Some dog breeds are naturally more reactive than others, and while many can be loving companions, their instincts may pose a risk to other pets. Certain breeds require extra caution when living in multi-pet households, whether due to a strong prey drive, territorial instincts, or dominance tendencies. These are twelve reactive dogs that could put your other pets in danger.
1. American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a strange reputation. While some people think they’re loving family pets, others fear them for their history of dog fighting. These dogs have a high prey drive and a powerful physique, which makes them a potential danger to other, smaller pets. However, with proper training and early socialization, they can be taught to get along with other pets.
2. Rottweilers
Rottweilers are a loyal and protective dog breed, but sometimes, these traits can lead to aggressive behavior. They’re very territorial, which makes them wary of other animals. They are large and muscular and can easily overpower other, smaller pets. Early socialization is the best way to ensure that these dogs will get along with other pets.
3. German Shepherds
German Shepherds are famous for being intelligent and trainable companions. However, their protective instincts and high energy levels can often lead to behavioral issues. Their strong herding instinct can cause them to chase or nip at other pets. But with proper training and guidance, they can live peacefully with other animals.
4. Siberian Huskies
These beautiful dogs are famous for their wolf-like appearance, but they also share some wolf-like behaviors. They have a strong pack mentality and a high prey drive, which can make them aggressive toward other dog breeds. These dogs need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to avoid destructive and aggressive behaviors.
5. Wolf-dog hybrids
Wolf-dog hybrids are known to be unpredictable and hard to manage. They have a high prey drive, meaning even well-socialized dogs may view smaller pets as food. Due to safety concerns, many areas have legal restrictions on owning them. Only experienced handlers should own these dogs.
6. Alaskan Malamutes
Alaskan Malamutes are powerful dogs that were originally bred for sledding. They’re an independent breed, which makes them stubborn and resistant to commands. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, they become destructive or even aggressive. They have a strong pack drive, which can lead to problems with other pets.
7. Doberman Pinschers
Doberman Pinschers are excellent guard dogs. They are very protective of their owners and may perceive other animals as threats. Like many other dogs on this list, they have a high prey drive and may try to hurt smaller pets. Early socialization is essential if you want to keep Doberman Pinschers with other pets.
8. Chow Chows
Chow Chows may have an adorable appearance, but without proper socialization, they can be aggressive toward other animals. Their strong territorial instincts make them intolerant of other pets in their space.
9. Cane Corsos
Cane Corsos have a long history as working dogs. Their strong guard instincts and powerful build make them potentially dangerous around other animals. Without enough exercise, they may become destructive or aggressive. They require consistent, firm training to ensure good behavior.
10. Presa Canarios
Presa Canarios were originally bred for fighting and guarding, which makes them a challenge to own. They are known to be dominant and may try to assert themselves over other pets. They have a high prey drive that makes smaller animals particularly vulnerable, even if they have been raised together.
11. Dogo Argentinos
Dogo Argentinos have a high prey drive and may attempt to dominate smaller animals. They are athletic and strong, requiring firm control to manage their behavior. Their pack-hunting instincts can lead to conflicts when housed with other dogs.
12. Akitas
Akitas are fiercely loyal to their owners but can be aggressive toward other pets, especially dogs of the same gender. Their strong guarding instincts make them highly protective of their family and territory, which can lead to conflicts with other animals.
Discover more of our trending stories and follow us to keep them appearing in your feed
12 Dog Breeds That Shouldn’t Be Pets
11 Dog Breeds with the Highest Prey Drive – These Pups Are Born Hunters
California Is Breaking Apart: A Fault Line Is Forming Faster Than Anyone Predicted
After 40 Years of Tracking Pacific Salmon, This Is What Went Horribly Wrong
This article first appeared here
Stay connected with us for more stories like this! Follow us to get the latest updates or hit the Follow button at the top of this article, and let us know what you think by leaving your feedback below. We’d love to hear from you!
