Which breeds do you need to keep an eye on?

Dog Bite Injury

Evidence suggests that certain dog breeds are more dangerous and prone to aggression than other dog breeds. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the two most dangerous and deadly dog breeds in America are Pitbulls and Rottweilers. Although these breeds are known to be more aggressive, not all dogs of these breeds are dangerous.

Pit Bull

Quick Facts:

  • From 2005 -2016, Pitbulls Contributed to 65% of American Deaths from dogs (dogbites.org)
  • Weight can range from 20- 80 lbs.
  • Bred For: Hunting, Driving Livestock

Strong and stocky, the Pit Bull backs more muscles per pound of body weight than any other dog breed.

Today’s Pit Bull is a descendant of the English bull-baiting dog. These dogs were originally trained to pin down bulls by grabbing onto their snouts and wrestling the animals until they turned on their sides. When bating large animals was banned in the 1900s, people turned to fighting dogs against each other. As the years passed, some bull-baiting dogs were crossed with other breeds, such as terriers, to produce a more athletic dog. Other Pitbulls were bred for work and companionship, creating a gentler dog known for affection and loyalty. The vast majority of Pit Bull dogs today are a result of random breeding, which has created a wide range of behavioral predispositions. It is important to be cautious around these dogs, but realize each dog is an individual and aggressive behavior develops through a complex interaction between both its environment and genetics.

Rottweiler

Quick Facts:

Depending on their personality and social environment, the massive and muscled Rottweiler can be a gentle giant or a scary beast.

Today’s Rottweilers descended from dogs that the Romans used to drive herds that fed the army as it marched through Europe. Later, Rottweilers were bred with local dogs in the town of Rottweil to create strong dogs made for driving cattle to market for butchers. Rottweilers serve many roles in our present day. They are used as police dogs, herding dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs. However, with a long history of protecting property and livestock, this breed tends to be territorial and can sometimes act out with aggression. While some Rottweilers are raised friendly, obedient, and eager to work, not all are safe. Equipped with a large head and wide jaw, don’t underestimate this dog’s power and protectiveness.

  • From 2005 -2016, Pitbulls Contributed to 11% of American Deaths from dogs (dogsbite.org)
  • Weight can range from 75- 100 lbs.
  • Bred For: Herding cattle, guarding livestock and other possessions

Other Dog Breeds To Be Cautious Of:

German Shepherd
Husky
Alaskan Malamute
Doberman Pinscher
Chow Chow
Great Dane
St. Bernard
Akita

Remember that ANY dog can bite, no matter its breed, environment, or how well-trained it may be!

Call Us
Text Us

    chat

    text