While it is true that a dog’s behavior can reflect how they are trained and treated by their owner, there are certain breeds that are more prone to vicious attacks than others. Unfortunately, even the best-tempered dog can turn against its owners or attack a small child without provocation.
Because of certain breeds’ tendencies to become vicious, some dogs are more difficult to insure under homeowner’s insurance policies, as insurers know the likelihood that the breed will attack.
Here is a short list of the most dangerous dog breeds, based on their propensity to become vicious:
American Pit Bull Terrier
A Pit Bull has a naturally aggressive temperament and remarkable strength. They have been known to attack small children, elderly individuals and their owners. This breed is tied to more dog attack-related fatalities than any other breed. Because of the astounding number of Pit Bull attacks in the United States, most insurance companies deny homeowner’s insurance coverage. Pit Bull owners must instead seek special liability coverage.
German Shepherd
While a favorite for police and military, the German Shepherd is intelligent, strong and aggressive. These dogs are known for their highly protective personality and when they are not socialized properly, they are extremely dangerous to the public. According to statistics, German Shepherds are one of the top five most likely breeds to bite a person.
Rottweiler
Commonly used as a guard dog, Rottweilers are aggressive, strong and can be dangerous as household pets. While it is true this breed can be loving and loyal to their owners, they have been responsible for a large number of dog-related fatalities. Experts recommend special training programs for owners of Rottweilers because of their high risk for bites and attacks.
Doberman Pinscher
Bred in Germany, Doberman Pinschers are hard-working, dedicated dogs often used as a guard dog. They are known, however, for their ferocious personality and bite strength. Studies have shown that this breed is more likely to bite another dog than a human; however, they have been responsible for a high number of dog attack-related fatalities.
Wolf Hybrids
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful dog breeds, a wolf hybrid is a mixture of domesticated and wild animals. They are a high risk to owners because of their natural instincts as a wolf. As natural survivors, wolfs use their survival skills to dominate any foes. If the wolf hybrid is bred with an aggressive breed, such as a German Shepherd, their risk of attacking is greater.
Bullmastiff
In England, Bullmastiffs were bred as guard dogs and if not trained properly, can be extremely aggressive. The size of a Bullmastiff alone makes this breed a danger to children. They have a solid build and strong jaw, which makes an attack from this breed even more dangerous.
Bit by a Dangerous Dog Breed? Contact Pennsylvania’s Premier Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bites are traumatic, costly and can permanently scar a person physically and emotionally. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a vicious breed, contact Jeffrey Harlan Penneys, Esq. for a free case evaluation. To schedule your consultation, call 215-987-3550 (office) or 215-771-0430 (cell) or complete an online contact form.