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15 Dog Breeds That Look Harmless But Are Surprisingly Dangerous

Benny’ a miniature dachshund.” by pete. #hwcp is licensed under CC BY 2.0

While most dogs are friendly, some breeds can be more dangerous than they appear, especially when not properly trained or socialized. These breeds might look harmless on the surface, but they have the potential to be surprisingly aggressive or territorial. Here’s a look at 15 dog breeds that may catch you off guard with their hidden ferocity.

Chow Chow

Close-up of the Head of a Dog
Photo by Vladimir Srajber on Pexels

With its fluffy coat and teddy bear-like appearance, the Chow Chow might seem like the perfect cuddle buddy. However, this ancient Chinese breed is known for being highly territorial and can be aggressive if not properly trained and socialized from an early age. Their strong guarding instincts can make them unpredictable, especially around strangers.

Jack Russell Terrier

white and brown short coated dog on brown field during daytime
Photo by Valeria Dubych on Unsplash

These small, energetic dogs are often mistaken for harmless lapdogs due to their size and playful personality. However, Jack Russell Terriers were originally bred for hunting foxes and other small animals, making them fiercely independent and sometimes aggressive. Their high energy levels and prey drive can lead to destructive behavior and even aggression if not properly managed.

Cocker Spaniel

“cocker spaniel pup ahoy” by sweetron1982 is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Cocker Spaniels are often seen as gentle and affectionate pets, especially with their soft, floppy ears and expressive eyes. However, they can be surprisingly aggressive, particularly if they suffer from “Cocker Rage Syndrome,” a genetic condition that can cause sudden and intense aggression. Proper training and handling are essential to ensure these dogs remain friendly and manageable.

Dachshund

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

Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, are frequently seen as cute and comical. But don’t be fooled by their appearance—they were bred for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals, and they can be very protective and aggressive, especially towards strangers or other animals.

Dalmatian

A Pet Portrait of a Dalmatian
Photo by Matthew on Pexels

Known for their striking spots and association with firehouses, Dalmatians are often perceived as friendly and sociable. However, they have a strong protective instinct and can be aggressive if they feel threatened or are not properly socialized. Their history as carriage dogs, guarding horses and passengers, has left them with a predisposition for territorial behavior.

Shar Pei

“Shar-Pei Puppy (14 weeks old)” by Martin_Heigan is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The Shar Pei’s wrinkled skin and unique appearance make it look like a gentle giant, but this breed was originally bred for fighting and guarding in ancient China. Shar Peis can be very territorial and aloof with strangers, leading to aggressive behavior if they are not properly trained and socialized from an early age.

Akita

“bison rottweiler cross akita” by bob tower is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Akitas are known for their loyalty and strong bonds with their owners but can be dangerously protective. Originally bred as hunting and guard dogs in Japan, Akitas are powerful and can be aggressive towards strangers and other animals. Their strong protective instincts require an experienced owner who can establish firm leadership.

Shiba Inu

“Shiba inu” by Yuya Tamai is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Shiba Inu is often seen as a cute and fluffy dog, but this Japanese breed can be surprisingly aggressive and independent. Shibas were originally used for hunting small game and have a strong prey drive, along with a stubborn and bold personality. Without good training, they can be difficult to manage and may exhibit aggressive behavior.

Lhasa Apso

“Lhasa Apso” by asra_valorshon is licensed under CC BY 2.0

This small dog with a long, flowing coat may seem like the perfect lapdog, but Lhasa Apsos were bred to guard Tibetan monasteries. They are naturally wary of people they don’t know and can be assertive and territorial. Despite their size, they are not afraid to challenge much larger dogs or people if they feel their territory is being threatened.

American Bulldog

brown and white short coated dog
Photo by Magdaline John on Unsplash

The American Bulldog looks like a typical family dog, often seen as affectionate and loyal. However, they were originally bred for hunting and guarding, and they can be very protective and territorial. Without proper training and socialization, American Bulldogs can become aggressive, especially towards strangers or other animals.

Bullmastiff

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

The Bullmastiff’s massive size and gentle expression can be misleading. While they are known to be affectionate with their families, they were bred to guard estates and can be highly protective. Bullmastiffs are known for their natural guarding instincts and can be aggressive if they perceive a threat to their home or family.

Beagle

“Camry the beagle” by laRuth is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Beagles are often seen as friendly and easygoing dogs, but their history as hunting dogs gives them a strong prey drive. While they are usually great with families, Beagles can become aggressive if they are bored, not properly exercised, or if their hunting instincts are triggered. They need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to remain well-behaved.

Saint Bernard

“Saint Bernard Dog Sitting” by 3D Photographers is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

Saint Bernards are famous for their rescue work in the Swiss Alps and are often seen as gentle giants. However, their large size and strength can make them dangerous if they are not properly trained. While generally good-natured, they can be very protective of their families, and their sheer size means that any aggressive behavior can be serious.

Border Collie

“Mom’s New Border Collie Puppy, Lee” by kate.gardiner is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Border Collies are one of the most intelligent dogs and are known for their work as herding dogs. However, their intelligence and high energy levels can make them difficult for inexperienced owners to handle. Border Collies can become frustrated if not properly exercised and mentally stimulated, leading to aggressive or destructive behavior.

Alaskan Malamute

a dog standing on a snowy hill
Photo by Till Daling on Unsplash

Alaskan Malamutes, with their wolf-like appearance and friendly demeanor, are often seen as gentle sled dogs. However, they are strong-willed and have a high prey drive, which can cause aggressive behavior, especially towards smaller animals. These pups need strong leadership and consistent training to ensure they remain well-behaved.

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