When people hear the words “aggressive dog,” there are probably a few breeds that come to mind. But is this a fair characterization? Is there such a thing as a dangerous dog breed? Does a dog’s breed define its personality? Does it depend on how the dog is raised? Or is it both genetics and environment?
Mean Dogs or Mean People?
It may be a question of nature vs. nurture. While breeding and genetics (nature) do influence a dog’s behavior, how a dog is raised and socialized (nurture) play a critical role in shaping its temperament.
Since 1977, the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) has compiled a cumulative list of breeds and the proportion of dogs from each breed that passed or failed a temperament test. The test measures different aspects of temperament, including stability, shyness, aggressiveness and friendliness, as well as self-preservation and protectiveness towards their handler. It should be noted that this is not a scientific study and dog owners volunteer to have their dog’s temperament tested.
Interestingly, some breeds that are commonly labeled as “dangerous” dog breeds like American pit bull terriers, Doberman pinschers and German shepherds actually pass these temperament tests at higher rates than some popular small breeds. In fact, several small breeds rank among those with the lowest pass rates.
This suggests we may be blaming the wrong party. Instead of focusing on breeds, we should consider the dog’s upbringing. Dogs that have been properly trained and socialized (nurtured) tend to have well-balanced temperaments, while those dogs who have been abused or trained to be aggressive can develop fear-based or hostile behaviors. A lack of proper socialization can result in anxiety and defensive aggression. On the other hand, dogs raised in loving, stable environments are often gentle, affectionate companions, regardless of breed.
Aggressive Dog Breeds or Aggressive Jobs?
There are certainly traits of some breeds which make them more suited for specific tasks than other breeds. There are reasons why breeds like German shepherds and Rottweilers are so frequently selected to be guard dogs and police K9 units: they are likely to have intelligence, physical strength, intimidating stature and a high prey drive. Similarly, assistance dogs are typically breeds that are eager to please, calm, focused and responsive to praise.
Still, not all dogs — even from these highly regarded breeds — are cut out for working roles. Some dogs that enter police dog training or service dog training do not pass. Each dog has its own personality, behavior, strengths and weaknesses which contribute to their ability to be a working dog — proper training alone can’t get them there. Some puppies from the same litter who were raised in the same environment may be accepted into guard dog training programs whereas others may not. The same applies to whether a dog of a certain breed will be aggressive — breed alone does not determine a dog’s behavior — every dog is different. What matters more is the combination of genetics, environment, training and individual temperament. That’s what we love about them; each dog has their own unique personality.
Most Dangerous Dogs Are Really Threatened Dogs
Any dog can be aggressive if placed in a stressful or violent situation, and any dog, no matter what breed, age or size, or however well-trained, can bite. Even a gentle family pet can bite if pushed beyond their comfort zone. This can happen in your own home — often triggered by fear, pain or surprise. Many dogs, especially those who weren’t socialized well, may bite if they feel threatened or fearful of their safety. Remember a dog bite can occur for many different reasons; for example, sneaking up on a sleeping dog or interacting with a dog who’s in pain or doesn’t feel well.
A dog’s territorial or protective instincts can also be activated by the behavior of other animals (including humans). Always ask before letting your dog approach another dog in case the other pet is fearful or protective. Similarly, always ask before petting a strange dog, then let the dog approach and sniff you first. Children should always be closely supervised around dogs, as their sudden movements or rough handling can easily make a dog uncomfortable. Children who invade the dog’s personal space, especially when the dog is eating, can be at risk of a dog bite.
Unexpected threats are why it is important to use a leash when in public. Something in your surroundings could activate your dog’s protective nature, while the sudden appearance of smaller animals comes with a high risk of sparking the prey drive — properly trained dogs may still give in to the chase. With a leash, you can prevent an attack. You can’t control the environment, other dogs, people, wildlife or other things that could put your dog in a threatening situation, but you can control your dog.
Signs of Aggression in Dogs
Dogs communicate their feelings through body language. A dog’s body language and facial expressions tell us a lot about their frame of mind. A lowered body, with the hind end up and the head closer to the floor, combined with dilated pupils and panting, means that your dog is likely stressed about something specific. If they are also growling or snarling, they may have moved beyond stressed and into “attack mode,” meaning they are scared enough to be aggressive.
A dog that is standing at its full height (as if they are trying to look like they are bigger than they are) with straight front legs, leaning forward as if straining on an invisible leash, is projecting dominance and possible aggression. Flat ears positioned either forward or back on the head, squinted eyes or an unbroken, challenging stare accompanied by bared teeth means that it is time to exercise caution and give the dog some space — the dog feels threatened.
Does Size Matter When We Think About Dangerous Dog Breeds?
If all breeds have dogs that are capable of being aggressive, are our perceptions of dangerous breeds due to their size and the damage they could cause? The truth is, dogs of all breeds can display a wide range of behaviors. Strength and size affect risk but not temperament. Every dog deserves to be seen as an individual.
All Dogs Can Bite
Every dog, regardless of breed, needs adequate training and socialization and an owner who can raise them in a caring, supportive environment. Owners have a strong influence, whatever a dog was originally bred to do. When nature and nurture work together, the result is a well-adjusted dog — and a safer, happier home for everyone.
