Behavioral problems, improper breeding, and lack of training can make any dog dangerous. Some breeds, however, are considered potentially dangerous due to their size, strength, and power.
What makes a dog potentially dangerous? Who can own one of these dogs? Here are the world’s most dangerous dogs.
Table of Contents
Most dangerous dogs in the world
Although the list of dangerous dogs may vary from one country to another, here is a global selection of the so-called “PPP breeds” (Potentially Dangerous Dogs):
- Great Dane
- Caucasian Shepherd
- Tibetan Mastiff
- Pitbull
- Canary Presa
- Tosa Inu
- Rottweiler
- Brazilian queue
- Doberman Pinscher
- Bullmastiff
- Boxer
- Alaskan Malamutes
- Chow Chow
- German Shepherd
- Boerboel
- Akita Inu
Let’s see what characterizes each of them and why they are considered potentially dangerous in case of aggressive behavior.
1. Great Dane
When properly trained and socialized, the Great Dane often becomes a friendly and trustworthy dog. In fact, they are considered a very emotional and sensitive breed. But if the pet does not receive the correct education as a puppy, it can become a very dangerous and aggressive dog.
His alert and protective instinct, coupled with the fact that he is one of the largest dogs in the world, can lead him to create unfortunate situations. They have been known to kill people.
Typically, an adult Great Dane is always taller than a person when standing on its hind legs.
2. Caucasian Shepherd
Also called the Caucasian Ovcharka, this is one of the most widely recognized potentially dangerous dogs. The combination of a large, heavy, muscular body, with its protective and guardian instinct, makes the Caucasian Shepherd a breed to be respected.
He can be a very devoted and kind companion to the family, but will not hesitate to show his ferocity if he feels there is a threat. This dog is feared even by some wild predators, such as wolves and bears.
Definitely not a good option for first-time or inexperienced owners.
3. Tibetan Mastiff
The Greater Tibetan Mastiff is considered highly dangerous. Not only is it a dog of gigantic proportions and a powerful bite, but it also has a marked protective and guardian temperament. He can be extremely territorial, becoming fiercely aggressive if someone is suspicious.
Early and constant socialization cannot be lacking in this breed. Without it, there is a risk of showing aggressive behavior towards people and other animals.
4. Pitbull Terrier Americano
The pit bull terrier is a very popular breed, not only in the United States but also in Latin American countries. But it is known that when not properly trained and socialized, this dog can display very aggressive behavior.
Pit bulls have been responsible for numerous attacks on humans. In fact, it is considered a potentially dangerous, and sometimes banned, breed in many European countries.
On the one hand, he inherited the agility of the terriers, and on the other, the bodily strength of the bulldogs. In addition, his bite is powerful; once it bites, it doesn’t let go as easily. This trait is a result of his origin as a fighting dog.
Recommended:
- What are the Types of Pitbulls? List of ALL Pitbulls
- What is the Origin of Pitbulls? Know the History and its Ancestors
5. Presa Canario
Another potentially dangerous breed is the Presa Canario. In fact, he is listed as one of the most dangerous dogs in his home country of Spain. It is a very powerful, large, and intelligent type of bulldog, which cannot lack socialization and training from puppyhood.
The dominant temperament, willful, and high prey drive, must be well managed by the owner. Otherwise, it can become aggressive and destructive.
Although the Presa Canario has traditionally been used as a cattle dog, it is said that it also has its history as a fighting dog.
6. Tosa Inu
Known as the Japanese Mastiff, the Tosa Inu is a large dog that originated as a fighting dog. While he can be a calm and gentle companion, he does exhibit a rather aggressive temperament at times. Currently, the breed is banned in several countries.
Any poorly socialized Tosa Inu is a potential danger to be aware of.
7. Rottweiler
The rottweiler is known worldwide for its fearsome reputation. This breed has a strong protective instinct, with a certain degree of aggressiveness in its nature. Not for nothing is he considered one of the best guard dogs. But sometimes this can have very negative consequences.
Being one of the most dangerous dogs, its upbringing requires constant training and socialization. The rottweiler needs a firm owner who knows how to treat him. He is loyal and devoted to his family, but he doesn’t like strangers at all.
He often doesn’t know the difference between playful aggression and real aggression, which is why he may bite even if he just wants to play.
According to experts, the only chance to survive a rottweiler attack is to act passively. It is known that when they bite, these dogs can cause serious damage.
See later:
- What is the True Origin of the Rottweiler? History and Background
- Is my Rottweiler German or American? Rottweiler Types + Photos
8. Brazilian Queue
Also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, the fila is a large dog with strong guarding instincts, normally bred as a guard. It is important not to get carried away by the sad and shy expression on his face, as it is known that he can behave very aggressively if he thinks it necessary.
The Fila Brasileiro requires an experienced owner. In Brazil, cases of uncontrollable behavior, and even deaths caused by their attacks have been reported.
9. Doberman Pinscher
Another potentially dangerous dog capable of inflicting harm on humans is the popular Doberman Pinscher. His devotion, agility, and intelligence have led him to become one of the favorites as a guardian of the home, but this can have a negative side for him.
Dobermans are a very sensitive and determined breed, who do not hesitate to react if they feel any kind of risk or threat in their environment; they are naturally aggressive towards strangers. On the other hand, their size also influences how dangerous they can be.
Socialization and obedience training are key in their upbringing to avoid unfortunate situations. This breed falls into the category of dogs that are capable of displaying spontaneous aggression.
As an adversary, the Doberman has agility and a specific way of attacking: he jumps on the opponent, bites, and immediately backs away. Traditionally, the breed was used by the police force as it was nearly impossible to take on 2 Dobermans together.
It may interest you: How many types of Doberman are there? Images + Colors of the Breed
10. Bullmastiff
With a strong, muscular composition and a protective temperament, the bullmastiff can also become aggressive and potentially dangerous in certain situations. It is a very sensitive dog as a guard, which is why obedience training is recommended as a puppy.
Attacks by a poorly trained or poorly socialized bullmastiff can result in serious injury.
11. Boxers
Many do not recognize the Boxer as a dangerous dog, as it is generally a loving and fun pet. But at the same time, he is a loyal companion who will do anything to protect the family from him. This makes it a potential threat to other animals and people outside its environment.
Providing him with proper training is essential, especially to correct his traits of stubbornness and aggressiveness. It is noted that it has a powerful jaw and bite.
Experts say that punishment and harsh treatment by the owner worsen aggressive behavior in this breed.
12. Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes are natural hunters, capable of killing even large predators such as bears. When their energy level is not used in a positive way, they can become quite intimidating and aggressive dogs.
If an Alaskan malamute gets nervous or angry, it will be very difficult to calm him down. These dogs can lose control when they have not been well trained.
13. Chow Chow
Both the lack of socialization and the overprotection towards their owners can make the beautiful chow a potentially aggressive dog. Needless to say, the damage that an animal with such powerful jaws can cause.
Visiting a chow’s home unannounced is not recommended, nor is attempting to kiss the dog.
As an owner, it is important to start strength training early. Chow chows are known to tend to be dominant.
14. German Shepherd
There is no doubt that the German Shepherd is a very popular dog, but that does not mean that it does not represent a danger at times. This breed evolved working as a service dog alongside military/police personnel, hence they know how to react at high speed. They are extremely focused when it comes to neutralizing threats.
Training, socialization, and affection are essential to correct their protective nature. An attack by a poorly socialized German Shepherd Dog can be fatal.
15. Boerboel
The Boerboel is not such a common breed, but it is potentially dangerous if not properly trained. This large, intimidating-looking dog can develop a very strong overprotective instinct, leading it to react aggressively if it thinks it necessary.
16. Akita Inu
Although they can be very affectionate, Akitas tend to be protective and wary of strangers. In particular, they do not relate well to other animals and have a territorial attitude. Be warned that they can become dangerous without proper training and handling.
This large and determined dog can cause serious damage in the event of an attack.
Other potentially dangerous dogs
17- Kangal dog
18- Argentine Dogo
19- Husky Siberian
20- Staffordshire terrier americano
21- Bullterrier
22- Dalmatian
23- English mastiff
