Ever wondered which dogs you should steer clear of? You’ve probably heard stories of pit bulls or Rottweilers attacking people and may assume they top the list of most dangerous dogs. However, some breeds you would never expect to be aggressive also make the list. Before you bring a new furry friend into your home, you’ll want to do plenty of research on the breed’s temperament and needs. While any dog can be aggressive in the wrong circumstances or with irresponsible ownership, some breeds do tend to be more aggressive by nature, according to statistics on dog bite injuries and fatalities.
Read on to discover the 15 most dangerous breeds and what makes them prone to aggression. You may be surprised by a few breeds on this list, so make sure you go in with an open mind.
Defining “Dangerous” Dog Breeds
So what makes a breed “dangerous”? It’s not necessarily about aggression but a combination of factors like strength, pain tolerance, and territorial instincts. Some dogs were bred as guardians, so they tend to be wary of strangers and quick to attack in defense of their owners or homes.
You’ve probably heard of breeds like pit bulls, rottweilers, and German shepherds described this way. But any breed can be dangerous in the wrong hands or without proper training. Responsible ownership and socialization from an early age can help reduce aggressive tendencies in dogs of any breed.
15 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds in the World (2024)
Any dog of any breed can become dangerous without care, love, and attention. With the right owner, even typically aggressive dogs can make safe and loving pets. But there’s no denying some breeds require extra caution and responsibility. When it comes to dangerous dogs, there are a few breeds that frequently top the list.
Pit Bull
Pit Bulls were originally bred in England, Scotland, and Ireland as “bull baiting” dogs. Bull baiting involved tying a bull to a stake and setting dogs on it as a spectator sport. Pit Bulls were bred to be aggressive, fearless, and willing to fight. These traits still exist in some Pit Bulls today, making them potentially dangerous dogs.
Some tips for responsible Pit Bull ownership:
- Socialize and train your Pit Bull from an early age. Early positive experiences with people and other dogs can help address aggressive tendencies.
- Never encourage aggressive behavior. Do not play rough or encourage your Pit Bull to be aggressive.
- Keep your Pit Bull on a leash in public and use a properly fitted collar and harness. Make sure your yard is securely fenced.
- Spay or neuter your Pit Bull. Intact males can be more aggressive and territorial.
- Be an advocate for the breed. Promote a positive image of Pit Bulls through responsible ownership and education.
With proper care, training, and affection, Pit Bulls can make loyal and loving companions. However, it is important to understand the breed’s history and take extra precautions to prevent aggressive behavior.
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is one of the oldest breeds of dogs, dating back to the Roman Empire. Rottweilers were used as cattle dogs to drive livestock and guard resources. They are large dogs known for being strong, courageous, and intimidating.
Today, Rottweilers still make excellent guard dogs and companions. However, they require experienced owners who can properly train and socialize them from an early age. Rottweilers that are not well-trained or socialized can become aggressive or territorial. They are powerful animals, and their size and strength alone can make them dangerous.
Rottweilers are not an inherently vicious breed, but they do have strong territorial instincts and can be aggressive in certain situations if not properly handled. With consistent training, socialization and a watchful owner, Rottweilers can make loving and devoted companions. However, they require an experienced owner who understands how to establish themselves as the pack leader to avoid behavioral issues.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, but they can also be dangerous. German Shepherds were originally bred as herding dogs, so they tend to be energetic and intelligent and enjoy having a job or task to do. Without proper training and attention, these dogs may become bored or frustrated and act out aggressively. German Shepherds are very protective of their families and homes due to their herding instincts, so they can be aggressive toward strangers or in unfamiliar situations if not well socialized from an early age. However, with responsible ownership, training, exercise, attention, and proper care, German Shepherds can make loyal and loving companions.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a large breed of utility dog descended from the now-extinct Old English Bulldog. They were originally used as working dogs on farms to protect livestock and property. Today, although still protective of their territory and family, American Bulldogs are often kept as companion animals. This breed is stocky, powerful, and muscular, with a broad head, muscular jaws, and ears that fold forward.
American Bulldogs require daily exercise and attention. They need a strong, experienced owner who can properly train and socialize them. When not given the proper care, attention, and training, American Bulldogs can become aggressive or destructive. Overall, American Bulldogs can make great companions for an active owner who has the time to properly care for them.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large breed of domestic dog with a solid build and a short muzzle. Originally developed in England, the Bullmastiff was used to guard against poachers. These powerful yet gentle dogs make loyal companions and excellent guard dogs. However, their size and strength mean they require an experienced owner who can properly train and handle them.
Some key points about the Bullmastiff:
- Can weigh up to 130-150 lbs. Requires space and eats a lot.
- Prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia or bloat.
- Short coat requires minimal grooming but sheds moderately.
- Powerful and courageous. Territorial and can be aggressive without proper training.
- Devoted and gentle with their families, especially children.
- Tend to be lazy and calm indoors but need daily activity and exercise.
- Lifespan of 7-10 years.
The Bullmastiff is a big responsibility but can make a great family pet and protector if you’re prepared to properly care for this breed. Early socialization and obedience training are musts.
Siberian Huskies
Siberian Huskies are one of the oldest dog breeds. Originally used as sled dogs, these canines are very energetic, playful, and friendly. However, their high energy level and independence can make them difficult to train.
Huskies require daily exercise and attention, or they may become bored and develop behavioral issues. They are pack animals and don’t like to be left alone for long periods. Huskies tend to be “talkers” and like making a “roo-roo” sound to communicate. Though usually good-natured, Huskies have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals. They can also be aggressive towards other dogs of the same sex. Early socialization and training are important to curb unwanted behaviors.
If you want a Husky as a pet, be prepared to commit the time needed to properly care for this active breed. With patience and consistency, Huskies can make loyal and entertaining companions for an active household.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, but they can also be dangerous. Labs were originally bred as hunting companions, so they have a strong predatory instinct.
Labs require extensive training and attention to avoid behavioral issues. Without proper care and exercise, Labs may become restless or even aggressive. Due to their large size and energy level, Labs need consistent leadership and boundaries. If not trained properly, Labs can knock over small children or the elderly by accident. Labs are also very mouthy dogs and may nip or mouth hands and limbs, even in play. Proper training and socialization from an early age can help minimize these behaviors.
Boxer
The Boxer is a medium to large breed known for being energetic, playful, and patient with children. However, they were originally bred as guard dogs and can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers if not properly socialized from an early age.
- Boxers need extensive training and attention, or they can become restless and bored, which may lead to destructive behavior.
- They require daily exercise and play to release pent-up energy.
- Boxers can be stubborn and require patient, consistent, and positive training. Harsh discipline will likely backfire.
- Early socialization is key. Expose your Boxer to many different people, sights, and sounds from an early age so they can learn appropriate behavior and not become fearful or aggressive towards strangers or other dogs.
- Keep a close eye on your Boxer around small children and teach kids how to properly and gently interact with them. Never leave a young child alone unsupervised with any dog.
- Boxers can be indoor or outdoor dogs but prefer to be close to their owners and families. They do not do well being isolated or left alone for long periods.
- Grooming needs are minimal, but regular brushing, bathing, nail trimming, and teeth brushing are recommended.
The Boxer can make a great family companion for an active household, but they require daily attention, training, exercise, and early socialization. When their needs are met, Boxers are playful, energetic, and devoted lifelong friends.
Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts; the Doberman Pinscher can also be dangerous. Originally bred as guard dogs, Dobermans are suspicious of strangers and may show aggression if they perceive a threat. However, with proper training and socialization from an early age, these powerful and energetic dogs can become loving companions. Dobermans require experienced owners who can establish themselves as the pack leader. If you’re considering getting a Doberman, be prepared to commit the time needed for obedience training and daily exercise. With the right owner, Dobermans can make great family pets and guardians.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute, one of the oldest Arctic dog breeds, were originally bred as sled dogs for hauling freight and for hunting seals. They are powerful dogs with sturdy build, known for their endurance and strength. However, their independence and stubbornness, combined with their size and strength, mean that they may be dangerous if not properly trained and socialized from an early age.
These dogs require daily exercise and attention, as well as firm and consistent training. Without proper care and exercise, Malamutes may become bored or frustrated and develop behavioral issues. They also have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals. While not inherently aggressive, their size and power mean that any aggression needs to be taken seriously.
Overall, Alaskan Malamutes can make loyal and friendly companions, but they are not suitable for inexperienced owners and require a major time commitment to proper care and training. If you’re looking for a guard dog, this breed is not the best choice. But if you want a friendly, playful dog to join you on outdoor adventures, the Alaskan Malamute could be the perfect pal.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. This friendly and energetic breed makes a great family companion. However, some Goldens may become overly friendly and excited, jumping up on people and other dogs. Proper training and socialization from an early age can help address this behavior.
Goldens are very energetic, especially as puppies and young dogs. They require daily exercise, play, and walks to burn off energy and stay happy and healthy. Goldens who don’t get enough activity and attention may develop behavioral issues. Goldens also need mental stimulation to prevent boredom, so provide interactive dog toys to keep their mind engaged.
Goldens are highly social and bond very closely with their families. They don’t do well being left alone for long periods and may suffer from separation anxiety. Crate training a Golden from an early age can help, but they still require plenty of time and attention from their owners.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Red or Blue Heeler and Queensland Heeler, is a compact but powerful dog originally bred for controlling cattle.
These energetic, intelligent dogs require a job to do and a lot of exercise, or they can become bored and destructive. They are not ideal for apartment-living or inactive owners. Australian Cattle Dogs need a yard and opportunities to run and play. Without enough activity and mental stimulation, this breed is prone to behavioral issues like excessive barking, chewing, and chasing.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a large Italian breed of dog that descends from the dogs of ancient Rome. Cane Corsos were used as guard dogs, to hunt wild boar, and to protect livestock.
The Cane Corso is a territorial breed and can be aggressive towards other dogs. Early socialization and training are important to help curb aggressive tendencies. Cane Corsos are very loyal to their owners and families. They are natural guard dogs and will protect their home and property. The Cane Corso is an intelligent breed and responds well to consistent training, but requires an experienced owner.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is one of the most dangerous dogs. Originally bred as a hunting dog in China, the Chow Chow is known for being aloof, wary of strangers, and often aggressive. Despite their cute and fluffy appearance, Chows can be territorial and protective of their owners and property. Chows require early socialization and consistent, lifelong training to help address their aggressive tendencies. However, even with the best training and care, some Chow Chows remain aggressive and territorial, especially toward other animals and strangers. Due to their size and power, an attack from an aggressive Chow Chow can cause serious injury.
Chows can be challenging for inexperienced dog owners to handle and are generally not recommended for families with young children. Their aggression, especially toward unfamiliar people and other animals, makes them a risky breed to own.
Wolf Hybrid
Wolf hybrids, as the name suggests, are part wolf and part dog. Their wolf ancestry means they can be dangerous and difficult to train. Wolf hybrids are illegal to own in many places, so check your local regulations before getting one.
Wolf hybrids require a high-protein diet to stay healthy and behave well. Feed your hybrid a diet specifically for large-breed dogs with some raw meat. Hybrids have strong jaws and teeth, so they need things like raw bones and bully sticks to chew on. Make sure any chew toys are large and durable.
Tips for Safety Around Aggressive Dogs
When encountering an aggressive dog, your safety should be the top priority. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Remain calm and do not make direct eye contact. Looking away and avoiding direct eye contact can help prevent escalating the dog’s aggression.
- Do not turn your back or run away. Slowly back away from the dog while facing it. Running away can trigger its prey drive.
- Make yourself appear big by raising your arms or opening your jacket. But do not make any sudden movements or loud noises.
- If the dog continues to threaten you, warn the owner about controlling their dog. Call the authorities if the situation becomes dangerous.
- Carry protection like an umbrella, air horn, or pepper spray in case of an attack. But only use these as a last resort in self-defense.
- Teach your kids to avoid unfamiliar dogs and ask an adult if they want to pet a dog. Kids should remain motionless if approached by an aggressive dog.
- Report any aggressive dogs to animal authorities. Provide details about the incident and location to help prevent future attacks.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the 15 most dangerous dog breeds according to statistics and reports. While some breeds may be more prone to aggression, any breed can become dangerous in the wrong hands. At the end of the day, how a dog is raised and trained plays a much bigger role in their behavior and temperament. However, some dogs may still inherit traits like a quick temper, so they require experienced owners able to establish dominance.
If you’re considering getting a dog, do plenty of research on the breed to make sure it matches your lifestyle. And if you already have a dog, be sure to properly socialize and train them from an early age. By being a responsible and loving owner, you can help curb aggression and ensure you have a faithful companion for life, no matter the breed.