Surely, dogs make great companions for us humans. They are loyal, friendly, and protective of us cause they love us as their family.
However, these lovely creatures also have a side to them that makes them extremely dangerous and most definitely life-threatening. Today, we will get you familiar with the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world.
Well, any dog can snap aggressively at any moment. But certain dog species are statistically more inclined to deal fatal attacks. In the face of their sheer size, strength, and demeanor, if provoked, all protection is nothing. Moreover, the attribute that adds to these deadly incidents directly links to poor training, lack of socialization, or the breed’s innate protective instincts.
If you are also thinking of welcoming one of the dogs mentioned in the article as a pet dog at home, then you have landed on the right page. Get to know all the facts that a pet owner should be aware of.
For instance, the Kangal grabs first place, and the American Bandog bags the second for the strongest bite according to statistics. The Kangal has a bone-crushing bite force of 734 PSI, and the American Bandog also stands out at a bite force of 730 PSI. Originally bred as powerful guardian dogs for the protection of livestock from predators.
What Triggers These Dangerous Dogs To Snap?
What makes a dog more destructive and powerful is its physical advantages. Those sharp-looking teeth to slash and bite. And hooked claws to hunt the prey are the ultimate weapons of a true predator.
Because let’s face it, can a dog weighing fewer than 10 pounds cause? Nothing more than a few scratches, even in the worst rage moments. On the contrary, dogs of larger size can cause harm to a greater extent.
Moreover, their greatest triggers are bad treatment, being teased, and feeling threatened. All these raise their hackles quite quickly, enough to get them in attack mode.
Why Do Some Dog Breeds Exhibit More Aggression and Have A Tendency To Attack?
Temperament and upbringing make some dog breeds more likely to attack. Of course! Dogs retain a certain portion of wildness in their nature even while living among humans. Typically, genes play a major role in making dog breeds fiercer. They were originally meant to be hunting dogs rather than domestic animals. Meanwhile, rescued dogs from a scenario of violence and fierce dog fights also express violence due to fear and insecurity.
Whereas not every home is good for raising pet dogs, especially aggressive breeds. Because not getting the right treatment can affect even humans, what more of a pet dog. Yes, it is true to a certain extent that a dog’s breed has a direct impact, but this factor is a highly plausible one.
25 Most Dangerous Dogs in the World
Infamous for their horrifying biting and attacking power, here is the list of 25 most dangerous dogs in the world:
| S. No. | Dog Breed | Origin | Weight Range (lbs) | Bite Force (PSI) | Traits | Reason for Danger |
| 1 | American Pit Bull Terrier | USA | 35–65 lbs | 235 PSI | Loyal, Energetic | Strong bite, history of attacks |
| 2 | Rottweiler | Germany | 80–130 lbs | 328 PSI | Confident, Protective | Aggressive without training, strong bite, guard instinct |
| 3 | German Shepherd | Germany | 49–88 lbs | 238 PSI | Intelligent, Loyal | Territorial, common police dog, can attack if provoked |
| 4 | Siberian Husky | Siberia | 35–60 lbs | 320 PSI | Independent, Energetic | Strong prey drive, needs firm leadership |
| 5 | Wolf Hybrid | Various | 50–110 lbs | 406 PSI | Unpredictable | Part-wild, very hard to domesticate |
| 6 | Alaskan Malamute | USA | 75–100 lbs | 400 PSI | Stubborn, Friendly | Powerful puller, strong prey instincts |
| 7 | Doberman Pinscher | Germany | 65–100 lbs | 245 PSI | Alert, Fearless | Naturally protective, can be aggressive if poorly trained |
| 8 | Chow Chow | China | 44–70 lbs | 220 PS | Reserved, Aloof | Very territorial, often aggressive toward strangers |
| 9 | Great Dane | Germany | 110-200 lbs | 238 PSI | Friendly, Calm | Enormous size, can harm unintentionally, aggressive when threatened |
| 10 | American Akita | USA | 70-130 lbs | 400 PSI | Brave, Loyal | Strong protective instincts, dominant breed |
| 11 | American Bulldog | USA | 60-120 lbs | 305 PSI | Strong, Brave | Powerful build, aggressive tendencies without training |
| 12 | Bullmastiff | UK | 100-130 lbs | 556 PSI | Alert, Gentle | Very strong, guarding dog, dangerous without training |
| 13 | Presa Canario | Canary Islands | 88–140 lbs | 540 PSI | Territorial, Strong-willed | Guarding instinct, infamous for fatal attacks (rare) |
| 14 | Tosa Inu | Japan | 80–135 lbs | 556 PSI | Quiet, Fearless | Fighting breed, banned in many countries |
| 15 | American XL Bully | USA | 70–130 lbs | 350 PSI | Confident, Protective | High risk if mistreated |
| 16 | Boxer | Germany | 55–70 lbs | 230 PSI | Energetic, Friendly | Strong and playful, aggressive without socialization |
| 17 | American Bandogge | USA | 85–140 lbs | 730 PSI | Intelligent, Dominant | deadly without proper control |
| 18 | Dogo Argentino | Argentina | 80–100 lbs | 500 PSI | Loyal, Athletic | Banned in many countries, strong hunting skills |
| 19 | Shar Pei | China | 40–65 lbs | 238 PSI | Loyal, Wary of Strangers | Can be aggressive if not well socialized |
| 20 | Boer Boel | South Africa | 110–200 lbs | 450 PSI | Dominant, Protective | Extreme strength, highly territorial |
| 21 | Fila Brasileiro | Brazil | 90–140 lbs | 500 PSI | Fierce, Loyal | Aggressive toward strangers, difficult to train |
| 22 | Belgian Malinois | Belgium | 44–66 lbs | 195 PSI | Energetic, Loyal | Highly energetic, dangerous if under-stimulated |
| 23 | Cane Corso | Italy | 90–110 lbs | 700 PSI | Reserved, Protective | Extremely powerful, dominant behavior |
| 24 | Saint Bernard | Switzerland | 120–180 lbs | 395 PSI | Gentle, Calm | Huge, can be dangerous if not trained |
| 25 | Caucasian Shepherds | Caucasus region | 110-220 lbs | 700 PSI | Powerful Giants | Enormous, dangerous without training |
1) American Pit Bull Terrier
American pit bulls are stout, with a muscular frame, with shoulder length between 16-17 inches. Quite high on the list 25 most dangerous dogs in the world due to their strong potential of causing harm if provoked.
Although if treated and trained properly can become a nice friend and protector. Their bite force is also good at 235 PSI, making them a deadly predator if anyone makes the mistake of messing with them.
2) Rottweiler
Pit bulls took over the role of the top-most dangerous the from rottweilers. But still, Rottweilers are a super dangerous dog breed in the world. Do you know that these dogs grow up to 25 inches tall and weigh 120 pounds? Well, now you know!
Having a large body with a nasty temperament is a deadly combo. People other than family are a threat and are treated with a violent temper and intolerance. At the same time, Rottweilers also have a mighty bite that they know how to use to great effect.
3) Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a colossal-sized breed specifically designed for hunting and sled dogs in colder regions such as the harsh Arctic.
Super strong and aggressive dogs that have the potential to become dangerous without proper training and socialization.
If you are looking to add this adorkable yet potentially hazardous dog to your family, then think again if you have small children or the elderly at home. Because Malamute shifts toward more violent tendencies if treated badly or teased.
4) American Akita
The American Akita dogs are a fiercely loyal, powerful, and enormous breed, making them one of the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world. Although originating from Japan, the US breed is larger and more imposing than its Japanese counterpart.
Typically, they are quiet and composed, but wary of strangers and dominant over other dogs. Standing upto 26-28 inches tall and weighing 100-130 pounds, displaying their imposing presence.
Confident nature with a powerful bite force of 400 PSI, which makes it a horrifying creature to mess with if angered.
5) American Bulldog
American Bulldogs are faithful, brave, and devoted to their families. Their strong build and bite force of 305 PSI make them a successful candidate for the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world.
Without experienced owners, along with consistent training and socialization, it’s impossible to keep them. Generally, they are friendly but cautious of strangers and need social engagement in the initial phase.
Taking into account the dangers and bite force factors, these dogs are considered for getting banned in some parts of America and other countries.
6) American XL Bully
The American XL Bully is a direct relative of the American Bully breed. They are heavy set in size and burly in build. People are often confused between American Pit Bull Terriers and an American XL Bully.
However, they are a hybrid version of American Pit Bull Terriers with other bulldog breeds. They can be gentle and friendly, but only on the condition of proper socialization and training.
Along with that, standing at the terrible stature of 19-23 inches and weighing 80-140 pounds, makes them a strong contender in the list of the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world.
Meanwhile, its aggressive nature caused Wales and England to enact a ban on this dangerous breed.
7) American Bandogge
The American Bandogge, also infamously known as American Bandogge Mastiff or simply Bandog. This breed is a hybrid variant, specifically a cross between a Bulldog and a Mastiff.
Their heavy build gives them an imposing vibe and full of guarding instincts. Their sheer size is enough to dominate humans and other dogs alike.
Although they can prove to be loyal and protective family companions. But only under the strict supervision of proper socialization and training.
Handling the dogs of this stature and aggressive nature is not an easy task. So, before welcoming this specific breed home, take necessary precautions.
8) Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are naturally calm and loyal, but at the release of slightest trigger, aggression takes over them. Ingrained with strength and protective instincts. Specifically bred to be guard dogs with strong instincts to protect their territory and family.
Males can grow up to 130 pounds, fully capable of causing serious injuries if provoked. Sudden aggression is a common reaction after perceiving threats. Hence, the reason for including it in the list of the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world.
9) Cane Corso
The Cane Corso was originally bred as a guard dog and hunting companion. Not only that, but this dog is still feral, retaining protective traits, making it a deadly dog for intruders.
This breed competes with the American Bandogge with a terrible bite force of 700 PSI. Besides, their large body and heavy skull make them a force to be reckoned with and a member of the list of 25 most dangerous dogs in the world.
This dog’s keen senses and powerful hunting drive reflect another aspect of the risk factor.
10) Wolf hybrid
A common perception among people is that wolves are vicious, fierce animals. But do you know that there is a variant of wolf genes? A wolf hybrid is a product of a domestic dog and a wild wolf.
Don’t lose your heart to their adorable look! These are deadly animals capable of causing severe damage in case of a threat.
Additionally, it’s a formidable task to train and control them. Hence, a real threat to have around people, especially children.
Because of their wolf genes, their wild side is alive, making them a danger to be around. Moreover, wolves’ nature leans more towards the shy side. Hence, socialising among others is out of the question.
Also, don’t confuse a wolf hybrid with a Malamute or Husky based on their fluffy looks. Malamutes and Huskies are different dog breeds.
Furthermore, do you know you need to penetrate a layer of rules of regulations to get a wolf hybrid? Of course! What did you think it was easy to raise a Wolf Hybrid?
It’s not like its name is glaringly visible in the ranking of the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world. So think wisely and then decide if this is what you want.
Dog Bite Statistics
Dogs do make excellent friends and protectors, though this does not apply to all breeds. Based on research, some dogs are perceived to be more dangerous.
Dogs and their bites are the cause of millions of incidents annually. As confirmed by the CDC, roughly 4.5 million dog bites are noted each year, and 20% of them require medical attention.
The subsequent dogs are infamous with proof for aggressive or violent tendencies.
Deadly Attacks: As mentioned in the data, breeds like Pit Bulls, Wolf Hybrids, and Rottweilers make up the number for the majority of lethal incidents.
Risk of Life: Children of a young age, below 12, are the first target and make up a large percentage of severe injuries.
Highest Reported Incident: Indiana tops the charts in the U.S. states for reported dog bite incidents.
Prominent Reasons Behind Aggression in Dogs
PSI bite force isn’t the only factor affecting the aggressiveness in dogs. Some other factors equally contribute to it. Take, for instance, in military and other field work, aggression is highly encouraged in dogs.
Because they will be able to diffuse the threat excellently with enough aggression. Along with that, honing hunting skills is ideal in this scenario. As a result, dangerous and fierce animals get featured in the category of the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world.
Irregular or insufficient training results in dogs displaying unwarranted behavior. However, some reckless individuals fan the flames of this aggression for their amusement. A highly inappropriate and foolhardy decision without realizing the consequences.
Lastly, the real problem lies in the people who adopt these dogs as pets. And their thoughtless actions harm not only their pets but also other people. Strict measures should be maintained against such people.
How to deal with a dog bite: What to do?
If you encounter a dog attack, first protect yourself by following these tips. Especially if you encounter above mentioned 25 most dangerous dogs in the world.
Safeguard Yourself:
- Wrap an object to protect yourself from bites. For illustration, a backpack, jacket, or stick.
- Direct eye contact may make things worse.
Aftercare:
- Get immediate medical attention, even for minor bites, to prevent infection.
- Notify the local animal control authorities about the attack for proper investigation.
- Record your injuries and any statements from eyewitnesses. Super important for future legal claims.
Protect Yourself and Help Others
Protection from dog attacks needs actions, personal security, and reliable pet owners.
For Individuals:
- Make a habit of taking a detour when coming across unfamiliar dogs, especially those tied up or behind fences.
- Teach children to behave around dogs and avoid teasing them.
- Remain cool and stop fidgeting if an aggressive dog is close by.
For Dog Parents:
- Reduce aggression in dogs by training and socialising them.
- Take note of local pet laws and safety precautions.
- Keep treats or something to calm down your pet.
Winding Up
As we cited in this article, any dog can demonstrate aggressive behavior. But specific breeds are statistically more inclined to deal fatal blows due to their size, force, and temperament. For instance, dogs like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, and German Shepherds top the list regarding biting incidents.
However, not every dog demonstrates the same traits. Because many factors come into play here. For example, lack of training and care. Lastly, take safety measures to keep yourself and your loved one safe and sound.
FAQ’s
Ques 1) Who are the most dangerous dogs out of the 25 most dangerous dogs in the world?
Ans) American Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American XL Bully, German Shepherd, and Wolf hybrid are some of the most dangerous dogs.
Ques 2) Why do these dogs react in such a violent way?
Ans) These dogs are not inherently aggressive, but are triggered by unkind treatment, teasing, and bullying.
Ques 3) Is it a complicated process to adopt any one of the above-mentioned dogs?
Ans) Of course! These dogs are not ordinary domesticated dogs that are easy to care for. To acquire any of the above, you need to go through many layers of legal procedure. And ensure the authorities take proper care of them.
Ques 4) What to do if a dog tries to attack you?
Ans) First and foremost, cover yourself with anything available at hand to keep the dog from attacking any sensitive area. Then get immediate medical attention to prevent rabies infection.
Ques 5) How to keep ourselves and loved ones protected from aggressive dogs?
Ans) Make sure to keep a safe distance from tied-up dogs. Never tease dogs! Additionally, in front of an already aggressive dog, don’t fidget. Keep your wits about yourself and slowly back away from them.
