Ten Breeds of Dogs Most Likely to Bite People (with Statistics on Dog Bite)

Although it is not common to be bitten by a dog every day, these incidents do occur and people are concerned about the dangers of certain breeds. Before we get into the list of breeds most likely to bite humans, let’s first say that most dogs are not aggressive. Also, fatal bites are very rare. Remember that aggression in dogs is more often a result of how they are trained, treated, or scared than their personality. This information can be helpful, and it could help you stay safe in the event of a situation where a dog makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

1. Rottweiler

Rottweilers, large, strong dogs that were originally bred as cattle dogs, are large and sturdy. Rottweilers are known for their strong jaws and protective instincts, making them the most likely dog to bite humans. Other studies have shown that Rottweilers are not aggressive, but are more likely to bite. Rottweilers can be socialized well if they are properly trained.

2. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas can be some of the most aggressive dog breeds. Because of their small size, chihuahuas are less aggressive than larger breeds. What do you think they did to get the name “anklebiter”?

3. Cocker Spaniel

A Cocker Spaniel is the last breed that one would expect to be a biter. Pit Bulls are the most aggressive breed and are known for biting people. However, many people assume they are the only dog that is aggressive and will bite. They overlook other breeds because they are popular working and family dogs. Cocker Spaniels are cute but can get upset easily and will bite or attack if they feel threatened.

4. Tosa Inu

The Tosa Inu, a large breed, has been banned in Malaysia, New Zealand, and the U.K. Although most dogs are friendly, some people fear these large and powerful dogs because their bites can be extremely painful.

5. German Shepherd

It’s not surprising that the German Shepherd was included in this list. These dogs are powerful and can protect their families from criminals. These dogs were created to guard and bite others to protect their family or themselves. These dogs are susceptible to being misunderstood by strangers on the streets as a threat. Proper training is essential.

6. Terriers

Although terriers have been used in the past to hunt rodents and small vermin, they are also known for their stubborn temperament. They are naturally inclined to bite the prey and that instinct can sometimes take over with humans. These dogs are most dangerous to children because they have short fuses. Antagonizing them could cause them to panic.

7. Pit Bulls (and other similar breeds)

Let’s start by saying there is a lot of misinformation about Put Bulls, and how likely they are bite to bite. They have a negative image that is largely due to the way they are portrayed by the media. Numerous controlled studies have proven that Pit Bulls are not dangerous dogs. The statistics are not accurate because there are many other breeds that resemble the Pit Bull and they all end up being lumped together in one category. Even if a Pit Bull-type dog bit a person, it would likely be reported as an attack by a Pit Bull. Pit Bull-type Pit Bulls are not involved in attacks.

8. Bullmastiff

Another large, muscular dog with a tendency to be naughty and obnoxious. This breed is known for its vicious bites. Their enormous weight can cause more harm.

9. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies can be loving and energetic, but they are unpredictable in their temperament. Sometimes they even bite people, rather than maul them. Many of their attacks against children are worse. Children should be supervised when interacting with any breed of dog, not just Siberian Huskies.

10. Jack Russell

What’s the deal with small dogs and their aggressiveness? Another breed that was developed to hunt vermin and rodents is the Jack Russell. Although their genes tell them to hunt small prey, they can also attack larger animals and people. These dogs are very energetic. They are more likely than not to be trained properly and could bite people.

Additional Statistics about Dog Bites

• 81% of dog bites do not cause any injury or are minor enough to require medical attention.
• People who are anxious, nervous, or afraid of dogs are 22% more likely than others to be bitten by them.
• Dogs who have not been spayed or neutered are most likely to be the victims of dog bites.
• Each year, approximately 14,000 Americans are hospitalized because of dog bites.
• There are approximately 7 million dog bites recorded out of the 90 million dogs that live in the United States.

Conclusion

Dogs are not to be afraid just because they are a certain breed. There are many reasons a dog might attack you. Most of these factors have nothing to do with the breed. You should not panic if you feel in danger.