Dogs are often called “man’s best friend,” but not every breed fits the image of a cuddly companion. Some dogs are intimidating, powerful, and even bred for protective or working roles. Owning a dog with a fierce appearance can often deter trouble before it even starts, and plenty of large and powerful breeds are perfect for the job. Here are 8 of the scariest dog breeds and why some people should avoid them.
1. German Shepherd
German Shepherds often take on the role of fierce, attack-ready dogs in Hollywood films, but their real-life reputation goes far beyond the stereotype. While they are commonly used by the military and police, it’s not just because of their large frame or intimidating bark. These dogs are praised for their remarkable intelligence, trainability, and unwavering loyalty to their owners, making them extremely valuable in tough situations.
2. Kangal Shepherd Dog
The Kangal Shepherd, Turkey’s national dog, is a formidable livestock guardian and one of the strongest dog breeds in the world. Renowned for its ability to deter intruders, it boasts an impressive bite force of over 700 pounds per square inch. Although they are usually kept as outdoor pets, their gentle temperaments make them the perfect candidates for family pets!
3. Wolfdog
Wolfdogs are hybrids created by breeding domestic dogs with wolves. These dogs are unpredictable, and it’s impossible to train natural behaviors out of them. They lack an innate “eagerness to please” like domesticated dogs and may react aggressively to negative training techniques. Luckily, they tend to be shy around humans and will most likely hide in their presence.
4. American Pit Bull Terrier
Pit Bulls have a reputation for being one of the most aggressive and powerful dog breeds in the world. Thanks to unusually high levels of the neurotransmitter L-tyrosine, Pit Bulls are quicker to anger than most dogs. Their attacks usually last for 15 minutes or longer, and it is extremely difficult to stop them once they decide to attack.
5. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are powerful dogs that are known for their strength and intelligence. They are one of the strongest dog breeds in the world and have a bite force of 328 PSI. A 2008 study revealed that Rottweilers are generally not aggressive toward their owners, other dogs, or familiar individuals. However, they are particularly aggressive toward strangers.
6. Good Pets
Although Rottweilers may pose a threat to strangers, they are loyal and gentle with their owners. Rottweilers are naturally protective and can fit in well with family life if they are kept occupied and given consistent, reward-based training.
7. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is said to have the strongest bite on record, with the ability to exert 600 pounds of pressure in its bite. They can run at speeds of 35 miles per hour and can be aggressive on command. They are also one of the smartest dog breeds on Earth and can quickly learn commands from their owners.
8. Great Dane
The Great Dane is one of the largest dog breeds in the world. They are known to be territorial, and can attack with little to no warning. However, these incidents typically occur only when the dog feels scared or threatened. In most cases, Great Danes are famously gentle and affectionate, both with humans and other pets.
9. Cane Corso
Originally bred as war dogs, Cane Corsos are often considered one of the most aggressive dog breeds in the world. Over time, however, they have become much more even-tempered. Known for their remarkable sensitivity to their owners’ emotions, they are often used as therapy or emotional support dogs. However, proper training is essential to manage their natural territorial instincts.
10. Honorable Mention: Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of dog that was originally bred for hunting and sledding in the Arctic. They were used for hunting dangerous animals, such as polar bears! These dogs are aggressive and powerful and can be very dangerous if not properly socialized.
11. Honorable Mention: Japanese Mastiff
Also known as the Tosa Inu, the Japanese Mastiff is a very large and very powerful dog that can be extremely aggressive. This breed was created by crossing the native Shikoku dog with breeds like St. Bernards, Mastiffs, Bull Terriers, and Great Danes to produce a superior fighting dog. These dogs have been banned in many countries, including the UK and Ireland!
12. Honorable Mention: Presa Canario
The Presa Canario, named after its origins in the Canary Islands, is a large and powerful breed known for its loyalty and affection toward its family. However, these dogs can become extremely intimidating and dangerous if provoked. Once used as fighting dogs until the 1940s, they are capable of causing severe injury due to their strength and aggression.
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The 8 Scariest Dog Breeds and Why They Aren’t a Good Fit for Everyone
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