have something to do with a child’s tendency to treat a dog, especially such a small dog, like a toy. They much prefer the company of adults.
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Dachshunds. These dogs are not very patient and will quickly turn aggressive. They are very stubborn, which makes it difficult to train them. They also have been known to turn aggressive towards their owners.
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Papillons. This breed is not at all friendly. While they may be fine with their owners, they do not do well with new people. The term “ankle bitter” was probably inspired by this dog.
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Toy Poodles. This breed has a diva complex. What any other dog would perceive as playing, toy poodles think of as a threat. They become aggressive and bite in self-defense, but one wrong move and your friendly gesture will be met with violence.
No matter what breed dog does the biting, dog bite injuries are serious. In most states, the owner of the dog is legally responsible for any injury inflicted by the animal. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite or attack contact an injury lawyer in New Jersey to discuss your rights and options.
