Analysis of the Most Destructive Dog Breeds

Canine destructiveness can take many forms. A dog may chew your shoes, dig up the garden, or destroy the furniture. At worst, a dog can be aggressive to family members and other pets, bark incessantly, or toilet in the house. However, dogs can also be training and thought of as marvelous companions. Sadly, expensive behavioral, training, and pharmaceutical options that haven’t worked lead some individuals to be abandoned, given up to a rescue organization, or euthanized (R. Kogan et al., 2019). The aim is to determine and analyze the most destructive dog breeds to help prospective dog owners select a suitable breed for their circumstances. Sooner or later, every “destruction” or “behavior problem” will have been a common issue. Results from this analysis may also be useful to the breeders of dogs and the manufacturers of pet products, toys, and fencing.

2. Methodology

Information was gathered from survey questions distributed to veterinarians via email and in person regarding their views about dog breed, dog aggression, and breed-specific legislation. Additional questions were asked regarding the respondents’ opinions of the most common dog breeds in the United States, breed-specific legislation in the respondents’ area, and if the legislation had affected their practices. A total of 1,718 respondents completed the survey. The most commonly thought of breeds for aggression-related dog incidents were the pit bull, rottweiler, and chihuahua. Overall, nearly 25% of the respondents believe breed predilection exists for dog aggression, specifically due to owners of aggressive breeds being attracted to them. The most commonly banned breeds in respondent services are also the most commonly linked breeds to aggression-related incidents (R. Kogan et al., 2019).

3. Results

In the United States, over 38.4% of households own at least one dog, and about 49.7 million dogs are owned as pets (R. Kogan et al., 2019). Dog ownership is linked to physical activity, social interaction, heat regulation, and blood pressure, as well as decreased depression, loneliness, anxiety, and stress. These factors may also positively impact children’s social and academic skills. Research has indicated the significant health benefits of owning dogs, including physical, psychological, and emotional development. However, dog ownership is also associated with health risks. This is most evident in regard to dog bites, which can result in pain and complications including permanent disability and disfigurement. Dog bites and attacks are a substantial public health concern in the U.S., and children aged 5–9 years are the most commonly bitten demographic. Following dog bites, more than 9000 individuals are treated in the ER each day, amounting to nearly $19,000,000 in medical expenses. In response to growing dog bite incidents, many locations throughout the nation have enacted breed-specific legislation (BSLs). The most prominent BSLs prohibit the ownership or possession of certain dog breeds characterized as “dangerous.” Pit bull prohibition is the most commonly enacted BSL, with bans in over 900 municipalities. Breed identification is often inaccurate, impacting the calculation and interpretation of bite statistics. Studies have indicated that breed bans do not reduce dog bites, and certain areas have seen an increase in dog bites after implementing breed restrictions. After the ban on pit bull terriers in Ireland, the number of dog bite hospitalizations increased by 300%. Additionally, the European Society of Dog and Animal Welfare, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the National Animal Control Association oppose breed-specific legislation as it has negative impacts on dog welfare (Creedon & S. Ó’Súilleabháin, 2017).

4. Top 15 Most Destructive Dog Breeds

A dog breed is a specific subspecies of animal, meaning that to varying degrees, the gene base of those purebred dogs would lend a certain predictability as to how an actual dog’s behavior when bred to be purebred. By and large, not even the most aggressive dog breeds are all aggressive. However, they do exhibit some breed-specific character traits that can combine, and over time or any given incident can contribute to aggression. It has been well established that an essentially core element in our domesticated dogs is having, by and large, a good, dispassionate demeanor, a friendship or good relationship with humans, as well as easy approachability. This is done typically as a result of breeding – besides physical attributes – behavior that is aligned with assistance to their owners. Contrary to that, dogs bred for defense, policing, and hunting assume any alarming or unusual incident is a threat, and as a result, become defensive. For those few breeds relegated for defense, many were chosen because of a weak prey drive; others were chosen for it. Aggressive behavior in police service dogs is exacerbated when their housing and exercise options are more severely restrictive prior to a fight. The dog owner’s own style and personality to a large degree also dictate the structure of behavior toward the dog. Even within breed lines and individual variations, breed selection is used as a guideline in breeds that have natural protection training. For common families that have pets, training the dogs to socialize with both people and dogs is also typical for most breeds. As with the dog breed in general, when it picks its “fights,” socializing with dogs and people is typically the core.

4.1. Pit Bull Terrier

The Pit Bull Terrier tops our list as the most dangerous dog breed according to statistics. However, it is essential to note that the author does not necessarily believe any of the breeds on this list are inherently dangerous. There are many factors to consider before determining if a dog poses a risk, and those factors must be taken on an individual basis. In reality, Pit Bull Terriers seldom bite. Unfortunately, when they do, it is often devastating. This breed is incredibly controversial. Many people believe these dogs are dangerous, while others feel they are heavily discriminated against. The media typically reports negative stories that involve this breed because they are known to get more views, so the perception can be skewed.

The Pit Bull Terrier has a fiery past, but today is considered very friendly and intelligent. They are very loyal and great protectors. However, they are prone to some behaviors that can be quite dangerous if not handled correctly. This breed was originally developed in England by crossing bulldogs with terriers. This hybrid breed was then brought to America where it was used in dog fighting primarily. Pit Bull Terriers were bred to be incredibly strong dogs with powerful jaws. It is this physical characteristic, combined with their loyalty and ultimately great strength that has spawned their odd reputation. With responsible ownership and thorough socialization, Pit Bull Terriers can make great pets for anyone. In recent years, animal advocates have really helped change the public's opinion about Pit Bull Terriers, and this breed has recently been adopted as a family pet by many. The total amount of Pit Bull bites from the database is 3,569. Of these, 1,183 incidents involved fatalities or disfigurement. The American Staffordshire Terrier accounted for the second most bites. In total, this breed was responsible for the same amount of attacks as the Pit Bull, but a lower amount of fatalities sitting at 143.

4.2. Rottweiler

Rottweiler – Keen Working Dog with Strong Territorial and Protective Instincts

This breed has quickly risen to fame, or should that be "infamy"? The temperament of a well-bred Rottweiler is one of confidence, intelligence, adaptability, and most importantly, a guard and a fighter who moves with boxer-like agility and grace. Rottweilers are not only used in security services all over the world, but they make excellent police dogs too because they are so versatile, being a good-natured working dog. Because of their ferocious appearance and fighting dog abilities, society has somehow deemed them dangerous, but all can assure those who have had any exposure to these gentle giants that nothing could be further from the truth. But Rottweilers' biggest trait of them all is that they are extremely loyal to their owner and family.

Because of their innate power and strength, it is absolutely necessary to take on a Rottweiler with breed experience. They also have a keen territorial mindset, and that is why, when faced with children or strangers, they tend to move into a zone of defense. However, the true Rottweiler, with show class in anatomy and angulation, is always a friendly and well-mannered dog when seeing people. Due to the breed's unique characteristics, training and socialization are essential for Rottweilers. The Rottweiler is the canny dog that singles out the evil stranger from the color of his skin. Its tart, fearless disposition allows it to be a suitable guardian for your family. The personality, like all useful sentinels, needs to be directed and supervised in order to prevent potential mishaps. Statistics do not verify the Rottweiler's negative reputation, but that doesn't mean a proper education is not required. Rottweilers are used to children and other animals, especially dogs, but the level of acceptance depends on their patience, preparation, and the proximity of the dogs. A protective Rottweiler is a loyal animal who can help you stop being a victim of abuse, but power and character may be dangerously capable of dealing with an amateur. The Rottweiler, like their parents, may distrust strangers while in the house. When left alone all day without connection with individuals, they are often nervous, possibly causing distress for their surroundings.

4.3. German Shepherd

Two similar dog breeds are often both listed among the most dangerous dog breeds: German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. Thus, this section may, to some extent, be related to them as well. German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, versatility, and the ability to learn and perform tasks quickly and competently. They are often used in police work, in protection, and in search and rescue, as service dogs, as therapy dogs, and as aid for the disabled. Their high energy and intelligence, together with their natural hunting instincts, make them excellent assistants for fishing and hunting, as well as in tracking.

Shepherds are large dogs and are playful and very active even in old age. Before adopting a German Shepherd, we will need to familiarize ourselves with the basic behavioral characteristics of the breed and decide whether we have the ability to meet their needs (large space, sufficient physical activity, etc.). Herding dogs such as German Shepherds are natural guardians of their territories and ensure the safety of their families. They take their role as "protection" quite seriously and should never be tolerated, trained, or taught to be aggressive. They are not included in the dangerous breeds category because they are aggressive and likely to attack humans unprovoked. The incidence of aggressive attacks largely depends on how a dog has been raised and socialized, among other things. In most cases, uncontrolled aggressive behavior turns into attacks or bites in the absence of intelligent training and socialization of dogs. In the United States alone, there are more than 5.5 million cases of dog bite injuries each year, and 60% of these injuries involve children. That being said, more than 20 breeds have been responsible for fatal attacks over the past 20 years. In five of those years, German Shepherds were known to have attacked and killed children, seniors, and adults. Overall, the aggressiveness of the species is more related to misunderstandings and their inappropriate containment, training, and socialization.

4.4. Basset Hound

If you thought nothing about this breed should surprise you after reading about a Liver Hound at first, you were wrong. Most people regard Basset Hounds as gentle, calm, and sociable dogs. You very rarely see them on lists discussing dangerous canines, but no breed is inherently safe for all people or situations. Bassets are a very low-energy hound bred to track rabbits, so their overall body language rarely comes across as confrontational. However, any dog can bite if provoked, frightened, or under stress. This breed has been used ever since its development in hunting packs to capably chase down and carry rabbits for their hunters to collect after capture. Even after the developing hunting game became proper deer hunts and beagles were preferred to regular Bassets because they run and chase faster and travel farther, ranchers in America have used American Bassets for a variety of hunting and herding jobs even in the last half of the 20th century. Their body spareness and natural aversion to running or playing much other than brief energetic spurts with other dogs make them an unreasonable choice for any sort of high-speed work. So cattlemen and dust-croppers appreciated them as active but not too active fox predator-removers, due to these dogs’ ability to smell anyone or anything inside even deep dens and their digging skills to reach prey. Because of their great noses and quiet footfalls, they were the first breed most bear hunters tried when crossbreeds with foxhounds, Harriers, or coonhounds didn’t pan out for tracking purposes. Since the hound that bays its quarry is the hound you catch, bear-hunting enthusiasts were pressed to utilize rabbit-tracking dogs that could snuff silently. Similarly, after televised sporting events drove high numbers of raccoon hunters in projects to develop both head and foot scents in their coonhound breeds in order to speed up, track, and tree coonhounds at competitions, even Basset owners began combining with camels to slowly track elephants and occasionally lions, the superior nose work conducted by the Basset. These dogs are so amiable and human-friendly that any aggression shown towards any entity or person is thought of as distant, or at most, nominal. Traditionally selectively favorable dogs, people treat even noted grouch hounds with folly-filled pity more than caution. These dogs just don’t get taken as seriously as they may warrant by responsible persons who research breeds and their true care and handling needs before adopting them. Because even the minor potential dangers will certainly remain only potential among the almost religiously trained and socialized when the right kind of sanctuary dog ends up in a wealthy, supportive home that has received every chance in life. Only when dogs are not given such opportunities do these character aspects pose any real threat: a frequent case with dewrinkled and obnoxious utility dogs, or large and ancient pedigree sport hunters who can be expected to flex their genetic instincts on other homes’ kids, cats, or Chihuahuas. Much too many canines embark upon their adult potentialities without having acquired any sound discretion, lived at least modestly intact lives, or come to understand the greater part of their ease at being plants, which is why it’s imprudent to write as if Bassets were never implicated in harming a child or battering another house pet. Generally, however, such results are quite low in likelihood. For purposes plain and simple, this breed makes an outstanding sanctuary for anyone seeking a mostly mild-tempered, affectionate, woolless dog. The breed has been transported to the land of sniffy handling as cutesy assistance therapy for hospital patients, where their good nature assures patients in long-term care that mild contentment and staunch virtue can still be stumbled upon.

4.5. Mastiff

The Mastiff is the largest dog breed and a veritable giant, which might be alarming upon first glance. However, contrary to their size and appearance, Mastiffs often have the reputation of being gentle giants instead of giant brutes. Their massive size accounts for some of this, and it is an excellent reason to proceed with caution. Nevertheless, it also results in plenty of myths and misconceptions that have reinforced the Mastiff as one of the most dangerous dog breeds rather than a family and child-friendly dog. At heart, Mastiffs are a loving and affectionate breed that adores nothing more than to spend time with their family in relative peace and quiet. They simply become lethal in any way when they believe that they or their family might be in danger, at which point they may take on the role of a courageous guardian. It's a little more nuanced than calling them aggressive.

Indeed, many people have come to rely on the Mastiff's superior guarding abilities over the years since they were first trained specifically to carry out this duty. In other words, they are shown to have a predisposition to behave aggressively towards their guarding environment, and they are part of our most dangerous dog breed list as a result, but only if they build up to that point over some degree of socializing and were not given proper training. Therefore, given our historical appreciation of this breed for their guarding skills, their ability to become dangerous is not unexpected. However, it must be mentioned that the Mastiff, the large ancient mountain breed that resides in the Alps and other places, will always and invariably shy away from causing any harm to a child or woman, inflicting injury, or cuddling an innocent cat. They are the crazy fanatics of their owner who is so nice by their standards.

4.6. Beagle

The beagle holds the fifth position as the most popular breed in the United States, but they are also one of the breeds people are least worried about. They are small to medium-sized hound dogs that physically don't look threatening. They are happy, friendly, and seem more "pettable" than dangerous. The beagle has no predisposition towards aggression, but every dog has the potential to become dangerous when mistreated or neglected. The beagle was developed to be a pack working dog that coexists well with other dogs and people. As a pack dog, they are genetically tuned in to human society, and with moderate socialization and training, they do very well. However, beagles do have two inherited instincts that can potentially cause harm: strong hunting instincts and a keen sense of smell. More beagles are lost or killed because they follow their noses or chase wildlife into traffic or wooded areas than for any other reason.

To help improve beagle behavior, they need regular exercise and an acceptable outlet for their pack and scent instinct behavior, like daily long walks and opportunities to follow their human in scent games or a job as a tracking dog. If beagles are neglected or left outside alone for long periods of time, they can become destructive or escape artists. Seventy-seven percent of beagle-related incidents in 2020 involved dog-on-dog aggression. This behavior for a working pack dog just means that their powerful instincts are going unmet and are now manifesting as negative behavior. Every beagle is different. Statistics and behaviors about this breed are based on surveys of their entire breed population and may not apply to every individual dog. A portion of any breed is well bred, raised, trained, and socialized, but there are also beagles that are not. The beagle should be seen as a family member that will need some basic and ongoing dog training to ensure that they are good canine citizens.

4.7. Plott

The Plott Hound, also known as the Plott, is a breed of dog from North Carolina, named after the Plott family. The Plott Hound is a scent hound, originally bred for the purpose of boar hunting. The Plott is typically slightly aloof, but is loyal and fearless. It has a strong work ethic and typically gets along well with other dogs when properly socialized. Because it was bred for boar hunting, the Plott Hound is not easily swayed and, without proper training, may be assertive and not willing to retreat if the outcome is not in its favor. If a Plott Hound becomes bored, it can become assertive and destructive. Despite their ferocity when hunting, Plotts are generally known to be good family pets. This dog breed is gentle and protective with children. However, because of their hunting instinct, Plotts may not always do well with small pets unless raised with them. Owing to the high energy levels of the Plott Hound, behavioral problems may arise if the dog does not receive adequate mental and physical stimulation. Plott Hounds are very clean and are little to no shedding dogs. Like most hounds, Plotts require a failure-free leader who makes all of the decisions. Obedience, early socialization, and consistent leadership are vital, as Plotts have a tendency to show assertive qualities and will not back down if challenged. Proper care and daily exercise are a must if you want a well-mannered hunting companion. Interesting fact: Plott Hounds have an interesting "chop" or "bawl" mouth that is often two-toned. This breed can also have a "silent" or "cold" trail on a hare, in which case humans can't hear the dog, but the dogs work very well as a pack, effectively and silently, with the other dogs. The Plott Hound is loyal and smart but has a mind of its own. They were bred for chasing and treeing big game, so they usually do not have a problem with other dogs and should do well around other animals. However, be careful with other animals they are not familiar with, especially cats. Plott Hounds that are not taught how to behave around children may be overly assertive. If a Plott Hound is left untrained and not given proper exercise, it is possible that it may become destructive and/or aggressive at its worst.

4.8. Great Dane

The Great Dane will rank among the tallest and heaviest dog breeds in the top 15 most aggressive. However, it is known for its gentle nature that matches its size. It is used as a companion and is always ready to offer devoted friendship to those who provide a suitable level of care. They also function as guardians, talents that have been developed over centuries. Today, they will occasionally exhibit signs of wariness towards strangers and will bark in response, but they are certainly not aggressive by nature. It is still natural for people to fear them; the instincts of most living things are to fear what is bigger than them, and a Great Dane weighs at least 150 pounds. Happy to be fondled by children and the elderly alike, many owners are astounded by the distance that these pets will go when it comes to bestowing happiness. With a good-tempered nature, it is also a breed that has partnered with the family. Though they are cute, early training and socialization, mixed with regular exercise, are important for preventing any unforeseen incidents. A Great Dane that is not effectively guided might show signs of aggression and have more of an angry disposition. If you are contemplating the choice of a Great Dane as your new family addition, you must consider whether they are the adaptable breed to select, but they have both an outstanding dedication and an immense delight to ensure you live a longer and happier life shared with your whole family. There are little to no incidents involving Great Danes and people, possibly due to the owners. In fact, Great Danes are very charming, cuddly dogs to possess and greet visitors. They do, however, have some dominance in them, and like every large dog, lessons need to begin early to control their behavior. In truth, there are several experts in buying and grooming large herding breeds. This tranquil and imposing large breed will serve as an excellent watchdog. They rarely act out of aggression out of fright, and in these occurrences, the owner bears greater blame for not advocating for their dog. In conclusion, Great Danes possess an even temperament with their dominant behavior, and they will follow their owner to the edge of the world when trading.

4.9. American Bulldog

American Bulldogs may be overly muscular, but they're a bunch of sweethearts at heart. These big dogs have heaping amounts of energy that they can never get rid of—they're the perfect play buddy for kids or adults! American Bulldogs are large, athletic dogs. While they do well with kids and love bringing home strays, they do not do well with abnormal behavior. Barking, obnoxious digging, and inappropriate chewing are part of the "I'm bored" behavior in a bulldog, which can lead to aggression or destructive behavior if not redirected appropriately. American Bulldogs are fiercely loyal. They'll work to the end of the earth to protect you and your family, and the same protective nature can turn into aggression if not dealt with.

They may be built like small cars, but make no mistake—bulldogs have their own opinions on everything. They're not just drooling dogs; they have likes, dislikes, and activities that can bring out the best in a crazy dog lover in seconds. American Bulldogs require a strong yet faithful approach to prepare them for a role in society. They're people dogs at heart, no question, but they have a problem with the appalling image that they're all dangerous. This breed analysis is designed to put things in perspective so dog owners can get the best scenario for integrating them into their family dynamic. This kind of dog can be successfully trained or poorly trained through neglect. There's a fine line between violence and gentle training, much like many of the dogs on this list, and careful thinking about breeds in general.

4.10. American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog, affectionately known as "Eskie," is recognized for its playfulness and intelligence. There are actually three different size varieties of American Eskimo Dog, which all have slightly different traits and behaviors. The Toy American Eskimo Dog is often considered to be the most affectionate, while the Standard American Eskimo Dog is the most suspicious of strangers, and the Miniature American Eskimo Dog is known for not getting along with strangers. However, most American Eskimo Dogs generally love to be social around people. One problem American Eskimo Dog owners often encounter is behavioral issues resulting from not getting enough mental stimulation. American Eskimo Dogs love to please their owners, so with basic training, these dogs can make great family pets. If not given proper training, an American Eskimo Dog can become bored and destructive. These dogs are not especially aggressive, and in fact, they are well known for their gentle demeanor. Under most circumstances, these dogs will act warm, friendly, and sociable. Occasionally, a well-protected dog may act differently and show defensiveness, but this dog would never intentionally harm family. The most common breed of Eskies is incredibly gentle. These dogs often go through extensive training sessions for therapy use. In some situations, toy dogs in this breed are too small for families with small children who may be unaware of the harm these dogs unintentionally cause due to their aggressiveness. The American Eskimo Dog's entire population has an incident rate of 0.04% and has killed one person. Overall, Eskies have a very low occurrence of incidents. The American Eskimo is known for performing "tricks" or independent problem solving. They are great dogs for people who work at home or enjoy dog sports. With early socialization, the American Eskimo can do very well with children who can be respectful of his smaller size.

4.11. Boxer

The Boxer is a playful, energetic, affectionate, and loyal breed of dogs. They are one of the popular family pets and share a good rapport with children. They are often seen by the side of their human family, serving the dual role of a reliable house pet and guardian, and, in earlier years, a working dog. Although the Boxer's exuberance may be overwhelming at times, with strong training and early exposure to people and other dogs, this breed usually does well. People looking to purchase the breed should select carefully, have the pet evaluated, receive training, and have a vet who is experienced with the breed. Children should be taught the right way to communicate with dogs, and parents should always supervise their interaction. One possibility is a full-grown dog with a demonstrated reputation. The administration of the two Boxers can be both demanding and reasonable.

There has even been some proof to suggest that police and guardian dog incidents involving Boxers are frequently confused with guard dogs or the biggest in the family. An individual was injured in thirty-nine incidents. Twenty-four of those were female dogs. Blame for biting was attributed to thirty-seven dogs, while two others assaulted without precautionary measures in place. In all, thirteen incidents caused minor to moderate injuries as a result. Both attacks have occurred because the Boxer is one of the most crucial and intimate dog breeds, blocking simply rather than attacking untrained people. His actual background has provided pure loyalty, and that loyalty exhibits active behavior, particularly as far as pups are concerned. This is a breed that was once cultivated to work. Today's Boxer may have already become not only a playmate, receiver, or player, but also a kitchen helper, companion, watchdog, protector, and comedian while living with humans. Buying a healthy, well-adjusted young puppy is the ideal approach to control excessive energy and avoid having a dog who may have the potential to misbehave.

4.12. Siberian Husky

Huskies mature later than other dog breeds, often requiring more time to become reliable family members. Used in the extremely controlled environment of sled dog racing, many Huskies do not become reliable off-leash dogs, escaping frequently. The Husky needs to be consistent in their activities. What data are available on Huskies and attacks? A review of dog-related attack statistics reports focused solely on fatalities. Children and the elderly are the primary victims of a Husky attack, though some adults may be included. Irresponsible ownership may play a role in these incidents. A 10-year study found Siberian Huskies to rank 39th among the breeds most prone to biting. How might the medical community benefit from this information? It is important to carefully guard those who are more susceptible to severe injury or possible death as a result of a dog assault. While they may appear intimidating at first, Siberian Huskies are some of the friendliest dog breeds out there. In a pinch, they could act as a guard dog, though they are not as effective as others on this list. The Siberian Husky has a fantastic temperament, but it does have a couple of potential drawbacks. For one, it’s an extremely independent dog breed and likes to do whatever it wants. Also, if a Husky isn’t properly socialized, it can develop behavioral issues. And while a Husky is typically a very friendly dog, it can also develop dangerous behavioral problems if it isn’t properly trained. It’s a high-energy dog breed and has a strong prey drive, so its interactions with kids, especially toddlers and babies, need to be carefully overseen. Plus, Siberian Huskies have a tendency to become destructive when they’re bored.

4.13. Alaskan Malamute

Often seen as a Siberian Husky on steroids, the Alaskan Malamute can, in essence, do the work of a Husky with the weight capacity of a Newfoundland. Known for their strength and endurance, it makes sense as to why the Malamute enjoys long workdays as their services are still actively used throughout the north. This larger breed of northern dog was initially bred to carry heavy loads across vast expanses of the Arctic, as the sleds and the dog teams of the Malamutes were necessary for Alaskan trading. Though they are powerful and robust, an Alaskan Malamute's nature is friendly and loyal towards the family that raised them. However, to have a happy, healthy home with these dogs, lifelong daily exercise requirements are essential. This is not a breed to take lightly if one does not enjoy daily physical challenges and long periods of training. Owning two other dog breeds on their Husky list as well as a Malamute, the resident had the following to say about the Alaskan Malamute: "You need to be very, very dedicated – exercise is key, you have to exercise this dog – and, you know, understand that not every dog is bred to be Lassie. These dogs are not necessarily Lassie. But they are great dogs." This quote is indicative of Malamute ownership; to those that can handle and enjoy the breed, they are fantastic.

4.14. Doberman Pinscher

Developed in the 19th century, the Doberman Pinscher breed possesses undeniably striking looks, with a sleek general appearance married to an inimitable air of intelligence. Although particularly popular for its undying loyalty and protective nature, it is even kept primarily for its incredible potential as a working or service dog. As a rule of thumb, most Dobermans are known for their enthusiastic and affectionate demeanor with family members. However, they may display incredible wariness toward strangers. A well-made and lovingly cared-for breed usually gets along extremely well with kids. In choosing the right dog to bring into your household, your family ought to be a major consideration.

Developed by a tax collector in Germany, Doberman Pinschers were bred to be capable of protecting wealth and apprehending thieves. The result is a dog whose dice are stacked against her the moment she is conceived. Should you opt to keep them comfortable within your home and under your watch, you will notice a few things about them. The following are their general characteristics:

• A Doberman is known for yearning to become your best friend.

• Providing physical tasks can quench all their extensive physical needs.
• Dobermans should be trained to be sociable toward individuals.
• Untrained dogs might cause havoc.
• Offer a safe environment for your Doberman.
• They are highly likely to develop bone cancer.
• Keep in mind that Dobermans might act overprotective.

4.15. Chow Chow

Physical traits Height: About 24-26 inches tall Weight: Typically 75 to 100 pounds Color: Black or brown; some may have white patches Energy level: High Average lifespan: 10 to 14 years Personality traits Becomes deeply affectionate with owners Loves to bark, which can provide security to your home Incredibly smart and willing to learn Highly loyal and reliable in guarding the home and family

Involvement in attacks Vicious attacks by Doberman Pinschers are at their lowest point than they have been over the last five years, resulting in a 1.4% change. In 2014, there were only two Doberman Pinscher-born assaults. Despite no confirmed details, the lowest point looks to be no more than three. In the prior year, the timeframe saw an increase, reaching a height of three during 2020. The recent low does not imply there is any heightened peril. In fairness, the breed has not been the subject of such an array of dialogue in the media or among pet owners and breed enthusiasts of late. As a result of these increased perceptions of security, there has been a significant reduction in the popularity of Dobermans as family pets. Although the Dobermans have been discontinued as a family breed in many states or in a few countries, the breed fits into this narrative comfortably. Sufficient training is essential. They must also be socialized. If kept in a comfortable condition and socialized, they are capable of being transformed into family pets of uniform proportion. Additionally, do not misjudge them as watchdogs only. The Doberman Pinscher has the ability to become much more than you've ever anticipated.

The Chow Chow is a unique breed. Most identifiable by its fluffy double coat, lion-like ruff, and distinctive aloof look, they are easily recognized almost anywhere. The Chow Chow is indeed a standout breed that captivates many sociable dog lovers, yet fewer people tend to own them compared to other members of the list. The breed probably originated in high-altitude regions of Siberia or Mongolia and is one of the oldest recorded, unchanged breeds, with some experts suggesting dates up to 300 BC. The Chow was used as multipurpose dogs of ancient northern China, especially for gathering an underground species and for the use of all-furred skins.

To begin with, the breed was initially created as a hunting, working dog. It should be that kind of dog at any point in life. These users also consider that Chows are highly affectionate around family, even if they appear independent or shy. All things can be true. With a global count of only 875,552 Chow Chows registered in 2003 and 2013, there are not many family members in the current generation. Most country breeders continue to keep the dog for breeding, with between 6-7 million overall each year. This may be partially why the death toll from their bites has been most common consistently since 2003-2013, prior to the bully breeds increasing in popularity after 2013. The majority of countries in which these dogs have been associated with a high bite death rate were in Europe. It may be important to mention that as a primitive breed, the Chow is not particularly sociable by nature, and many individuals are not partial to sudden affections or overbearing physical attention, thus increasing the odds that a Chow bite will be a defensive one.

5. Behavioral Factors

A dog can be described as the most destructive or problematic one if its behavior is socially unacceptable and a hazard to the safety and welfare of persons, other animals, or property. These behaviors include chewing, digging, eating refuse, climbing on furniture, growling at people and/or other dogs, snapping, biting, and/or being otherwise aggressive on display. Destructive behaviors can occur between the 6th and 10th months of age and extend to the 3rd year of life (YAMADA et al., 2019). This period of life corresponds to the transition from a plastic puppy brain to an adult brain accompanied by certain physiological, cognitive, and behavioral changes. Housing situation, frequency of walks, purpose of acquisition, and environmental factors, particularly human/dog relationship factors, are reported to affect dog behavior. Such factors may influence the development of the behavior of dogs that are newly adopted. As dog acquiring the experimental background such as living situation, living place, behavior, and human/dog relationship, there is a need to investigate all such factors.

5.1. Genetic Predisposition

The following examines the genetic factors contributing to destructive behavioral problems. These factors can be imported via pedigree or innate in temperament. Inbred bloodlines generally expose genetic health problems in dogs, thus the less well dogs are bred the greater the number of dog bloodlines with genetic health problems. A genetic disposition to aggression is a functional trait specific to an individual breed. It is clear from the way aggressive dog breeds were developed that some dogs simply possess a greater genetic disposition to aggression (van Rooy et al., 2014). As dogs have been bred for thousands of years, each breed will possess behaviors relevant to its original purpose. Mastiffs, for example, were originally bred for danger, guarding properties and animal fighting and hunting while Terriers were bred to hunt varmint and rats in urban environments. Behavioral geneticists refer to these traits of a breed as "fixed" or "innate" to a breed (W. Eyre et al., 2022). Dog breeds are split into various functional categories that each breed has been bred for.

6. Preventative Measures

Preventative Measures Preventative measures can be taken in order to attempt to mitigate the destructive behaviour highlighted in this article. The first is to properly train these dogs as soon as possible with regards to the behaviours highlighted above. It takes around 3-4 weeks on average to properly teach dogs behaviours such as not chewing furniture, prevention of barking, biting, separation anxiety, and jumping. Untrained dogs may start biting other people, chewing furniture, barking uncontrollably, and whining non-stop (R. van Herwijnen et al., 2023). Taking action before the young stage ends before the four month mark can help prevent aggressive reactions later on (Notari et al., 2020). Apart from aggressive reactions, as dogs reach adolescence at around six months, they may have a strong desire to chew on anything. Separation anxiety is also a concern with newer breeds such as Cavoodles who get separation anxiety very quickly and often bark obnoxiously to show it. Proper training can also create a bond with the dog which can help calm them down.

In addition to training, modifications in the environment can also help mitigate downstairs barking, furniture chewing, and whining. Creation of a dog safe area in outside gardens where they can roam about with dog houses can mitigate the chances of walking and roaming about the neighbourhood which may result in dangerous situations. Putting dog food on the normal table outside may also prevent searching for food inside and garbage cans. However, in consideration, dog parks should be avoided in the case of aggressive dog breeds as this may endanger other smaller breeds who may be attacked and killed.

7. Any Dog Can Bite

 Why Breed-Specific Legislation Isn’t the Answer: The Case for Responsible Ownership Over Stereotypes Breed-specific legislation (BSL) targets particular breeds, often unfairly labeling them as dangerous. Most commonly, "pit bull types" face these restrictions, with many cities and states in the U.S. and Canada either heavily regulating or outright banning their ownership. While BSL might seem like a solution to prevent dog bites at first glance, it is neither effective nor fair.

In fact, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) firmly opposes breed-specific legislation.

Any Dog Can Bite Each year, over 4.5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs, with more than 800,000 requiring medical treatment. Half of these cases involve children. Dog bites pose a significant public health concern, but breed alone does not predict a dog’s likelihood to bite. Instead, factors such as the dog’s behavior, history, size, and the circumstances of the bite play a far more crucial role.

The idea that certain breeds are inherently dangerous oversimplifies the issue. It’s not the breed, but rather individual circumstances, such as how a dog is raised and handled, that often lead to aggression. By focusing on breeds, we miss the bigger picture: responsible ownership and preventive measures.

The Flaws of Breed-Specific Legislation The AVMA supports legislation designed to protect public safety, but stresses that laws should target dangerous animals based on their behavior, not their breed. Breed-specific laws fall short for several reasons: 

Difficulty of Enforcement: Identifying a dog’s breed accurately is harder than it seems, especially for mixed breeds. Many times, dogs are mislabeled based on appearance alone. For example, "pit bull" is a term often used to describe a variety of breeds with similar features, not a specific breed itself. Even experts struggle to identify breeds correctly, making enforcement of these laws inconsistent and unreliable.

Unfair to Responsible Owners: BSL unjustly punishes responsible pet owners and innocent dogs. Dogs that pose no threat can be seized or euthanized simply because they resemble a restricted breed. Moreover, service dogs, police dogs, and rescue animals, many of which are from so-called “dangerous” breeds, also fall victim to these bans despite their valuable contributions to society.

Ignores the Root Problem: Banning specific breeds does not address the real issue—irresponsible pet ownership. Aggressive behavior in dogs often stems from factors like neglect, lack of socialization, or failure to spay or neuter, rather than the dog’s breed. BSL can give communities a false sense of security, diverting attention away from important aspects of responsible ownership that apply to all dogs, regardless of breed.

The Misleading Nature of Breed-Specific Bite Statistics It’s nearly impossible to accurately calculate bite rates for specific breeds. Factors such as misidentification of the breed, underreporting of incidents, and changes in breed popularity over time make such data unreliable. Research shows that the breed is a poor predictor of bite risk, while other variables like proper training, neutering, and socialization are far more critical in reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior.

A Better Approach to Dog Bite Prevention Rather than focusing on breed, efforts to prevent dog bites should emphasize responsible pet ownership and address the actions of negligent owners. The AVMA recommends the following strategies: 

1- Enforce non-breed-specific dangerous dog laws, especially targeting irresponsible owners.

2- Implement animal control measures, such as leash laws, enforced by trained professionals.

3- Ban dog fighting, which promotes aggressive behavior.

4- Encourage spaying and neutering, particularly for dogs not intended for breeding.

5- Education programs in schools and communities that teach about responsible pet care, safe dog interactions, and bite prevention.

For veterinarians, community leaders, and pet owners alike, fostering a culture of responsible ownership is the key to reducing dog bite incidents. Breed alone does not determine a dog's behavior—how they are raised, trained, and cared for plays a much larger role in shaping their actions.

 while breed-specific legislation may seem like a quick fix, it doesn’t address the core issues behind dog bites. A more effective and humane solution lies in promoting responsible ownership, education, and enforcing laws that target problem behavior rather than stereotyping entire breeds.

References:

R. Kogan, L., M. Schoenfeld-Tacher, R., W. Hellyer, P., A. Oxley, J., & Rishniw, M., 2019. Small Animal Veterinarians’ Perceptions, Experiences, and Views of Common Dog Breeds, Dog Aggression, and Breed-Specific Laws in the United States. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Creedon, N. & S. Ó’Súilleabháin, P., 2017. Dog bite injuries to humans and the use of breed-specific legislation: a comparison of bites from legislated and non-legislated dog breeds. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

YAMADA, R., KUZE-ARATA, S., KIYOKAWA, Y., & TAKEUCHI, Y., 2019. Prevalence of 25 canine behavioral problems and relevant factors of each behavior in Japan. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

van Rooy, D., R Arnott, E., B Early, J., McGreevy, P., & M Wade, C., 2014. Holding back the genes: limitations of research into canine behavioural genetics. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

W. Eyre, A., Zapata, I., Hare, E., M. N. Lee, K., Bellis, C., L. Essler, J., M. Otto, C., A. Serpell, J., & E. Alvarez, C., 2022. Genome scanning of behavioral selection in a canine olfactory detection breeding cohort. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

R. van Herwijnen, I., A. M. van der Borg, J., M. Kapteijn, C., S. Arndt, S., & M. Vinke, C., 2023. Factors regarding the dog owner’s household situation, antisocial behaviours, animal views and animal treatment in a population of dogs confiscated after biting humans and/ or other animals. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Notari, L., Cannas, S., Agata Di Sotto, Y., & Palestrini, C., 2020. A Retrospective Analysis of Dog–Dog and Dog–Human Cases of Aggression in Northern Italy. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov