15 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds

While any dog has the potential to be vicious, the most dangerous dog breeds are more prone to violent outbursts. That’s not to say that every so-called dangerous dog is a threat, though. Some ‘dangerous’ dogs are not so much aggressive as they are unaware of their own strength. This article lists 27 of the top-ranked most dangerous dog breeds in the world.

There can be a number of factors that influence a dog’s behavior and even the most docile dog can pose a threat when pushed. With that being said, however, there have been plenty of studies involving the most dangerous of dog breeds. These studies prove some dogs are just more prone to attacks than others.

1. American Pitbull Terrier

This stocky, intelligent breed may have an adorable face, but don’t let that fool you. The American Pitbull Terrier is one of the most dangerous dogs in the world.

While Pitbull Terriers are reliable farm dogs and lovable companions, there’s no denying the intimidating strength of these short-haired hounds. Pit bulls Terriers have a surprisingly high temperament passing rate and usually make great pets provided their needs are met.

With a little training, there is little risk of your pitbull spontaneously lashing out or causing anyone any harm. Pitbulls are not inherently dangerous dogs, but rather are prone to more vicious attacks through irresponsible ownership, neglect, and abuse.

What makes these dogs worthy of a spot on the dangerous dog breeds list is their terrifying strength when pushed to aggression. While Pitbull Terriers are not born to fight, their behaviors and tendencies are often exploited in order to bring out their aggressive side. And what a frightening side it is. Packed with muscle and an iron-grip jaw, you don’t want to find yourself in a showdown with an agitated Pitbull Terrier.

2. Rottweiler

Some of the first police dogs were Rottweilers and for good reason. These large, bulky dogs have been appointed guardians time and time again for their solid strength, protective nature and dominating presence.

Rottweilers make the list of dangerous dogs for their brute strength and confident nature. This type of dog is quick to act and highly intelligent. They need a little training from an early age otherwise their size, unfortunately, contributes to their capability for destruction.

When socialized and trained, Rottweilers can get along pretty well with both other dogs and new people. However, males can get quite aggressive and confrontational when riled up. The breed as a whole can be prone to aggression and require patient training and a firm hand in order to stay in check.

3. Chow Chow

It’s hard to believe that these puffy balls of vermillion fluff could possibly be one of the most vicious dog breeds. The Chow Chow, however, have more in common (personality-wise) with cats than with canines. This makes for a highly temperamental and aloof character with an intimidating bite to boot.

Chow Chows can be both aggressive and stubborn. Quick to take a snap when irritated, these dogs don’t gel well with more affectionate individuals. Originally bred as guard dogs and hunters in China, the Chow Chow can be the meanest dog in the world when it wants to be. That’s not to say that you can’t manage successful ownership of these fluffy bundles of rage. It would merely require a little bit of extra work and competence.

Overall, Chow Chows are best suited to quiet lives with their beloved owner and no one else.  Unless you’re prepared for them to act out in front of company.

4. Siberian Husky

These gorgeous dogs with wolf-like features are often the most misleading pets for first-time dog owners. The piercing blue eyes and striking sleek coat make owning a Siberian Husky overwhelmingly appealing. However, you wouldn’t want to find yourself at the business end of an upset Husky.

Huskies can give dog bites almost as strong as that of a wolf and can easily break small bones and tear flesh like it’s nothing. What makes a Husky one of the more dangerous breeds of dogs, however, is their inclination towards restlessness and unpredictable frustration.

Without proper exercise and stimulation, Siberian Huskies can be driven to boredom and frustration which can be dangerous for anyone around them. Huskies are prone to vicious attacks and, like the American Pitbull and Rottweiler have been known to kill on occasion.

This is by no means saying that all huskies are murderous dogs but rather to outline the consequences of not adequately taking care of your pet. Huskies are powerful creatures and should not be underestimated. While mostly gentle in nature, Huskies have definitely earned their place on the list of vicious dog breeds.

5. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinchers are incredibly versatile, playful, and fun-loving dogs. They have also been known to make great military, and search and rescue dogs. Sadly, however, they have a bad reputation as a “bully breed.”

This is due to the fact that they can occasionally be aggressive towards other dogs. With irresponsible breeding or poor training as well as not enough energy-releasing exercise – these factors can increase aggression. If socialized properly from a young age, they generally do make for loyal pets but also seem to bond well to only one person. The males are generally more carefree than females.

Owning a Doberman Pincher can be quite special as they are rather sweet dogs despite their terrifying appearance. With sleek black fur and fierce eyes, the Doberman is a truly beautiful breed.

6. Great Dane

With their sheer elegance and size, it’s not difficult to see why Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants”. Their good nature and calm demeanor make them a really good family guard dog, generally getting on with other dogs and family members. But, with an instinct to naturally protect their humans, they are also prone to scare people off and become aggressive.

Because they are known to be territorial and protective of their family companions, Great Danes can attack with little warning. And as with the sheer size of a Great Dane, the size of the bite can have a serious impact.

Their size attracts attention, so it also seems to offer instant protection. On occasions, the gentlest of Great Danes can become hostile if their family or home is under any threat. This is what makes these dogs superb watchdogs.

7. German Shepherd

There are a few reasons as to why the beloved German Shepherd makes the dangerous dog list. Originating in Germany and bred to be the ideal sheepherder, this breed is naturally prone to showing aggression towards strangers. With a striking gold and black coat and pointed ears, the sleek look of this breed is intimidating and demanding of respect.

German Shepherds are also commonly trained as police dogs. With a keen intelligence and ability to follow commands, these dogs make the perfect sidekicks. If not properly socialized, this breed can become overly protective of its owner and family. German Shepherds are fiercely loyal and may not take well to strangers as they could be perceived as a threat.

German Shepherds rank second place in the dog bite power, after the American Pitbull. This fiercely strong chomp is another reason the herder breed is on the dangerous dog’s list.

8. Perro de Presa Canario

These bulky canines make perfect guard dogs. Dependable in the workplace with a muscular build and fearlessness, the Presa is a powerhouse to be reckoned with. Originally bred in the Canary Islands after being introduced by Spanish conquistadors, the Perro de Presa became the ideal defender of local livestock.

This breed’s Mastiff strength and lethal bite make it a strong candidate for the dangerous breeds list. The Perro de Presa is distinguishable by its overall brawn and stocky stature.

Presas are also known to assert dominance with the potential to become aggressive. For this reason, it’s important to properly socialize these dogs early and cultivate obedience.

9. St Bernard

It’s hard to imagine these gentle giants being vicious and, for the most part, they aren’t. The strength and overall imposing size of the St Bernard is what makes this breed dangerous when not properly taken care of.

Originating in the Swiss Alps, St Bernard dogs have been bred to be rescuers to stranded Alpine travelers. The wrinkled brow and great galumphing body of the St Bernard has been a welcomed sight to climbers stuck in the snow for centuries.

While not prone to aggression or viciousness, the St Bernard breed requires training from a young age as these dogs commonly underestimate their own size and strength. While not necessarily a danger, a 180-pound dog jumping to greet you might just knock you over.

This breed thrives on love and affection and is at its best when showered with attention. A properly trained St Bernard is a marvelous pet. However, this intelligent breed of dogs will use their size to their advantage if you let them get away with it.

10. Alaskan Malamute

Slightly larger and more dangerous by nature than their Siberian Husky relative, the Alaskan Malamute is a feisty breed. Malamutes are bred to endure harsh, snowy environments and are usually included in sled use.

Athletic and playful, the Alaskan Malamute requires freedom to roam and lots of exercises lest they build up frustration. A Malamute left in confinement can become incredibly destructive and will destroy property and anything else in its way.

These dogs are also prone to violence and aggression towards other dogs including those of the same breed. It can be incredibly difficult and dangerous to attempt to intervene in a dog-on-dog fight. Therefore, it is vital to introduce this breed to other pets and people from a young age and under heavy supervision.

It is also important to note that these dogs can be very possessive of their food and it’s best to keep a respectful distance when they’re eating and enforce some training to combat this trait.

For all their aggression and stubbornness, an Alaskan Malamute can make a perfectly pleasant companion when properly trained and in the right environment. 

11. Argentinean Mastiff

Much like the American Pitbull, the Argentinean Mastiff has earned a bad reputation due to the use of this breed in dog fights. This reputation has gotten the breed banned in Britain entirely.

However, the intelligent Mastiff is generally good company and makes for excellent guard dogs. Commonly good with children, this can be a very gentle breed when given a loving home and proper training. While the Mastiff doesn’t usually get along well with other dogs, they can be civil enough when given firm guidance from a young age.

The Argentinean Mastiff was originally bred for big game hunting as well as for police and military work. These dogs make loyal companions and will be very protective of their owners. Distinguishable by a sleek glossy coat of short fur and keen, intelligent eyes, this is a beautiful breed that is fairly easy to handle when proper requirements are met.

12. Akita

The Akita dog breed is a regal canine of ancient Japanese lineage with a curling bushy tail and an alert, imposing stature. In Japan, the Akita is revered as protector of the family as well as symbols of happiness and durability.

Much like the Chow Chow, Akitas are fastly loyal to their family and deeply distrusting of strangers – both the two-legged and four-legged variants. The Akita will not tolerate most animals and therefore are not recommended to house with other pets.

This dog breed can be very affectionate and playful with its trusted owners. However, they must be socialized from birth if they are going to be expected to get along well with outsiders. Both headstrong and independent, training is vital to ensuring a safe environment when living with this breed.

These are fairly large dogs with quite a lot of muscle under that bushy fur. Extreme caution should also be taken when out in public as these autarchic dogs will chase any perceived threat if not kept on a lead. 

13. Gull Dong

Grumpy by nature, the Gull Dong is the old man of dangerous dog breeds. This brooding beast is built for farm work and is at its happiest when given jobs to keep stimulated.

The Gull Dong is a refined breed of dog, originating in Pakistan. Crossing a Pure Gull Terr with a Bully Kutta created the Gull Dong. The idea was to produce a hound with the best characteristics of both breeds. Namely the size and brute strength of the Bully Kutta and the swift speed and athletic nature of the Gull Terr. This deadly combo resulted in the Gull Dong.

With small squinting eyes and a ridiculously long, lolling tongue, the Gull Dong may not appear to be particularly dangerous. However, these dogs are known to be very aggressive when not properly trained and must be reminded who’s boss is when it comes to family hierarchy.

Ever prideful and persistent, the Gull Dong can be a temperamental breed to handle. However, these dogs can also be fiercely loyal and dedicated to pleasing when given the time and care necessary.

14. Tosa Inu

This odd dog traverses life with a perpetual drooping frown and an abrasive attitude. Originally bred to be massive competitors in dog fights, the Tosa Inu can get quite aggressive.

Keeping this breed away from other dogs and small pets is recommended. While usually docile and relaxed, the Tosa can spring to action at any sudden movement that can be perceived as either prey or a threat. These dogs are not recommended to be kept around children as this aggression can be triggered with enough innocent petting and pestering.

The Tosa Inu is banned in multiple countries and in some countries insurance will cancel your homeowners’ policy if you are in possession of a dog of this breed. Ownership of this massive dominating breed requires avid experience in handling dogs and an iron fist.

Tosas are able to pull over 3000 pounds and most definitely cannot be out-muscled. Extreme caution should be taken when taking on a Tosa Inu and owners should be prepared to fight to garner respect from this imperious, unpredictable breed.

15. Cane Corso

Sharp and assertive, the imperial Cane Corso stands alone. A fearless protector and intimidating to all, this dog breed is a fierce bodyguard and loyal companion when properly trained. The Cane Corso has a lineage dating back to ancient Roman times.

These dogs boast rippling muscles and a stiff, short coat – often weighing in at 100 pounds. The cool and collected demeanor of these dogs as well as their looks make this breed intimidating at best and downright scary at worst.

The Cane Corso is both eager to please and incredibly loyal. However, owners of this breed should take care to maintain their boss status as these dogs may decide to call their own shots should their owner be unable to demand respect.

The Cane Corso is bred to work and requires strict exercise to relieve aggression and frustration. Early training and proper socializing from an early age are necessary for a breed of this size and stature. Although strict and assertive, this breed requires copious amounts of love and affection and rewards more than harsh corrections.