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15 Dog Breeds Known for Aggression if Not Properly Trained

“Boxer dog action” by Kobie M-C Photography is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Some dog breeds can get aggressive and territorial if they’re not properly socialized or trained. But that’s different from being called a dangerous breed. Just because a dog is aggressive doesn’t mean it’s actually a threat. A lot of breeds known for aggression are smaller, which keeps them from being too dangerous. Here are 15 dog breeds that could show aggression if they’re not trained the right way.

Airedale Terrier

“Airedale Terrier” by Olga Martschitsch is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

These big terriers come from England, specifically the Aire River Valley. They were originally bred for hunting and controlling pests, which means they’ve got a pretty strong prey drive. These pups are also territorial, especially when it comes to other animals. While they can be great companions, they definitely need a lot of socialization and training to thrive.

American Bulldog

“Scott type American Bulldog” by Kroon78 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

American Bulldogs are well known for their strength and athletic build. They’re also really friendly and can be awesome companions. However, some lines tend to have stronger protective instincts than others. Because of this, early socialization is super important to help avoid any aggressive behavior later on.

Akita

“Akita Dog, Taro in The Park / 秋田犬” by Dakiny is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Akitas were originally bred in Japan for their protective instincts. They were used as guard dogs until fairly recently, and most of them have strong protective traits. Without proper training, though, this protective nature can quickly lead to aggression. For this reason, we recommend these dogs only to experienced dog owners.

Belgian Shepherd

“Belgian Shepherd Malinois grass” by wim harwig is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Belgian Shepherds excel in police work and sheepdog trials. Their strong dedication to their owners makes them incredible working dogs. They’re also highly loyal to their families and are becoming more popular as companion dogs. However, their intense guarding instincts do require proper training and socialization. Without it, they may view anyone outside their family as a threat.

Bullmastiff

“File:Dog Bullmastiff 600.jpg” by null is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Bullmastiffs are often called “gentle giants” because they’re usually very gentle with their families. However, they were bred for guarding and protection, so they’re not always gentle. If they feel someone is a threat, they will take action. That’s why it’s crucial to train and socialize them properly. You want them to easily tell the difference between a friend and a foe, and the best way to do that is by giving them plenty of experiences.

Dogo Argentino

“Dogo Argentino -Argentijnse dog 14-04-2010 17-00-50” by Paul Hermans is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Dogo Argentinos are often seen as one of the more aggressive dog breeds. They’re banned in several countries, including the UK. Originally bred as big-game hunters, they also have a strong instinct for guarding. Because of their large size, this can make them potentially aggressive and dangerous. However, they’re also incredibly loyal to their families. 

Boxer

brown and white short coated dog lying on wooden floor
Photo by Meghan Hessler on Unsplash

Boxers are often stereotyped as friendly and bubbly, and while those traits do exist to some degree, their temperament can actually vary quite a bit. Some are more protective than others, depending on the breeder you get them from. In the past, these dogs were primarily working animals, and it’s only recently that they’ve become more common as pets. 

Beauceron

“Beauceron” by Jordi Font M is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

You might not have heard of these dogs since they’re a bit rarer than other breeds on our list. However, they were originally bred for herding and guarding, so they have strong protection instincts. Proper socialization is key to ensuring these instincts are directed at the right people—not every stranger they encounter. Beaucerons also require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.

Komondor

“Komondor IMG 0329” by Kari is licensed under CC BY 2.5

The fluffy Komondor is probably the last dog you’d picture when you think of an aggressive breed. However, these dogs were originally bred for herding and protecting livestock. Their protective instincts are still very much alive today, which can make them aggressive. On top of that, they’re also pretty stubborn, which can make training a big challenge.

Chihuahua

“Chihuahua” by DanCentury is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

You’ve probably come across an angry chihuahua video on TikTok. While Chihuahuas are far from being dangerous, they can be aggressive. Many of them lack confidence due to how they were raised and their small size. They’re more prone to becoming fearful and anxious, which can lead to aggression. In fact, most dog bites on children come from smaller dogs. 

Rottweiler

“I Exposición Monográfica Club Rottweiler de España – Santa Brigida – Gran Canaria.” by El Coleccionista de Instantes is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Rottweilers are incredibly strong, large dogs that were originally bred for driving cattle. However, they also have strong protective instincts and can become aggressive without proper socialization. Fortunately, these pups are smart and loyal, making them very gentle with their families. Socializing and training them isn’t too difficult as long as it’s done right.

Doberman Pinscher

“Doberman Pinscher red standing” by John Adams from Near Minneapolis, USA is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Doberman Pinschers are famous for their sleek, muscular build. Originally bred as guard dogs, their temperament can quickly become aggressive if they’re not raised properly. It’s important to socialize and train them from a young age to prevent aggression as they grow older. Dobermans are typically very loyal to their families, so they’re usually not aggressive with their loved ones—just with strangers or perceived threats.

Chow Chow

“Chow-chow” by Томасина is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Like many Asian breeds, Chow Chows aren’t known for being the friendliest dogs. They’re loyal to their families but tend to be aloof with strangers. Proper socialization is essential to ensure they stay aloof rather than becoming aggressive. Compared to many Western breeds, they have a very exotic look, which makes them quite popular. However, they are very independent and have a more “cat-like” personality. Because of their temperament, we recommend them only to experienced dog owners.

Giant Schnauzer

“GiantSchnauzer Grass” by Paul Kounine (mischivo) is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Giant Schnauzers aren’t usually seen as aggressive, but their stubbornness and loyalty can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior. They also need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, they can become anxious, which can increase aggression. While they can make wonderful companions, it’s crucial to take proper care of them. If not, they may develop temperament issues.

Tibetan Mastiff

“Hashang – Tibetan mastiff male puppy” by mastino0100 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Like all Mastiffs, Tibetan Mastiffs are large and powerful dogs. Originally bred to guard livestock, their protective instincts can extend to their home and family when kept as companion dogs. They’re also quite stubborn, so socialization is important to help them distinguish between friends and foes. These dogs need a lot of space to roam, so they’re not ideal for apartment living.

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