Dogs are a real treasure and a man’s best friend. There are various breeds of dogs. Each species has a personality, type, quality of its own that distinguishes it from the other. Just like how humans carry different characters, the various breeds are of different characteristics. Are you looking to adopt a new dog? You could consider multiple factors. There are most aggressive dog breeds and least aggressive dog breeds. Aggressiveness in dog breeds is the major factor we are discussing here.
Top 3 Aggressive Breeds
It is worth noting that the below dog breeds scored significantly less in the American Temperament Test. They test the dogs based on their aggression, panic, and extreme shyness. While there are many breeds with the lowest scores, the three breeds listed below the rank top for aggressiveness in dog breeds.
Chihuahua
Chihuahua is famous for displaying the most aggressiveness in dog breeds. Between starring in fast food commercials and being toted around in celebrity’s purses, teacup Chihuahuas have had their share of fame. But it’s not all glamour for these tiny dogs. Chihuahuas need proper training and socialization, or they can become fearful and defensive around strangers. They also need regular exercise and mental stimulation. The training rate of a Chihuahua is 9 out of 10.
Height: 6 – 9 inches
Weight: 3.3 – 6.6 pounds
Temperament: Alert expression; smooth or long coat; colors include black, tan, and
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Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinscher is also called Doberman or Dobe. This working dog was bred in Apolda, Germany, by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector, night watchman, and keeper of a dog pound, about 1890. The Doberman Pinscher is a sleek, agile, and powerful dog standing 24 to 28 inches and weighing 60 to 88 lbs. It has a short, smooth coat, black, blue, fawn, or red, with rust markings on the head, throat, chest, base of the tail, and feet.
The breed has a reputation for fearlessness, alertness, loyalty, and intelligence. Doberman Pinscher is famous for displaying high aggressiveness in dog breeds.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are usually large dogs and weigh about 85 to 130 pounds. They are short-haired dogs with a dense straight coat that is black with either rust or mahogany markings. These dogs are from Germany as well and were used for hunting and herding in earlier days. Later, they became popular as army and police force dogs. This breed is very aloof and territorial. They do not accommodate strangers very quickly and are usually good with children, but they may not be a good family dog with babies and children.
Height: 22 – 27 inches
Weight: 110 – 132 pounds
Temperament: Good-natured, devoted, obedient, feasible, steady, alert, self-assured, confident, courageous, calm.
They can be good family dogs if appropriately trained and can adapt to changes. Though these are the behavior traits of each breed, the dogs can show various personalities depending on the conditions they grow.
That being said, let’s talk about some of the least aggressive family dogs and why you should consider adopting them into your family, especially when you have kids.
Top 3 Least Aggressive Breeds
Bernese mountain dog
Bernese mountain dogs are known for their loyalty and for having a friendly and calm disposition. This large and sturdy breed is a great family companion and is lovely with kids. Bernese mountain dogs have displayed the least aggressiveness among dog breeds. Their origin is traced back to Switzerland, and they were initially bred for herding cattle. These dogs have quirky personalities and are vocal. They are compassionate and affectionate beings. Because of their size and nature, they need a home with a backyard or access to the local park where they can run and play.
Height: 23 – 28 inches
Weight: 80 – 110 pounds
Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, faithful, loyal
Brittany Dog
Known initially as Brittany Spaniels, they originate from France and are used as hunting and retrieving dogs. Now, commonly called Brittany, these dogs are very energetic, friendly and, easy to please. Brittany dogs are also known to display low to no aggressiveness in dog breeds. Their sweet-nature allows them to be a great family pet. They get very attached to their owners and quickly get along with other people and animals. Since they are very energetic, they need vigorous exercises. Since they are also dependent dogs, training them very young will help them be very submissive and shy. They tend to get anxious if not cared for properly. So, they are suitable for an attentive family who can smother them with love.
Height: 18 – 20 inches
Weight: 33 – 40 pounds,
Temperament: Intelligent, agile, happy, adaptable, attentive, quick,
Bulldog
Bulldogs come in all shapes and sizes. Though they all have smaller features with an upturned nose and unique wrinkled face. The bulldogs have various breeds like English, French, British and American bulldogs. Despite their grumpy-looking facial expressions, these dogs are amiable, courageous, playful, and patient. It’s a surprise that Bulldogs are listed under least aggressive dog breeds. They are great for homes with kids and older people,
also get along well with other dogs. They form a solid bond with children and do not
need excessive exercise.
Height: 12 – 15 inches
Weight: 40 – 55 pounds
Temperament: Docile, Willful, Friendly, Gregarious
It is imperative to consult your local veterinarian when you sense aggressive behavior in your pets. Although taking your dog to see the vet or behaviorist might seem worrying, you should never attempt to treat your dog’s aggression yourself or ignore it and hope it will go away.
If your dog’s attack is not tackled quickly and appropriately, the problem can escalate. It may result in serious injury to yourself and your family, other people or other animals, and even legal issues – and of course, you want to get help for your dog long before it goes that far! Proactiveness is a far better problem – and far easier – tackled straight away!
