Dog bites can happen with any breed. But most dog lovers know that every incident shouldn’t be blamed on the dog alone. More often than not, there is poor management and training involved and the dogs are acting in the only way they know how.
Dog aggression is a serious problem that dog trainers are called for every day. As professionals, they know all too well that the breed doesn’t always play a role. That’s why breed-specific legislation is so frowned upon. It bans certain dog breeds based on inaccurate statistics and doesn’t actually do anything to prevent dog bites from occurring at all! It just euthanizes a lot of innocent pets and makes many more homeless. But breed-specific legislation is everywhere – from insurance companies refusing to cover owners with certain dog breeds, to forcing breeds out of entire cities.
These 12 dog breeds are the most discriminated against, even though deep down inside they’re just affectionate, innocent pups that haven’t done anything to anybody. We know they deserve to be treated better, so let’s be their voice!
#1 – American Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier probably has the worst reputation of any dog breed. This is due solely to their bloody past and the criminals that still participate in illegal dog fighting today. But despite their perceived aggression toward other dogs, Pit Bulls were bred to be affectionate and social towards people. In fact, more and more people find that their Pit Bulls love to interact with other animals of any species. They are sweet, athletic dogs that enjoy being a part of the family – not vicious monsters out looking for their next kill.
#2 – American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier has an almost identical history to the American Pit Bull Terrier, as they were once the same breed. However, when registered with the American Kennel Club in 1936, the AKC did not want the breed named after the pits they were used to fight in, their name was changed. Now though, they have decades of independent history and are a breed of their own. The dogs are very sweet and affectionate and not evil or dangerous.
#3 – Rottweiler
The Rottweiler has been long used as a police and military protection dog, but that doesn’t mean the breed is a man-killer. In fact, most Rottweilers are very loving family members unless specifically trained to protect. Rottweilers are very loyal companions and have been used as guide dogs and search and rescue dogs as well – which requires a gentle, loving temperament.
#4 – German Shepherd Dog
It often surprises people when they find out German Shepherds are a breed that’s banned often. But it’s true, many insurance companies will not cover owners of German Shepherd Dogs. Despite their current use in the police and military fields, these dogs are dedicated, loving companions. They serve as guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs. German Shepherds are one of the most versatile working breeds around and they need solid temperaments to do this work. Most people know them as sweet, hard-working goofballs and not vicious animals.
#5 – Presa Canario
The Presa Canario doesn’t bode well, but the breed is actually much more sensitive than most people realize. The breed originates from the Canary Islands outside of Spain and they were originally used to protect cattle against wild dogs. Like the Pit Bull, they were later used for dog fighting and have gotten a bad reputation for being aggressive. While Presas are not a breed for novice owners, they are not dangerous dogs in themselves.
#6 – Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a Chinese breed easily recognized by its fluffy coat. Research shows they are one of the first primitive breeds to evolve from the wolf. Kept as companion dogs, Chow Chows are known for being protective of their owners and property but are not overly-aggressive dogs. In fact, unnecessary aggression is heavily frowned upon and should not be tolerated. They bond strongly with their families and when trained and socialized properly, they are not a danger at all.
#7 – Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is a German protection dog used heavily in police and military work. Although they are more often kept as family companions today, they are still deeply loyal and protective of their families. That said, they are not dangerous dogs. They are very intelligent and gentle dogs, especially now that most have been bred to be more docile for a family lifestyle. They make excellent companions for active homes.
#8 – Akita
The Akita is a large Japanese breed originally used for hunting boar, deer and bear. While they are courageous canines, they are not aggressive towards people. Deeply loyal and affectionate to their owners, they may be wary of strangers but will not bite unless provoked. They are aloof and docile with people they don’t know and are not outwardly aggressive.
#9 – Mastiff
The Mastiff is a giant breed that might look frightening, but is really known for being a gentle giant. In fact, the American Kennel Club describes the Mastiff as “a combination of grandeur and good nature as well as courage and docility.” While they are deeply loyal and protective of their owners and property, they are sensitive dogs that are rarely aggressive.
#10 – Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, or Italian Mastiff, is a large dog in the Mastiff family. Although originating from military dogs, the breed has long been living as a family companion. They are protective of their owners and property, but not outwardly aggressive and are actually quite sensitive towards people. They are not recommended for the novice owner, but make excellent companions for those willing to put forth the proper training and socialization.
#11 – Great Dane
Most people know the Great Dane as a goofy, gentle giant. Unfortunately, they are still blacklisted by many insurance companies and apartment complexes. Although they are large dogs, they are very affectionate and fun-loving. They make excellent family companions and are even known for being gentle around children. The Great Dane is not a dangerous dog – unless you’re worried about the dangers of table decorations being knocked down by happy, wagging tails!
#12 – Alaskan Malamute
We’re really not sure why the Alaskan Malamute is a dog that’s banned so often, but the fact of the matter is that the breed is not welcome in many places. Originally bred for pulling heavy carts and sleds over long distances, they have been bred to work with people for many years. The breed is not known for being aggressive and has no history of hunting or fighting. Perhaps it’s wolflike appearance is what makes them look intimidating. Whatever the reason, Malamutes, like the other breeds on this list, deserve to be accepted everywhere.
