Dog Breeds That Might Be Too Intimidating for Home Life
Chihuahua.
When you see the Chihuahua on this list, you might think of it as the “little devil” due to its small size and cute appearance—especially when sleeping. However, if you have young children, you might think twice before bringing a Chihuahua into your home.
These dogs are naturally territorial and often prefer to be the baby of the family, which can lead to aggressive and stubborn behaviour.
Rottweiler.
Rottweilers are known for their impressive size and their skill in herding livestock. Their natural bravery and devotion to their owners can sometimes result in them scaring off strangers, which might lead to aggressive behaviour.
While this protective nature can be a good trait for families, it’s important to supervise their interactions with children, as Rottweilers might misinterpret rough play as a threat.
Bullmastiff.
Despite their imposing size, Bullmastiffs can exhibit aggressive tendencies. They are trainable and can form strong bonds with children but require firm leadership and consistent training.
Bullmastiffs see their owners as leaders, so establishing dominance is crucial for ensuring a harmonious relationship between your child and this breed.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are among the most significant and sweetest dog breeds, but their playful nature can sometimes lead to accidental bumps and knocks.
Their size and exuberance may inadvertently cause issues in a household with toddlers. Before bringing a Saint Bernard into your home, ensure you have ample space to accommodate both the dog and your little ones.
Weimaraner.
Like Saint Bernards, Weimaraners tend to knock over objects in their path, which can sometimes include your toddler who’s just learning to walk.
Their energetic nature and large size can make them challenging to manage, especially with young children. With a Weimaraner in the mix, it might feel more like you’re running a daycare than managing a household.
Australian Shepherd.
Australian Shepherds require constant physical activity to keep them well-behaved. Without enough exercise, they may develop troublesome behavioural issues.
They can also be quite anxious around strangers, which might make them less than friendly during playdates with your children’s friends.
Siberian Husky.
Siberian Huskies are another high-energy breed that demands a lot of attention. Their clingy nature means they require constant affection,
which might lead to jealousy or competition for your attention when you have kids. On the plus side, Huskies are generally easy to train, which can help manage their energetic disposition.
Affenpinscher.
Affenpinschers are small but full of energy and mischief. Their tiny size can lead young children to treat them like toys, which might result in rough play.
When they feel threatened or anxious, they can act aggressively, making interactions with kids potentially problematic.
Chow Chow.
Kids often see Chow Chows as life-sized stuffed animals due to their thick fur and large size. However, this breed can become aggressive if they feel threatened.
Their size makes it easy for them to knock things over, which could potentially harm your children. Additionally, Chow Chows require constant affection and may compete for attention with your human babies.
Afghan Hound.
Afghan Hounds have a dominant nature and need owners who can assert themselves. This breed thrives on gentle yet firm handling.
Given their sassy personalities, they can react strongly to rough play, especially from children. Providing proper training to ensure they coexist peacefully with your little ones is important.
English Toy Spaniel.
Despite their cute appearance, English Toy Spaniels might not be the best choice for homes with young children.
They can interpret rough play as a threat and respond aggressively to protect themselves. Training is essential to help them adapt to a household with kids and to minimise any risk of violence.
Greyhound.
Known for their high energy and speed, Greyhounds are often associated with racing. They require ample space to run and play, both indoors and outdoors.
However, be cautious, as their energetic nature might lead them to inadvertently run over crawling babies or small children.
French Bulldog.
French Bulldogs are affectionate but can become jealous of the attention given to babies. They may suffer from separation and anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
To ensure they get along well with your children, invest in proper training and ensure they feel secure and loved.
Japanese Chin.
Japanese Chins were bred to be pampered pets for royalty and thrive on attention and affection. They may become jealous of the attention your kids receive and might prefer to
stay on your lap all day. It’s important to manage their need for attention and make sure they feel secure in their place within the family.
Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzus are famous pets for their charming appearance but require constant companionship to avoid separation anxiety. While they may be generally lazy, they can exhibit bursts of hyperactivity. Their affectionate nature is a constant, though they may become aggressive if startled.
Alaskan Malamute.
The Alaskan Malamute, bred for cold climates and isolation, possesses strong survival instincts. This can lead to aggressive behaviour towards smaller animals, including young children.
Ownership requires a firm, assertive approach, as this breed may not respond well to children and could pose risks to those with respiratory issues due to its heavy shedding.
Pekingese.
Despite their small size and delicate appearance, Pekingese dogs are known for their independence and bravery. They don’t require constant attention, which is a surprising trait for their size.
However, their independent nature means that children must understand and respect the dog’s unique characteristics and assert control when necessary.
Jack Russell Terrier.
The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the most energetic dog breeds, needing ample outdoor space to thrive. They are not suited for rough play with children, as they may react defensively by biting. These dogs can become aggressive towards children they find bothersome, so supervision is crucial.
Chinese Shar Pei.
The Chinese Shar Pei is visually appealing and looks adorable with children. However, their cuteness comes with potential health issues that could affect both the dog and the children. Additionally, this breed can be aggressive and challenging to train, which requires careful management and consideration.
Dachshund (Standard Smooth).
Though Dachshunds may appear as small hotdogs, they are natural hunters—particularly of small game. Like Chihuahuas, their bold attitude often overshadows their small stature. Rough play is generally not well-received by Dachshunds, so a gentle approach is preferred.
Dalmatian.
Famed for their spots, Dalmatians gained popularity through Disney’s “101 Dalmatians.” They are known for their roles as guard dogs and loyal companions.
Dalmatians require significant attention from their owners; without it, they might resort to biting or scratching.
Older children, who can match their high energy levels, often make the best companions for this breed, though keeping up with them can be exhausting.
Neapolitan Mastiff.
Neapolitan Mastiffs are gentle giants known for their affectionate nature. However, their clumsy tendencies can sometimes pose a danger to smaller creatures, as they might unintentionally knock them over or sit on them.
Skye Terrier.
Skye Terriers are known for their fearless nature, which can make them unwelcoming towards other dogs. Like some other breeds, they require extra affection and may become noisy if they feel neglected. Their hunting instinct for smaller animals means they might not be the best choice around young children.
Akita.
Originating from Japan, Akitas are known for their guarding instincts and wariness around strangers. They may view friends of your children as intruders, making them potentially dangerous around unfamiliar kids.
Xoloitzcuintli.
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient breed revered by the Aztecs as a guide for the dead. Known for their intelligence and loyalty, these dogs are covered in tough, smooth skin and are vigilant watch dogs.
However, their territorial and overprotective nature can be challenging to manage. Training from an early age is crucial, so seeking professional guidance for this striking and mythical-looking breed is often recommended.
Pit Bull.
Pit Bulls often have a notorious reputation, labeled as “dangerous” due to their history of dog fighting. While they can be affectionate and family-friendly, their fighting instincts can make their behaviour unpredictable. This unpredictability can pose risks, particularly for families with young children.
Doberman Pinscher.
Doberman Pinschers have long been associated with their roles as protective companions, often seen as loyal and alert. However, they have a history of aggressive incidents, particularly noted in the 1970s.
There are also reports of these dogs attacking their owners unexpectedly. These factors are crucial to consider if you’re thinking of having them around children.
German Shepherd.
German Shepherds are well-regarded for their roles in law enforcement and celebrated for their intelligence, loyalty, and obedience.
Despite their strong protective instincts, they can also exhibit aggression. While they can make excellent family pets, their protective nature means they should be handled with care, especially around children.
Great Dane.
Famous for their towering height and their portrayal in popular culture, Great Danes are often seen as gentle giants. However, their size alone can be intimidating and potentially dangerous, particularly to smaller children. Although they are generally not aggressive, their sheer size means that any incidents can be serious.
Wolfdog.
Wolf Dogs are a unique blend of domestic dogs and wolves, inheriting traits from both species. Their wild nature and partial wolf heritage can make them challenging to train and manage. This breed’s unpredictable behaviour can pose a significant risk, especially in a household with young children.
Staffordshire Terrier.
Often mistaken for Pit Bull due to their physical resemblance, Staffordshire Terriers can be affectionate with proper training. However, their background as fighting dogs means they can still pose risks. It’s essential to be aware of their potential for aggression and ensure they receive the proper training and socialisation.
Japanese Tosa.
Originating from Japan, the Japanese Tosa is a rare breed known for its history in dogfighting. Due to their aggressive tendencies and difficulty controlling them, they are banned in several countries. Their aggressive nature towards other animals and people makes them a challenging choice for a family pet.
Dogo Argentino.
The Dogo Argentino is a versatile breed from Argentina, originally bred to assist hunters. Known for their loyalty and strength, they also serve as guide and wild dogs for the visually impaired and in police work.
Despite their positive attributes, their aggressive tendencies have led to legal bans in some countries. This is unfortunate, given their otherwise charming appearance.
Tosa Inu.
Originating from Japan, the Tosa Inu was initially bred for dog fighting. This exotic breed is rare and costly and has a reputation for being dangerous, which has resulted in bans in several countries. If you’re considering this breed as a family pet, it’s essential to be aware of these challenges.
American Bandogge.
The American Bandogge is a hybrid breed created from the Neapolitan Mastiff and the American Pitbull Terrier. While not initially bred for fighting, they can be trained for such purposes due to their strength and agility. Their potential for aggression makes them only ideal for families with young children if adequately trained.
Cane Corso.
The Cane Corso, another type of Mastiff, is known for its striking appearance and gentle demeanour. However, as a descendant of the Canis Pugnax, a breed historically used in combat, the Cane Corso may exhibit unpredictable behaviour that may not be ideal for family settings. Proper training is essential to manage their instincts and ensure they are well-suited for a family environment.
Bull Terriers.
Bull Terriers are easily recognizable with their unique egg-shaped heads. These dogs are known for their blend of affection and aggression. They can make excellent and loveable family pets with proper training, but their strong-willed nature might be easier to manage with it. Consider your ability to handle and train this breed before making a decision.
Boerboel.
The Boerboel is a formidable dog breed originally bred to protect and defend against predators. Known for their intelligence and unwavering loyalty, Boerboels are fiercely devoted to their families & will go to great lengths to defend them.
Their bravery can sometimes lead them into dangerous situations, as they will not shy away from a fight, even at great personal risk. If you’re not prepared for such a high level of protection and courage, you might want to consider a more laid-back and gentle pet.
Gull Dong.
The Gull Dong, a hybrid of the Gull Terrier and Bully Kutta, is a breed renowned for its fighting prowess. These dogs are independent and dominant, making them challenging to control.
Like many terriers, they are highly protective and unafraid of unfamiliar dogs and people, sometimes leading to aggressive behaviour.
If you’re not confident in your ability to manage a strong-willed and assertive dog, the Gull Dong may not be the right choice.
Basenji.
The Basenji is known for its hunting skills and can be very affectionate with its owners. However, they may display anxiety around strangers and can be challenging to train. This difficulty in training often translates into how they interact with children, making them a less ideal choice for families with young kids.
American Bulldog.
The American Bulldog is a robust breed often regarded as an excellent guard dog. However, its spirited nature can sometimes be overwhelming for children, particularly if there’s a clash of stubbornness between the breed and your child.
While loyal and protective, it can be prone to snapping if provoked, which might not be ideal in a household with young children.
Fila Brasileiro.
With its imposing physique, the Fila Brasileiro is renowned for its tracking abilities. However, its aggressive nature has earned it a notorious reputation, leading to its prohibition in several countries.
This Brazilian breed can be particularly dangerous around children, making supervision crucial. Never leave them alone with young kids to avoid potential risks.
Perro de Presa Canario.
The Perro de Presa Canario, a large breed known for herding skills, can display aggression toward strangers, including people and other dogs. While they are trainable, focusing on their socialisation is important. They tend to be cautious around unfamiliar faces, so ongoing social training is necessary.
Boxer.
Boxers, a mix of Old English Bulldog and Bullenbeisser are recognized for their gentle and affectionate nature. Despite their loving temperament, they can become aggressive when provoked, which can sometimes happen with kids. Always supervise interactions between Boxers and children to ensure safety.
Wolf Hybrid.
As the name suggests, the wolf hybrid is a mix of wolf and domestic dog traits. This combination leads to unpredictable behaviours, making predicting how they will interact with children is challenging. For safety reasons, it is advisable to exercise extreme caution with this breed around youngsters.
Huskies.
Huskies are famous for their loyalty and high energy, making them ideal companions for active owners. However, their predatory instincts can lead them to be aggressive toward smaller animals.
Huskies resemble wolves and may exhibit similar behavioural traits, so be mindful of their interactions with other creatures.
Caucasian Ovcharka.
Also known as the Caucasian Shepherd, the Caucasian Ovcharka is a breed originally bred to guard herds. They are dominant, courageous, and fiercely protective. While deeply loyal, they require socialisation to manage their protective instincts. Their appearance matches their strong guarding nature.
Borzoi.
Borzoi dogs are considered gentle giants with a graceful demeanour. With proper training, they can be sociable and well-mannered. However, their rough play can be overwhelming due to their strength, so patience and guidance are essential in handling them.
Belgian Malinois.
The Belgian Malinois, bred in Belgium, is known for its intelligence and high energy. Often used in law enforcement, these dogs have a strong protective instinct & can show aggression, especially toward small children and animals.
With a powerful bite force of 195 PSI, they require respectful handling and careful supervision, particularly if you’re not familiar with them. Their effectiveness in military roles underscores their impressive capabilities and the need for careful management.
While impressive and capable, these breeds require careful handling and supervision, especially around children and other pets. Understanding their needs and tendencies will help ensure a harmonious environment for everyone.
