It is estimated that every 75 seconds somebody in the US is bitten by a dog. Fortunately only one in about 60,000 is fatal but over 41% still need emergency treatment. 55% of people treated are under 18 and although 25 different breeds of dog are responsible for fatalities, 67% are due to Pitt Bulls and 12% to Rottweiler. Here is a list of the top 10 most dangerous dog breeds to be wary of:
10: Dalmatian
Origin: Croatia
Weight: 40-70lbs
Traits: Intelligence and memory
Noted for its black or liver spotted coat, the Dalmatian was generally used as a carriage dog but is now a popular family pet and often entered into dog shows. The Dalmatian has a strong sense of survival and so can become aggressive.
9. Boxer
Origin: Germany
Weight: 50-70lbs
Traits: Square muzzle and strong jaws
Although first bred in Germany it origin was from the Old English Bulldog. Known for its short skull and powerful bite, the Boxer has been America’s seventh most popular dog for the last three years.
8. Presa Canario
Origin: Spain
Weight: 80-115lbs
Traits: Square powerful head.
Originally bred to herd livestock, the Presa ha s cat like paws and has a rear that stands taller than its shoulders.
7. Chow Chow
Origin: China
Weight: 50-70lbs
Traits: Distant and independent.
Although seemingly independent they need a lot of attention. This breed is known for having a double coat, thickest at the neck giving the impression that it has a mane. In Chinese it is known as the ‘Puffy Lion Dog”.
6. Doberman Pinschers
Origin: Germany
Weight: 65-90lbs
Traits: Intelligence and loyalty.
This breed makes an alert and loyal companion but will attack if it senses the family in danger. Although they can be kept outdoors, they are better suited to being kept indoors.
5. Alaskan Malamutes
Origin: Alaska
Weight: 75-100lbs
Traits: Easily bored.
This breed needs a lot of exercise and if they get bored can become disobedient. Known for their strength and endurance they were and are used for hauling freight.
4. Huskies
Origin: Northern Regions
Weight: 44-66lbs
Traits: Energy and intelligence.
Excellent sled dogs but not as strong as the Malamutes, these are used more for sled racing than hauling large loads.
3. German Shepherds
Origin: Germany
Weight: 70-100lbs
Traits: Smart and vigilant.
Originally bred to guard sheep herds because of their intelligence are now used by the police and military.
2. Rottweiler
Origin: Germany
Weight: 100-130lbs
Traits: Aggressive.
Originally bred to herd livestock and haul meat carts, the Rottweiler is now more commonly used as guard dogs or as police dogs.
1. Pit Bulls
Origin: America
Weight: 55-65lbs
Traits: Strength and athleticism.
Although it was originally bred for its eagerness and strength, it soon became the main dog in illegal dog fighting in the US. Although they are all referred to as Pit Bulls, there are in fact three distinct types; the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.