Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest joys. These loyal companions bring love, comfort, and security to millions of families. However, some popular dog breeds are considered controversial due to their history, strength, and association with dog bites or dog attacks.
Many were originally bred for guarding or even dog fighting, which shapes how the public views them today. In several countries, Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL) bans or restricts breeds like the American Staffordshire Terrier, despite recognition from the American Kennel Club as affectionate companions when properly trained.
Sadly, responsible dog owners often face challenges because of stereotypes or irresponsible breeding practices that fuel aggression concerns.
Health issues also play a role, as seen with French Bulldogs, who struggle with breathing problems. Understanding these factors helps potential owners make informed choices and promote safer, healthier dog ownership.
Understanding why these bans exist is crucial for anyone considering dog ownership. From public safety concerns to historical use in fighting or guarding, the reasons run deep. This guide explores nine of the most controversial breeds to avoid, helping you make informed, responsible choices.
Most Controversial Dog Breeds To Avoid
1. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is an intelligent, loyal, and highly protective breed known for its commanding presence. Originating from Italy, this dog stands 23.5–27.5 inches tall and weighs between 90–110 pounds. Their imposing appearance is their first line of defense against intruders, as per AKC.
With a muscular frame, large head, and alert expression, the Corso is both noble in bearing and intimidating in appearance is considered dangerous.
Historically, it was bred by the Romans as a guard dog and hunting companion, roles that shaped its courage and resilience. Today, these traits still make it a peerless protector for families who understand its needs.
Why They’re Controversial
Despite its loyalty, the Corso can be assertive, willful, and has a strong prey drive. Its bite force and guarding instincts contribute to its reputation as a dangerous breed if mishandled.
Responsible ownership, early training, and proper socialization are essential to ensure this powerful dog thrives as a devoted companion.
2. American Pit Bull Terrier
Feared and admired in equal measure, the American Pit Bull Terrier is one of the most debated breeds worldwide. Muscular, agile, and powerful, this dog has a long history linked to dog fighting, which has shaped its determined nature.
As per PetMD, Pit Bulls are known for their loving nature, outgoing personality, and affection toward their humans. With the right socialization and training, this can make them great family pets.
Standing out for its strength and stamina, it can easily overpower an opponent, making it both a loyal companion and a controversial choice.
Reports from agencies such as the CDC show Pit Bulls are involved in a significant number of attacks, which fuels public concern. However, misidentification often exaggerates their role in incidents, reinforcing negative stereotypes.
Why They’re Controversial
Their imposing bite force, historical ties to dogfighting, and repeated involvement in severe attacks have led to restrictions in several countries, including the UK, parts of Canada, and Australia.
With firm training and early socialization, some thrive as family dogs, but ownership demands utmost responsibility.
3. Presa Canario
The Presa Canario is a powerful molossoid breed originally developed for guarding and herding cattle. Calm in appearance yet intimidating in stature, it stands tall with a black mask, muscular frame, and deep bark that intimidates intruders.
Loyal and obedient with its family, this dog shows strong devotion to its master but often remains suspicious of strangers.
Despite its protective instincts, the Presa has a history rooted in fighting, shaping its assertive and sometimes aggressive temperament. With firm guidance, early socialization, and consistent training, it can be a dependable guardian, but careless handling may unlock its dangerous side.
Why They’re Controversial
The Presa Canario has been linked to serious attacks, ranking among breeds in severe incidents. Bred for fighting, it can become dangerously aggressive without guidance. This controversial reputation has led to bans or restrictions in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Ukraine, and Romania.
4. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a fearless guardian and gentle family companion, originally bred in England to deter poachers. A cross between Bulldogs and Mastiffs, it stands up to 27 inches tall and can weigh 100–130 pounds.
Muscular and powerful, it also has a broad head, dark eyes, and a confident stance that reflects its protective spirit. Despite their size, Bullmastiffs can be affectionate, calm, and loyal to their families when trained properly.
These dogs are alert and devoted, but their natural guarding instincts make early training and socialization essential. With coats in fawn, brindle, or red, they are striking and dependable companions for experienced owners.
As per WebMD, this dog breed is strong-willed, determined, and intelligent, so they should do well with a training regimen that begins in puppyhood.
Why They’re Controversial
Though not the most common offenders, Bullmastiffs have been linked to 3.2% of fatal dog attacks, with 14 deaths recorded. Their strong bite force and massive build mean that any aggression can result in severe injury.
5. Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a strong, hardworking sled dog with roots in the Arctic. Standing 23–25 inches tall and weighing 75–85 pounds, this breed is instantly recognizable by its thick coat, erect ears, and plumed tail curled over the back.
Built for endurance, Alaskan Malamutes have broad shoulders, heavy bone, and a dense coat designed to withstand extreme cold. Despite their power, they are affectionate, playful, and loyal companions when raised in a stable home.
These dogs are pack-oriented and require clear leadership. Without consistent training, they can become stubborn and difficult to manage. Early socialization is key to keeping their spirited nature under control.
Why They’re Controversial
Malamutes are not naturally aggressive but are strong enough to cause harm if improperly trained. Their high prey drive, dominance issues, and need for firm leadership have led to restrictions in some regions. If mishandled, their size and strength pose huge risks.
6. Akita
The Akita is a powerful, double-coated Spitz-type popular dog breed from Japan. They are admired for their courage, loyalty, and dignity. Standing 24–28 inches tall and weighing up to 130 pounds, this imposing dog has a broad head, erect ears, and a curled tail that give it a noble, alert expression.
In Japanese culture, Akitas symbolize happiness, good health, and protection, making them highly valued companions.
Despite their intimidating appearance, Akitas are devoted to their families. They are affectionate and gentle at home but reserved with strangers. Originally bred for hunting and guarding, they thrive on structure, regular training, and mental stimulation. With proper socialization, they become confident, loyal pets.
Why They’re Controversial
Akitas are naturally protective and often intolerant of other animals, which can be mistaken for aggression. Their size, strength, and independent nature demand experienced ownership. Without early socialization and firm guidance, they may develop dominance issues.
7. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
The Anatolian Shepherd Dog, also known as Anatolian Karabash, is a formidable livestock guardian originating from Turkey with a lineage dating back more than 6,000 years. Standing 27–29 inches and weighing up to 150 pounds, these dogs are muscular, weather-resistant, and highly alert.
Their dense double coat and powerful build allow them to protect flocks from predators while maintaining a calm yet commanding presence.
Confident and loyal, Anatolians form deep bonds with their families but remain reserved with strangers. They are intelligent, strong-willed, and respond best to firm yet respectful training. Early socialization helps shape them into steady guardians that can coexist with children and other pets.
Why They’re Controversial
Their territorial instincts, independence, and immense strength can lead to dominance problems if poorly managed. Without experienced handling, their protective drive may become difficult to control.
8. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a robust German breed descended from Roman mastiffs, celebrated as one of the most loyal companions for experienced owners. This popular breed stands 24–27 inches tall, with males larger than females, and carries a muscular frame with the classic black-and-rust markings.
Traditionally bred as drovers and working dogs, Rottweilers are known for their intelligence, protective instincts, and ability to bond closely with families.
Rottweilers can be affectionate, playful pets, but they are naturally wary of strangers and other animals. Their power and devotion make them dependable guardians when responsibly trained. Early guidance at a young age is crucial, since improperly trained Rottweilers may develop aggressive tendencies or unpredictable behavior.
Why They’re Controversial
Linked to serious attacks, Rottweilers raise public safety concerns in several countries. Their strength, guarding nature, and misuse as aggressive guard dogs demand responsible ownership, making them unsuitable for inexperienced owners or households with multiple other pets.
9. Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, instantly recognizable for their alert expressions and oversized personalities.
This popular breed from Mexico has a long history as a loyal companion, often offering unbreakable companionship for its owners. Their compact size makes them adaptable pets for apartments and cities, though their spirited energy demands attention.
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are confident and playful animals. Many owners note they are protective, lively, and quick to learn when properly trained.
Still, they can be prone to aggression toward strangers or even larger breeds like the American Bulldog or Cane Corso, showing little awareness of physical power differences.
Why They Are Controversial
Their tendency to bark, nip, and bite can make owning them extremely difficult for inexperienced owners. Critics argue they develop behavioral issues when spoiled, while supporters highlight their charm, intelligence, and loyalty to children and humans alike.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog breed is about far more than looks or popularity—it’s about understanding the responsibilities that come with ownership.
The breeds listed above are not “bad dogs,” but they do require experienced, dedicated owners who can provide firm leadership, early training, and consistent socialization. Without firm training, their instincts—whether guarding, hunting, or protecting—can become difficult to manage.
Breed-specific bans and regulations exist because of public safety concerns, but with proper care, many of these dogs can be loyal, loving companions. Before bringing home any dog, it’s important to research its temperament, history, and needs to ensure it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.
At the end of the day, the most “controversial” breeds are also some of the most loyal. With respect, training, and responsibility, they can thrive in the right home and form unbreakable bonds with their families.
