15 Dog Breeds People Love to Hate

“My Shar-Pei puppy” by Martin_Heigan is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Dogs are often considered man’s best friend, but some breeds have unfortunately garnered a reputation that leads to them being misunderstood or unfairly disliked. These negative perceptions come from myths, media portrayals, or isolated incidents, but many of these breeds have qualities that make them wonderful pets. Here are 15 dog breeds that people love to hate!

Pit Bull Terrier

“Chyna the Pit Bull Terrier mix! – Paws n’ Time Rescue (Lancaster, PA)” by Rob Swatski is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

This breed is often associated with aggression due to its history of dog fighting and media portrayals of violent incidents. This has led to widespread fear and breed-specific legislation in many areas. Pit Bulls are actually loyal, intelligent, and affectionate towards humans. They can become great pets and therapy dogs with good training and socialization. 

Rottweiler

a black and brown dog sitting on a path
Photo by Eduard Constantin Zoita on Unsplash

Due to their size and protective nature, rottweilers have a reputation for being aggressive and intimidating. They are often depicted as guard dogs in the media, which can contribute to this perception. However, rottweilers are incredibly loyal and protective of their families. They are intelligent and can be trained to be gentle and loving pets. This breed’s protective instincts can be a positive trait with proper training, as they are often very affectionate and playful with their loved ones.

Doberman Pinscher

a black and brown dog with a tennis ball in its mouth
Photo by Ryan Hyde on Unsplash

Often seen as fierce guard dogs, Dobermans are sometimes perceived as aggressive and dangerous. Their sleek, muscular appearance and reputation as police and military dogs can intimidate some people. Dobermans are highly intelligent, loyal, and trainable. They love their families and are gentle and affectionate.

German Shepherd

a dog with a red bandanna around its neck
Photo by Judy Beth Morris on Unsplash

German Shepherds are sometimes viewed as aggressive, mainly because they are commonly used in police and military work. Their protective nature and strong presence can be misunderstood as hostility. However, German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent, versatile, and loyal. They are great at obedience training and make amazing family pets. 

Chihuahua

white chihuahua lying on brown textile
Photo by chris robert on Unsplash

Chihuahuas are often seen as yappy and overly aggressive for their size. Their small height and sometimes nervous temperament can lead to excessive barking and defensive behavior. Chihuahuas are very loyal and affectionate with their owners. Their small size makes them a great choice for people living in apartments or with limited space.

Chow Chow

white chow chow puppy sitting on snow field
Photo by Alexandru Boicu on Unsplash

Chow Chows can appear aloof and many people think they are aggressive or unfriendly. Their unique appearance and reserved character can lead to misunderstandings about their temperament. Chow Chows are independent and loyal dogs. They can be reserved around strangers but are affectionate with their families.

Dachshund

brown and white long coat medium dog on gray sand during daytime
Photo by Kojirou Sasaki on Unsplash

Dachshunds are sometimes perceived as stubborn and difficult to train. Their strong-willed nature and hunting background can lead to behavior that some people find challenging. Nevertheless, Dachshunds are intelligent, playful, and affectionate. They are great family pets and are known for their loyalty and courage. 

Jack Russell Terrier

white and brown long coated dog sitting on car seat
Photo by Egor Gordeev on Unsplash

Jack Russell Terriers are often seen as hyperactive and difficult to control. Their high energy levels and need for stimulation can be overwhelming for some owners. However, Jack Russells are energetic, intelligent, and trainable. They love active households where they can get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. 

American Bulldog

“American Bulldog 600” by Photo by sannse is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

American Bulldogs are often confused with Pit Bulls and share the same negative stereotypes. Their muscular build and strong appearance can lead to misconceptions about their temperament. These pups are loyal, gentle pups that are good with children. They are also protective of their families but are not inherently aggressive.

Bullmastiff

“Dog, Bullmastiff – כלב, בולמסטיף” by Eran Finkle is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Bullmastiffs are large and imposing dogs, which can lead to perceptions of aggression. Their size and protective instincts can be intimidating to those unfamiliar with the breed. However, Bullmastiffs are also known for their tolerance and kindness towards children. With proper training and socialization, they can become protective and loving pets.

Dalmatian

a dalmatian dog is sitting on a bed
Photo by Ashley Diane Worsham on Unsplash

People often think of Dalmatians as hyperactive and difficult-to-manage dogs. Their high energy levels and need for regular exercise can be challenging for some owners. Dalmatians are energetic, intelligent, and friendly. They do need to exercise often and receive mental stimulation, but they can be wonderful family pets.

Akita

a brown and white dog laying on top of a lush green field
Photo by Nils Huenerfuerst on Unsplash

Akitas are perceived as aggressive and aloof, especially around people they don’t know. Their strong protective instincts can also be misunderstood as hostility. However, Akitas are loyal and affectionate with their families. They are naturally protective and need proper training and socialization. With the right care, they are devoted and loving pups. 

Cane Corso

a large black dog standing on top of a grass covered field
Photo by Sophie Hollies on Unsplash

Cane Corsos are large and powerful, leading to fears of aggression and danger in some people. Plus, their strong appearance and protective nature can intimidate those unfamiliar with the breed. Cane Corsos are protective, loyal, intelligent, and trainable, making them excellent guard dogs. Their intimidating appearance hides a gentle and loving character.

Great Dane

a dog with its tongue out
Photo by Oliver Bichard on Unsplash

Great Danes’ enormous size can be intimidating, and they are sometimes seen as unmanageable. Their size and strength can lead to misconceptions about their temperament. Great Danes are gentle giants, known for their friendly and patient nature. They are loyal and affectionate with their families. Despite their size, they are usually calm and easygoing.

Shar Pei

a dog is laying down on a wooden bench
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash

Shar Peis are often seen as aloof and difficult to train because of their independent personality. Their distinctive appearance and reserved demeanor also leads to misunderstandings about their temperament. However, Shar Peis are loyal, calm, and affectionate with their families. They are naturally reserved but not aggressive.

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