There are many different Dangerous Dog Breed and their variations in behavior and capabilities make some more suited for certain situations than others. Debates, fear and even legislation have arisen due to the use of the term “dangerous dog breed.” So what factors contribute to a dangerous dog? Is it due to their breeding or as a result of their environment?
We explore the characteristics that qualify a dog as dangerous, the contributing factors to their aggressive nature and the ways in which responsible ownership helps keep them under control.
What Does “Dangerous Dog Breed” Really Mean?
Some breeds are often referred to as dangerous dog breeds because they have been known to be involved in incidents. They tend to be strong, thickly built and naturally protective. Classing an entire group of dogs as hazardous can be both wrong and unfair.
Aggression can appear in any breed of dog as a result of bad training, neglect or being mistreated. While genetics have some impact, how a dog is brought up and socialized affects them just as much.
History of Aggression in Dog Breeds
In history, some dogs were created to assist in hunting, guarding or fighting. For these positions, men should have backbone, guts and toughness. With time, certain characteristics were passed along in their genes. The modern environment which aims to keep dogs as friendly pets, often leads to trouble for dogs because of their natural instincts.
Previously, the American Pit Bull Terrier was bred to take part in bull-baiting and dog fighting. Because Pit Bulls are tall and strong, people are still troubled if an incident happens with them.
Commonly Labeled Dangerous Dog Breeds
While it’s possible for any dog to get aggressive in certain situations, certain dog breeds are considered more dangerous by many. Higher incidents of attacks have been linked to these breeds or their behavior can make them more dangerous when involved in conflicts.
Pit Bull Terrier
Pit Bulls are widely considered to be one of the most contentious types of dogs and often come up in debates about dangerous breeds. Both their physical strength and will can lead to harm if left out of control. If they are properly trained, most Pit Bulls are devoted, kind and obedient.
Rottweiler
Bred originally for herding cattle and protecting homes, Rottweilers are both smart and protective. If they are not socialized properly and early on, their instinct to defend their home can be problematic. Both call for clear authority figures and steadfast rules.
German Shepherd
Both police and military forces often rely on the respect given to the German Shepherd. While they do well at work thanks to their readiness and loyalty, Rottweilers also need plenty of exercises and training to avoid bad behaviors.
Doberman Pinscher
They look smooth, move powerfully and have a great intelligence. They were breed to defend and therefore have an instinct for protection. Because of this, they are great for protection, but they may react hostilely to people they do not know if they are not well trained.
Bullmastiff
German Shepherds have a lot of strength, size and protectiveness. While usually calm toward families, Bullmastiffs can be quick to react aggressively to intruders or strange dogs.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, a breed from Italy, is strong and muscular and tends to be cautious with people it doesn’t know. It is very important to train and socialize your dog early on.
Misconceptions About Dangerous Dog Breeds
The media often makes people afraid by writing multiple reports about dogs attacking, especially focusing on certain breeds. Still, many stories don’t tell us about the situations that may have caused the attack such as abuse, neglect or not giving proper training.
Fact is, many people have dangerous dogs in their homes with no trouble at all. The main distinction usually comes from the ways they are raised, taught and looked after.
Because dogs have breed-related fears, more breed bans and laws are starting to appear. Sometimes, these rules forget that all dogs could be dangerous if raised incorrectly.
What Makes a Dog Dangerous?
Paying attention to breed alone isn’t enough; it’s better to understand the things that shape a dog’s behavior. There are many things that can make a dog more aggressive:
1. Lack of Socialization
Animals that aren’t used to meeting new people, animals or new environments can become aggressive because they are scared or anxious.
2. Inadequate Training
Dogs need structure and guidance. If you don’t keep up with regular rules and support, they might begin to take over, become afraid or overreact.
3. Past Abuse or Neglect
If your dog has suffered trauma, he might act defensively or aggressively to protect himself.
4. Medical Issues
Even quiet, tame dogs can become aggressive due to pain, brain problems or hormone unbalances.
Are Breed Bans the Solution?
As dog attacks increase, a number of cities and nations have passed laws for certain species of dogs. The law prevents or controls owning dogs from breeds considered unsafe.
But, numerous studies conclude that BSL does not often achieve good results. These laws do not have a strong effect on dog bites and regularly cause harmless pets to be put to death just because they are certain breeds.
To control harmful incidents, promoting responsible ownership, teaching the public and imposing stronger penalties for mistreatment are proven to be better options.
Real-Life Cases: Nature vs. Nurture
You will find many stories about dangerous-looking breeds enjoying peaceful life at home and serving as therapy and service dogs. For example, there’s “Hulk,” a huge Pit Bull who is known for being kind to children. There have been cases where these two normally friendly breeds, Labradors and Golden Retrievers, bit individuals due to an illness or not being treated right.
That means each dog’s behavior is mainly influenced by its personality and the place where it lives, not just its breed.
The Importance of Responsible Ownership
Having any dog and certainly a powerful one, takes effort, patience and understanding. A responsible owner recognizes what their dog requires and works hard to make sure they are in good health, happy and protected from harm.
Socialization
Familiarizing your dog with new people, sounds, animals and places can lessen signs of fear and aggression.
Training
Make sure to join classes that train your pet on obedience and make learning fun. Try to stay away from physical punishment, as things can go wrong.
Proper Containment
A sturdy fence, a reliable leash and proper identification are crucial, most of all for dogs that are territorial.
Supervision
Don’t let your dog spend time alone with children or with unfamiliar animals of any breed.
Tips for Choosing the Right Breed
Doing research is very important if you plan to adopt a dog. Try to avoid picking a breed based only on the way it looks or the number of people talking about it. Take into account how you live, the room you have, your past with pets and how much time you can give them.
Strong breeds should be worked out more, mentally engaged and continuously trained. If this is your first experience with dogs, choosing breeds that are calm and easy-going could be a good idea.
Can Dangerous Dogs Be Rehabilitated?
Yes, with the right approach. Dogs that authorities consider dangerous can usually be improved with proper training, guidance and concerned care. Working alongside someone who trains dogs or cats can greatly improve the health of your pet.
Still, you can improve your dog’s behavior if you are determined, dedicated and loving.
