We all know that fear can impair the brain’s ability to work rationally. It can turn even a friendly wagging tail into a scary sight.
However, if you are the person who already feels nervous around pets, particularly dogs, the bad news is that certain breeds may seem a little too powerful. It is not that they are bad; you may not handle their strong instinct or energy.
If you are a first-time dog owner, your doggy experience can be problematic. However, proper training and socialization can turn the tables. According to Dogs Bite, each day, nearly 1,000 U.S. citizens require emergency care treatment for serious dog bite injuries. Annually, about 12,480 citizens are hospitalized due to dog bite injuries.
In this blog, we will talk about seven dog breeds to avoid if you are scared of dogs.
Dog Breeds to Avoid If You’re Afraid of Dogs
1. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a strong, beautiful, and highly intelligent dog originating from Germany. It is loved across the globe and stands among the list of most popular dogs. In the past, they were used for pulling meat-laden carts, but currently their role has changed entirely. Now you see them working in law enforcement roles.
Here, a question arises as to how Rotties ended up in this list. It is about their protective instincts that resulted in some tragedies, making them one of the dangerous dog breeds. Below facts also indicate that the Rottweiler dog should be avoided.
Bite force around 328 PSI
Mattiacci Law LLC points out that Rottweilers are responsible for 45 deaths from 2005 to 2017
Strong and stubborn
Keep in mind, Rottweilers are very territorial and aloof from strangers. So you have to be careful before facing this dog for the very first time. Otherwise, you will have to face consequences.
2. Pit Bull
No surprise to have Pit Bulls in this list. Although being loved by many dog lovers, these dogs have a bad history of aggression. Do you know what Pit Bulls really are? Consider it an umbrella under which various bulldogs and terriers fall.
Why you should avoid Pit Bulls? First, their tenacity and fight drive are responsible for their aggression. As they were bred for bull-baiting and then dog fighting, they are naturally inclined towards hostile behavior. Some of the hard facts that show Pit Bulls are quite risky:
Average bite force is 235 PSI
Involved in 284 fatal attacks, as mentioned by Adam S Kunter
Hold and shake bitestyle
But what really makes them the most dangerous dog breed? Pit Bulls don’t warn before attack. And once they launch an attack, it is very difficult to stop them. It is better for inexperienced owners to stay away from these aggressive dogs. Otherwise, you can be a target of their aggressive tendencies.
3. Akita
Akita is a heavy-boned Spitz-type Japanese dog breed noted for its beautiful appearance, loyalty, and courage. According to PetMD, Akitas are regarded as a national treasure/monument in Japan.
But if you feel uneasy with dogs, we recommend avoiding this breed. Reason is its strong-willed and highly independent nature. Instead of obeying your commands, they can follow their own minds. Inexperienced dog owners might find it difficult to manage.
They have a strong prey drive that can make them stray. So if they see any small creature, their prey drive instigates them to chase. This instinct can lead to unpredictable behavior that can be hard to control. You can get an idea from the facts given below why this dog can pose problems.
Bite force ranges between 300 to 400 PSI
Gerald J. Noonan reported 70 dog bite incidents and 8 deaths
Unpredictable nature
However, Akitas are not very active, but they do need a moderate level of exercise for mental and physical stimulation.
4. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is a German dog breed that was bred as a protection dog. These sleek and powerful dogs offer a perfect combination of magnificent physique and keen intelligence. It will not be wrong to say that the Doberman Pinscher is one of the best guard dogs a person can have.
Like other dogs, the Doberman Pinscher’s behavior is widely affected by various factors. Lack of proper training at a young age can instill aggressive behavior in later part of life. Therefore, a dog that is not properly trained becomes a constant threat.
Bite force of 230 PSI
Highly energetic
From 1982 to 2022, Dobermans caused 8 deaths and 12 serious injuries.
To be honest, their social circles are also a bit poor. They don’t behave well with other pets and dogs. But these remarkable dogs have saved a lot of lives during WWII.
5. Cane Corso
Cane Corso is a majestic powerhouse coming from Italy. If you look at this dog, you will feel like it has walked out of a Roman colosseum. WebMD, while describing their personality, states that they are very sharp and confident dogs. Also, add their affection and loyalty that make them perfect companions for those who deserve.
If you are scared of dogs, please don’t consider this breed. Their massive size and power act as a risk factor. It is extremely difficult for new dog owners to control them. They can cause trouble for you.
Bite strength of 700 PSI
21 fatal attacks between 1979 and 1998
High prey drive
Cane Corso is one of the dogs with high pain tolerance. How does this sound? Well, it can be dangerous. Because they don’t easily back down even if they are hurt. On a lighter note, let us tell you that these dogs are very talkative and often snuffle, howl, or make a roo-roo sound.
6. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiff is a massive dog loved due to its alert, fearless, and devoted personality. Although it is a very protective dog, but doesn’t like having visitors. These dogs are calm, but they can turn into one of the most dangerous dog breeds due to their remarkable strength. The highlight of their strength is given below:
Bite strength 556 PSI
Scott C. Gottlieb claimed that Bullmastiffs are responsible for 14 fatal attacks from 2005 to 2017
Strong muscles
Bear it in mind that, like other breeds, Bullmastiffs are not unworthy of adoption. An experienced pet owner can alter a dog’s behavior with consistent training.
PDSA states that Bullmastiffs are real softies when they are around their families. Here is some good news that these dogs prefer indoor living. Keep in mind, these dogs are prone to heat exhaustion
7. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are big and energetic dogs that were bred for endurance and strength. Even though they are sweet and playful, but are also hard-headed. You can get an idea of their strength from their past working history. Initially, people used them for hauling heavy weights over frozen land. They can be risky due to :
Bite force ranges between 400 to 500 PSI
Porter Law Group says that the Alaskan Malamute caused 15 attacks and 6 deaths
Self-reliant sled dogs
Alaskan Malamutes love to chase, and therefore, they can be unpredictable. These canines can bolt after small animals, ignoring all commands and leash control. So, if you haven’t raised dogs before, it can be hard for you to control them.
However, Mals are workaholics at heart, and once the job is done, they love to snuggle their human companions. No doubt that a well-behaved Malamute is truly a joy to own.
Conclusion
Dogs are amazing companions, but only if you have the right companion by your side. And if you are already uneasy with a dog, bringing home a powerful guard dog or a strong-willed dog is just like inviting your fears to cuddle you.
No doubt these breeds are amazing in certain ways, but only experienced pet owners can handle them. Avoiding these breeds is not a sign of weakness; instead, it is wisdom. There are many other breeds out there that can truly fit into your life.
