We all love our dogs, but knowing what you’re getting into is important before committing to owning one.
Perhaps you’ve always dreamed of owning a dog, but the last thing you want to deal with is an aggressive one.
Plenty of dog breeds fall into the category of most aggressive dog breeds.
It is suggested that they should be avoided by anyone who doesn’t want to deal with aggression issues.
Here are 20 of the most aggressive dog breeds in no particular order.
1. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a working dog breed that originated from Siberia. They are bred for their endurance and strength and were used as sled dogs in the Arctic.
Despite their friendly nature, they can be aggressive if not properly trained and socialized. The Siberian Husky is not your breed if you’re looking for a docile dog.
However, these huskies make great family pets with proper training. Another thing to remember about this breed is that they require a lot of exercise to stay happy.
2. Great Dane
The Great Dane is one of the most aggressive dog breeds. They are large, powerful dogs with a lot of energy. Great Danes require a lot of exercise and can be very destructive if they don’t get it.
Great Danes are also known for being very protective of their families and can be aggressive toward strangers. In some cases, this aggression has been directed at children.
First, let’s dispel the myth that all great Danes are sweethearts. Great Danes are notorious for being hyperactive hounds that require tons of exercise to stay calm and happy.
Great hounds were bred to hunt wild boars; they’re tough enough to chase down any threat to their family. They’re often more than willing to protect you from even a friendly stranger on your doorstep or at your local dog park!
3. Akita
Akitas are an ancient Japanese breed with a strong prey drive, meaning they’re always looking for something to chase and attack. They’re also fiercely protective of their family pack and territorial boundaries.
The Akita is a large, powerful dog breed that is loyal and protective of its family and home. This trait can make them aggressive towards strangers, considered one of the most aggressive dog breeds.
If you’re thinking of getting an Akita, socialize them from a young age and provide plenty of outlets for their energy. They will do best in a home with people who handle big dogs.
4. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are one of the most aggressive dog breeds. They were originally bred for guarding and herding, and today, they are still used for protection work.
Rotties are loyal, brave, and fearless dogs that will do whatever it takes to defend their family and property.
A Rottweiler is a good choice if you’re looking for a guard dog. But be prepared to provide plenty of training, socialization, and exercise to keep your Rottie happy and healthy.
5. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a large, powerful dog with a thick coat of fur ranging in color. Their fur colors range from black, blue, cinnamon, red, or cream.
Though they may look like cuddly teddy bears, Chow Chows are one of the most aggressive dog breeds.
They are known to be territorial and protective of their families, and they have been known to attack without provocation. The Chow Chow is a good choice if you’re looking for a loyal guard dog.
But be warned: they require firm training and socialization from an early age to prevent them from becoming aggressive.
6. Mastiff
The Mastiff is a large and ancient breed of dog. They were originally bred for guarding and fighting, and today, they are still used as working dogs in many different capacities.
Though gentle, Mastiffs can be aggressive if they feel threatened or their family is in danger.
If you’re considering adding a Mastiff to your family, be sure to do your research and be prepared to provide training.
7. Pitbull
Pitbulls have been popular for decades because of how easy it is to train them due to their high intelligence level.
According to research, they’re one of the most popular breeds owned by families due to their tolerance around kids.
Pitbulls are a popular dog breed but have a reputation for being aggressive. However, they can be loving and loyal companions with the right training and socialization.
Here are some things to remember if you’re considering a Pitbull: Pitbulls were originally bred for fighting, so they have a high prey drive. This means they may not be the best choice for families with small children or other pets.
Pitbulls are strong dogs with powerful jaws. They need to be trained not to bite, as even a playful nip can cause serious damage. Pitbulls need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
8. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and one of the most aggressive dog breeds. German shepherds were originally bred for herding and guarding, and they are still used today.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective, and fearless, making them dangerous if they’re not properly trained and socialized.
If you’re considering a German Shepherd, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder or rescue organization.
9. Boxer Mix
The Boxer mix is a cross between the Boxer and another dog breed. The resulting mix can take on the best characteristics of both parent breeds, making for an intelligent, alert, and loyal companion.
However, the Boxer mix can also inherit some of the more aggressive traits of the Boxer. A Boxer mix may exhibit a strong prey drive and territorial behavior. A Boxer mix may become aggressive toward other animals or people if not properly socialized and trained.
Being mixed with Boxer breeds grants them space on the most aggressive dog breeds list. However, it’s important to remember that dogs aren’t born with aggression; they learn through negative experiences with humans and other animals.
When your pup is feeling threatened or frightened, their adrenaline levels rise, which in turn causes them to behave aggressively.
Remember that sometimes it’s easy to confuse an assertive Boxer mix with one displaying aggression when you first meet them. Make sure to greet them safely and avoid eye contact; most will eventually accept you.
10. Dachshunds
A dachshund’s long body and short legs may make it look like a cute little sausage dog. These pups are known for being aggressive, and they have been known to bite. A dachshund might be a good choice if you’re looking for a guard dog.
But be warned, they’re not the easiest dogs to train. They can also become very attached to one person, which might be aggressive to other family members.
The Dachshund originated in Germany and was bred to hunt badgers. These dogs are stubborn, energetic, and aggressive, so training is necessary. The first thing you should do when you get your Dachshund is enroll him in puppy obedience classes.
Your vet may also recommend trainers that specialize in working with dachshunds. As they’re so small, they’re not well-suited to being left alone for long periods or being used as guard dogs.
11. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed, named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. Chihuahuas are one of the most aggressive dog breeds despite their small size. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their owners.
If you’re considering a Chihuahua, socialize them from a young age and provide plenty of toys to keep them occupied. Otherwise, they may resort to chewing your shoes or barking incessantly.
12. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is often considered one of the most aggressive dog breeds. This large, powerful breed was originally bred for protection and guard work. Their fearless nature and loyalty make them excellent guard dogs.
However, their size and strength make them formidable opponents if they are not properly trained and socialized. Though not naturally aggressive, Dobermans can become aggressive if not raised in a loving home with firm, consistent training.
13. Wolf Hybrid
A Wolf Hybrid is a cross between a domestic dog and a wolf. They’re mostly bred for their looks. It is believed these dogs make better pets because they are more loyal and protective than wolves or dogs.
However, wolf hybrids can be aggressive, especially if not socialized properly. If you are considering getting a wolf hybrid, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder.
14. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful dog breed originally bred to be a guard dog. They are fiercely loyal and protective of their family and home and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.
They are not typically aggressive towards people but can be if they feel threatened or their family is in danger. The Bullmastiff is a good choice if you’re looking for a guard dog.
Nonetheless, they’re considered one of the most aggressive dog breeds. Be prepared to provide plenty of exercise and training to keep them happy and healthy.
15. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is a large dog breed noted for its unique black or liver-spotted coat. They were mainly used as carriage dogs in their early days.
Despite its sweet face, the Dalmatian is among the most aggressive dog breeds. This is likely because they were bred as hunting dogs and were expected to be aggressive toward prey.
Their hunting instincts are still strong, so they may not be the best choice for a family pet. If you’re considering a Dalmatian, research and be prepared for an active, high-energy dog.
16. Shar-Pei
The Shar-Pei is a Chinese breed of dog known for its distinctive features, notably deep wrinkles and blue-black tongue.
The breed’s name translates to sand skin, referring to the texture of its short, rough coat. Shar Peis are loyal and protective dogs that make great guard dogs and family pets.
However, their aggressive nature requires firm training and socialization from an early age. They tend to become overprotective and territorial if not taught how to behave around other people or animals.
17. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a large and powerful dog breed originally bred in Italy for hunting big game. Today, they are still used as working dogs, but they also make great family pets.
However, their size and strength mean they must be properly trained and socialized from a young age. Otherwise, they can become aggressive and dangerous. Cane Corso is instinctive to protect their territory, including their family members.
18. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a large, white, short-coated dog with a smooth, muscular body. They were originally bred in Argentina for big-game hunting, including wild boar and puma. They are still used for hunting and working dogs on farms and ranches and are popular family pets.
While they are bred to be aggressive toward other animals, they are not naturally aggressive toward people. However, they can become aggressive toward people if not properly socialized or trained.
Suppose you are considering adding a Dogo Argentino. Research and find a reputable breeder, as Dogo Argentino is one of the most aggressive dog breeds.
19. Boxer
The Boxer is a large, muscular dog with a short coat. They are among the most popular breeds in the United States and are known for their loyalty and protectiveness.
Boxers are also known for being aggressive, and they have been known to attack other dogs and even people.
If you are considering getting a Boxer, research and provide them with training. They’re undoubtedly one of the most aggressive dog breeds.
20. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, muscular dog originally bred in Africa to hunt lions. They are among the most aggressive dog breeds and are not recommended for first-time dog owners.
Ridgebacks are strong-willed, independent, and can be very stubborn. They need firm, consistent training and socialization from a young age.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback might be the right breed for you if you’re looking for a guard dog or a hunting companion. But if you’re looking for a cuddly lapdog, you should look elsewhere.
