We all love our pets. For most of us, they’re more than just animals. They’re members of our family. While having pets has several benefits, take care in the breed you choose. Some are more aggressive than others are, and may not a good match for a family. Famous “dog whisperer” Cesar Milan argues that there are no inherently bad dogs. Any canine can become a good companion with proper training. Still, some dogs are more predisposed to violence than others are. Know the world’s most dangerous dog breeds. If you are injured in a dog or animal attack, you should contact an experienced San Bernardino dog bite injury attorney to seek the compensation that you deserve.
Here is a breakdown of the top 10 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds:
#10. Great Dane
You may be surprised to find out that this breed, the inspiration for the lovable Scooby Doo, actually makes the aggressive list. At a maximum of 200 pounds, though, you should never trifle with these dogs. If improperly trained, they can injure children and adults alike.
#9. Boxer
Boxers are a type of hunting dog and were bred to attack enemies during WWI. They’re protective by nature, which can make them loyal companions when properly trained. If someone neglects or abuses them, however, they can kill. In 2013, a boxer killed his owner when the owner attempted to break up a fight with another dog.
#8. Wolf Hybrids
Wolf crossbreeds are so dangerous that many states have banned them. While all dogs are descendants of wolves, their aggressive tendencies were bred out over generations of domestication. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), wolf hybrids were responsible for 14 deaths between 1979 and 1989.
#7. Malamute
These cute and fluffy dogs are the state dog of Alaska, as they’re the preferred choice for sled dogs. Don’t be fooled by their friendly faces, though. Malamutes have been responsible for five fatal dog bites, according to a University of Texas study. While they may make good working animals, they might not be suitable companions for children.
#6. Husky
Like the Malamute, these were bred to be working dogs, not cuddly companions. The husky is energetic and athletic, making it a potential workout buddy for an adult. However, they’re not an ideal choice for young children who like to pull on tails and roughhouse.
#5. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs look like intimidating animals, weighing around 130 pounds. This breed was intended as a guard dog, so they have a naturally protective temperament. There have been two fatal bullmastiff attacks in this year alone – one in Texas and another in New Jersey. Both victims were teenagers.
#4. Doberman Pinschers
You may recognize this breed as a police dog, although this practice is no longer commonplace. Dobermans made good police dogs because they’re bred to be very protective of their handlers. This breed may become aggressive around strangers, and their strength can make them dangerous.
#3. German Shepherds
Also used as police dogs, this breed is both smart and loyal. The bite of a German shepherd is exceptionally strong, with a force of over 1,000 newtons. They also have a tendency to attack smaller dogs, so they might not be a suitable match for families with other pets.
#2. Rottweilers
This brawny dog’s strength makes it dangerous for people. The CDC reports that half of all fatal dog bites between 1993 and 1996 were from Rottweilers.
#1. Pit Bulls
Statistically speaking, Pit Bulls are the most dangerous breed of dog in the United States. They’ve already been responsible for 22 deaths this year. They’re also the most likely to attack children unprovoked – an estimated 94% of dog bites involving children were unprovoked, compared to an all-breed average of 43%.
If considering a pet, the dogs listed above may not be suitable companions. However, proper treatment and decent obedience training of these breeds can help the chances of your dog being mild mannered and well behaved. Families with young children should seek dogs with easy temperaments or be committed to extensive training.
Remember that the California law requires that dogs, big or small, must be on leashes in public areas. If you find that you were injured from a dog bite because of the owner’s negligence, please contact the experienced team of personal injury attorneys in San Bernardino at Estey & Bomberger, LLP for a free consultation today! Call us at (909) 882-2016.