Dogs protect.. in a nutshell. With power, determination and a deep-rooted loyalty to their human. But in some part of the world, that same protective instinct, strength and size has landed some into the restricted list of dangerous dog breeds. These dogs are not “bad”, but due to history, misuse or unfortunate incidents, they have become controversial figures in the canine world.
These breeds of dogs often have strong personalities and physical traits (beneficial in experienced hands), but can become dangerous when mishandled or poorly trained.
Note: Bans on certain dog breeds vary by country, state, and even city. Always check with your local law before taking home one of the supposedly dangerous dogs.
Illegal Guard Dog Breeds
As the Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) goes, you should know which dogs are considered high risk in the eyes of the law and why. If you are a dog lover, owner or just curious, read about the following dog breeds which are commonly restricted or outright illegal guard dog breeds across the globe.
1. Pit Bull
Breed Facts
Origin: United States
Group: Terrier-type
Energy Level: High
Lifespan: 12-16 years
The Pit Bull is not a single breed, but rather a category that includes American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier and some other similar mixes. They’re strong, muscular, loyal but mostly misunderstood.
Pit bulls have been restricted or banned dog breeds in many places, including parts of USA, UK, and Canada. This breed has been linked to fatal dog attacks, dog fighting and aggressive incidents, as mentioned by Britannica.
These instances have led to fear in the general masses, even though many Pit Bulls are loving family pets. Their strength and sheer force of dog bites are part of what concerns the lawmakers. It has been enforced in urban areas where there are closed neighborhoods and children around.
2. Presa Canario
Breed Facts
Origin: Canary Islands (Spain)
Group: Working Group
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 9-11 years
Known as the Canary dog, this imposing and large dog was originally bred for guarding livestock. This is believed to be a strong willed breed, with a muscular build and attentive expression. Today, it is usually on restricted lists due to it’s dominant and protective instincts.
Presa Canario is known for their large, rectangular size and territorial nature. Several high profile attacks over the years have led to increased scrutiny of these restricted breeds, mostly when owned by inexperienced handlers, as confirmed by BBC.
Countries like New Zealand and Australia have banned these breeds outright. They can be incredibly loyal and controlled with proper training. But they are not recommended for first-time dog owners.
3. American Bulldog
Breed Facts
Origin: United States
Group: Working Group
Energy Level: High
Lifespan: 10-12 years
American Bulldog is less controversial than the Pit Bull. But it has also found itself on restricted list in parts of Eastern Europe and Asia.
American Bulldogs have a strong guarding instinct and a confident demeanor and that’s why they may come off as one of the dangerous breeds. They have been banned in places like Denmark and parts of the UK due to concerns over aggressive behavior.
In the right home, they are affectionate and social, but they do need consistent and experienced training.
4. Dogo Argentino
Breed Facts
Origin: Argentina
Group: Working Dogs
Energy Level: Very High
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Bred for big game hunting, the Dogo Argentino is athletic, fearless, and incredibly strong. It was created to track and hold large animals like wild boar, and that raw power is why local authorities have added such dogs to the banned dogs list.
The Dogo is banned in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and several US states. Its hunting background and assertive behavior can be hard to manage without extensive training and socialization.
Still, many Dogo owners swear by their loving and loyal nature when raised in a stable environment.
5. Tosa Inu
Breed Facts
Origin: Japan
Group: Working Group
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 10-12 years
The Tosa Inu was bred in Japan as a fighting dog and it carries a stoic and powerful presence. Despite being calm and quiet, such breeds are heavily regulated across the world by the local governments.
The Japanese Tosa Inu is banned in the UK, Ireland, Australia, and other countries due to its fighting history. It is generally not aggressive toward humans without provocation, but its sheer strength and intimidating appearance do pose some warning signs and concerns.
In most countries where it is still legal, federal law requires dog owners to carry a license for keeping such restricted breeds and to keep them on a short leash.
6. Neapolitan Mastiff
Breed Facts
Origin: Italy
Group: Working Group
Energy Level: Low to Moderate
Lifespan: 7-9 years
Neapolitan Mastiff type dog is one of the most visually imposing dogs because of its massive body, loose skin, and serious expressions. This massive stature has intimidated many since the times of Ancient Rome. According to AKC, despite having a gentle nature, this Mastiff is restricted in several countries.
This breed restrictions are limited to some parts of USA and Singapore. These are often sweet and calm dogs, but their size and natural guarding tendencies may appear intimidating to some people.
When threatened, they don’t hesitate to act. That is why many governments classify them as high risk without keeping in view the individual temperament.
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Breed Facts
Origin: United Kingdom
Group: Terrier-type
Energy Level: High
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Often confused with larger pit bull-type breeds, the Staffordshire bull terrier is small but known for its bravery. It has a friendly heart but a controversial reputation.
Staffies are restricted in parts of Germany and Switzerland, as per PBS Pet Travel. They are often listed under dangerous dog breed, even though they have an affectionate temperament. Their appearance often works against them as they are lumped in with more aggressive breeds in breed specific laws.
However, many dog advocates argue that Staffies are some of the most loving and stable dogs around when properly raised.
Final Thoughts
Breed-specific legislation has always been controversial. Safety is important, no doubt! But it is worth noting that behavior is shaped more by upbringing than by bloodline alone. Many of these so-called dangerous breeds are incredibly loyal, trainable, and affectionate when raised in caring hands.
Still, it is important that you follow the local laws and understand the risks, which aren’t just legal but social and physical as well when reviewing following breeds. Some more dog breeds which people believe one should steer clear of include Fila Brasileiro, XL Bully, Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, Spanish Mastiff, Belgian Malinois, Black Russian Terrier, etc.
If you are drawn to a powerful dog with a protective instinct, make sure you are ready to invest in proper training, socialization, and leadership. Also, keep your liability insurance in check. Because these dogs need structure more than they need love.
And in the right home, they can be more than mere a protector. They can be family.
