Bringing home a new dog can feel like adding a cheerful roommate who always wants snacks and belly rubs. But for first-time dog owners, choosing the right breed is serious business. Some dogs look fluffy and sweet but have a strong-willed nature that can surprise even the most patient novice owner.
Wikipedia revealed that every year, over 4.5 million people in the U.S. experience a dog bite. This is a reminder that some powerful dogs, no matter how popular, aren’t a good match for inexperienced owners. Certain breeds were originally bred to protect livestock or guard homes, and their protective instincts can lead to aggressive behavior without proper guidance.
This blog highlights the most aggressive dog breeds not suitable for first-time owners. You’ll learn why these dogs need experienced handlers, intensive training, and proper socialization.
Most Aggressive Dog Breeds Not Suitable For First-Time Owners
1. Siberian Husky
Chukchi people of Siberia originally bred huskies to help them not only in hunting but also in pulling sleds, as mentioned by Purina. You can recognize it with its thick coat of fur, erect triangular ears, and sparkling eyes.
Their body is truly their true shelter. With a double coat, they can survive extreme cold weather. Moreover, their almond-shaped eyes protect them from snow and sunlight reflecting off the snow. Further, they can wrap their long, bushy tail around their face.
While mentioning their nature, they are very friendly and social dogs. Generally, they get along well with other dogs and people. They are good family members, but not good guards.
Moreover, these high-energy dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation; therefore not recommended for novice dog owners. They have a high prey drive and are well-known as escape artists.
2. Dalmatian
Dalmatian is a hunting dog breed also known as a fire dog due to their historical association with fire brigades. As they have an affinity with horses, these dogs used to run alongside carriages to clear the path and keep horses calm during fire chaos.
Moreover, Dalmatians have a white coat that is marked with dark-colored spots. The American Kennel Club states that its coat is one of the most distinctive coats in the animal world.
Truly, this is a high-energy dog that excels in dog sports. They are best suited for active families, so first-time dog owners must stay away. Moreover, they can be stubborn, so early training and socialization and socialization is also required.
3. Chow Chow
Chow Chow is a Spitz-type all-purpose dog of ancient China. Chow Chow has a muscular body and deep chest; therefore truly looks like a royal dog. Further, it is non non-sporting breed also known for its lion-like appearance. Interestingly, it has a blue black tongue, which also adds to its appeal.
Britannica reveals that their genetics are close to those of wolves. But remember, they are not physically strong; however, they are strong-willed and stubborn. Further, they are also not very energetic, but they need exercise to stay active. These dogs, in fact, love walking and wandering around the fence.
Because they possess territorial tendencies, they are prone to aggression towards other animals. So these dogs require training to be well-behaved. They are not an ideal breed for new dog owners.
4. Cane Corso
Cane Corso is an Italian mastiff dog that was usually kept as a guard dog or a companion dog. Moreover, they have descended from Roman war dogs. WebMD mentions that although they are new in the United States but their popularity is on the rise.
It is a medium to large breed with a muscular, stocky physique and a large head. Moreover, they have short, stiff coats in different colors, and they may be brindled. Moreover, its unique ability is a combination of a naturally protective instinct, high intelligence, and versatility.
Therefore dog’s temperament reflects its use as a guardian and warrior. They love to be in charge of everything and are suspicious of new people. Their confidence and independent streak make them difficult for a first-time owner. These dogs must be trained and socialized at an early age.
5. Akita
Akita is a large breed native to Japan, primarily bred as a hunting dog. This double-coated dog is most popular dog breeds in Japan. It is designated as a national monument and is often linked to good health in Japan. Akita Club of America mentions that their statues are often gifted after the birth of babies.
Akita has an imposing stature with a muscular body that is slightly longer than tall. Their small sparkling eyes and erect ears give a very dignified appearance. Moreover, their tail is large enough to curl over their body. No doubt, their presence is enough to deter intruders.
They show unwavering loyalty towards their owner, moreover sweet and affectionate towards small children. These excellent companion will follow you, and their whole life revolves around you. However, they don’t like strangers and are an aggressive breed towards new people.
6. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are a large German working dog with a broad head, short fur, and wide eyes. In Germany, they are called Rottweiler Metzgerhund, meaning “Rottweil butchers’ dogs”. Indeed, their name tells all about them.
Rottweilers are muscular, devoted, and courageous dogs descended from Roman drover dogs. Males can weigh between 110 pounds to 130 pounds, and females weigh between 77 to 110 pounds.
These dogs go well with others, but males can have aggressive tendencies. Moreover, they can inflict severe damage, so not favorable for new owners.
However, they are very loyal and possess a protective nature. So they tend to be good guard dogs. If not properly socialized, they can be overprotective.
7. Alaskan Malamute
When encountering with Alaskan Malamute for the first time, one is struck by its impressive size and its facial markings similar to a wolf. However, this is a domestic dog with a strong build.
Moreover, it has a broad head, erect ears plumblike tail. Further, its coat is thick and available in black and white or gray and white colors.
Originally bred for sled pulling, hunting seals, and polar bears, these dogs boast great strength and energy. Therefore, they are good performers in dog sports. Moreover, they are highly intelligent, so not recommended for first-time owners. They can be stubborn, and it can be challenging to train.
They also need plenty of exercise for physical and mental stimulation else they can be destructive.
8. Weimaraner
Weimaner is a German “Silver Ghost” of medium to large size bred to hunt big game animals. This is a very popular breed in Germany and is known for its distinctive and striking silver-grey coat. Although they have turned into perfect family friends, they are still seen on hunting missions.
They have a hunting background; therefore, they are very energetic and intelligent. They can get bored and show destructive behaviour if they don’t get enough physical and mental activity. Novice owners should be aware, they need consistent training and exercise. Moreover, they are prone to separation anxiety.
They also possess a strong prey drive, and if not trained or controlled, they can chase or even kill anything resembling prey.
9. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dog, or cattle breed, is an Australian herding breed developed for droving cattle. It is a medium-sized breed that comes in 2 colors. Therefore, they are also known as Blue Heeler or Red Heeler as per coat color.
It is a high-energy dog, not a couch potato. They are super fast and want to be active and working all the time. It is necessary that their energies be directed, else the consequences will be worse.
These dogs are devoted to their owners but attached to individuals, not to others. Hillspet says Aussie can show aggressive behavior towards other dogs and may show dominance towards kids.
10. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd Dog is a big working breed from Germany that is renowned for its exceptional intellect and everlasting devotion.
Moreover, it is a highly clever and trainable dog whose special qualities are frequently put to use. It frequently works in law enforcement, such as bomb detection and forensics.
They are unsuitable for first-time pet owners. These extremely active dogs require much training and exercise to be smart and happy. Regular activity protects them from health risks, particularly hip dysplasia.
Conclusion
Bringing home a dog is like bringing home a furry bundle of joy. But sometimes, a furry bundle of chaos! The breeds we discussed are beautiful, smart, and loyal. However, they also need experienced owners who can handle their big personalities. First-time owners might find themselves over their heads, chasing escape artists or trying to out-stubborn a dog that thinks it’s the boss. So, choose wisely
