When dogs were first introduced to human civilization, they were used for hunting, guarding, or herding livestock. Some dog breeds, like Pit bulls that often make the news nowadays, were even bred specifically for dog fighting, which was a popular form of entertainment back in the 1830s. These unethical practices and misuse of dog breeds, bad breeding practices, and the inherent defensiveness and independent traits of dogs, which they still carry as their personality, have become reasons for bad behaviour in pets.
In modern times, the roles and services of these canines have changed exponentially. Nowadays, dog owners seek comfort and companionship in their fur babies. They adopt dogs as family members, not just to protect their kids. The factors that go into adoption have transformed. Humans are looking for sweet, docile, playful furry friends that are not only well-behaved but also photogenic and Instagram-worthy. Investing their energy and time in following meaningless trends in a superficial society.
But amidst all this, some furry angels in disguise that aren’t dangerous, but loyal, are natural guardians and protectors, often get misunderstood as violent or aggressive by most people and dog owners. These innocent fluff balls usually bite or become destructive because of their history of abandonment, ignorance, or poor treatment by bad owners.
Most Misunderstood Dog Breeds: Common Misconceptions Disclosed
The biggest misconception these dog breeds encounter is due to their daunting looks. But, hey, why are you judging a heart of gold with something so shallow and superficial? The Chow Chow is already offended, so you better watch out.
1. Chow Chow
This puffy lion-dog with a blue tongue was originally bred to be a protector, it has fought wars. The Chow Chow safeguarded China and was a beloved pet owned by the emperors of the Tang dynasty.
Chow Chows often get a bad rap because of their independent and reserved personalities. Unlike overly affectionate breeds, they tend to keep their emotions in check and carry themselves with a calm, almost cat-like dignity.
While they’re incredibly loyal to their families, they can be wary of strangers, making early and consistent socialization essential to help them feel comfortable and confident in new situations.
Now, it might look a bit aggressive, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a good and calm guardian. They are highly loyal and affectionate towards their owners.
If the chows are trained from puppyhood and affectionately cared for, they can prove to be great pets.
2. German Shepherd
If it were said about any other dogs, it might have been acceptable, but the people who are questioning or doubting the gold standard of K-9 units are highly mistaken. German Shepherds are the most recognizable and versatile dog breed out there, and we are having a hard time accepting this wonder of the dog world as an aggressive or bad family dog.
Although German Shepherds seem like a rough dog, they are the most misunderstood dog breeds that are tough in the face of threats and danger. But, transforms into an affectionate, love-seeking puppy the moment the threat is gone.
Powerful, poised, and endlessly trainable, the German Shepherd is the one to watch. According to Pet MD, it is the third most intelligent dog breed in the world and is the first pick for high-pressure and high-risk situations. The shepherd is built to rule the canine world, it has everything from speed to strength.
It is a clever and smart pup that is easily the best choice as a pet. This shepherd was originally bred for guarding a herd. Hence, it is a protector, not a destroyer. If trained properly and worked well, this breed can be a great companion and a wonderful security barrier for your home.
3. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are sturdy and muscular Roman war dogs. Commonly seen as aggressive as the pit bulls, but they are nonviolent. They are also used as service dogs, in search and rescue units when disaster strikes, and have even served in war zones delivering letters with their stealth and determination.
Rottweilers also make good police dogs. Rottweilers are not known for their aggression, but rather make some people wary because of their intimidating presence.
If trained well and adequately socialized from a young age, rottweilers can be calm, affectionate, and pleasing. They can prove to be loyal and loving pets.
4. Doberman Pinscher
The stealthy and sleek Doberman is feared by many because of its formidable presence. They are ranked among the top five most intelligent dog breeds in the world and are a top pick for K-9 units and military operations. They are extremely agile and focused, and do well in high-security roles.
Dobies are listed among the seven most misunderstood dogs because they are not only extremely active but also tend to get bored when not worked properly.
AKC says they need constant exercise and socialization, and proper training from an early age to become good guard and family dogs. Those who are protective and not aggressive.
5. Dalmatian
The dalmatian was even exploited in the movie 101 Dalmatians by the evil Cruella de Vil, but then, after the movie became a hit, many breeders used bad breeding practices to fulfill the surging demand for dalmatian puppies. Which caused this dog breed severe harm.
Naturally, a highly energetic dog breed, which is a task to handle on its own, was first adopted and then abandoned at shelters in massive numbers, as per Britannica.
The New York Times reported on this issue, warning people not to adopt a dalmatian on a whim. Amidst all this chaos, amateur breeders and so-called puppy mills flooded the market when the 1961 cartoon version was re-released in 1985 and 1991, and after the 1996 movie remake.
The whole message that the movie gave was received in the wrong sense, and people cared less about learning more about the species before adopting pups. Parents were in total panic to acquire these pups. They were even gifted as Christmas presents. But the adorable dalmatian seen in the movie, in reality, tended to snap and bite.
Soon enough, shelters saw a surge of abandoned dalmatians with health issues like deafness and urinary tract infections, which was the result of indiscriminate and irresponsible breeding. Even today, the dalmations are perceived to show aggression and are mistaken as a bully, like the pit bulls.
But the truth is this dog belongs to Croatia and its historical region of Dalmatia. Its ancestors were some breeds of pointers and a spotted Great Dane. Hence, with its unique black and brown spots and excellent stamina and musculature, it deserves a chance to be seen for what it truly is, which is an incredibly loving and loyal dog for families.
6. Boxer
A Boxer is a packet full of energy. This is another dog breed that is mistaken for being aggressive because of its rowdy and active nature. A boxer is a playful and sociable breed. They love to interact with humans; they are extremely intelligent and can perceive your temperament and take punishment badly. Hence, it is advised to use reward-based training methods to improve your boxer’s behaviour.
According to VCA hospitals, Boxers first originated in the late 19th century in Germany. It was developed by cross-breeding an English bulldog with the now extinct bullenbeisser for hunting and guarding purposes. Then it was repurposed for war zones, where boxers delivered messages and first aid supplies.
Boxers are among the most misunderstood breeds because of their strong build and active nature, but in truth, boxers are devoted, funny, and great with families.
7. Presa Canario
The Presa Canario is a beautiful dog with strong muscles and a broad body. It is often mistaken for an American pit bull terrier or the cane corso, but it is a distinct mastiff breed that hails from the Canary Islands of Spain.
This adorable and majestic pup faces backlash due to negative misconceptions and a bad reputation, like the pit bulls. Because of the mistreatment by dog owners. The Presa Canario might not be a good fit for families with young children, as its large size and build can cause accidental injuries to kids.
But otherwise, if this highly intelligent and trainable dog is trained properly and socialized well, this unique dog breed can prove to be a great addition to your family.
Conclusion
We often tend to forget the injustices that several dog breeds had to go through, more prominently bad breeding practices and the provision of a less stable environment. Non-assertive and ineffective training, providing little to no exercise to breeds that are instinctively protective guardians and herding dogs.
Abandonment due to physical appearance and breed temperament by bad owners. Late introduction to the right training and late socialization with family members. All of this and more sum up as the reason these equally valuable dog breeds gain a bad reputation.
Dogs like the German Shepherd and American Pit Bull Terriers serve the country as police dogs and service dogs. While other breeds like Rottweilers, Border Collies, and boxers also contribute their time in the military and war zones, helping in safeguarding the country and saving lives. Hence, these dogs must be given accolades rather than abandonment, affection, and companionship, rather than blatant ignorance.
It is recommended to become responsible and active owners who protect and train these animals with patience and persistence. Avoid vicious tactics for teaching your canine buddies some discipline, and adopt these pooches from a responsible, licensed breeder who doesn’t have a bad rap for overbreeding many dogs in bad conditions.
