Most dogs who have loving owners aren’t likely to bite at all, but some breeds are more protective than others, and other breeds can feel very easily threatened! While we love all dogs, we thought it would be interesting to break down the ten dog breeds are most likely to bite humans.
10. Russell Terrier
Also called a Jack Russell Terrier, these dogs are known for being friendly, lively, and inquisitive. Even though they are welcoming to strangers, they are very protective, will alert you, and are likely to react to any potential threat. They were originally bred to hunt rodents and vermin. Therefore, without proper training, they will potentially bite humans.
9. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are working dogs that can find ways to get into trouble when bored. Their temperament can be wildly unpredictable. Not only are they known to bite people, but sometimes, these large dogs will maul them. Many of their attacks are on small children. With Siberian Huskies, interactions with others should always be supervised.
8. Bullmastiff
Weighing up to 130 pounds and standing up to 27 inches tall, the Bullmastiff is muscular and strong. They’re generally loving with family but can be unpredictable with strangers. They can instantly turn from well-behaved and friendly to growling and biting the next. Due to their size and weight, their bites can cause some major damage.
7. Pit Bulls and Bull-and-Terrier type dogs
Illegal dog fighting decades ago damaged the reputation of the pit bull, which became seen as aggressive by nature. The media continued to misrepresent the nature of pit bulls, even though controlled studies have shown the opposite. Much of the blame goes to owners who want the type of dog that will scare people, and raise the dog accordingly. So, statistically, here we are.
6. Terriers
Terriers were historically raised to hunt small vermin and rodents. As such, they have notoriously feisty temperaments. They have a primal instinct to bite their prey. Unfortunately, that instinct sometimes takes over and leads to Terriers biting. These dogs have short fuses, and, unfortunately, children have the greatest tendency to antagonize them and set them off.
5. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are strong, smart, and powerful. Humans have made great use of their natural guarding instincts. Military and police use them for chasing and taking down dangerous criminals. German Shepherds must be properly trained. Their instincts can make them a danger to any stranger they perceive as a threat. Their powerful jaws can do significant damage.
4. Tosa
Tosa, or Tosa Inu, is the largest of all Japanese breeds, weighing up to 200 pounds and standing up to a minimum of 23.5 inches. Tosas are affectionate with their family but aloof with strangers. Tosas are guarded toward other dogs and will react aggressively to intruders. These dogs have been banned in the UK, New Zealand, and Malaysia.
3. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are generally happy, gentle, and smart dogs. They might be one of the last you would think of as biters. After all, they’re good with other dogs and young children. However, they were bred as hunting dogs. They can get upset easily. If they feel threatened, they won’t hesitate to bite or attack.
2. Chihuahua
Don’t be fooled by size. These little dogs can be tiny terrors. They are one of the most aggressive dog breeds. There’s a reason dogs like these are called “ankle biters.” People often overlook Chihuahua bites, given their small size does less damage compared to larger breeds. But their bites can cause significant pain, swelling, and infection
Read More: The 10 Worst Dogs for Kids
1. Rottweiler
Bred as cattle dogs, Rottweilers stand up to 27 inches tall and weigh up to 135 pounds. These dogs are lovey-dovey and loyal to family but are highly protective. They require supervision around young children and other dogs. Studies have shown that while they’re the most likely to bite, they’re not necessarily the most aggressive. With proper training, they’re well-behaved.
Read More: 10 Dog Breeds Most People Should Avoid
