Which breeds do you think are the worst dogs to own?
Dogs are widely and happily considered man’s best friend. But if you’re thinking about getting a dog for the first time, one of the most significant questions you can ask yourself is: Which is the WORST dog I could possibly own?
There are almost 200 pure-breed dogs and an unlimited number of cross-breeds out there. So there’s no reason to get a pooch you can’t control or care for correctly. Some may be aggressive, while others need excessive activities. There are also those with a shorter life span.
But whatever the case may be, keep reading as we look at the 7 worst dog breeds you can get that might give you cause for concern.
383 Responses
You guys are so off base! I have a pit/boxer mix. 70/30. He is the friendliest dog Ive ever been around. Loves all humans and other animals…maybe not squirrels. I have met many pitbull owners. They love their pits. Generally super friendly. Not aggressive. And also extremely low maintenance. Get the facts!!
Have you talked to many vets for their thoughts? Not likely!
Also John Sharp: It’s my belief that pit bulls were raised, not to fight, but to be babysitters. They are loyal to their family. Dog fighters have ruined many pits and their reputation.
Absolutely
How true that is
I have come across many Pitts
What n awesome breed
They were the Nana dogs for the rich in the ,20s-40s .not born violent the greedy fighters did that!
This is a myth. These dogs were initially bred to take down bulls and bears.
Over 60% of dog fatalities are caused by pitbulls and pitbull mixes.
Laws need to come down harder on backyard breeders.
The 2 breeds that are the most aggressive since I always have a Pomeranian mix are German Shepards- they even are aggressive when they see my dog across the street, EVERY TIME. And then is Pitt Bulls. I won’t even walk by a mix! Rental insurance or homeowners insurance for those breeds is for a reason, no one ever asked me for insurance for Pomeranians. I NEVER listen to pro- Pitt Bull people, not 1 word on those dogs-keep it to yourselves.
The nana dogs have always been the English Bulldog. I raised one and he guarded my two girls ages two and three and also my kitten litter.
I totally agree with you. My first American Pitt Bull Terrier (Katie) was great with everyone. As a puppy I had her out of my hand; you don’t bite the hand that feeds you. One day my granddaughter was crawling on the floor and wandered over to Katie’s food dish. As Katie was eating my granddaughter put her hand in the food dish. Katie just picked up her head, looked at my granddaughter, and then went back to eating her food. I now have my second American Pitt Bull Terrier (Sofie) and she loves everyone. As a puppy I trained Sofie the same way as I did with Katie. I’ve had several other breads of dogs and I have to say if I should get another dog it will be a female American Pitt Bull Terrier.
You are 100% right
You got that right!
Until it rips your face off. Or kill your kid.
Yes, babysitters! My pit would watch, entertain and play with up to 6 small kids at a time while we mom’s relaxed and socialized.
In the early 1900s they were known as “nanny dogs” and there are numerous photos of them with their human children.
Agree. My son’s pitbull mixes are not aggressive or reactive because they’ve been raised properly. People still cross the street when he takes them for a walk. It’s people who should be punished for what they turn them into. But as long as the owners go unpunished it will continue. Sad; these dogs suffer
yes, you are exactly right
Ask judge Judy about the hundreds of letters she gets about those “sweet” pits that killed or maimed children.
All you need to understand is it animals or animals and you can’t always 100% trust any animal. There Not babysitters their pets , Your children are not their children. I think that pits are great pets to have around but I also know their strength and never assume anything can’t happen
True… Dog fights make dogs look bad and harm the poor dogs who do not truly like being used to fight and destroy- they wind up traumatized.
Amen all the pits I’ve had (three)were the best dogs ever. Socialize them, love and feed them and they are so sweet They may bark at first but once the tail (the little one)starts wagging they are greeting uou
Yes I have a pitbull mix he would not hurt a fly he loves everyone he just wants everyone to pet he’s. Big 100 pounds but a big love bug
So true it is the way they are raised not their breed
Agree it is the way a dog is raised mot the breed
My daughter rescued a pit bull that was almost starved to death. I thought it would die before morning. She was the kindest sweetest dog ever. Very protective but only When needed. It’s more the owner than the dog
You are so right!!!!!
They were bred for bloodsport thus the name, fighting in the pits against bulls. When one would turn on their handler it would be culled via shotgun as well as the rest of its litter and parents and over time the incidents of attacks on humans were greatly reduced. When fighting bulls was outlawed around much of the world American breeders started breeding for dog fighting which continues today as an underground blood sport. Keep in mind that all terriers were created to kill this or that as is in most terrier breeds names indicate rat terrier, bull terrier etc. the manner the original pits acted was to go after the face of the bull until the animal died or gave up the fight and that trait is still seen when a pit attack happens. They weren’t bred to be “nanny dogs” and have over a very long period of time held the top spot for human death by dog bite. Over 80% of attacks are by pits who never showed aggression up to the day of the attack, around 70% of those attacks are on family and friends. Yes they can and are being bred for less aggression, added to good socialization and obedience training one could very well own a nice dog that will never attack someone through suppression of their core genetics by these techniques and breeding practices. Be aware if the switch goes off in their brains someone is going to be damaged or killed. Know your breeds, their actual history and development, and don’t rely on hearsay.
Iagree my pit was great never hurt anybody great with the kids they would dress him and he
would sit there
Fur mom of 3 pitties are the biggest babies! It is how they are raised, point blank period.
Your thinking is the reason that PitBulls kill more people that all other breeds combined. They are looking at banning them here in the US. Already banned in many other countries. Because of folks like you that don’t understand canine behavior.
Absolutely agreed!! My bestie raises pitties and they are the biggest titty babies and so gentle around my grand babies. Yes they are very protective of them. But the most vicious of biters are chihuahuas! How many good natured sweet chihuahuas have you ever met? Most are cranky territorial and will bite. A small but vicious ankle biter doesn’t make for a good news story.
Very true
Pittie’s are the most loving loyal friendly dogs of all time!
I have a chihuahua mix and she should be on this list. She will cuddle people then bite them as they walk away!!! Tricky little gal!!!
Apparently, you don’t
OBVIOUSLY you’ve never had one or been around them because they’re not near as dangerous as the llittle breeds are! Neither are German Shepherds…you’re WAAAAAY OFF BASE!
My husband is a veterinarian and the only breed that has not bit him or the 5 other vets in his clinic is a Pitbull. The pitbull gets blamed even when it is not a pitbull attack. The pitbull is the most loyal to their owner and were nanny dogs in England for children. We have never owned a pitbull but we have friends and clients who do have pitbulls and they are less aggressive than a chihuahua. Kathryn, sorry but you are the one that doesn’t understand canine behavior. My husband, his father, grandfather and the other 4 vets in the clinic have credentials to back them up, obviously you assume what you read and hear are true’
thank you for clearing that up for the pitt dog doubters… they are amazing animals
Exactly!
You’re officially a moron. Almost as much as the simp that wasn’t bright enough to “write” a factual article. I sincerely hope you do not breed your ignorance further.
Sweetest dogs ever
I agree
They are ban in so many cities. We can’t even have them where we live, not even allowed to register them in the city or even in the county.
I totally agree! We adopted a pitbull who was used as a bait dog when he was just a puppy then thrown out of a moving car. We got him when he was a year old and he has been a great dog! I developed a disability and he became my big protector even saving my life several times. He is 12 now and slowing down a bit. I just don’t know what I’m going to do when he leaves me 😢
It’s unfair to list any of these breeds as the worst to own. Every breed has characteristics that you need to work with as a responsible owner. Pit bulls especially have such a bad rap, and it’s totally unfair. If raised properly, these are some of the sweetest dogs, you can own. It’s what humans have done to them, that might cause them to become aggressive. All of these dogs listed here, are not bad dogs. I don’t think any of them should be labeled as the worst to own.
💯 💯 I had a pit/boxer mix n I’m here to tell u he was the most loving boy I have ever ever own I got him at 5 weeks n when he passed away at the age of 18 years old he passed December 10 2024…my daughter had 8 years of her life she’s 8 n let me tell y’all no body even thk about hurting her cuz he was real protected over her.. he was a loving boy he loved everybody he did not like other dogs in the house cuz this was his Doman.. so y’all r so wrong… his name was brendel I wish I could send y’all pictures..
Thanks for sharing your story
Absolutely agree with you!
It’s unfair to list any of these breeds as the worst to own. Every breed has characteristics that you need to work with as a responsible owner. Pit bulls especially have such a bad rap, and it’s totally unfair. If raised properly, these are some of the sweetest dogs, you can own. It’s what humans have done to them, that might cause them to become aggressive. All of these dogs listed here, are not bad dogs. I don’t think any of them should be labeled as the worst to own.
John sharp..you are off base..the article response to your pet is a direct coralation to the amount of pitbull attacks on people and animals and children..(we actually have pitties on our block..I carry a hunting knife just incase one gets loose..I will kill it!..the owners of these dogs are most of the time not responsible enough to own that breed)..they were bred for a specific..(just like most dogs)…so get over your snowflake attitude and understand your dog in society…I have a 120 lb shepard..people are scared of it because not only his side but he is also on list of dogs as yours is…I don’t play the crying game when people tell me that..I just go on my way…..
Cause if you going to get so offended by a silly article..stop reading them..(most suck anyhoo!)
Have a great day john!..
Pet the pup for me🙂 ..tell em I said “hey pups!!
Have you ever been around a Pitt. They were bred to be nanny dogs. My uncle and cousin raised fighting Pitts but they actually had to teach them. Pitts are sweet, loving dogs. It’s the idiot human beings are the ones who ruined their reputation. Put your knife away, be a man and leave the innocent dogs alone.
You are off base Ivan. But the answer is in your response. Bad owners will make any dog unsafe. Bad owners that trained potties to fight are the real issue, not the breed.
Shepherds are on this list. Maybe neighbors should carry a knife in case yours gets loose. Both Pits and Shepherds are very protective if their people.
I’ve been bitten by a shepherd but not a pit. I say this having experience as a dog control officer for 20 years.
So what. Most of the deaths to kids and people have been pits. Your sarcasm is ugly and maybe that got to the shepherd!
I think maybe everyone should carry a knife. Because you have no way of knowing what any dog will do when exposed to some situation. And have you ever heard anyone say oh I knew my pit had those capabilities after the mutilate someone? No, they are always good obedient dogs. Like everyone who has a family member to die by suicide say that can’t be what happened their loved one would never ever commit suicide, but they did. My nephew died by hanging in jail. He had just received a 10 yr sentence. That was his reason. I had a pit he preferred to stay outside because our porched went around the whole house. My 3-year-old daughter and I were in the kitchen. he was just outside the door and had been fed. I gave my daughter a popsicle He dove through the glass and screen on the door knocked her down and took the popsicle. I was abel to pick her up and close him in the kitchen. he dug at the cabinets for a little while and jumped back out the screen door. I gave him to someone who had no children and lived on a large property. I got an American bulldog someone gave her to me, and she was a wonderful loving animal. But I never let my guard down.
They said GSDs were on the list.
The #1 dog bite I take care of is pitbull related. Shepherd and Belgium Malinois is #2 (most of those are police K-9 bites).
There are 4 shelters where I live. Every single one houses 50% or greater PBs, PB mixes. Very few are adopted out because they can’t pass a temperament test. The problem is 100% backyard breeders.
Not true shepards are wonderful dogs had these breeds all my life very protective loyal animals it’s all in the training
ANY and ALL breeds can be on this list-the owner is the the key to how any breed behaves…! I have avoided more small breeds than ANY of the medium to large ones because they are far more likely to bite than the others…hence the name “ankle biter’s” comes from! They sneak attach! And have bad attitudes-apparently owners think they’re “too cute” to be dangerous…NOT TRUE!
I’ve lived with PitBull’s and German Shepherd’s and NOT ONE has been vicious with ANYONE! Yes I have been around plenty little ones and will take a bigger breed EVERY TIME over an ankle biter! Especially around little faces n hands/limbs!!!!
My father was attacked by a pure white shepherd when I was about 4. To be fair though, it was our dog and he came home after an accident at work in somebody else’s car, wearing nothing but his underwear and covered in soot. So, he looked and smelled different and us kids were outside playing, she was very protective. Mom had to put her on a chain out back so dad could come inside. Even my dad laughed about it later as he realized the reasons she behaved that way. The only time she was aggressive was towards strangers, and the milkman. She had to be on the chain overnight so she wouldn’t go after him, but he never took the time to get to know her, once he did she was fine with him. Good thing too, since he’s the person we gave her to when we moved a couple of states away. No room in the car.
A pittie is a reflection of its owner. Lot of irresponsible owners who don’t know how to raise this type of breed. Surely has potential to be dangerous because of its size, bite, and power. But any large dog can be dangerous. I have a little that is the sweetest dog. But I train and discipline her to behave properly and be obedient.
Sorry but there’s more chihuahua attacks than pitbulls lol. You’re basing it off the damage that happens when they do attack as opposed to which dogs are more prone to attack. Chihuahua attacks rarely make headlines
It is not the breed or the dog but the owner. Pitts, if properly handled are a peaceful loving dog. I know at least 3 being used as Service Dogs
agree
You don’t have a “shepard”; you have a “shepherd”. And the word is “correlation.”
I’ve raised Pits and German Shepherds all my life(68 yr old now) and never had “ANY” Problems with either breed. It’s all in how you raise “ANY” dog!! Mine were raised with young kids and farm animals so they never knew aggression or how to be mean. Quarrels among themselves were quickly squashed. My friends always complimented me on how well behaved my “Pups”were. Just need to be trained and raised right.
I know it’s old but just had to called John Sharp a snowflake and said “Cause if you going to get so offended by a silly article..stop reading them”. I mean, if you’re going to get so offended by a comment in a silly article…stop reading them.
Ivan is the snowflake! Staffordshire Terriers (Pit bulls) were bred to be nanny dogs! Look it up! Dogs, like children will be as good as they are raised. Irresponsible hood rats that breed them to fight are the reasons for the stigma that Pitties are natural killers. If raised in a home and socialized, you will get a lapdog in the 50 to 80 lb range.
I Agree 100% Also a shepherd owner & live for the breed best family pet ever .
you must be mentally damaged
I have the best dog I ever had and she’s a pitbull. Loving, gentle, friendly, happy, devoted, well mannered. I can go on and on, but hopefully the tide has changed and the pitbull stigma has changed.
Agree.
I have 2 as well and they are so loving and protective……very very playful with the kids my opinion is that if u teach any animal to show there aggression then that’s wat u will get but both of my dogs grew up around my kids and I have seen them protect them as well……..Blue Pit & XL PIT MY BABIES
I pray we can change this tide. Some shelters immediately euthanize all Pitties. They are the most abused breed of dog. They are really sweeties and work so hard to please their human. Half of them are more scared of things than the other way around. Still hundreds of thousands are destroyed every year due to overbreeding of all dogs. 70% of Pitties are working Pitties. Guard and protecting in bad neighborhoods, ow Ed by not so good people, or young immature males who have no idea other than status of what caring for these pups mean. We just need to keep sharing loving pics and videos. These pups are worth it.
It has not
YES…and THANK YOU…same here! And I grew up with beagles, had chihuahua’s (was going to breed) and give me the PitBull-bigger breeds altogether more…EVERY TIME!
I agree poor pits get a bad wrap but D 1s I’ve come across have been gentle n playful! It goes with D owner n how they train them! Strong dogs need a strong/gentle owner! Love all breeds of dogs😉🥰💝
Ivy was my brindle Pit….she was a sweet girl, raised with smaller dogs, and cats. When Ivy was 4.5 yrs old she snapped, killing 1 cat, and 2 of the dogs she was raised with….brokenhearted , I had to put my Ivy down as she could no longer be trusted, even with me as she snapped at me repeatedly for no reason….
You are so right
I agree. It also depend how they are trained? Every dog can be friendly.its owner responsibility who they trained and treaded kindness.
Very true
I love my dogs too, but I agree with Gerard, it is all on how the dogs are treated and trained. I love dogs, but pit bulls are very feared because they are viewed as vicious and even known for turning on their owners, many articles, news reports, and TV shows have made this information evident. Maybe not all pits are the same (especially not to those who love their pits), but most people fear them.
I have a pitbull weimaraner mix. She’s my sweetest and most sensitive dog ever. BUT, she is territorial toward anyone that comes to my door especially the mailman, UPS or FedEx. It’s her instinct to protect. I have learned to talk softly and calmly to her and steer her away which works. Getting loud and forceful only makes it worse. She rides everywhere with me and never gets aggressive. Only protective at home but I’m thankful she is. She’s not allowed off leash and has a fence yard to chase birds.
I agree 100%!!!!! My son has had a pit mix and a pure bred brown nose stafforshire terrier (pure pittie)Both wonderful, sweet tempered, loving dogs!!!! He just got another pittie mix and he is the same way! Just like people, it depends alot on how they are raised and most importantly, LOVED!!!
Very true
Yes very true
I’ve known many people with pitbulls and most were great dogs. Fact remains that so many are around that they have been over bread ,Abused and consequently become aggressive and are dangerous. Like any big breed, I would never leave a child alone with any dog that could potentially kill. Too many horror stories of adults who were killed by their dogs, pits happen to be by far the breed that kills the most people. Just a word of wisdom, dogs are the best, I’ve had some great pups and still feel sad thinking of them at the end. Must be conscious of the fact that animals, including humans can be vicious in the blink of an eye.
The only “purebred” pitbull is the APBT. All the rest are mixes (mutts).
EXACTLY!!!
Has anyone else noticed that all the dogs up to #7 are large dogs (that’s where I am up to and tempted to just quit reading actually!)…? A bias against larger breeds perhaps because for my EXPERIENCE they are the better family pets!!!
Yes Ma’am..it’s in D owners hand how D pit will turn out! 4 sure TLC is D ticket! All animals respond 2 a strong, Lovable hand!
I had a pit once before and he was also a very sweet dog and I think it’s all on how they are raised. His name was Harley, but he had his moments and I never turned my back on him. I also had a black lab along with Harley and he would protect the lab as well. Some one tried to break into my home, and Harley was not having it! So again, it’s all on how a pit is raised
How true
“…but he had his moments and I never turned my back on him”.
That pretty much sums it up. You cannot trust a dog that has had fighting bred into them. I wouldn’t trust a Beagle around a rabbit hutch or an English Setter around a parakeet.
You just got lucky. Count blessings.
A lot of Pittie owners “got lucky!” Lol. They are a very loving breed. NO WORSE THAN ANY OTHER PROTECTIVE BREED!
Pit bulls are more dangerous than other dogs. That said, pit bull attacks can cause a lot of damage due to their size, strength, and determination. Pit bulls also have an incredibly strong jaw that allows them to clamp down on their target, leading many victims of pit bull bites to say the dog would not let go. They are not aggressive until they are. Many owners and children have been mauled by them despite their owners claiming they were super friendly. No insurance company wants to insure them. Wake up to reality.
It’s all how you raise them. Nothing compares to the love and devotion of my pittie.
You are so right
Bs. Ask the lady who defended her sweet til it killed her 2 yr old.
I totally agree with you Barry! Neighbor had a pit bull and it broke through the chain link fence and grabbed my dog by the neck and wouldn’t let go. My husband grabbed ahold of that monster and it tore his clothes and back to shreds. They are now banned in my city….best thing they ever did. And this supposedly was a nice friendly dog! Of course the owner was just as ignorant as the dog.
U have to treat them as u would yourself…..with respect pits are not all bad, all dogs can bite and all dogs show aggression especially if backed into a corner
Absolutely correct…… I’ve seen one bite too many…. last one on the face of a 4 year old (Supposedly the family sweet natured pet). That little boy survived but the pain he endured was uncalled for. This bully even slept with him. From all accounts there …she turned on him for no reason. This family raised pits & were around them all their lives. They will tell you now “Don’t trust them”
Look up their jaw pressure they are like 4 or 5 down on the list . They are not at all what people say ! Have you ever own one or been around one . Mine is full blooded and loves everybody now she don’t want stray dogs in our yard . It’s not true about their jaw locking down look it up . Yes they use to be baby sitters . My grandchildren love her and she loves them . Do research especially if you never been around them. I have had 3 !
So very true. Yes Pitts can be very sweet and lovable, but they also have the mindset to win, even in play. I have seen a lovable Pitt playing with a lovable German shepherd. Play turned into aggression very quickly and Pitt left a gaping hole in shepherd’s throat. Any time a Pitt feels threatened from other dogs or humans the fight is on. Their strong jaw can not be changed by how they were raised.
All dogs have strong jaws. We had a show bred golden retriever (spent hours training so he was good at sit, stay etc) who killed smaller dogs – or tried to without any warning – he also threatened some humans. We couldn’t keep him in neighborhood. Also in my neighborhood in VT – a big lovely black lab ran from his owners and without warning killed a mini poodle. He was euthanized. I’ve had all breeds – golden doodle, terrier, now
a pit mix who is a lovely smart friendly dog. Characterizing dogs by breed (all retrievers are good pets – not so. Or Dobermans, shepard, pits are innately dangerous – is canine discrimination. A pit which was raised to fight or be the bate are damaged dogs for sure. As are any other breed or mix raised to be violent.
Actually no they are not , do some research before putting out false information, doggo Argentina , caucasion shepherd just to name a couple are far more dangerous, it’s all in how they are raised and trained , I have 2 German shepherds and they are awesome with children .
Yep. 100% agree, Barry.
Sure, we know, it’s the owner, not the breed. When reports of Golden Retrievers eating peoples faces come out be sure to let everyone know
My granddaughter was attacked by a golden. 86 stitches & 6 months of physical therapy. Tell me more, idiot.
my friend’s St. Bernard mauled a 5 year old child during her birthday party.
dog was asleep, child stepped on his tail, dog reacted violently.
Child died from her injuries.
this happened in va. in the 1960’s.
Except they dont
U know y they say that cuz they probably never had one. We were raised around pitbulls and my father taught us to always respect the animal. The minute u stop respecting the animal that’s when he will turn on u.
Great. How do you know when the dog feels disrestcted…when he bites you?
What about kids that don’t know any better and try to pet the pit bulls easier to limit this breed than limit millions of children
Thank you John!!!
I have had the pleasure of being a pittie mom for over 30 years and they are my favorite!!!!!
I have not feared for my life I have enjoyed every minute I have had with all of them and my only regret is that they couldn’t be here with me longer in this life!!!! The BEST family members I could ever have they loved 🥰 me and took care of me through health issues never wanting to leave my side and were the best companions and family members ever!!! I will protect them defend them til I die!!!! The biggest hearts ❤️ and total love ❤️ snd devotion I have for them!!! Instead of getting rid of breeds let’s start with ASSHOLES and go from there, then let’s start with when did a pit/ any dog rape a woman or child??? Never but we let them still live and commit more crimes , then when was it a human ever sniffed out a cell phone ??? They are more valuable than a lot of those that are taking up valuable air!!!
Very true
Rape…of course not. Caused critical or fatal injury? Over 60% of dog bite cases.
I agree 100%..Give me.a dog as a friend rather than a human! Faithful, loyal 2 D end!🥰💝💋
The thing with dogs is it depends on the dog. Not all Pits are aggressive. I have friends who have the sweetest Pit on the planet.
Pit bulls match their owners!
If the owner is nice and friendly then so is the dog!
If the owners are insecure, unpredictable and fearful then the dog is the same!
Their default is sweet and lovable however they will mirror their owners
4 sure!! n please don’t hit animals, they don’t understand that! TLC works better any time of D day!!
Pit Bulls used to be called Nanny dogs because they were so good with children!
I have had & still have a Pit Bull as does my daughter. They are the most loving & devoted dogs. The only negative…& probably due to being a rescue…is my one dog had separation anxiety & had to be crated in a high impact crate when I wasn’t able to take her with me.
I wish people would research the breed & stop trashing them!!!
Very true
That’s why you hear about the lady who defended her sweetie til it killed her 2 yr old. Wake up.
The article about pit Bulls states they have natural aggressive tendencies. NOT TRUE!!!
Fighting dogs like the ones Michael Vick owned were routinely tortured, starved & abused & lived in horrendous conditions.
When Vick’s ring was broke up & he was arrested, 5 of his dogs were rehabbed & adopted! Pretty amazing if you ask me!!!
I’m an ER doctor of about 30 years.
I see a lot of dog bites, many to the face of children. I can swear to you the majority of these dogs are Pitt Bulls or Pitt Bull mixes.
Just my observation.
While it is sad that childern were injured, it should be noted that the attacks could have probably been avoided had the parents of said children raised their kids to respect the dogs space. And of course if the owners of the dogs had trained them properly. It’s not the dogs fault people are ignorant.
True very True I had a pit/boxer he was a great dog great with my kids and my wife and everyone around her Awesome animal smart incredibly.
There are neighborhoods where owners go out of their way to abuse their pit bulls to make them super agressive. This is what makes them as a breed unreliable. Make a large dog agressive and you will have a problem. When an owner calls his dog an American Staffordshire, it is an indication that he has made an effort to raise a well behaved pet and not an attack animal.
I agree John.. Initially Pitties were NOT bred to fight.. they were more commonly known as “Nanny Dogs” due to their protective nature and were raised to be around babies and children..
That and I don’t believe in a bad breed, just bad owners! 🙂
i never heard of a lab or a golden retriever attacking and killing them or tearing them up for life just because yours may be fine others sure are not . a very dangerous breed in many ways and many of a pit owner have echoed your same words until…….
At 56 yrs old, I’ve had pets my entire life. Dogs, cats, birds, albino mice…you name it I had it! And my last was a Staffordshire Terrier, otherwise known as a “pit bull”, which isn’t even a breed by the way. He was by FAR the best fur baby I’ve ever had!!! He was kind a gentle and just wanted to be loved. It’s not the dog to blame! It’s the owner!!!
I absolutely agree with you!
Lorie;
I totally agree with you. By putting “Pit Bull” in the sub-title of this article automatically leads the reader into thinking this is a dangerous dog. Shame on them. ST’s are great dogs. Any dog that is abused may attack. Training the dog and actually have appreciation for the breed makes for an awesome pet. Even rehabilitated STs turn out to be awesome pets. There are positive statistics about it and I have seen the positive results of saving these precious pups.
Moron. They were bred to fight. In a few generations…maybe. see the ER doctor remark
First dog I was attacked by as a child was a golden. ALL dogs have the capacity to be aggressive, it’s often due to the owners not properly socializing/training them as pups. I currently have 2 pit/mastiff mixes that do great with doggy day care and play groups. The older one prefers to hang out with people and get belly rubs while the younger one just loves everybody and will slobber you to pieces if given the chance.
True That! TLC goes a long way!🥰
When I was a child. every Scottie I ever met tried to bite me, usually in the face. I was not a mean child & not loud. Are they particularly jealous of their owners paying attention to children?
I agree Al, I’ve read enough about these dogs being totally unsafe around children and adults and even their owners to be convinced that of the group listed, which is spot on, they are probably the worst!
Vincent, if you are going to write something, do it from a place of knowledge. Not from a place of ignorance. I’ve read that the earth is flat and that aliens landed in the southwest. Does that make it true. Pits raised as a family pet are the best, sweetest, nicest dogs on earth. You raise a dog to attack, it will attack. You raise a person to hate and use guns, they will kill. Speak from knowledge Vincent, not because you read something.
I loved our blue nose with all my heart but he did attack me. He was almost 8 years old at the time and we had him since he was 8 weeks old. He was the smartest dog we’ve ever owned. I actually KNOW a lot of people with pits and they are such good dogs like ours was but you just never ever know. So the fact is it could happen and when it does these dogs are very strong and can cause a lot of damage. Need to always be aware, especially when there are children around. You never know.
I agree with you. All of these breeds (although pit bull isn’t a specific breed, but rather a group of breeds that tends to get lumped together) tend to require a more responsible pet owner that will properly socialize and train them from a young age. I had a childhood friend that had a ‘pitbull’ and we could wrestle with him for as long as we wanted and he never once snarled or tried to bite (this was back in elementary school and junior high). I’ve often found the smaller breeds to be much more aggressive, likely due to not socializing/training.
I walked a small white female pit as a volunteer at my local humane society for a year before she was adopted. The entire staff adored her, and if I hadn’t been renting, I would have taken her. I would sit on a bench with my left arm around her after our walk, and talk to her. I trusted her to be that close to my face because she never showed anything but love to anyone. She even ignored the other dogs When I walked her past the other kennels as they barked at her.
Agree 💯.
Unfortunately it’s the nasty unruly owners that teach them to become fighting 🐕 and very aggressive 😤. I had a full breed Staffordshire Terrior. He was my best friend, loved to play at the dog park ❤️, he was a great great dog. Wrong people have put a black mark on pitbulls.
Well Sir.. I am happy you have a great dog. That breed is proven to turn on humans and other dogs. It’s just facts. This is why they have pitbull laws in certain states.
Is that why the pit bull (docile sweet pet) that got loose next door attached my dog in my yard and tried to RIP her throat out? Almost killed her. Is that why the family pet pitbull attacked the family’s two year old and left her face practically destroyed and almost killed her? You are delusional. Pitbulls should be against the law to own. Don’t go before Judge Judy when your dog attacks someone. YOU LOSE!
John, I can see why you love your pit. You are fortunate. I believe it is the owner and the breeder’s responsibility. Some pits are aggressive for no reason. My neighbor across the street always has pits and he tries to train but his 4mo old pit pup attacked my 4mo Papillon(in my yard). My Pap never got over it. Why do you think most pounds are full of them?
Absolutely the truth
I can attest to this. I have had eight other dogs. All of them excellent dogs. But my Pitt / Rottweiler rescue is the smartest and most lovable dog we have ever had. She is so good around adults and children that I will be training her to be a therapy dog. Do your homework next time before you jump on the band wagon of spreading negative and untrue information on Pittbulls in your quest to get clickbait advertising.
Article actually says they can be good pets… It does not disagree with you. It’s only notion is how many people out there raise them improperly and they become very aggressive. I have a black lab pit bull mix myself. Been a great dog.
Pits are the best!!!!! Mine is a sweetheart. They get a bad rep because of BAD owners. It pisses me off when people talk trash.
Is your last name olson
Disgree 100% been chased by 9ne had to have my husband come get my dog since i am disabled and cannot run. My dogs are my service dogs lwys calm on a leash. When I go to the military food bank, they laugh and say oh those are aggressive you know, Pitbulls or their attacked dogs the little Brussel griffons they’re not that aggress. Their lap dogs, and if a dog were to come after mine, my dogs will probably not make it. We actually have my dog sitting money on business and a Rottweiler Chihuahua mix came after her and jumped, and if my dog didn’t snap back, that’s enough that dog would’ve been at her and it would’ve been a mess
They can be best pet ever for years but can turn on a dime and maul family.
I agree With you 100%, I had a Stafford triple terrier. Sweetest dog I have ever owned everyone in our community.Love that dog especially the kids.
I have the most non-aggressive mushball Pit ever!
Lesley whoever wrote this is a chihuahua or pug owner lol. This list couldn’t be more wrong 😂😂 opinions not facts ladies and gentlemen and everyone else as well
I agree. I have a Pit, American and French Bulldog. Friendliest dog I’ve ever seen.
And my nephew was walking my sisters dog going past a house with 2 Pit Bulls that got out of the people’s yard, and bit half my Nephews arm off, and almost killed my sisters dog. Both dogs were put down. I also lived with a roommate who invited a friend to stay with us. He had a Pit Bull that would constantly growl at me in a threatening way. I am handicapped, and every time I went to the bathroom, it would try and bite my hands. You are the one needs to get the facts!!!
Until it rips your face off. Or kill your kid.
Animals are unpredictable just like humans. And pitbulls are extremely strong so when you put the two together it’s not impossible for things to go horribly wrong. By the way humans are also considered animals.
It’s the Boxer in your dog that is good with everyone. As for Pitt-Bulls, funny you never hear of a Boxer, poodle, etc., attacking, mauling and/or killing an adult or child. What is the breed you usually hear is involved, oh yeah, “Pit-Bull”. Must be a coincidence.
Remember though they are talking about dogs that are poorly trained as the problem
Totally agree. I have owned/shared my home with over 40 dogs over the years. And the 2 rescues I presently have now are some of the sweetest dogs ever. They love everyone and everyone loves them. One (the sweetest of all) is 77% Pit/23% Staffie, the other a 50/50% mix.
Totally Agree.
I have had three pits over the years and never once had an issue with then. The problem with Pit Bulls is not the dog but the Ass Hole owners who get then for all the wrong reasons.
They are the most gentle dog and so needy they love to cuddle and follow you everywhere you go I love my girl Jiji
You both are right. A sweet natured dog…….but don’t cross them.
Mixes do not carry the same traits as pure breeds. I will take a mutt any day!
I agree. I had a pitbull German Shepherd mix for 10 years. I just lost her to cancer and it broke my heart. Everyone loved her and she loved everyone. She was my gift from God for sure.
Honestly, Humans are the reason that any of these dogs are seen as “fighters” or “aggressive”. And if kids or adults get bit by a dog or any other animal for “rough play” they deserve it. Animals are not objects or toys to play with. They make dog toys to play with dogs. They love to go on walks and run, even a lot of small breeds. And yes, small breeds are going to be more defensive and guarded, because they are small and know that they need to protect themselves. Parents need to teach their kids how to be around animals, not train the animals how to be around kids. Certain things can be trained with animals, but at the end of the day they are not here “for us”. They are here and if people want to have them as companions, they need to deserve to have them as companions.
one day you’ll make a fine dinner;
I have a pit bull and he is the biggest baby ever.
The issue that NO ONE is understanding here, it is the “punch” in their bite. My Vet said the WORST dog to have is anything smaller like a toy breed. Chihuahuas as a breed have the tendency to bite MORE than any other breed. Why don’t we hear about these events, it is because the damage is minimal. EVERY beautiful pitty I met were the friendliest most happiest pups ever! If you see one they are ALWAYS smiling!! 🙂 Unfortunately, because of their bite is extremely powerful with strong force, they get a bad rap because of the severe injury that can occur when biting a human. Pits are wonderful pups! I agree with my vet no dog should be under 10 pounds! Buy a cat! LOL…
I have the same mix breed. Ih is about 8 and my best friend. He love when people show up. He loves every one and loves other dogs.
Why doesn’t anyone mention the worst dog ever, a Chow Chow? Growing up my family had one since he was a puppy. On Easter my sister was feeding him something and he attacked her for no reason. Destroyed her face and arm. Years later a breeder of Chow Chows agreed they were very unpredictable dog.
I agree! We had a pit/boxer mix too (we rescued her ) and she loved people! She was incredibly patient and loving with my boys; an angel! We now have another Pittie. He is the sweetest, people loving dog. He doesn’t realize dogs can bite! He has never bared his teeth, wants you next to him when he eats, allows you to take food out of his bowl and will gently eat from your hand. He is a 70 pound lap dog. And maybe they should interview our vet and vet techs! Our pittie is a well loved celebrity when he goes for a check up or boarding; they love him!
I’m a trainer with 40yrs experience. My main background is with hearding and hunting dogs (Boreder Collies & Labradors). I Rescue an American Staffordshire that was evaluated as vicious and was scheduled for euthanasia. She wasn’t vicious, she was pregnant and starving. She turned out to be the sweetest most loving dog I have ever worked with. This breed is the most misunderstood. This breed is a full 180 from thier reputation. I had heard about thier jaw strength and the ability to lock thier jaws, not true. Thier jaws are often broader, but not any stronger than any other dog of this size. The locking jaws is a myth, not true. This is one of the most common breeds. The high number of incidents can be accredited to the high accounts of misidentification. There are 5 different breeds of bullies commonly referred to as pitties, pit bull Terrier being one of them. The American Staffy being the largest, generally 70lbs or larger, is one of the most gentle natured, and affectionate of all dog breeds. It’s shameful what the media and articles such as this one does to this breed.
It’s clear!!! YOU have know idea what your talking about!!! I have two wonderful staffordshire’s, one is part American bulldog, they Absolutely fantastic with kids and sadly sometimes afraid of their own shadow. YOU are completely speaking out of your BUTT! And don’t really know the facts. Take sometime to do a little/lot of research, as there is NO documentation of PITBULLS killing a person! And Thanks to ASSHOLES like Michael Vick and other stupid people pitties get a bad wrap!
Sincerely, Eric Brandt.
I agree with John and disagree with the creators of this article. All dogs can be vicious if raised to be that way. I have known pitties that are awesome dogs for families. My son had 2 Rottweilers who were incredible dogs and got me through a very rough time in my life. We had a German Shepherd as a kid and he was a love. It is all in how they are raised. Nuture any dog and it will become what you want it to be. The owner is responsible for bad behavior in their animal just like parents are with their kids.
I agree, I’ve had o my Pits over the last almost 14 years. And he is still getting around although hurting a little I think. He’s always been the biggest baby o. Top of so mellow and so perfect. His sister died of cancer a few years ago. She loved and took care of everyone. She was friends with every day. She was the kind that wouldn’t let another animal not like her. They are amazing and so well behaved. All dog can be aggressive at times. But it wasn’t about Bull that randomly bit my son’s face when he was 7 and almost ripped his lip off. It was a lab! The one they all say are perfect
No they are quite right. It isn’t about their sweetness. Its more about their temperaments and how quickly they can become vicious.
Do your own research and find out why home insurance companies won’t insure your home with a pit bull. There’s substantial documentation regarding children maimed and killed by pit bulls.
I agree. I believe it is what the owner does rather than the pit itself. They learn what they are taught.
My daughter was walking her dog one night. Suddenly someone shine his flashlight at her eyes and blinded her. Her pit bull growled and he/she fled. She now has a young son and he gets along great with the pit bull.
I love your comment, it’s a damn shame, that breed has a bad wrap. No thanks to many popular judge shows like Judge Judy who hates the breed. She wastes no opportunity to put them down.
I kill these dogs when I see them in the wild there like spiders to me
All dogs can get aggressive at times but when a Pit Bull does he does way more damage. That’s the issue.
70% of human fatalities by dogs are by pit or pit mixes. The point they’re making is not anecdotal so there might be a good one here there but the likelihood something bad could happen is exceeding high
The Vets they talked to, are as ignorant, and liars like the Blamestream Media, despite their Mis-Education on animal Breeds Behavior. 👍👍💖 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸
I agree 100% … ive had several & like my current one (pearl) is the most caring , lovable & very devoted. She does chase squirrels too.
Thx,
Pearl & Larry
It comes down to how the dog was treated and trained as a pup.
What they said is correct. It all comes down to the training and treatment of the dog. Any dog can be good or bad. The pit is good at being a family pet,it’s also good at being bad. Again the training is the difference
A good Pit Bull is a dead one. Worst pet to ever have. Unpredictable Unstable Dangerous
If you have Children NEVER get a Pit Bull.
That is not what hospital officials or courts say. It’s not even close to the number of pit bull attacks compared to other dogs. They cause more deaths and do more damage. I’ve seen children mauled and disfigured. I love all animals, but every time I hear a pit bull owner speak as you did, I want to point out that the statistics don’t lie.
What about kids that don’t know any better and try to pet the pit bulls easier to limit this breed than limit millions of children
I have the same and he’s the friendliest thing
JOHN: I AGREE with you. I know several Pitties and they are friendly and loving. It’s the owners that make them aggressive.
You can bury your head in the sand until it comes out your ears if you want to, but that does not change the FACTS. Pitbulls & other bully breeds can be dangerous. I am not saying they are dangerous. But fact are facts. They can be. And it’s not how they are raised, thank you very much. It’s genetic. You can not change that no matter how you raise it, If YOU choose to have them around your family & kids, I hope that they never take that dark turn with yours & turns a “kiss” into ripping someones face off. Don’t go by what anyone says, do your homework before bringing a dog of any breed into your home & make sure the fit is right. I am sure if you are considering a “bully” breed, when you do do your homework you will find out the truth about them of you take off your rose colored glasses long enough to see it.
The fact is, statics prove you incorrect.
Nothing says white trash like owning Pitbulls
I agree, I had a Pit once and she was a very loving dog, As much as she liked to lay around and sleep I think she though she was a Basset Hound.
I had a pit / boxer mix best dog ever, I have a pit and better friendly than any other.
How many vets have you talked to? Pit Bulls can be friendly no doubt, but many are not and rank on every list I have seen as a problematic breed.
If so, why do most insurance will not insure homes that have pitfalls? Don’t try to tell they are wrong since they have national statistics on which breeds have excessive bite histories.
LIKEWISE! Pits are fabulous dogs. ❤️. We are on our third one.
I think that the Pit Bull Breed should destroyed. They are worthless animals.
I had a pt bull Chihuahua mix attack my dog and yeah, they are pretty dangerous. A pitbull boxer. Is it dangerous dog yes
I agree 100 per cent. I even have a rescues fighting Pit and he is the sweetest dog I have ever had. So off base with this one!
Pit got a bad reputation because of their drug dealer owners
I know of a pit bull killed an 18 mo old. The child had been around the pit many times. I don’t trust any pit
They haven’t talked to the vets. The vets confirm that pits are some of the most lovable dogs on the planet.
What is a pit bull? It seems there are so many dogs called pit bulls because they have some similar features. And there are so many variations of pit bulls. I had a stray wander up and refuse to leave. I just gave her a little water because it was hot and that’s all it took to get her to never leave me. That was over ten years ago and she still won’t leave me alone. The vet said she was a pit bull, and there are similar features, but nothing to say for sure. She’s never been deliberately aggressive to people, but once she bit me hard, drew blood. But that was because she saw me trying to pull a chicken-killing snake out of a pile of stuff and ran up to grab the snake and got my arm instead.
Sorry dude, the fact is pit bull attacks are not rare and often result in devastating injury and possible death. Very cool that you’ve had great experiences, but you can’t argue statistics. Just Google pit bull attacks and see
Our Vizsla would always make friends with Pits at ‘camp’! Our guy was super friendly and got along with all of them! Just watching them play together on the “wag cam” made us believers that pitties were very misunderstood! Our friend here in FL adopted a pitbull at 2 years old and what a little lover! She is one of the sweetest dogs I’ve ever met…. a little wild child at first but that’s expected in all puppies!
I’ve got one too very friendly and docile with me and friends
But is on alert every night after bed time and during day when in home …..stopped an intruder who pollice were after and jumped my wire fence and came on open front door only to be stopped by my pit and black lab !!
Pit bulls are the worse. Our mail lady was killed by them
Our mix dogs just love to chase squirrels. I thought that was funny that you mentioned it.
I had a small dog half pug half sharpie. My son was walking him and a pitbull on a leash just attacked him without provocation and was had his teeth on my dogs head and wouldn’t let go. My son started hitting the pit on the head really hard until he finally let go. We had to take our dog to our vet and they stayed open to do surgical repair with sutures and a drain. I won’t ever have a pit.
You are speaking of a mutt ! Not the same conversation!! I had an American pit bull that was very large and very kind and loving . He weighed about 90 lbs and looked vicious. He was raised around kids and was the best with no trace of anger or aggression! So you too can have one but I think they are the exception to the rule . Too any stories of attacks from them . By the way someone poisoned my dog because of his looks ! Ignorant people afraid because of reputation
U r so off target
Whomever published this is not informed.
Agregious to post false info on Internet
Flat out WRONG
Dr E Marits CPAB – Animal Behavorist
My dog is the
same mix plus other mixed breeds. She is the best dog we have ever had. Loces children and adults. Plas with our youngest cat and they lie down together.
I’ve been bitten twice. Both times by boxers. The second time I was dropped to the ground from behind and he chewed my bum. Owner was able to get him off me. I was running on the sidewalk and it could be he perceived me as some sort of a threat. I was watching a guy online the other day who adopted a boxer. The smoke alarm went off and the dog attacked him. He had huge wounds on his arm and required numerous stitches. One of the wounds nicked an artery. He got home from the hospital and it attacked him again. He had to call animal control and have the dog picked up. This guy was devastated. Good thing is the kids were with grandparents. Heaven knows what would have happened if they were at home. I know that any dog can be aggressive but this is my personal experience with boxers
The pit bull breed is instinctively aggressive. It’s in their genes. No matter how docile you think they are that aggression is just below the surface. Animals don’t have the ability to reason they act on instinct.
BS on Pitts – it is the way they are treated/trained that is the issue. Dogs can certainly reason, apparently better than you can. Our service dogs not only understand commands, but can determine the best way, under the current circumstances, to obey those commands. For example, my Pitt/Heeler Service Dog not only recognises that I am having issues but also changes his response, according to circumstances, looking for a person to assist, or acting like he needs to go outside and potty, to doing what is called Deep Pressure Therapy. HE determines which is the best option at that time. THAT is REASONING.
💯 💯 I had a pit/boxer mix n I’m here to tell u he was the most loving boy I have ever ever own I got him at 5 weeks n when he passed away at the age of 18 years old he passed December 10 2024…my daughter had 8 years of her life she’s 8 n let me tell y’all no body even thk about hurting her cuz he was real protected over her.. he was a loving boy he loved everybody he did not like other dogs in the house cuz this was his Doman.. so y’all r so wrong… his name was brendel I wish I could send y’all pictures..
I had a pit/boxer mixed and let me tell u he was the best baby I have ever had n im 61 his name was brendel he passed December 10/24 he was 18 years old..I have a daughter she’s 8 so she had 8 years with him I had 18 years with him yes he was really protective over my daughter so I don’t know where y’all got these dogs r bad but y’all r so wrong…
I have same breed mix best dog ever
Training a Pit/Heller mix as a PTSD service dog, and my biggest issue is stopping him from wanting to love on everyone we meet.
i currently have TWO Great Danes ages 11 and 12. they are the sweetest animals in the world and i wouldn’t trade them for anything. both are adopted. the younger one was abused and we had some issues when we first rescued her at age 4 but she is the sweetest little girl. I would recommend Danes to anyone. Our first was a male and he would wait in our driveway for school to let out to play with the kids every day. He did die young (8) which is why we replaced him quickly with our current two.
I HAD DANES FOR OVER 30 YEARS..I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU ABOUT DANES..THEY ARE THE MOST AWARE DOGS OF THEIR OWNERS AS TO WHEN THEY ARE SAD OR HAPPY. I ALWAYS SAY ONCE YOU HAVE A DANE THERE IS NO OTHER DOG IN THE WORLD FOR YOU.
I agree with you 1000 % my Dane past away at 13 years old never replaced her only because of the thought of losing such a sweet and wonderful loving Dane again is to much to bare.
DODY, Danes are wonderful. So sorry for your loss.
Danes are fantastic dogs. I love them and wish their life cycle is longer.
I totally agree. Danes are sweet and loving if raised right. I lost my boy at 8 years.
I adopted a 2-12 yr old Mantle Dane, and he was The Best dog ever….more human than dog. He liked everyone but kids because at his first home the next door neighbor kids threw rocks at him. He was not aggressive to kids…he would just tyrant walk away.
I had to say goodbye two weeks before he was to turn 8 because he had painful degenerative neuropathy. I still miss him 10 years later.
I commend you for adopting your Great Dane. Enjoy your babies. I’ve become disabled at 72 years. I’ve spent the last ten months struggling to take care of her. It’s just the two us so she’s my job. She is a female Pekingese mix. She is eighteen and half. I took her in from an unwanted owner. She is now blind, deaf, hardly walking, bites when picked up, and so bad that her groomer refuses to groom her. I have to take her to the vet, have her sedated, cut not styled. That’s costly every time she needs a cut. I love her though, but am having to consider euthanizing to because my limits from my disability. I have managed to make it for the past ten months under pain, limited use of my left arm, and ability to walk her 3-4 times daily. What would you do?
Our next door neighbor kept Great Danes. They are supposed to be a gentle breed but one of them terrorized my elderly mother. Every time he was out of his pen & saw my 80 ish mother in our yard he would race to her growling & showing his teeth. Once he bent the screen door trying to get her. Another time someone had to rescue her, The owners said “Oh he is just trying to play with you”. One of their other Great Danes took my entire wrist in its teeth when I went to their house to retrieve my child who had been invited to come play. She did not hurt me but the other one was out of control. They tried just letting the aggressive one out at night but the night my father died, & Mama got home around 3 a.m. the dog would not let my mother get out of her car & she had to sit in her car, grieving alone. until dawn. (no cell phones) & she was living alone. Had I been there I would have driven to their house & leaned on the horn until they all woke up & one of them locked up the dog. And called the sheriff, The neighbor who had rescued Mama by charging the dog with his riding mower told the owners if he ever caught the dog on his property again he would shoot him. When he finally died, they immed. got another but this one was a big lovable goofball & my mother made sure to make friends with it while it was still a puppy. The irony? When that dog was full grown he knocked his owner down & her leg was badly broken & never healed, And she was a big strong woman not an elderly wisp of a woman who would have been shattered. So, I guess any breed can be dangerous even unintentionally.
Pit Bull is not a breed of dog — it is a class of dogs. The class contains several breeds to include the breeds American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
I have an American Stafford Bully part boxer mix and he is the most loving dog ever!
I had a pure breed Terrior. It attacked my Boxer 6 times and another dog. Had to get it put down.
I’m surprised that they didn’t mention cane corso. My youngest daughter had an ESA in the form of the silliest, friendliest, and very protective pup. He kept my daughter safe and she was able to go out without her anxiety getting the best of her. He was well trained as he only took commands from her, but he protected all of us!
Thank you for clarifying this. Mine is an American Pitbull Terrier who we rescued at one year old (vet’s best conclusion). We’ve had her for eleven years.
You are correct
Pit bulls are amongst the dumbest, most destructive dogs that I have ever been around. They get tangled up and don’t know how to untangle themselves. A German shepherd would easily untangle themselves. Even my English Mastiff could unwind her chain. The pit dog will drag out her 5 gallon water bucket placed in a tire and dump it. She kills anything that gets near her on the farm. Cats, small dogs,, chickens, ect. If I were not dog sitting her for my grand daughter, I would go out and put a .44 through her head. This is the most useless breed that I have ever had on my property.my advise, get a different breed!!!
You need to be conserned for your Granddaughter before the fact. You see what it is capable of
And yet, mine is making a fantastic Service Dog. Maybe it is the difference in how we treat them that makes the difference in how they behave. I’ve always heard that if you treat a dog as dumb, they will be dumb; treat them as smart and you get a smart dog.
Named after Mt Shasta in northern calif, my Alaskan Malamute-German Shepherd cross who lived for 11 years was a fantastic companion dog. Was my loyal hiking, camping and traveling buddy. Easy to train, very social with adults, children and other dogs. When certain humans or other species concerned her, she alerted with a low growl but was never aggressive or bit anyone. Good protector, not much of a barker and was really a “shadow” dog. Only criticism I had was her love of digging. She destroyed all backyard plants and lawn during her lifetime.
It’s true I had a pitbull who was a named Oreo. Loving dog he would watch over me ex-wife. I called him a big whimp he would hide under the blanket when he heard fireworks or would climb up in my lap.love and missed him. There are no bad dogs only bad owners. I have a shepherd. And my daughter has a German shepherd she is loving I can’t believe Alaskan malamute is on this list mine was mixed German shepherd and malamute he was gentle and loving my best friend growing up
We have adopted and loved many Great Danes. All were gentle giants except one. As you described, he was hyper active and nuts. Due to his behaviors it was advised we put him down when he was 9 months old and already 120 lbs. Our other Danes were wonderful but expensive. The giant breeds cost more to feed and medical bills are much higher due to their size. Potential owners must take that into consideration as they become part of your family and you want to keep them happy and healthy. Plus be prepared to wipe slobber high off your walls when they shake their heads!
Yes, the slobber, LOL. But so worth it!
I’m 79 and prefer big dogs. When 3 kids were little we had a wonderful German Shepherd for 8 yrs.
After that, we had 5 pairs of Great Danes, owners have two, all colors, and my favorite dog. All my
children are now big dog folks, with Danes and Mastiffs and never a problem – lucky or smart owners I guess. my Danes live to be over 10, 11 12 never slept on cement or were over weight. Our good fortune carries on today, having had 3 or the 7 breeds, amazing.
I always prefer big dogs too. My husband does too, and my mother did as well..
Some small dogs are cuties, I’ll admit … but,they’re hardly even big enough to see😉. After all, they’re all descended from wolves and there are *no* wolves the size of a miniature poodle, let alone a toy, or a teacup!
I had a Rottweiler and he was the sweetest dog and I had a baby and a major. Nobody went near him so I don’t wanna hear nothing bad about Rottweilers
I had a rott/ husky great dog he lasted 11 years i miss him alot my beast friend an was frindly with people
Wow half Husky half Rottweiler – he sounds like he was a cool dog for sure!
I know what you mean too.. you loved him and he loved you.. of course you still miss him.
I understand.
I love German Shepherds.. they live a good long time compared to many dogs, but this one had very seriously bad arthritis and bone spurs that caused him great pain and at 6.5 years we had to have him put down I cried for months and I still think of him.
It literally says if not we’ll trained in every breed it deemed aggressive. Didn’t say one time that the breed in general was not good to own so…
Rotties and Pitties are the most snuggly ones ever. I was a flight attendant for 50+. years and have had both rotties and pitties one board as legit service dogs. They were the best passengers ever – 100xs better than most human passengers. Actually had a rottie on going international – a 10 hr flight – who came on, they found their seat, and he got in by the wall window seat, laid down and literally slept for 9.5 hours. Even when we commenced the landing he laid back down as if he was prepping for the landing. He was the best passenger I even had in all my 50+ years of flying. For those who have never had either ones, rotties or pitties, don’t know their true nature. It’s owners who have mistreated them.
I bred and raised Great Danes for 25 years. They are not territorial or aggressive. I imagine you could find one that had those characteristics, but that is uncommon for the breed. They are lazy, sweet and good natured. They are called the Heartbreak Breed due to their early deaths. They are also called the Gentle Giants because they are both. My children learned to walk using our Danes for support. I never worried about my babies taking naps with my dogs. They were very tender with them. They do not need a large fenced in yard, but that would be nice for them. They are excellent pets for anyone who will invest their time in training them as puppies. If you do not take that time, you should not own any dog, but it especially important with a dog who will over-power you in no time at all.
Very well said!
I have had 9 great danes in the last 40 years , the Dane is the best. Thank you
When do they stop more of their puppy attitudes
I love my nephews Great Dane. She is so sweet and such a well behaved dog. They have 3 kids. One is 13 and the other two are 2 1/2 and the other baby is 5 months. I would love to own a Great Dane after seeing this dog around these children and just people in general. They are gentle giants.
Such is my experience too, Robin.. Great Danes are big (so lots of food needed) and they often don’t live as long as other big dogs.
BUT your experience is like mine. Great Danes are sweet and gentle and kind and seem kinda simple. But they’re very good nonetheless, and they’re sensitive to children.
I’m a dog owner our small dog is a great member of our family I’m so sorry to see so many dogs that are very aggressive and could cause great harm to people.
I have friends that had Akitas and Rittewellrs but we’re well trained.
That’s the Most Important Thing
Thank you Joseph I agree.
My little multi poo is so SASSY I had to check to see if she was on this list! Lol
What is a multi poo? Poodle and..? Maltese?
We own two of the breeds listed – German Shephard and Alaskan Malamute. Both are great with children and defend their families. I do agree that the Malamute is difficult. This one is our 4th Malamute, three purebreds and one Shephard/Malamute mix. The mix was the best , smartest and easiest to train. Malamutes are stubborn and difficult to train. They definitely are destructive, we’ve lost chairs and couches, outdoor cushions, dentures, glasses, and tons of toys. After they are two they tame down and are mostly out of the chewing stage however, they always remain food aggressive. You also have to watch their aggression toward other family pets. This one and the last had a terrible problem with our boxer, who was older. Malamutes like to assert their dominance and you have to make sure they know who is alpha. Our Shephard, on the other hand, is mellow and just holds back. He loves kids and runs with them, and will put himself between other people and dogs who they are leery of,.
Toni, I;m a dog and cat lover. I ours now is a rescue .She is Australian Shepherd and Dingo. We were blessed with a brace of Malamutes for14 years. a terrific.time in my life, He was a champion defender of me and his pack. Train them early! Very loyal. Obedient if you do early. Just love those dogs!
I remember walking a malamute at the humane society. He was friendly and sweet, but I was not prepared for the food aggression when I handed him a biscuit! No gentle taking it out of my hand there!
I have breed and raised bull
Mastiffs for many years! They were breed as guard dogs for sentry work in Europe years ago NOT WAR dogs!!
They are protective just as any other animal would be as part of their pack! I’ve raised my children around them from babies and never once a problem. So I’m not sure where your getting your information but you might check with reputable Breeders for their input before spewing drool about dogs you don’t know anything about, except reading stats which can be skewed any way one wants them! Thanks
Thank you for your comment!! There was the biggest male mastiff I have ever seen at the dog park.
He seemed to enjoy watching my two tiny poodles. It was so hot and all dogs at least got near the edge of the water.
There was a big train of dogs having a great time running in place in and out the water.
If the “ train” got too close to my little dogs, this beautiful big dog just stood up. The train moved over.
We had a beautiful day❤️
Informative and well written article. So important to educate prospective dog owners before they buy or adopt a certain breed.
i think you are correct especially regarding pit bulls. a danger to people and other animals. that’s why you see mostly this type in shelters to be adopted. people don’t realize what they are getting
Had pit bull mix she was gentle dog of all it way they are train any dog who train right will be aggressive big and small we had few type of dogs through years and all were great with the kids and grand children
Have you ever owned one before you make your comments? I have two 10 month old pix mixes and they are super sweet with everyone. They have never destroyed a single thing and love kids. My daughter was bit by a dog as a child and it was a tiny terrior type. So any dog can be good or bad it is the owners that influence it.
My local humane society had a female pit bulls for over a year before she was adopted, and every single person there loved her. She was sweet, loving,well behaved, and totally non-aggressive towards other dogs. I would cuddle with her on a bench and talk to her. She would look up at me as if she understood everything I said.
I disagree. Most pitties are great if the owners take the time and effort to train them. That’s why so many end up in shelters; It’s not always the dog’s fault,but the uneducated owners. Anyone who is thinking about adopting a pet (dog, cat, pig, llama, whatever) HAS to learn as much about the particular animal they are interested in. Otherwise, it’s a recipe for bad feelings, and in controlled bad behavior. Pets are like children; they need to learn who’s the Alpha in the family and what is acceptable behavior.
I don’t know about that. It’s true that with those jaws, Pit Bulls are dangerous IF they’re not trained. Or if they’re impossibly inbred and something is wrong mentally.. unfortunately there are always some who will never get better.
But Infeel terrible for the poor pit bulls in shelters.. they’re scared and sad and want someone to love them . With appropriate training they aren’t aggressive or dangerous.
Secondly, people need to stop allowing them to mate and breed over and over again. The more there are, and with people afraid of them.. the pups are left in shelters. 😔
This list is awesome and very much appreciated ..I am not an animal lover but I have a great fear of huge dogs. The pit bull I hate the most. I’m glad it was on the list..oddly enough one was loose the other day and was following us and getting close as we walked fast to get away ..luckily our building was right there
I have only owned one Rott He was never neutered he weighed 135 lbs and he had a mind and a sense of humor When we moved to a new home he took off to look around. The house is on a acre but other houses used the easement through our property When we realized he was gone we went looking for him. we didn’t find him so we came home He was here. Preventing the neighbors from leaving their driveway and the neighbor was a cop. He was glad to see us, Said he was considering shooting him. Typical Doberman behavior. ” you can come in My people are’t home” You just can’t leave until they get here.”
Oh for heaven’s sake. I’m sorry you fear dogs.. but that may be the reason they bark or seem unfriendly with you.
Pit Bulls can be the sweetest most affectionate dogs.
They shouldn’t be overbred and then tossed aside if a landlord won’t rent to their owners.
But you hate pit bulls?!
I worked as an Emergency room nurse for 20 years the worst case of dog attacks i have seen are from the Akita bar none. Even being raised in a family they only answer to the one person who is the Alpha in the family all others fall behind the Akita. Even simple horse play with the alpha in the house hold will cause the Akita to attack the other member of the family. The dog bites I’ve seen have been against family members who were mostly engaged in horseplay with the alpha in the household.
I’ve had 2 Akita’s. one long hair and one short hair never had a problem with them they were wonderful Protecters. anyone can walk into my house of course only family and friends. loved that they were not barkers. especially when a stranger was at my door, they just wait with their teeth clearly visible and waiting for the stranger. Great Dogs even with kids in the park that they didn’t know. I only train them to go out to do their necessity. BEST DOGS AND PROTECTERS.
I’ve never seen an Akita attack like that.
You should have the story on one page not 15000!!!!
You forgot the Great Pyrenees. Runs away all the time, sheds like crazy, barks at every passerby and can be a ferocious guard dog.
You forgot loving, uses intimidation not aggression to protect its family and friends. The most friendly gentle giant!
I have a pure bred great Pyr that I rescued from a big dog rescue. He was 9 most & over 90 lbs. His problem was playing to aggressively, which is probably why his previous owners gave him up. He is over 2 now and has finally calmed down with training.
He doesn’t hardly ever bark, except when he is inside at night and someone is around our home. Many people have commented on how quiet he is. I can walk him off his lease and he doesn’t take off. He is very socialized and has never showed aggression toward any person or animal.
I have 2 adult daughters with families and they are both are on their 2nd Pyr & I’m also on my 2nd and we love them.
They are protective and make great inside family dogs.
PEOPLE DO YOUR HOMEWORK BEFORE YOU BUY OR ADOPT ANY DOG AND MAYBE WE COULD ELIMINATE SOME OF THE EUTHANIZATIONS AT THE SHELTERS!!!
I met a 7 year old great Pyr in a rescue who had been a livestock guardian on a sheep ranch until he killed a bobcat. The owners did not like that! He spent the next year in a cage until a neighbor rescued him. He was the sweetest dog ever. A family of five adopted him and he slept with the boy, the first time he was ever in a house. He loved it and the family loved him.
Good grief, the pyr was just doing his job. I’m so happy that he now has a wonderful family. We have 7 Pyr’s. Best dogs ever!!! We have never had a coyote or any other predator issue since getting them. Each and every one of our dogs have their own sheep to guard. Most amazing dogs!!!
My niece has a Great Pyrenees and she is the sweetest and most beautiful dog. She would bark at people passing by outside but a lot of dogs do that. The shedding has nothing to do with this article or being aggressive. Yes I’m sure they make good guard dogs when a stranger doesn’t belong.
😊You said it all!
Great Pyrenees are the best breed ever!!! We have 8 of them. They all have a job protecting our sheep/lambs. They bark all the time because they are keeping predators away. They will bark at anyone or anything that they don’t know. The only thing my dogs have ever been ferocious over is any predator trying to get to the sheep. They wont have it. That is what they are bred to do. When you hear a Pyr barking, you know they are doing their job. They are nocturnal so they bark a lot at night. We have not had one coyote issue since getting our dogs. One of our dogs that we raised is our farm dog. He goes with me everywhere except in the house. None of them will come inside. They live outdoors so they can protect. He comes with me to do chores twice a day. There hasn’t been a day that he has not been with me doing chores. They don’t “run away”, they wander. The Pyr will guard as far as he can wander. You do need good fence for some of them. My farm dog has free rein of the whole farm and has never left. Some of the others have gotten out and wandered but we have fences now that they cannot get out of. Each dog lives with sheep and keeps them safe. They are super smart too. I wouldn’t trade them for anything. Best dogs ever!!! They make great family pets too.
The last statement; “Also, if not trained from an early age, they can become dominating towards everyone around them, including their owners.” Isnt this true for any dog that is not trained properly? I train my own, have owned shepherds in the last 30 years and can attest they are the smartest and most loyal dogs that I have ever owned.
The most important words in the message are training. I agree that any untrained dog can be a problem as well as dangerous.Teach them while they are young that YOU are the boss!
Totally agree!
Thank you. Owners never believe their loving dogs can attack. Years ago a neighbor’s Akita killed my Pekingese in a split second even though they knew each other for many months. Years after that a neighbor in a different city lost hold of her German Shepherd that killed my chihuahua. Both of my dogs were passive & the attacks were within seconds.
I am so sorry for your losses. I love animals, but there is no way that I would keep any pet that would harm for zero reason.
This is a horrible burden for your heart to carry around. Lord, I ask that you bless this lady for her suffering. Amen.
We have had German Shepherds and the only thing I did not like was all the hair, you had to take care of them, other than that they were great.
Shepherds , Best family pet & protector , like any animal trained properly , is the most loving mine was 98 lbs + and thought he was a lapdog. He was my 3rd shepherd over the years . I’d love another but no over the heart break yet I miss him so much . Never had to worry about my kids ever as long as he was there .
If you have to rely on a book or a video to train a Herman shepherd why would you use? I cannot afford professional training and I am also disabled.
Listing a German Shepherd dog as one of the worst breeds to own was without merit! I have owned 2 and been around many others. They will not turn on children. One of the things I read up on them before getting my first one was , that they are fiercely loyal and protective of children in the household! When my kids were young we could leave them to play in the backyard and he was a great babysitter! We were in the house of course and would take notice every once in awhile! He kept them very safe!
We had a shepard/ husky we had him for close to 13 years…he was the best dog we have ever had and we had a few over the years… He was so obedient .. the yard 3/4 of an acre not fenced and he would never leave the yard at all even while chasing a rabbit he would stop at the edge of the property and never leave the yard…He was so smart and loved to be with my grandchildren.. the vet told us you couldnt as for a better mix being shepard/husky she claimed he got his intelligence from the shepard and his playfullness from the husky…
I had 2 German shepherds in my life and they were great dogs. Gentle with all in my family including young children. I still miss them.
That’s so sad
Stop with the nonsense already! Any dog can be aggressive. Humans create most of the bad traits and then blame the poor animal!
THANK YOU! I WAS WONDERING IF ANYONE WAS EVER GOIN G TO BLAME THE “OWNERS”!… Any Breed can be taught to be mean, my Chihuahuas are so mean that I have to put them up when people come over. But my Frenchie is soooo sweet. Chi’s should be #1 on the list cause you don’t have to make them mean, Mean lil boogers lol
Well, what breed is it? you left us hanging…
You have to scroll through pages to see the 7 dogs.
This is your Opinion not true Facts
What you call pity is not actually true.
There are many breeds to these so called pit bulls
I’m on my second staffy rescue.
I personally wouldn’t own any other dog. You only trait I think one should worry about is that they’re very very protective of children.
Any dog not properly trained can be dangerous?
I’ve come across many vicious chihuahuas. I think if you’re gonna write an article like this. You should become familiar with what you’re writing about personally.
This article should be titled -‘ dogs that lazy owners should never have’. All of the dogs listed can make great pets, they just require some (or a lot) of work on the part of the owners. Chihuahuas should be on this list too.
AND DACHSUNDS TOO. THEY ARE SO HARD TO TRAIN.
My vet is Kevin Fitzgerald. He’s adored my last pocket pit as well as my staffing. Both have had 0 aggressive behavior. My pocket pit lived 17 yrs. The staffing is now 4 yr. I’ve had to defend both against stray aggressive dogs.
Neither have ever had professional training.
Any animal can be aggressive if raised incorrectly.
Lol, I laugh at the comments. All animals are different and they are easy to understand but you have to learn, take the time out with them they only want to learn from you and do what makes you happy and act accordingly to how you feel. I’ve had cats who watched me and did what I said without giving them direct contact.
My crossbreed I received him as a puppy, very protective because he only enjoyed being around me and my family he’s 100. Loves playing catch and with our German shepherd whose very friendly and obedient.
I owned an Akita, and you are spot on. We had to give her away because she was very, I mean very territorial and aggressive. She was a protector towards my son when he was born. Sometimes she would growl at me if I went near him. When she went after my neighbors’ kids is when she had to go. I loved her but there was no way I could control her, so some nice people had a big farm, and they took her. I now have a shiatzu and Carian terroir.
I have had eight German Shepherds. I currently have two. You are so off base regarding behavior around children. They protect them, if anything. One of them is a professionally trained Tier 3 Shepherd. He wouldn’t hurt a fly, unless he had to or was told to…..the other is currently being trained as a Protection dog, as well, and he is wonderful with children.
If they are true working dogs, like mine, they do take a lot of work and their level of activity is very high, but, clearly, once again, they would not hurt a fly unless the situation called for it.
They are brilliant, loyal and loving dogs.
You guys are really way off course. I have been around every single one of these dogs, one time or another, and to them I was a stranger and never had an issue with any of them at all. Everyone of them was very friendly, even when my sister was living on base her neighbor behind her had the boxers and they would jump the fence into her yard to play with her Rottweiler. They never seen me before. They both came up and knocked me on my butt giving me kisses you guys are off you need to check talk to people. and I have been around an Akita you are partially right on territory when I was working, my boss would bring hers to work and anytime you got near the cage that she kept her and she would growl, but that was it once it got used to you she was OK and a German Shepherd. I grew up with they can be vicious and they can be so sweet now a shepherd that you don’t have on here is a Belgian Malinois Now this one I have never been around, but I have her can be very territorial. They are very beautiful dogs.
All dog behavior is a result of how the owner treats, teaches and raises the dog…just like having kids…
This is stupid, For every dog, They basically say that if this dog is not raised correctly it can be aggressive and dangerous… Well, guess what? That is for ALL dogs. and cats, and hamsters and rats, etc..
I’ve been around dogs most of my 70 years. I’ve been bitten 3 times and had a family member bitten twice. The biting dogs: shitz tsu, chiuhahua (2x-once requiring hospitalization), a basset hound (which left permanent scarring on my 8 year old son) and a pit bull (which happily let me pet her going into the house, but grazed me on the leg when her owner yelled at her as I left.) My 4 German shepherds and my Rottweiler were sweethearts as were the boxer bulldog mix and my dad’s pitty. Dogs behave as they are trained and as they are treated. Inexperienced persons should probably not get a dog that is smarter than a three year old. but as for me, the smarter the dog, the better I like them.
Thank you for this article. I think it would be awesome if you could do a article/book on “Is Your Favorite Breed a Good Fit for your Family?
People should do the required research about the breed they want because appreciating its appearance is not enough knowledge to go out and buy one.
As you frequently stated throughout the article all dogs are trainable; however, you must maintain the dog’s best interest and health when making the decision to adopt one.
Are you willing to do the maximum for, provide for, work with your breed to maintain its stability and happiness? Are you available? Are you physically capable (now, not I’ll get in shape while doing it)? Are you committed to keeping others safe around your breed? Are you committed to keeping your breed safe around others? Vet fees are also a must to consider while deciding to adopt your breed.
The more you learn, the more you’ll know if you can provide the breed a happy home or be able to admit that you need to consider other breeds. You can still appreciate your favorite breed and know that your choice to go with a different breed is a choice that made at least 2 dogs happy, the one you decide you can provide for AND the one you wisely decided you would not be a good fit for.
Please do not “buy” a dog. Shelters are putting down thousands of dogs daily across the country, including purebreds and puppies. ADOPT, DON’T SHOP!
YOU CANT BEAT COLLIES OR AUSTRAL\ILIAN SHEPARDS HAIR IS ONLY PROBLEM
Any animal can become aggressive if not treated or trained properly. If people are unpredictable, why not animals. Do your homework and research before you buy or adopt and maybe the shelters won’t have to euthanize so many animals.
I think you are completely iwrong. Have you not heard this fact which is absolute truth.
” There are no bad dogs, just bad owners “
We own a pit Bull and our Sasha Rottweiler we resuced are loving as can be . They want to be with all the time. Friendly to people and especially to young kids. Maybe people have a problem with pets because they don’t bring them up with love
30 years of animal rescue, all breeds. Owner of a houseful of Labradors, all colors, 40 years. Owner of mixed breeds, big and little, 78 years. One thing I can absolutely tell you is that there are no Bad Dogs, just Bad Owners. A dog is a responsibility, just like a child. If you do not care for it and provide appropriate environment, nutrition and training, the poor dog will be “on their own” and akin to a child with no discipline. Dogs have natural intellect and can communicate. They can understand you. If you watch and listen, you can understand them. You are their world. If they don’t turn out right, it is because of you, not them. Never keep a dog outside, or on a chain or in a crate for long periods of time. Place yourself in their place and if you wouldn’t like it, neither will they. Now go hug your dog. Nana
The love of my life was Kiwi, a white German Shepherd. No problema. She was alert, obedient, gentle, loving… We walked a couple of miles every day !
What about the giant schnauzer? I’ve been around several and they both were super scary..and only listened to the alpha owner. Imposing and were just right up on you. It is a breed that should be on this list. Training and socialization are very key…any dog can become vicious..terriers especially.
The worst dog to have as a pet is one that the owner doesn’t take the time to train and socialize. Doesn’t matter the breed. I have 2 mastiff/pit mixes (according to a DNA test, there’s a few other breeds in there as well) and they couldn’t look more different (one takes more after the mastiff at 110lbs and the other is only about 45lbs). But both are wonderful, friendly social girls. If you’re not careful, the smaller one will slobber you to death.
They are on point, and saying good things about the dogs but there are things to consider. I have had most of these and yes great dogs, but I have witness the bad from folks that do not take good care of them and then the bad things occur. It is good to read this so we can educate others on the proper care of these great pets and family members.
We had a cocker spaniel. She was the best dig I’ve ever had. At 6 weeks old she was completely house broken. She was so friendly and just an over loving pet. Smart as a whip. At night we’d say time for bed, she would walk with us and go under our bed make sure few turns and I’d say time to go to sleep and she would plop down and go to sleep. She developed tumors on her back and stomach. Our baby grandson was learning to walk and he would pull himself up by leaning on her back. She would gently take his arm and move it to another area on her back. Never had any problems. She was easy to train her to listen to commands. Snep your fingers and she would roll over. Only thing was she had no sense of direction. If she was outside she would get so lost.
Had to put her down after 8 years due to cancer. I still miss her after 30 something years.
Your list is opinionated and not truthful. Is the geeky gecko a dog hater?Ive had malamutes and they are the most loving dogs. The they shed twice a year , for 6 months at a time Lol! Any one adopting a dog, should investigate the breed they are interested in.
I see many people who are very defensive of their dog breeds. This article isn’t attacking anyone’s dog but giving advice to people who may not understand that their breed has tendencies that MAY make them more aggressive in certain situations. Inexperienced owners may not understand the different characters of different breeds and should be made aware of potential problems. I have a German shepherd/Great Pyrenees mix that is great with people but I understand her protective nature and don’t take chances.
That’s why I own a cat… no offense to dogs, but My Calico and Maine Coon are my “kids” who love their Uncle Pete.
Always have been astounded that these articles never even mention the Bouvier.One of the large breeds that’s hypo allergenic, non shedding,non drooling.Astoundingly smart dogs that rarely bark and are very cunning about trapping and holding even human prey.Because of their size intelligent owners recognize that good training is essential but often discover their dog will usually outsmart them DURING training and need to make sure they never give their dog the impression that they’re seceding “boss” status because the Bouvier WILL take over.
I have 2 comments about the article. 1: The writer never listed any little dogs! 2: The writer only listed large breeds that already have bad reputations AND if they so choose, they can probably do more damage than a large breed, BUT to leave out the ‘ankle biters’ is perhaps more dangerous. A tiny dog can take out a child’s eye or do other serious damage AND because of their size and ‘cuteness’ they are more apt to be blindly trusted, and approached without thinking…also, they may have more of a tendency to feel vulnerable and be frightened into aggression.
What the writer did get right is that it all comes down to are 4 things: training, love, common sense and a bit of luck.
We have had a German Shepherd, a Rottweiler and currently have a Pit Bull in our family. Our young daughter would lay on the Shepard and climb in the crate with our Rottweiler. Our Pit Bull is the most loving dog. Our grandson has grown up with her and loves her dearly. I understand that the breeds can be challenging but that can be said for many breeds. It really makes me upset when breeds are banned because of articles like this, i.e. my HOA bands Rottweiler and PitBulls. Need to stop banning breeds and have dogs individually evaluated.
What a complete load of bollocks I’ve owned many Rottweilers and they are the most loving dogs ever all my Rottweilers I’ve owned have been brilliant around kids and babies . When I feed them I can put my face to there dish pretending to eat there food and they won’t bite me so your talking shite . Then you talk about XL Bully being one of the worst breed to own sorry its the owners that want shooting not the breed they are loving dogs and of course like any other dog someone trying to break into your home they will protect it . The worst breed of dog to own are Chihauhuas they are nasty little bastards but obviously you think they are cute and safe around babies which they are not . All the breeds you have mentioned are the safest dogs you could wish for but it all comes down to the owners not the dogs you can make any dogs nasty . I just feel so sorry for the XL Bully they are loving dogs but you get the drug dealers buying these dogs using them to fight and making them vicious. Obviously who ever made this list have never had one of these 7 dogs . In the 70s it was Dobermans 80s they blamed German Shepherds 90s they blamed Rottweilers now they blame the XL Bully shoot the owners not the dogs
I was unaware of a breed called “PitBull”. That’s not a breed. Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the proper name, right?
Akitas are also notoriously fussy eaters. A friend of mine in Japan owns a part-Akita and has to hand cook the dog’s meals. From the pictures of the dog’s food that she shares,, it looks like the dog eats better than me. Lucky Dog!
How about educating yourselves before posting this be. Pitt bulls were not bred to be fighters, they were bred to be cattle dogs to protect herds of cattle and other livestock from wolves and coyotes in Germany and Europe BEFORE being brought here. They are amazing dogs and just like children you teach them to be good
You people have NO CLUE about dogs!!! As a trainer and the owner of a pitbull rescue, I am here to tell you, you are WAY off the mark. Any dog…ANY BREED can be aggressive if raised that way, abused or inbred. I have saved over 900 pitbulls and think that they are the most loyal and dedicated breed out there
Don’t speak if you don’t know the facts. People like you are the reason good dogs get a bad rap!!!
My beautiful Pittie got attacked by the next-door neighbors chihuahua and was injured. You know what he did?? He went behind me for protection and looked to me to defend him. If I had a stick or something handy I would have clocked that dog. Supposedly this is the son of the dog that attacked me a few years back. So I am pretty sure the blame is on the owner who does not correct the behavior. I told the owner that the next time I see her dog off leash or not restrained I WILL call the Dog Officer AGAIN and have it taken away. Dogs AND Cats are a reflection of the people they live with. Selfish ,ignorant and self-absorbed people have children and “pets” that turn out the same way. Nasty, ignorant humans who make lists that give animals and people bad names.
Training is key for any dog! Socialization for puppies with adults/adolescents and babies is paramount. You must lay the ground work to have a balanced “working” dog. All of the listed breeds have strong personalities and are of the “working” breeds that need to be channeled properly for a healthy, mentally balanced, happy 4 footed friend. I’m a recent volunteer (1 yr) for German Shepherd of New England (GSRNE) and their criteria for adoption is extensive. I’ve adopted GSD’s for the past 35 yrs. All have come w sm to huge amt of problems. If you’re not willing to put the necessary work/training into any of these listed dogs then these breeds aren’t for you.
Thank you for perpetuating the B.S. negative stereotypes, & showing your complete ignorance. Rottweilers are wonderful family dogs, extremely patient & great with small children. Pitbulls are also amazing family pets & extremely loving. Just because some idiots choose to abuse these animals, doesn’t mean they’re bad, the morons who mistreat them are the problem. Take your list & shove it.
My favorite breed is German shepherd. But they are herding dogs and they will herd children. Which can involve nipping. The thing about pitbulls is they are TERRIERS. They have the same traits all terriers have from the Airdale to the little Yorkshire: pernicious, never quit. Many of us love that about them. The thing about pitbulls is their jaw strength. They’re not bad dogs. But if I had one the first command I would teach is “leave it”. I worked at a shelter for years and was bit (twice seriously) 3 times and never by a pit. Two hound mixes and a border Collie mix. I really hate these articles because these breeds just require more work and the article might make some people dismiss these great breeds off hand. The breed I would never have is Siberian Husky because they’re RUNNERS!
For years I feared Pit Bulls due to the medias negative comments published about them . Then we adopted the sweetest puppy and Yes, a pit bull . I soon learned pits love their master beyond measure and want to please them . We took much time to train this wonderful puppy to be loving and Kind . We lived in California and I soon learned many were training this bred to be mean and would train them to fight . Because of the love they have for their master they can easily be trained to be exceedingly mean , cruel fighters and killers. This just sickens me .
We are presently raising our third pit . Each has been the most loving kind dog because we have trained them to be so. I know several pit owners who believe as I do . Love , them , train them and they will be the best dog you ever owned .
This article is awful…I wonder if it was a translation from another language as the grammar is questionable. These types of articles are dangerous to dog breeder and for potential adoptive owners. Do better research!
I’m personally scared to death of Pittbulls, Dobermans, Rottweilers and German Shepherds. Too many people are training them to be aggressive and vicious dogs. If I own a dog (I have in the past) I can only handle a small dog, no larger than a Shi Tzu or maybe a Westie. I once had a Westie, a great doggy! But Pitts, Rottweilers, Dobermans and Germany Shepherds, if not properly trained, can actually become weapons of mass destruction!
There are no “Worst Dogs” JUST WORST OWNERS. Train them and FLIPPING STOP PUTTING ON THOSE METAL SPIKE CHOKE COLARS. They are bullschit and do nothing to train your dog other than enforce them that there is no reward for good behavior just punishment and pain when they don’t. ITS MASTERS THAT USE THAT KIND OF REINFORCEMENT RATHER THAN OWNERS THAT PRAISE AND LOVE ON THEIR DOGS GETTING MORE LOYALITY AND FIERCE PROTECTION FROM THEM.
This list of dog’s worst to own is obviously not a professional dog vet, breeder or Trainer it was a story biased on (HYPE)! it was written by a high school student looking for attention! All Dog breeds
from ankle biters to chest pounders can be aggressive. As a Dog owner it your responsibility to train with love and affection and you will avoid the (dangers) associated with any breed. If you want to have a Websight about k9s always include the owner’s responsibility! that is where you will find the reason behind the animals Trates and behaviours…..
I am 75 years old and I have 3 pit bulls a huskies Shepard mixed and 2 cats they all live in same house and they all get along. Everyone say pits are so dangerous well I believe it’s all how you raise them. My babies are the sweetest most gentle of animals but then again they are protective of me and my family. Plus they are protective of each other. So it just goes to show its all how they are raised. Show them love and respect and they show you the same.
I have a 3 year old brindle rescue she sweet as can be and i lived in Fla and i know how they can be and know what they can do i never trust any dog because any dog will turn if provoked and like you said mine has her moments she has to smell you first and if she’s see that there ok with me then she’s ok. I tell people that come up to me that she has to smell you to get to know you first then she good I warn people that you can’t just put your hand to her because she most likely was abused so she has some issue’s so yes i do worry so i keep her close to me .being responsible is my job or i to will suffer consequences as she will to so i love her so much i rather know one come up to us but people are people and she’s so cute you just want to pet her so it kind of goes both ways when i was growing up i was in the hospital for tetanus shots for going up to stray dog and some bit me there just so lovable its hard not too happy forth be safe everybody and bring dogs in that don’t like fire works it scar them to them it like bombs going off enjoy be safe
I think you are missing the point of the article. It is basically telling us what dogs are not good for inexperienced dog owners. Your breed at home may be great for you but not someone who doesn’t know how to read dogs very well. All of these breeds are very smart and quickly learn to take advantage of their surroundings. Stop acting like dogs are human beings and realize that they were bred to do certain things and if not trained correctly those instincts can take over.
There are no bad breeds either pure breed or mix….just bad owners who don’t know how to treat dogs, I am a rescue and have had just about all breeds that humans have mistreated. They are hard to train but with lots of love and trust it can be done.
I cannot believe that in this day and age the pit bull argument is still going on. I’ve had many pitties and they are the most lovable snugglie and dispite their size, lap dogs I have ever met in my life. I used to breed German shepherds but as soon as I met a pittie I was hooked! My kids all have pitties as well. I have cats now because I live in an apartment but I will always be a dog person, especially those lovable cuddly pit bulls!!
Disagree chihuahua and Jack Russell both are family dogs ,it all depends on there upbringing and if u get as a pup no issue just about any dog.
Any dog can be the worst breed to have for a pet. I have had hounds, labs, goldens jack Russel, beagle Dalmatian dashunds, some rescue,some pure bred, husky German shepherd and a Doberman. In my 80 years of growing up with a variety of dogs the very worst one I ever had was the most beautiful black lab that was the meanest most aggressive and nasty dog I ever had. I bought him from a breeder who supposedly had good breeding records but not this one. He had basic puppy training which was difficult then further training which was even more challenging. He had private training and group training all of which was not good for him. Like I said he was absolutely beautiful but………..I had him humanly euthanized at 2 years of age. Labs are usually very good pets !
All dogs can be aggressive but when a Pit Bull is he does way more damage than most. That’s the issue.
What people don’t realize is that any dog can be aggressive. It’s all in the way that it is trained and or raised.
You should have just titled this article “7 Dogs Vets Are Afraid Of”
This is BS. Pitties do better on temperament tests than most “friendly” dogs. Stop perpetuating the falsehoods of theses dogs.
Three words for all of the “Pit Bull Lovers” out there:
“Ticking Time Bomb”.
Sure, YOUR dogs are sweet and lovable. It’s ALL about how they were raised, trained, etc. So, what you’re saying is that each and every one of these Pit Bull attacks, where people were severely injured or killed, they were ALL dogs that are tortured, abused and otherwise neglected. ALL of them. Do I have that right? NEVER was there a case of the “lovable family dog” that “just turned” on a family member for no reason at all.
There’s a reason why courts in this country consider Pit Bulls (along with Rottweilers, Chows, and a few other breeds) to be “inherently vicious” breeds. That means, it’s in the nature, it’s in their DNA to act that way. Maybe not today. Maybe not next week. But… tick-tick-tick…
Alaskan Malamutes are so child-friendly and family-oriented!
My grandparents had a King Mal.
As a toddler, I would nap on this dog, in the backyard, unsupervised. No one came near us or the house.
Decades later, my then-fiance had a Mal pup of 9 months old. That dog protected my 9 son like a Secret Service agent.
The only time I heard him growl a warning was in the apartment elevator. A known pedophile foolishly stepped inside and received a clear warning.
Some of you people didn’t read the article, you just jumped through the list of breeds. They explain as to why they made the list…so yes, you may have a “good” pit or a “good shepherd BUT considering the circumstances they can POTENTIALLY be dangerous…depending upon the lack of attention, feeling threatened and the type of owners they have etc….As an apartment owner I go by what my liability insurance allows for dogs (which breeds are acceptable vs not for the amount of coverage I pay).
Dogs are like kids, they are what you make them……
My grand-doggy is a pit/mastiff mix. The gravest danger with him is that he wags his tail so hard when he’s happy to see me that he could bruise someone with it. He might lick you to death if you aren’t careful. He loves my grandsons and his kitties, too.
I have fond memories of my childhood, walking to and from school and petting almost all the dogs on the way. One of my favorites was a great Dane, who always stood up to greet me and get some extra attention. There was one mixed breed dog I never approached, because she clearly didn’t like me. I didn’t take it personally. And when I started delivering newspapers on my bike, there was one lab mix who chased me…that was a little scary; but it wasn’t the dog’s fault that the owners didn’t keep him in their yard.
I’m 85 yo & have the best dog I’ve ever had. He is a little Shih Tzu & I love him so much. I’m in total agreement that the way you treat your dog is how they will be with you. You don’t need to yell at your dog & make them feel unloved & expect them to be loving with you.
Take care of the pet God gives you & the blessings will be great.
Anything with teeth is capable of inflicting a bite wound on any given day or location-whether it’s a lion, dog, cat, hampster, or human! Also aside from wound damage diseases are spread through saliva eg. rabies. All these good dog (cat) bad dog (cat) stories are no doubt true and interesting. My guns are hidden from my wife as she has a bad temper. My sons and neighbors have prudent behavior. I personally would not want to harm anyone (glad I didn’t have to go to Viet Nan)! I do have guns (under lock) quickly available if needed. We have had psychos escape from the local prison so we locked all windows and doors- he was apprehended but had held an elderly couple under their gun- fortunately that psychopath was apprehended. When I go into the city I carry a small 9mm handgun in my pocket just in case. I have a license to carry in PA. which might not be honored in Phila? Self preservation is paramount!
Anything with teeth is capable of inflicting a bite wound on any given day or location-whether it’s a lion, dog, cat, hampster, or human! Also aside from wound damage diseases are spread through saliva eg. rabies. All these good dog (cat) bad dog (cat) stories are no doubt true and interesting. My guns are hidden from my wife as she has a bad temper. My sons and neighbors have prudent behavior. I personally would not want to harm anyone (glad I didn’t have to go to Viet Nan)! I do have guns (under lock) quickly available if needed. We have had psychos escape from the local prison so we locked all windows and doors- he was apprehended but had held an elderly couple under their gun- fortunately that psychopath was apprehended. When I go into the city I carry a small 9mm handgun in my pocket just in case. I have a license to carry in PA. which might not be honored in Phila? Self preservation is paramount!
I have had many pitties, German shepherd, doberman’s and a cocker spaniel. Out of all of them the most dangerous one was the cocker spaniel she was the only one to bite anyone (but she’s on the most lovable dog list). I had to keep her in a chain when she went in the yard and put her in a room when anyone visited. It wasn’t fair to her so we put her down after she turned 6. Although my last pittie we rescued and didn’t know anything about his background and he was great until he was about 7 yrs old then he got very aggressive to everyone especially children(. He always loved them before ). So we had to have him put down but that’s not my point pitties are great family dogs so are shepherds and doberman’s but with any type of protective dog make sure you know about it’s dam and sire and make sure it’s not inbred or you could end up having to put your beloved family pet to sleep to protect yourself and others because an inbred pitties is a dangerous dog and itay not show up right away but it’s aggressive tendencies usually show their ugly heads. I would have more pitties because I’m not blaming the breed for one rescued dog that couldn’t help himself. And I agree with one thing others have said some people are not responsible enough to own an “aggressive” breed of dog or any dog for that matter they probably couldn’t even handle a hamster. So just be responsible if you want to get a dog make sure you have time to spend with it and train it or the money to have it trained and not for protection if you care for it then it’s protective nature will always be there for you and your family
Love all them pups with your full heart and they will show you the same love back.
What an awful article. Feels like the author doesn’t know ANYTHING about dogs or statistics. Very irresponsible to have something like this. We need people to ADVOCATE for these breeds, because it’s dependent on the owners, and there’s already too much unnecessary stigmas against these breeds. Ugh, this really aggravates me.
I have a 1 yo American Staffordshire Terrier and a Pitbull before that my pit was a girl and at that time my daughter was 3 and they played as bestfriends my pit protected my daughter and my house until she passed at 12 yo she was a wonderful dog now my amstaff is 1yo and he’s just as sweet and gental i have a 9yo son and they play hard i can’t imagine my dog getting aggressive with family and friends he’s a perfect dog and he’s the same when i turn him loose at the dog park i hear the stories but i haven’t met th dog they speak of
Every dog has it’s own personality but at anytime for any reason change.
I used to ride horses on trail rides with lots of other people and other horses and people would always ask does your horse kick and I would say, he has never kicked but he has a mind and at any time he could kick. The same is true of any dog you can’t control them 100% of the time and at any time they can become aggressive for a reason we don’t even know about. Even small dogs can inflict a lot of damage on a child in a matter of seconds so a person always has to be aware of the danger
I have a pitbull weimaraner mix. She’s my sweetest and most sensitive dog ever. BUT, she is territorial toward anyone that comes to my door especially the mailman, UPS or FedEx. It’s her instinct to protect. I have learned to talk softly and calmly to her and steer her away which works. Getting loud and forceful only makes it worse. She rides everywhere with me and never gets aggressive. Only protective at home but I’m thankful she is. She’s not allowed off leash and has a fence yard to chase birds.
I’m offended by your characterization of pit bulls as dangerous and vicious. I have owned and loved pitties for decades. Please stop such ignorant and false statements!
Lies! I have had two German Shepherds one died at 14 years old of old age and the other at 13 years old that had to be put down due to degenerative myelopathy and they were the best dogs. Protective and loving. The hair – yes was horrible and was the only reason we chose to not get another Shepherd. They shed year round but had two very super heavy shedding seasons. Either way, we swept or vacuumed everyday and sometimes twice a day or there would have been tumbleweeds of hair rolling around the house. We got a pitbull puppy who is now 3 years old. Sweet and very affectionate even tempered dog. Pitbull definitely get a bad rap.
As a past German Shepherd owner of many I disagree with you. Proper obedince training and socialization will get you a top notch family pet and many trophies in obedience if you are interested. My very best girl was a super dog who welcomed my baby after six years of living only with fellow shepherds. We had her and one other female at the time and they soon decided their place when the baby was in the nursery was lying across his door to protect him. They were very affectionate with him and played quite well with him through all the toddler stages. Both had ben trained in obedience and socialized well from puppyhood. All dogs require this along with good pack leadership by their humans. Best all around breed. We also had a rottweiler male when my shepherds were gone and he loved my son and was not at all rough with him. He herded the children who came to our house to play and was gentle with them. Had to go to the gate to let children join their parents as he didn’t want to give up his charges even to their parents. Again, a gentle giant well behaved and loving.
I have rescued 5 pit-bulls from animal shelters my last pit was found hog tied and left to die. Any dog can become aggressive if neglected. They are the most lovable breed; this is just my opinion. However, I love all dogs actually😊but it’s these abusive owners that sell them out for money and do not care what happens to them. A Big Shout Out!! To All You Pet Owners, regardless of what Breed.
this is bullshit. I have a German shepherd and she is a remarkable pet, watchdog, friend. and a smart dog.
I own a pitbull, her name is Bella. Bella absolutely loves people, but she does look very intimidating but she is a sweetheart. However I know as her owner that she does not like most other dogs so she is always on a leash when she goes out no exceptions. Listen at the end of the day when it comes to dogs we are all guessing, cause last time I checked dogs can’t tell us what they are thinking. The reason the dogs made the list is because they are the hardest for humans to control, not because of some flaw with the breed. I can say honestly that my dog can be difficult to control at times like when she spots a squirrel but if she reacted that way towards people I wouldn’t have her because if she hurts someone they hold me responsible at the end of the day. I put as much faith in articles like this as I do anything else I read, not much until I see it myself.
Absolutely Wrong
Dr E Marits CPAB
My daughter and her husband have a pit mix and he is the sweetest dog. Their 2 young daughters are able to take a toy or a bone out of his mouth and he does nothing other than look sad. He is a great asset to their family!
it’s telling when so many owners of pitbull say they’re so sweet and loving, but then also say they would never leave it alone with a child or turn it back on it. I think that sums it all up.