Top Ten (10) Most Dangerous Dog Breeds
22 reported dog bite related human fatalities in the United States in 2004. 2005 - 29 human fatalities. 2006 - 26.
In 2007, there were 33 human fatalities. 45% of the attacks occurred to adults over the age of 18, and 55%
occurred to ages below. Pit bull type dogs were responsible for 67% of fatalities, the next closest breed was the
rottweiler at 12%. But all dog breeds are potentially dangerous. In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) reported that 25 breeds of dogs were involved in 238 fatal dog bites from 1979-1998. Here it is the
compiled list of the most dangerous dog breeds:
10. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are very protective dogs and can be aggressive towards humans. They are
very active and need lots of exercise. They have very sensitive natures and an excellent
memory. This bred is famed for their intelligence, independence, and survival instincts.
Weight: 40-70 lbs.
Origin: Yugoslavia
9. Boxer
Unlike their name suggest, these dogs are not typically aggressive by nature. They
are bright, energetic and playful breed. Boxers have been known to be
"headstrong", which makes it a bit difficult to train them but with positive
reinforcement techniques, Boxers often respond much better.
Weight: 50-70 lbs.
Origin: Germany
8. Presa Canario
Originally bred to guard and fight with cattle, an attack by this dog has been
described as hopeless for the victim. They are a guardian breed with manstopping ability, incredible power and a complete lack of fear.
Weight: 80-115 lbs.
Origin: Canary Islands
7. Chow Chow
These dogs can be aggressive if poorly bred. The Chow Chow may appear to be
independent and aloof for much of the day but needs constant reinforcement.
Weight: 50-70 lbs.
Origin: China
6. Doberman Pinschers
Dobermans are great guard dogs for their alertness, intelligence and loyalty. They
can be agressive dogs when provoked. The typical pet Doberman attacks only if it
believes that it, its property, or its family are in danger.
Weight: 65-90 lbs.
Origin: Germany
5. Alaskan Malamutes
These dogs are very energetic and active. If they are bored, they can become
destructive. That's why this dog needs lots of exercise to be happy.
Weight: 75-100 lbs.
Origin: Nordic
4. Huskies
Very energetic and intelligent dogs. Not considered a good guard dog because
of its personality characteristics and gentle temperament. A 2000 study of dog
bites resulting in human fatalities in the U.S. found fifteen such fatalities (6% of
the total) were caused by "husky-type" dogs between 1979 and 1997.
Weight: 44-66 lbs.
Origin: Alaska
3. German Shepherds
These dogs are intelligent and very alert. They are highly used by local authorities
such as the police K-9 unit. German shepherds are known to be fearless and confident
dogs.
Weight: 70-100 lbs.
Origin: Germany
2. Rottweilers
Rottweilers are known to be very aggressive dogs because of their keen territorial instincts.
That's why they make great guard dogs.
Weight: 100-130 lbs.
Origin: Germany
1. Pit Bulls
A pit bull is a fearless dog that will take on any opponent. They will lock their jaws onto
the prey until it's dead. Pit bulls have a reputation of mauling people to death and they
are highly sought for dog fighting.
Weight: 55-65 lbs.
Origin: United States
For each US dog bite fatality there are about 670 hospitalizations and 16,000 emergency room visits, 21,000
other medical visits (office and clinic), and 187,000 non-medically treated bites
- 46.1% (nearly half) of dog bite injuries were triaged in emergency rooms as "urgent-emergent"
- Dog bites are the second highest reason why children seek emergency treatment
That's about 60,000 bites per fatality and that information is dated. It is reported today that a US citizen is bitten
by a dog every 75 seconds.