When most people adopt a dog, they’re looking for a loyal companion, not a fighter. To avoid the risk of aggression, some may opt for “non-aggressive” dog breeds.
However, dog breed aggression statistics can vary widely, as canine behaviour is influenced by the owner, training,
and how researchers define “aggression.” While some breeds are labelled as more aggressive, these labels often depend on the context.
Here’s a look at some breeds commonly associated with aggression, but remember to take these findings with caution.
Dachshunds: Small but Fierce Hunters.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds can be aggressive if provoked. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they may display aggressive tendencies if not properly socialised or trained.
A University of Pennsylvania study identified Dachshunds as one of the most aggressive breeds, particularly towards their owners and other dogs.
In fact, a 2005 study revealed that Dachshunds were the third most likely breed to bite children under 17, with at least 22 reported cases of attacks on children and young adults between 1994 and 2003.
Pit Bulls: Challenging Their Aggressive Reputation.
Pit Bulls have a reputation for aggression, and some statistics seem to support this. According to a 13-year study by DogBite.org, Pit Bulls were involved in 66% of fatal dog attacks in the U.S.
However, some researchers argue that aggressive individuals are more likely to own breeds with a reputation for aggression, such as Pit Bulls, which can skew the data.
This reputation has had devastating consequences for Pit Bulls. The breed is banned in 10 states, leading many to be euthanized in shelters.
Interestingly, the American Academy of Pediatrics found no specific evidence of higher aggression levels in Pit Bulls in their studies.
Chihuahuas: Surprisingly Aggressive.
In 2016, a study by Dognition asked dog owners to rate their pets’ aggression levels. Surprisingly, Chihuahuas ranked as the most aggressive breed, while Pit Bulls were rated among the least aggressive. These findings align with other research.
The American Temperament Test Society also identified Chihuahuas as highly aggressive, and a 2008 study recorded more attacks from Chihuahuas than from Dobermans.
While certain dog breeds are often labelled aggressive, individual behaviour largely depends on factors like training, socialisation, and the owner’s influence.
Understanding the complexities behind these statistics can help challenge breed stereotypes and promote responsible pet ownership.
How German Shepherds Became Fierce Police Dogs.
German Shepherds have long been admired for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. According to the American Kennel Club, they were the 2nd most popular dog breed in the U.S. in 2016.
While known for their devotion, many owners don’t anticipate them biting. However, these powerful dogs do have the potential to be dangerous.
In 2005, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a study examining which dog breeds most frequently bite children under 17.
German Shepherds were found to be one of the top offenders, with 105 recorded bites over a nine-year period.
Only cross breeds had more recorded incidents. This data highlights that even the most trusted dogs can pose a risk in certain situations.
Border Collies: Surprising Frequent Biters.
Border Collies are generally seen as hard-working and intelligent herding dogs, not aggressive ones. However, bites from Border Collies are more common than most would expect.
High-profile maulings made the news in 2010, 2014, and 2015, but less severe bites from this breed occur much more frequently.
The American Veterinary Medical Association labelled Border Collies as “frequent biters,” with at least ten attacks on children recorded over a nine-year period.
This placed Border Collies as the fifth most likely breed to bite children, showing that even seemingly gentle breeds have the potential for aggression.
Labrador Retrievers: A Popular Breed with a Risk.
Labrador Retrievers have been America’s most popular dog breed for years, topping the American Kennel Club’s list in 2018 for the 28th year in a row. However, their widespread popularity may contribute to many bite incidents.
According to DogBite.org, between 2005 and 2017, Labrador Retrievers ranked as the fourth most aggressive breed, responsible for nine fatal attacks over 13 years.
When it comes to children, Labs were the third most frequent biters, with 484 reported cases over a nine-year period.
While Labradors are generally known for their friendly nature, these statistics remind us that even popular breeds can pose risks.
Doberman Pinschers: Fierce Reputation, But What’s the Reality?
Doberman Pinschers have long been seen as intimidating and fierce, often associated with aggression.
While they make the list of the top ten dog breeds most likely to cause fatal attacks, Dobermans are actually the least frequent offenders.
In terms of bites on children, Dobermans were one of the least likely to bite, with only eight cases recorded over nine years.
However, surveys conducted by the American Veterinary Medical Association suggest a strong link between Dobermans and aggression, reinforcing their reputation as a breed prone to violence under certain circumstances.
While certain breeds are more likely to bite than others, it’s important to remember that each dog is an individual.
Proper training, socialisation, and care can greatly reduce the risk of any dog turning aggressive, regardless of breed.
Jack Russell Terriers: Small Dog, Big Attitude.
The Jack Russell Terrier is an appealing choice for those seeking a small dog with a large personality. However, they are known for their feisty and energetic nature.
According to surveys conducted by dog owners and analysed by the American Veterinary Medical Association, Jack Russell Terriers rank as the seventh most aggressive dog breed.
These terriers have been involved in a notable number of bite incidents, particularly with children and adolescents.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has reported that over the course of nine years, Jack Russell Terriers were responsible for 15 attacks on young people.
Due to their high energy levels & assertive demeanour, proper training and socialisation are crucial for Jack Russells to prevent behavioural issues.
Bullmastiffs: Strength Behind a Gentle Appearance.
Though Bullmastiffs are known for their calm expressions and loyal nature, their strong and muscular build can make their aggression particularly intimidating.
Despite their generally calm demeanour, Bullmastiffs rank as the sixth most aggressive dog breed, according to DogBite data. Over a span of 13 years, Bullmastiffs were responsible for 14 fatal attacks.
When considering bite incidents that didn’t result in fatalities, the numbers increase significantly. The American Kennel Club recorded a total of 37 Bullmastiff attacks from 1982 to 2009, with most victims being adults.
This demonstrates that while Bullmastiffs may seem docile, their strength and size make them formidable when provoked.
Rottweilers: A Popular Yet Powerful Breed.
Rottweilers have surged in popularity since the late 1990s, partly due to their reputation as loyal and protective companions.
However, their aggressive tendencies cannot be overlooked. Data from DogBite ranks Rottweilers as the second most dangerous breed, with 45 fatalities recorded over 13 years.
Interestingly, when comparing data over a longer period, the American Kennel Association reports slightly lower numbers, citing 67 Rottweiler-related deaths between 1982 and 2009.
Despite their lethal potential, Rottweilers were ranked much lower in studies focusing on attacks on children.
The American Academy of Pediatrics study found that Rottweilers were not as commonly involved in biting incidents involving younger victims.
Siberian Huskies: Potential for Biting.
While Siberian Huskies are undeniably adorable, they, like any large dog breed, can bite. A study conducted by Philadelphia lawyers found that Huskies were responsible for more attacks than many other breeds, with 13 fatalities attributed to them in the U.S. over a 12-year period.
Frank Coote, a dog warden for the Irish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, notes that large dogs always pose a risk to children, regardless of their breed.
Huskies may nip at their pet owners or other dogs, especially if they are handled too roughly. It’s important to approach them with care and respect for their boundaries.
Shih Tzus: Small but Capable of Biting.
Despite their small stature, Shi Tzus can still pose a threat. Standing under a foot tall, they may not seem dangerous,
but a survey conducted by the Medical University of Graz found that Shi Tzus are fairly likely to bite children and young adults. They ranked 17th on the list of aggressive dog breeds.
Interestingly, smaller dogs can be more prone to attack than larger breeds. A 2012 study found that small dogs “attacked sooner and with greater intensity” compared to their larger counterparts.
While Shi Tzus may be cute, it’s essential to recognize that they can become aggressive if provoked.
Alaskan Malamutes: Related to Huskies, Similar Aggression.
Closely related to Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes share many of the same traits, including the potential for aggression.
In fact, one study reported that Malamutes were responsible for seven bites per 100,000 dogs owned—more than any other breed examined.
Philadelphia Hill & Associates conducted research showing that Malamutes were involved in 12 maulings and hundreds of other injuries over nine years.
Proper training & socialisation are crucial to preventing aggression in Malamutes, ensuring they remain well-behaved pets.
Boxers: Bred for Combat, Still a Risk.
Boxers, originally bred for dogfighting and hunting in the 19th century, may seem like loyal and friendly companions today, but they can still cause serious harm with their bite.
According to DogBite.org, Boxers were responsible for at least seven fatalities between 2005 & 2017.
A 2008 study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that most Boxer attacks were directed at other dogs, rather than humans.
However, without proper training or if provoked, they can become aggressive towards people as well. It’s vital to ensure Boxers receive adequate training to manage any aggressive tendencies.
Chow Chows: Guard Dogs with a Protective Instinct.
Despite a decline in their popularity, Chow Chows remain cherished as guard dogs. Between 1982 and 2009, nearly 1,600 Chow Chows were registered in the U.S.,
and of these, at least 49 were involved in attacks on people, resulting in seven fatalities, according to the American Kennel Club.
Traditionally used for hunting and guarding, Chow Chows can exhibit aggression if they or their owners feel threatened.
The Liljegren Law Group notes that while Chow Chows are more likely to defend themselves rather than initiate attacks, they were responsible for eight out of 238 recorded dog attacks.
American Bulldogs: Fierce Appearance with Potential for Aggression.
American Bulldogs have consistently ranked among the top five most popular dog breeds in the U.S. since 2013. However, they can exhibit aggression if they feel threatened or are not adequately socialised.
According to DogBite, American Bulldogs rank fifth in terms of fatalities caused by dog attacks in the U.S. Like Pit Bulls, Bulldogs are often labelled as aggressive due to their imposing appearance.
Research from the University of Bristol suggests that a dog’s aggression is more closely linked to the owner’s personality than to the breed itself. Unfortunately, aggressive owners often choose dogs with a reputation for fierceness.
Saint Bernards: A Large Dog with a Surprising Bite.
Saint Bernards, known for their large size, can be intimidating. Research published by the Journal of the AVMA indicates that Saint Bernards are involved in more bites compared to many other breeds.
Pet Help also includes them among the more aggressive dog breeds in the U.S. Historically descended from the Alpine Mastiff, an aggressive breed,
Saint Bernards are usually gentle and good with children. However, their size and strength can contribute to their reputation.
Labradors: Friendly Yet Potentially Aggressive.
While Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds, their unpopularity as a cross-breed has not diminished their status.
A 2016 study by Animal Pets identified Labradors as one of the top three breeds likely to attack postmen. Over a span of 13 years, Labradors were involved in 27 human attacks,
placing them as the tenth most aggressive dog breed. These incidents were primarily associated with Labradors that were unsupervised, unrestrained, or confined to a yard or home.
Xoloitzcuintli: The Ancient Mexican Hairless Dog.
The Xoloitzcuintli, also famous as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient breed dating back approximately 3,000 years.
Although small for a watchdog, this breed is known for its alertness and agility. Xoloitzcuintlis are loyal and can be quite affectionate lap dogs once they bond with their owners. They generally get along well with children.
Shar-Pei: A Breed That Requires Caution.
Shar-Peis, like many dogs bred for hunting, can retain a certain level of aggression. This breed is particularly known for its territorial nature and can be unfriendly if not properly socialised.
Poodles are beloved for their intelligence, loyalty, and friendly demeanour. They come in various sizes and are generally not known for aggression.
However, it’s important to note that they can exhibit aggressive behaviour. As per American Academy of Pediatrics, Poodles are among the top ten breeds that may display aggression towards children. Research from 2008 suggests that most poodle attacks are directed at other dogs.
The American Temperament Test Society also reports that Poodles have a relatively high pass rate of 75% to 87% on aggression tests, indicating that while aggression is possible, it is not the norm.
The Wolfdog: A Blend Requiring Careful Training.
Wolfdogs, a mix between wolves and domestic dogs, require specialised training and socialisation. They are less common than breeds like German Shepherds and Rottweilers,
but their attacks carry significant concern. Between 2005 and 2018, there were over 5,000 reported dog attacks in the U.S., with Wolfdogs accounting for 111 of these incidents.
This makes them the sixth most likely breed to bite. Researchers are still investigating the precise amount of training Wolfdogs need to minimise aggression.
The Akita: A Historical Hunter with Potential for Aggression.
Originally bred for bear hunting in ancient Japan, Akitas are large, fluffy dogs with a formidable bite. According to the 2019 consensus,
Akitas are the seventh most likely breed to exhibit violent behaviour, with 70 recorded attacks over 32 years.
The American Kennel Club’s data reveals around 48 Akita attacks over 37 years. While Akitas typically direct aggression towards other dogs, proper training is crucial to prevent potential aggression towards people.
In summary, while these breeds are generally friendly and intelligent, their potential for aggression underscores the importance of proper training and socialisation
Australian Cattle Dogs: A Feisty Reputation.
While Australian Cattle Dogs are typically known for their herding abilities rather than violence, they can exhibit a feisty temperament.
A 2008 study highlighted that these dogs had the second-highest instances of stranger aggression, just after Dachshunds, with 28 documented cases of aggression.
Earlier research also showed that over 9% of Cattle Dogs displayed aggression toward humans in trials. The Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association has noted that aggression is a common concern among those seeking to rehome these dogs.
Great Danes: Gentle Giants or Aggressive?
Great Danes are often described as “gentle giants” due to their playful and affectionate nature. However, statistics on dog aggression show that Great Danes have frequently ranked within the top 30 breeds for aggression.
From 2005 to 2018, they were involved in 37 reported attacks, placing them as the 14th most aggressive breed. Nevertheless, research in Applied Animal Behaviour Science suggests \
that Great Danes generally do not reach the aggressive thresholds of many other breeds, and most incidents involve aggression towards other dogs rather than humans.
German Spitz: Surprising Aggression.
German Spitzes are typically known for their close bond with their owners. However, without proper socialisation and training, they can display aggressive behaviour.
A 2015 study that was published in Scientific Reports found that Spitzes were more aggressive towards strangers compared to herding breeds like Golden Retrievers.
Another study by the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed that Spitzes were more likely to bite children than Rottweilers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, or Beagles, with approximately 2% of Spitzes biting their owners.
Schnauzers: Fun-Loving Yet Aggressive.
Schnauzers come in various sizes and colours, known for their affectionate and lively nature. However, they also have a tendency to bite.
The American Temperament Test Society lists Schnauzers among the top seven aggressive dog breeds. Research on dog attacks on children ranked Schnauzers as the tenth most likely to bite, with 1.5% showing aggressive behaviour towards their owners.
Cocker Spaniels: Aggression Compared to Rottweilers.
Despite their peak popularity in the 1940s and continued affection, Cocker Spaniels have faced scrutiny for aggression.
Research from 1991 revealed that Cocker Spaniels displayed aggression toward humans in nearly 6% of tests, surpassing Rottweilers in this regard.
In a separate study, only 2% of Cocker Spaniels bit children over a 17-year period, accounting for five attacks. With proper care and training, however, Cocker Spaniels can be gentle and well-behaved pets.
Beagle Behavior: A Mixed Bag.
Research on Beagle aggression presents varied findings. A study from the Medical University of Graz reported that Beagles were as likely to bite their owners as Rottweilers, though this study focused solely on incidents involving 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 dog breeds, Beagles may show aggression only under specific circumstances.
The Surprising Side of Pembroke Welsh Corgis.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s rising popularity is noted by the New York Post, but these herding dogs can sometimes be involved in conflicts.
A 1996 survey of veterinarians described Corgis as “very aggressive,” rating them as more aggressive than Boxers, Dobermans, and Border Collies.
Nevertheless, aggression in Corgis is relatively rare. Aside from this particular study, there’s limited evidence to suggest that Corgis are inherently violent. With proper training, they generally exhibit friendly behaviour.
The Pekingese: A Complex Temperament.
The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that Pekingese can be more aggressive than Rottweilers & Dobermans. In a study of 113 dogs, 10 Pekingese (about 3%) bit their child owners.
However, this finding is contested by research published in the famous International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology in 2019,
which identified Pekingese as among the least likely dogs to bite their owners’ faces. As with all breeds, a Pekingese’s behaviour is greatly influenced by its upbringing and training.
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