Most Dangerous Dogs
A Complete Guide to the Most Dangerous Dogs
No one really knows what part genetics plays in creating the most dangerous dogs. What they do know is that the majority of dangerous dogs are the way they are because of either their training or treatment by humans.
Statistics show that every year over 4-½ million people are bitten by dogs and that ten to twenty people die from their bites. While some dogs, such as pit bulls, have been singled out as particularly the most dangerous dogs, when you look at the history of dogs overall, you will see that over the last twenty years, no one breed of dog is more responsible for the number of attacks than any other.
Pit bulls were bred for dog fighting so they are often accused of having particularly bad dispositions because of their genetics, but just about all large breed dogs who are popular within a certain timeframe can end up on the list of most dangerous dogs. Pit bulls have been at the top of lists of most dangerous dogs over the past twenty years.
But, when you look at the entire history of dogs, no one dog is any more dangerous at a particular time than another. Even dogs considered to be super-friendly, such as golden retrievers and cocker spaniels, have killed people. The truth is, the majority of the most dangerous dogs were taught to be aggressive by human beings and that even includes pit bulls.
Large breed dogs are on the most dangerous dogs list more often than smaller dogs, even though there are plenty of small dogs who don’t mind biting and nipping people. The biggest difference is that the small dogs cannot do the same amount of damage as the larger breeds. It would be rare for a smaller dog, such as a chow-chow, to kill a person, even though they are considered to be very aggressive. Children, however, can receive much more serious injuries from small dogs.
The dogs which make their way onto the most dangerous dogs lists are usually pit bulls, rottweilers, German shepherds, huskies, Presa Canarios, Dobermans, and chow chows. Other dogs who are also considered most dangerous are dalmations, boxers, St. Bernards, malamutes, and great danes.
Dogs which are loved and treated well are not likely to bite anyone, much less kill someone. There are also things you can do when raising or training your puppy which can help prevent bad behavior. One of the most effective actions you can take is to keep your dog restrained at all times in public places. A whopping 82% of all deaths from dog bites are caused by unrestrained dogs.
A good leash is necessary for walking your dog in public places. Also, don’t let just anyone who asks you to pet your dog, touch your dog. A stranger can frighten him or her. You should, however socialize your dog. But spend time with other dog owners and dogs who you know, or at places such as puppy classes or pet stores where dogs are allowed.
Neutering or spaying your dog is going to eliminate aggression. This is especially true if you have a male dog. Male dogs who are not neutered are responsible for 80% of all dog bites. You can also teach your dog not to bite by making a loud noise and yelling the word, no, should he start growling or grab onto your hand or lag. Immediately give the dog a toy or bone that is OK for him to chew.
Spend time with your dog so that you can teach him what is OK or not OK. Pay attention the way he acts with people and other animals. If your dog starts to be overly aggressive, take him to a vet for help.