When adopting a dog, many people are looking for a loyal companion, not a troublemaker. To minimise the risk of aggression, some might choose breeds known for their gentle nature.
However, statistics on dog breed aggression can be inconsistent, influenced by factors such as the owner’s behaviour and how “aggression” is defined.
Despite this variability, certain breeds are often highlighted for their aggressive tendencies, ranging from small toy breeds to large working dogs, including the most popular dog in America for nearly three decades.
Here’s a look at some of the breeds frequently labelled as aggressive—though these claims should be approached with caution.
Dachshunds: Small but Feisty.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds can display aggression if provoked. Originally bred for hunting, these dogs might show aggressive behaviour if they aren’t properly socialised or trained. Research from the University of Pennsylvania identified Dachshunds as one of the more aggressive breeds,
particularly towards their owners and other dogs. A 2005 study noted that Dachshunds were among the top three breeds most likely to bite children under 17, with at least 22 incidents recorded between 1994 and 2003.
Pit Bulls: A Controversial Reputation.
The stereotype of Pit Bulls as aggressive dogs has some basis in statistics. A 13-year study by DogBite.org found that Pit Bulls were involved in 66% of fatal dog attacks in the U.S. Some researchers argue that aggressive individuals might be more inclined to own breeds perceived as aggressive, which could skew these numbers.
Unfortunately, this reputation has led to Pit Bulls being banned in 10 states, resulting in many being euthanized in shelters. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics did not find evidence of excessive aggression in Pit Bulls in their studies.
Chihuahuas: Small but Mighty Aggressors.
In a 2016 survey by Dognition, dog owners rated Chihuahuas as more aggressive than Pit Bulls, challenging common perceptions. The survey’s results were corroborated by other research,
including findings from the American Temperament Test Society, which highlighted Chihuahuas as one of the more aggressive breeds. A 2008 study also noted that Chihuahuas were responsible for more attacks than Dobermans.
In summary, while certain breeds are frequently labelled as aggressive, it’s important to consider the broader context and remember that individual dog behaviour is greatly influenced by factors such as upbringing, training, and environment.
The Role of German Shepherds as Fierce Police Dogs.
In 2016, German Shepherds earned their spot as the 2nd most important and popular dog breed in the U.S., as reported by the American Kennel Club. Their exceptional loyalty and intelligence are key traits that make them highly valued. However, despite their reputation, German Shepherds do have a propensity for biting.
A 2005 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics highlighted breed-specific bite statistics for children under 17. German Shepherds, despite their esteemed status, ranked high with 105 reported bites over nine years, trailing only behind mixed breeds.
Border Collies: Unexpected Biters.
Though Border Collies are not commonly categorised as aggressive, they can occasionally exhibit biting behaviour. High-profile maulings involving Border Collies were reported in 2010, 2014, and 2015, bringing attention to their potential for aggression.
However, such severe incidents are relatively rare compared to nonfatal bites, which occur more frequently.
The American Veterinary Medical Association designates Border Collies as “frequent biters,” with at least ten recorded attacks on children over a nine-year span, positioning them as the fifth most likely breed to bite.
The Popularity of Labrador Retrievers and Their Downsides.
Labrador Retrievers, named the most popular dog breed in America by the American Kennel Club in 2018—marking their 28th consecutive year in this position—might have a higher incidence of bites due to their prevalence.
From 2005 to 2017, Labrador Retrievers were ranked fourth in terms of aggressive incidents by DogBite.org, with nine fatal attacks recorded over 13 years. They were also the third most frequent biters of children, with 484 cases reported over nine years.
The Aggressiveness of Doberman Pinschers.
Doberman Pinschers have long been associated with a fierce temperament. While they are one of the top ten breeds associated with fatal attacks, they are ranked the lowest among them. When it comes to biting children, Dobermans are relatively uncommon, with only eight cases reported over nine years.
Despite this, the American Veterinary Medical Association notes a higher likelihood of aggression in Doberman Pinschers based on their surveys, reinforcing their reputation for being prone to violent behaviour.
The Fiery Temperament of Jack Russell Terriers.
If you’re looking for a small dog with a bold personality, the Jack Russell Terrier might be your perfect match. However, their spirited nature comes with some risks. According to surveys analysed by the American Veterinary Medical Association, Jack Russell Terriers are ranked as the seventh most aggressive dog breed.
Data from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that Terriers have been involved in more bites to children and adolescents than many other breeds.
Over a span of nine years, Terriers were responsible for 15 incidents involving children. This highlights the importance of proper training for Jack Russell Terriers to manage their behaviour effectively.
The Intense Nature of Bullmastiffs.
Bullmastiffs, with their imposing physique and powerful build, can be quite intimidating. Despite their seemingly gentle expressions, they are recognized as the sixth most aggressive breed, according to DogBite, which reported 14 fatal attacks over a period of 13 years.
When looking at the broader picture of dog bites, the number increases. The American Kennel Club’s records from 1982 to 2009 show that Bullmastiffs were involved in at least 37 attacks, primarily affecting adults.
The Popularity and Aggression of Rottweilers.
Rottweilers have seen a significant rise in popularity since 1997, as noted by the Seattle Times. However, their aggressive tendencies are reflected in the statistics. DogBite reports Rottweilers as the second most aggressive breed, responsible for 45 fatalities over 13 years.
In contrast, the American Kennel Club’s data from 1982 to 2009 shows a lower figure, with 67 reported deaths related to Rottweilers. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics found Rottweilers to be lower on the list of breeds involved in biting incidents with children.
The Potential for Biting in Siberian Huskies.
While Siberian Huskies are undeniably charming, they are not without their risks. A study conducted by Philadelphia lawyers documented more attacks involving Huskies than many other breeds. Over 12 years, Huskies were responsible for 13 fatalities in the U.S.
Frank Coote, a dog warden for the Irish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, points out that large dogs inherently pose a risk to children, regardless of breed. Huskies, in particular, may nip at their owners or other dogs if they are handled roughly.
Small But Fierce: The Aggression of Shih Tzus.
Though Shi Tzus stand less than a foot tall, they can display surprising aggression. A survey from the Medical University of Graz found that Shi Tzus have a notable tendency to bite, especially targeting children and young adults.
Despite this, they ranked 17th on the list of aggressive dog breeds, indicating they are less aggressive compared to others.
Interestingly, small dogs often exhibit aggression more readily than their larger counterparts. A 2012 study revealed that smaller dogs tend to attack sooner and with greater intensity than larger breeds.
Alaskan Malamutes: Close Relatives to Huskies.
Alaskan Malamutes are frequently mistaken for Siberian Huskies due to their similar appearance and characteristics.
Both breeds share comparable aggressive tendencies. According to research, Malamutes are responsible for seven bites per 100,000 owned, a higher rate than any other breed documented in that study.
Further research by Philadelphia Hill & Associates echoed these findings, noting that Malamutes were involved in 12 maulings and hundreds of other injuries over a nine-year period. Proper training is essential for Malamutes to manage their aggression.
Boxers: From Fighters to Family Pets.
Boxers were originally bred in the 19th century for dogfighting and hunting. While they are known for their friendly and loyal nature today, they can deliver severe bites if provoked. DogBite.org reports that Boxers were responsible for at least seven fatalities between 2005 & 2017.
A 2008 study in Applied Animal Behaviour Science highlighted that Boxer attacks are more commonly directed at other dogs rather than their owners. Without appropriate training and socialisation, they may bite people when provoked.
Chow Chows: Protective by Nature.
Despite a decline in their popularity, Chow Chows remain esteemed as guard dogs. From 1982 to 2009, nearly 1,600 Chow Chows were registered in the U.S., with at least 49 attacking people and causing seven fatalities, according to the American Kennel Club.
Chow Chows are known for their guarding instincts and can become aggressive if they or their owners feel threatened. Research from Liljegren Law Group indicates that Chow Chows are more likely to defend rather than initiate attacks. Out of 238 recorded dog attacks, Chow Chows were responsible for eight.
American Bulldogs: Fierce but Misunderstood.
American Bulldogs have consistently ranked among the top five most popular breeds in the U.S. since 2013. However, they can become aggressive if threatened or not properly socialised. According to DogBite, American Bulldogs are among the top breeds responsible for fatal attacks in the U.S.
Although Bulldogs, like Pit Bulls, are often perceived as aggressive due to their fierce appearance, research from the University of Bristol suggests that an owner’s personality is a stronger predictor of a dog’s aggression than the breed itself. Unfortunately, aggressive dogs are sometimes adopted by owners who reinforce these behaviours.
Saint Bernards: A Closer Look.
Saint Bernards, with their imposing size, might seem intimidating to many. Research published in the Journal of the AVMA reveals that Saint Bernards are more prone to biting compared to many other dog breeds. Additionally, Pet Help has ranked them among the more aggressive dogs in America. This breed is believed to have descended from the Alpine Mastiff, a breed with a history of aggression. Despite this, most Saint Bernards are gentle and get along well with children.
Labradors and Their Behaviour.
While Labrador Retrievers are immensely popular, Labradors themselves sometimes exhibit problematic behaviour. A 2016 study by Animal Pets highlighted Labradors as one of the top breeds likely to attack postal workers.
Over a period of 13 years, Labradors were involved in 27 attacks, placing them as the tenth most aggressive breed. These incidents often occurred with Labradors that were unsupervised or not properly restrained.
The Xoloitzcuintli: The “Mexican Hairless Dog” .
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient breed with a history spanning around 3,000 years. Although they are smaller in size, Xoloitzcuintlis are alert and quick. Known for their loyalty, they can be affectionate lap dogs once they warm up to their owners. They generally do well with children and make good companions.
Shar-Peis and Their Temperament.
Shar-Peis, bred for hunting, can exhibit a territorial and aggressive nature if not properly socialised. According to the New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Shar-Peis are considered “very aggressive,” a view supported by the American Temperament Test Society, which ranks them among the top seven most aggressive breeds.
Poodles: Beyond the Stereotype.
Poodles are beloved for their intelligence and friendly demeanour. However, they can show aggression, particularly towards children. The American Academy of Pediatrics lists Poodles among the top ten breeds that can be aggressive towards kids.
Research from 2008 shows that Poodles often direct aggression towards other dogs, though they generally perform well in temperament tests, with a pass rate between 75% and 87%.
Wolf Dogs: A Complex Breed.
Wolfdogs, a mix of wolf and domestic dog, require specialised training for proper socialisation. Between 2005 and 2018, Wolfdogs were responsible for 111 attacks out of over 5,000 reported dog attacks in the U.S., making them the sixth most likely breed to bite. The precise amount of training required to minimise aggressive behaviour in Wolfdogs remains unclear.
Akitas: From Bear Hunters to Family Pets.
Akitas, originally bred for bear hunting in ancient Japan, are known for their powerful bite. A 2019 study ranked Akitas as the seventh most likely breed to exhibit violent behaviour, with 70 attacks reported over 32 years.
The American Kennel Club has recorded around 48 attacks by Akitas over 37 years. While Akitas primarily direct aggression towards other dogs, proper training is essential to prevent aggression towards people.
Australian Cattle Dogs: More Than Just Herding .
Australian Cattle Dogs, while not typically associated with violence, can display aggressive tendencies. In 2008, they were noted for having significant stranger aggression, second only to Dachshunds.
Previous studies indicated that these dogs showed aggression in over 9% of cases, and the Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association frequently cites aggression as a major concern.
Great Danes: Gentle Giants with a Complex Reputation.
Great Danes are often celebrated as “gentle giants” due to their affectionate nature. However, they have frequently appeared in aggression statistics, ranking within the top 30 breeds. From 2005 to 2018, Great Danes were responsible for 37 attacks, placing them as the 14th most aggressive breed. Nevertheless, research in Applied Animal Behaviour Science suggests that Great Danes do not reach the aggression levels seen in many other breeds, with most attacks involving other dogs rather than people.
German Spitzes: A Cautionary Tale.
German Spitzes are known for their loyalty and close bond with their owners. However, without proper socialisation & training, they can exhibit aggressive behaviour. A 2015 study published in Scientific Reports revealed that Spitzes tend to be more hostile toward strangers compared to herding breeds like Golden Retrievers.
Additionally, research by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that Spitzes were more likely to bite children than Rottweilers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Beagles. Approximately 2% of Spitzes in the study were reported to have bitten their owners.
The Schnauzer’s Reputation.
Schnauzers come in various sizes and colours, but all share a reputation for being affectionate and playful. Nonetheless, their tendency to bite should not be overlooked. The American Temperament Test Society has ranked Schnauzers among the top seven aggressive dog breeds.
Research on dog attacks involving children places Schnauzers as the tenth most likely to bite. About 1.5% of Schnauzers were found to exhibit aggressive behaviour towards their owners.
Cocker Spaniels: A Surprising Find.
Cocker Spaniels, once a favourite in the 1940s, are still cherished pets today. While not typically seen as aggressive, studies suggest otherwise. Research from 1991 indicated that Cocker Spaniels showed aggression towards humans in nearly 6% of cases, surpassing Rottweilers in this regard.
However, another study found that only 2% of Cocker Spaniels bit children over a 17-year period, with five recorded attacks. With proper care and training, Cocker Spaniels can generally be non-aggressive.
Mixed Reports on Beagles.
Beagle aggression studies have produced varied results. Research from the Medical University of Graz found Beagles biting owners as frequently as Rottweilers, but this study focused solely on attacks against children under 17.
In contrast, a 2017 study published in PLoS One observed adopted laboratory Beagles and found no signs of aggression. This suggests that, like all breeds, Beagles’ aggressive tendencies may depend on specific circumstances.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s Complex Nature.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are experiencing a surge in popularity, but they can have a more aggressive side. A 1996 study reported that Corgis were considered “very aggressive” by veterinarians, even more so than Boxers, Dobermans, and Border Collies. However, such aggression appears to be rare, and there is little evidence beyond this study to suggest that Corgis are typically violent. Proper training can help ensure that Corgis remain friendly.
Pekingese: A Mixed Bag.
The American Academy of Pediatrics reported that Pekingese might be more aggressive than Rottweilers and Dobermans, with 10 out of 113 tested dogs biting their child owners—about 3% of the sample.
Conversely, a 2019 study in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology found Pekingese to be among the least likely dogs to bite their pet owners in the face. As with all breeds, a Pekingese’s behaviour largely depends on its upbringing and training.
In summary, while certain breeds may have a reputation for aggression, individual behaviour can vary widely. Proper socialisation, training, and responsible ownership play crucial roles in shaping a dog’s temperament.
