Dangerous Dog Breeds

The dogs listed below are commonly thought of as the most dangerous dog breeds in the world. Although small dogs can be more aggressive and some seem to enjoy biting ankles, these larger breeds can do a lot more damage if they attack.

Rhodesian Ridgeback: This African breed was bred to guard property and fight massive animals such as lions.

Boerboel: A large South African MASTIFF breed used for guarding properties and farms. Very protective of it's family and will fight to the death to defend them. The mastiff breed who is most likely to attack an intruder rather than intimidate them. They are banned in Denmark.

Rottweiler: The normal temperament of a rottweiler is calm, good natured and eager to please. Unfortunately, aggressive behaviour in Rottweilers tend to come from irresponsible ownership, neglect and lack of training. My aunt has had several rottweilers and they have all been adorable in my opinion. They loved to plonk themselves onto your lap for cuddles like a massive cat. It's not very comfortable with a 115 lb dog on your lap! Still considered by some as one of the dangerous dog breeds.

Akita Inu: This Japanese breed is used for guarding and protection and has a strong, independent nature. He is usually intolerant of other dogs and requires strong handling. Very protective and devoted to his family. On the banned list of many insurance companies.

Pit Bull Terrier Breeds: This is an umbrella term which covers many breeds of dogs including the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, crosses between the two breeds and the American Bully. American Pit Bulls are banned in many countries throughout the world.

Doberman: Doberman's were considered one of the most dangerous dog breeds a few decades ago but thanks to careful breeding the temperament of the Doberman has improved and he is much less likely to be aggressive nowadays. Still a fantastic, loyal guard dog, the Doberman is still likely to be suspicious of strangers and should be trained properly to avoid overly aggressive behavior.

Chow Chow: I was a little surprised when the Chow Chow popped up several times during my research as I had worked at a Chow Chow breeder's kennels and never encountered any aggressiveness from any of the thirty odd chow chows there. But apparently they can be very aloof and independent and fiercely protective of their owners and property. They could raise the cost of your household insurance as they are classed as "high-risk" dogs i.e. more likely to bite someone than other breeds.

Presa Canario: A huge dominant dog bred for dog fighting. These dogs have a very strong character and need to be trained daily until the age of two to help establish a bond with their family. They are suspicious of strangers and there is a woman currently serving 15 years in jail due to her two Presa Canario's randomly attacking another lady in a San Francisco apartment corridor and tearing her to death. Banned in Australia and New Zealand.

Fila Brasileiro: A large breed which was used to hunt down boar, jaguar and even runaway slaves. Despite being devoted to its owners, it despises strangers and makes no attempt to hide that! It will instinctively attack anyone who it feels is a threat. In the show ring judges are advised not to touch it. Banned in UK as one of the four dangerous dog breeds.

Japanese Tosa: A Japanese fighting dog which is expected to fight whilst staying completely silent - no whimpering or growling allowed. Illegal to own in many countries including Malta, Norway and Denmark

Kangal Dog: These dogs are bred to ensure the safety of sheep in Turkey. When an intruder nears, the Kangal lets out a high pitched noise which signals to the sheep to draw near to it for protection. It then places itself between the sheep and the intruder and will happily take on a wolf if needs be. Unfortunately this breed is becoming more popular with illegal dog fighters due to its size and ease of training. This dog fighting brings out the more aggressive nature of the naturally protective Kangal Dog.

Sage Koochee: This Afghan herding dog was used by travellers to guard their sheep, caravans and possessions safe from thieves and wolves. They are loyal and devoted to their "pack members" but very aggressive to any strangers. This makes it difficult for them to adjust to Western life as they view anyone who is not one of their pack members as an intruder (such as the postman) and in their mind, their territory can be much larger than it is in reality. Generally intolerant of other dogs too.

Gull Terr: An aggressive breed from Pakistan who has excellent fighting and protection abilities. Will fiercely protect all of his pack members - even the family cat if they have been raised together! One of the lesser known dangerous dog breeds.

Gull Dong: Also known as the Pakistani Bull Dog, this breed has been used in the past for dog fighting, for protection and as a guard dog. They are extremely aggressive and will fight to the death to protect what they believe is their territory. Loyal to their family but very aggressive to other dogs and to strangers. They require firm, strong handling.

Bully Kutta: Also known as the Pakistani Mastiff this is a very aggressive breed who has been described by some breeders as "virtually un-trainable" and very hard to tame. They are fiercely loyal and will take on anyone or anything in order to protect it's family. Another one of the lesser known dangerous dog breeds.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog: A natural protector who is used to round up and protect sheep. Devoted to his family but distrustful of strangers who have to be introduced gradually, one at a time by a trusted family member before the dog will accept them. More recently they are being used by the Military and in prisons to deter inmates. Popular in Russia where they are shown in the Show Ring.

Dogo Argentino: Considered as some as the most aggressive out of all the dangerous dog breeds. The Dogo Argentino was bred to hunt down large game such as wild boar and puma. Will fight to the death if required. It is banned in at least 10 countries including Australia, the UK, New Zealand and Portugal.


11 dogs that could raise your insurance costs – REQUIRE PICTURE/NOTICE OF INCLUSION ON INSURANCE POLICY.

Read more: Dogs that could cause homeowners' insurance rates to rise

  • Akita
  • Alaskan Malamute
  • Chow Chow
  • Doberman Pinscher
  • German Shepherd
  • Pit Bull
  • Presa Canario
  • Rottweiler
  • Siberian Husky
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier