15 Popular Dog Breeds Banned in Various Countries

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Since their domestication, dogs have become an integral part of human life. Many of us view them as loyal, loving family members. However, there is more to it. In some parts of the world, strict regulations govern the ownership of certain breeds. Why? A history of tragic attacks has cast a long shadow over these dogs, unfairly branding them as dangerous.

Pit Bull 

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Owning a Pit Bull is not permitted in several countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and some parts of Canada. These canines possess remarkable strength and tenacity, which may spark aggressive behavior if owners neglect proper training and socialization. Despite their reputation, many owners find them loyal and affectionate pets when raised in a caring environment.

Rottweiler

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With their imposing stature, Rottweilers often get a bad rep. Beneath their imposing exterior, these dogs harbor an intense drive to protect their loved ones. Originally bred as herding and guarding, today, they excel in roles like search and rescue and police work. Despite their capabilities, nations like Portugal, Romania, and Saudi Arabia have imposed stringent rules due to their immense size.

American Bulldog

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Descended from Old English dogs, American Bulldogs were historically valued as farm workers, guarding livestock and performing other tasks. Showcasing unwavering loyalty to their families, these dogs can be cautious around unfamiliar faces. Because of their size and strength, some regions in the US and countries like Denmark, Italy, Singapore, and Ukraine have implemented a ban on ownership.

Tosa Inu

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Bred for brutal dogfights, Tosa Inus carries a violent history. This legacy often casts a long shadow, making them prone to aggression towards fellow canines, even when nurtured in the most loving homes. Recognizing the challenges posed by this breed, countries including New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Denmark have imposed strict ownership restrictions.

Akita

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Akitas are picture-perfect companions: clean, quiet, and surprisingly low-maintenance. Moreover, their watchful eyes and innate protectiveness offer a comforting sense of security. Yet they can be aloof or aggressive towards strangers if not socialized early. Their intelligence is often matched by stubbornness, making training challenging. These traits have led to ownership restrictions in Spain and Ireland.

Wolfdog

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Some dog breeds are part wolf, like the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog and the Saarloos Wolfhound.  Wolfdogs exhibit highly unpredictable behavior, even more so than domestic dogs and wolves. The risk associated with wolfdogs has prompted numerous US states to prohibit private ownership of these animals and impose a ban on them in Finland.

Doberman Pinscher

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Though Dobermans aren’t as large as mastiffs, they are powerful enough to cause serious injury if they bite. As a result, they are banned in places like China, UAE, and Qatar, while they are restricted in Singapore, Brazil, and Bermuda, among others.  Their instincts are protective rather than aggressive. 

Boerboel

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Typically, brown, fawn, or brindle Boerboels exude confidence, often displaying aggression or dominance when perceiving a threat. They can be unpredictable around children or strangers, necessitating constant supervision. Their propensity for aggression has led to ownership restrictions in Romania, Denmark, Russia, and Ukraine.

Dogo Argentino

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Developed in Argentina during the 1920s, the Dogo Argentino descended from the extinct Cordoba Fighting Dog and a mix of breeds: the Great Dane, Dogue de Bordeaux, and Irish Wolfhound. Typically weighing just under 100 pounds, this solid white dog resembles a giant Pit Bull, and it isn’t allowed in Australia, New Zealand, and Portugal primarily because of its hunting instincts.

Presa Canario

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Towering at an imposing 60 to 66 centimeters in height and muscular, the Presa Canario is a breed exuding raw power and confidence. Although typically steady and balanced, their strength has proven deadly in tragic incidents. In response, nations like the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Ukraine, and Singapore have imposed strict ownership rules.

Neapolitan Mastiff

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A male Neapolitan Mastiff can weigh a staggering 200 lbs and wear their signature look like a badge of honor: cascading wrinkles and folds crowned by jowls.  Experts advise that there may be better choices than Neapolitan Mastiffs for kids. Singapore and Denmark have outright banned them, and importing them requires a special license in Bermuda.  

Cane Corso

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An attack from a Cane Corso is rarely without consequences, and their size often overwhelms even experienced handlers. Unsurprisingly, these powerful guardians, bred for territoriality and protection, find themselves on the banned breed lists of countries like Germany and Denmark. Early training is vital to managing their formidable guarding instincts.

Fila Brasileiro

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Descended from Mastiffs, Bulldogs, and Bloodhounds, the Fila Brasileiro is infamous for its aggressive nature, making it one of the most challenging breeds to manage. This Brazilian behemoth’s distrust of strangers runs so deep that even dog show judges warned against touching them. Ownership of a Fila is not allowed in the United Kingdom.

Dalmations

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Dalmatians generally make excellent family pets in the UK. Thanks to their playful, energetic, and often gentle spirits, they are perfect for a household with children. Yet, these attributes didn’t exempt them from restrictions in other parts of the world. In 2003, Beijing implemented a law prohibiting dogs above 35 centimeters in height. This broad definition inadvertently included many popular breeds, such as Dalmatians.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

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One of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s standout qualities is its resilience and determination. Despite its sturdy appearance, the breed exhibits an exceptionally calm and good nature with a friendly attitude. Nonetheless, countries like Germany and Switzerland still had to ban them, swayed by the breed’s historical use in dog fighting and muscular build.

Source: Highland Canine, Unbelievable Facts, Listverse, Always Pet, Pet Helpful


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