15 Dog Breeds That Are More Likely to Bite You

dimid_86/Getty

Dogs are often called man’s best friend, but even the friendliest of pooches can sometimes get a little nippy. Even though all dogs have the potential to bite, some breeds are more prone to snapping than others. So, before petting every dog you see, look at this list of the 15 dog breeds most likely to clamp on your arm or leg.

Pit Bull-Type Breeds

Mikhail Dmitriev/Getty

Pit bulls and pit bull-type dogs, like American Staffordshire Terriers and Pit Bulls, account for most dog attack fatalities in the US. While these pups are loving family companions, their powerful jaws and prey-hunting instincts make them potentially dangerous.

Chihuahua

Andrey Kanyshev/Getty

Don’t let their tiny stature fool you — Chihuahuas may be small, but they’re mighty when it comes to biting. In fact, these pocket-sized pups are the second most probable breed to bite humans. Their feisty attitude and tendency to be protective of their owners can lead to snapping and nipping, so approach cautiously.

Rottweiler

Ideas_Studio/Getty

These stern-looking guard dogs were bred to herd cattle and pull carts, so it’s no surprise they pack a powerful punch. Rottweilers can use their teeth on you with a bite force of over 328 PSI! While loyal and affectionate with their families, they can be wary of strangers and may lash out if they feel threatened.

German Shepherd

Studia72/Getty

With their keen intelligence and protective nature, German Shepherds make excellent police and military dogs. But that same guarding instinct can also be a hazard, especially if the dog isn’t properly trained. It is crucial to provide this breed with proper socialization and training so that it can learn to interact appropriately.

Chow Chow

Andrii Shablovskyi/Getty

Fluffy and aloof, Chow Chows are popular because of their independent streak and territorial behavior. Interestingly, they are one of the fiercest breeds of dogs towards humans and animals. Their bear-like appearance may be cute, but their ready-to-bite jaws are no laughing matter.

Doberman Pinscher

eAlisa/Getty

Dobermans have a reputation for being fierce guard dogs, and for good reason. With a bite force of over 300 PSI, you must carefully approach one. While Dobies are intelligent and loyal, their protective instincts make them wary of strangers and quick to defend their territory.

Cocker Spaniel

Sue Thatcher/Getty

You might be surprised to see this fluffy, friendly breed on the list, but Cocker Spaniels are also nibblers. Their tendency to bite may even lead to a condition known as “Cocker rage syndrome,” which arises from poor breeding practices, which make some of them more reactive and aggressive.

Akita

Eduard_Mikrykov/Getty

Akitas are large, powerful dogs with a reputation for being aloof and belligerent, especially toward strangers. Their strong guarding instinct and territorial nature can make them quickly gnaw if they feel their family or home is threatened. They may also bite out of fear or anxiety.

Pomeranian

romaset/Getty

Don’t let their cute, fluffy appearance fool you – Pomeranians are known for being feisty and combative, especially if a stranger crosses their path. Their small size might give you the notion that their bites are less threatening, but don’t be fooled—they can still inflict painful wounds.

Shar-Pei

Sue Thatcher/Getty

Shar-Peis are independent, stubborn dogs with a strong guarding instinct to protect their families and territory. They may perceive strangers or unfamiliar situations as threats and react aggressively to defend what they see as theirs. This breed may also bite to protect valuable resources like food, toys, or resting spots.

Dachshund

chrisuk1/Getty

Thanks to their hunting heritage, Dachshunds have a strong prey drive. This instinct can sometimes manifest as hostile behavior, especially if they perceive smaller animals or children as prey. Dachshunds can be suspicious of strangers and might bite if they feel threatened by their homes or loved ones.

Siberian Husky

Maria Moroz/Getty

While Huskies are often seen as friendly, energetic pups, they can also be excessively assertive, especially towards other animals. Their prey drive and dominance tendency can lead to biting incidents, particularly if they need to be correctly socialized and trained.

Bullmastiff

volofin/Getty

These massive guard dogs were bred to be intimidating and protective. Despite their imposing size, Bullmastiffs can be fearful and anxious. When unfamiliar situations or people threaten them, they may bite defensively.

Saint Bernard

UlrikeStein/Getty

While Saint Bernards are known for their gentle, family-friendly nature, their large size and strength can make their bites particularly dangerous. The reasons for this biting behavior can include fear, resource guarding, and pain or discomfort. 

Boxer

Sue Thatcher/Getty

Boxers are energetic, playful dogs, but their solid jaws and protective nature can turn them into a biting threat. Without proper training and socialization, Boxers can develop dominance issues. They might bite to assert control or challenge their owners or other dogs.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply