Dog Breeds You Should Avoid Bringing Into Your Home At All Costs

Chihuahua

• Weight: 6lbs (3kg)
• Height: 5" (13cm)
• Api: Chihuahua
• Bred For: Companionship
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 12 - 20 years
• Temperament: Devoted, Lively, Alert, Quick, Courageous

Alaskan Malamute

These dogs are notorious for being difficult to train because they're hardwired to be pack leaders and not followers. They're known to attack smaller animals and children to show dominance and they need socialization with other dogs and humans too.

• Weight: 65 - 100lbs (29 - 45kg)
• Height: 23 - 25" (58 - 64cm)
• Api: Alaskan Malamute
• Bred For: Hauling heavy freight, Sled pulling
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 12 - 15 years
• Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Devoted, Loyal, Dignified, Playful

Rottweiler

Rottweilers were bred for their strength. They were used for pulling carts and herding livestock. They're loyal animals but have a tendency to react violently towards strangers. They have strong personalities and need strict training in order to control them.

• Weight: 75 - 110lbs (34 - 50kg)
• Height: 22 - 27" (56 - 69cm)
• Api: Rottweiler
• Bred For: Cattle drover, guardian, draft
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 8 - 10 years
• Temperament: Steady, Good-natured, Fearless, Devoted, Alert, Obedient, Confident, Self-assured, Calm, Courageous

Bullmastiff

• Weight: 100 - 130lbs (45 - 59kg)
• Height: 24 - 27" (61 - 69cm)
• Api: Bullmastiff
• Bred For: Estate guardian
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 8 - 12 years
• Temperament: Docile, Reliable, Devoted, Alert, Loyal, Reserved, Loving, Protective, Powerful, Calm, Courageous

Saint Bernard

• Weight: 130 - 180lbs (59 - 82kg)
• Height: 25.5 - 27.5" (65 - 70cm)
• Api: Saint Bernard
• Bred For: Draft, search, rescue
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 7 - 10 years
• Temperament: Friendly, Lively, Gentle, Watchful, Calm

Weimaraner

• Weight: 55 - 90lbs (25 - 41kg)
• Height: 23 - 27" (58 - 69cm)
• Api: Weimaraner
• Bred For: Large game trailing and versatile gundog
• Breed Group: Sporting
• Life Span: 12 - 15 years
• Temperament: Steady, Aloof, Stubborn, Energetic, Alert, Intelligent, Powerful, Fast

Australian Shepherd

• Weight: 35 - 65lbs (16 - 29kg)
• Height: 18 - 23" (46 - 58cm)
• Api: Australian Shepherd
• Country Code: AU
• Bred For: Sheep herding
• Breed Group: Herding
• Life Span: 12 - 16 years
• Temperament: Good-natured, Affectionate, Intelligent, Active, Protective

Siberian Husky

• Weight: 35 - 60lbs (16 - 27kg)
• Height: 20 - 23.5" (51 - 60cm)
• Api: Siberian Husky
• Bred For: Sled pulling
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 12 years
• Temperament: Outgoing, Friendly, Alert, Gentle, Intelligent

Affenpinscher

• Weight: 6 - 13lbs (3 - 6kg)
• Height: 9 - 11.5" (23 - 29cm)
• Api: Affenpinscher
• Bred For: Small rodent hunting, lapdog
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Stubborn, Curious, Playful, Adventurous, Active, Fun-loving
• Origin: Germany, France

Chow Chow

• Weight: 40 - 70lbs (18 - 32kg)
• Height: 17 - 20" (43 - 51cm)
• Api: Chow Chow
• Bred For: Guardian, cart pulling, hunting
• Breed Group: Non-Sporting
• Life Span: 12 - 15 years
• Temperament: Aloof, Loyal, Independent, Quiet

Afghan Hound

• Weight: 50 - 60lbs (23 - 27kg)
• Height: 25 - 27" (64 - 69cm)
• Api: Afghan Hound
• Country Code: AG
• Bred For: Coursing and hunting
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 10 - 13 years
• Temperament: Aloof, Clownish, Dignified, Independent, Happy
• Origin: Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan

English Toy Spaniel

• Weight: 8 - 14lbs (4 - 6kg)
• Height: 10" (25cm)
• Api: English Toy Spaniel
• Bred For: Companion of kings
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, Reserved, Playful, Gentle, Happy, Loving

Greyhound

• Weight: 50 - 70lbs (23 - 32kg)
• Height: 27 - 30" (69 - 76cm)
• Api: Greyhound
• Bred For: Coursing hares
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 10 - 13 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, Athletic, Gentle, Intelligent, Quiet, Even Tempered

French Bulldog

• Weight: 28lbs (13kg)
• Height: 11 - 12" (28 - 30cm)
• Api: French Bulldog
• Bred For: Lapdog
• Breed Group: Non-Sporting
• Life Span: 9 - 11 years
• Temperament: Playful, Affectionate, Keen, Sociable, Lively, Alert, Easygoing, Patient, Athletic, Bright

Japanese Chin

These tiny dogs are adorable and great companions. But they're very demanding of their master's attention and affection and don't want to share them. If they're too pampered they feel they're the boss but if they feel neglected they become jealous.

• Weight: 4 - 9lbs (2 - 4kg)
• Height: 8 - 11" (20 - 28cm)
• Api: Japanese Chin
• Bred For: Lapdog
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 12 - 14 years
• Temperament: Alert, Loyal, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Cat-like

Shih Tzu

They are the least recommended owning if you have small children in the family. They get frightened and over excited easily, which in some cases, can result in young kids getting bitten. This is especially the case if there's rough play.

• Weight: 9 - 16lbs (4 - 7kg)
• Height: 8 - 11" (20 - 28cm)
• Api: Shih Tzu
• Bred For: Lapdog
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 10 - 18 years
• Temperament: Clever, Spunky, Outgoing, Friendly, Affectionate, Lively, Alert, Loyal, Independent, Playful, Gentle, Intelligent, Happy, Active, Courageous

Pekingese

These small dogs may be cute and cuddly but don't like being treated like toys. They're very independent and don't like to be cuddled and manhandled, which kids won't understand. Pekingese need a lot of discipline and authority to behave.

• Weight: 14lbs (6kg)
• Height: 6 - 9" (15 - 23cm)
• Api: Pekingese
• Bred For: Lapdog
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 14 - 18 years
• Temperament: Opinionated, Good-natured, Stubborn, Affectionate, Aggressive, Intelligent

Dalmatian

These beautifully spotted dogs need constant attention, socialization, and affection from their owners. If you have small children around you won't be able to dedicate the amount of time this breed needs. If they feel neglected they develop behavioral problems.

The Dalmatian is a sensitive dog, which can easily become aggressive thanks to their high-energy, intelligence, and independent tendencies. They are also pretty adorable, and they don't look aggressive, which makes people think they can get in a Dalmatian's face or get too playful with them. This isn't the case, and the Dalmatian breed is stubborn, and will not hesitate to bite if they feel threatened.

• Weight: 50 - 55lbs (23 - 25kg)
• Height: 19 - 23" (48 - 58cm)
• Api: Dalmatian
• Bred For: Carriage dog - trot alongside carriages to protect the occupants from banditry or other interference
• Breed Group: Non-Sporting
• Life Span: 10 - 13 years
• Temperament: Outgoing, Friendly, Energetic, Playful, Sensitive, Intelligent, Active

Cane Corso

This mastiff breed originates from Italy and has been around for years. They were bred to participate in blood sports, battle, and hunt. They're fantastic guard dogs but shouldn't be kept as pets because of their dangerous and aggressive tendencies.

• Weight: 88 - 120lbs (40 - 54kg)
• Height: 23.5 - 27.5" (60 - 70cm)
• Api: Cane Corso
• Bred For: Companion, guard dog, and hunter
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 11 years
• Temperament: Trainable, Reserved, Stable, Quiet, Even Tempered, Calm

Beagle

These dogs are medium-sized, very confident, and self-assured. So much so, that they have no issues showing aggression to other bigger dogs. They need a lot of attention or otherwise, they'll chew everything and dig up your garden.

The Beagle is a small, friendly, and common family dog, but at the heart of the matter is that they, too, can be a bit on the aggressive side. You have to remember that a Beagle is a hound, and thus, they are bred for hunting. The Beagle had to be alert and aggressive when out on a hunt, and many Beagles, if not trained out of it, will still allow that aggression out.

• Weight: 20 - 35lbs (9 - 16kg)
• Height: 13 - 15" (33 - 38cm)
• Api: Beagle
• Bred For: Rabbit, hare hunting
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 13 - 16 years
• Temperament: Amiable, Even Tempered, Excitable, Determined, Gentle, Intelligent

Neapolitan Mastiff

These dogs are gentle creatures despite their enormous size. They're very affectionate with their owners but are extremely strong, which makes them a hazard around kids. They can accidentally sit or step on small kids, or even knock them over.

• Weight: 110 - 200lbs (50 - 91kg)
• Height: 24 - 31" (61 - 79cm)
• Api: Neapolitan Mastiff
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 8 - 10 years
• Temperament: Stubborn, Fearless, Obedient, Dominant, Protective, Trainable

German Shepherd

These dogs are known for being loyal, smart, and very obedient when well trained. However, they have an aggressive side, which makes them dangerous to have around kids in general. They're very powerful animals with sharp teeth to be aware of.

• Weight: 50 - 90lbs (23 - 41kg)
• Height: 22 - 26" (56 - 66cm)
• Api: German Shepherd Dog
• Bred For: Herding, Guard dog
• Breed Group: Herding
• Life Span: 10 - 13 years
• Temperament: Alert, Loyal, Obedient, Curious, Confident, Intelligent, Watchful, Courageous

Great Dane

This breed is one of the tallest dogs, which can be dangerous around small children. They need to be trained from young, but even then one can never be sure if the dog decides to become aggressive one day.

• Weight: 110 - 190lbs (50 - 86kg)
• Height: 28 - 32" (71 - 81cm)
• Api: Great Dane
• Bred For: Hunting & holding boars, Guardian
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 7 - 10 years
• Temperament: Friendly, Devoted, Reserved, Gentle, Confident, Loving

Staffordshire Terrier

This breed is very strong and can easily become aggressive. They need to be trained in order to keep them from misbehaving. They're known to be gentle with humans, but they still have a violent streak to watch out for.

• Weight: 50 - 60lbs (23 - 27kg)
• Height: 17 - 19" (43 - 48cm)
• Api: American Staffordshire Terrier
• Country Code: US
• Bred For: Not Available
• Breed Group: Terrier
• Life Span: 12 - 15 years
• Temperament: Tenacious, Friendly, Devoted, Loyal, Attentive, Courageous

Presa Canario

This breed has a bad reputation for not being fit to be a pet. These dogs were bred to be sheepherders on farms because of their size and demeanor. It's capable of taking a human down if it so wishes.

• Weight: 88 - 110lbs (40 - 50kg)
• Height: 22 - 25.5" (56 - 65cm)
• Api: Perro de Presa Canario
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Strong Willed, Suspicious, Gentle, Dominant, Calm

Miniature Pinscher

This tiny dog is very possessive with its food and toys and is willing to fight a child if they feel their food or toy could be taken away. They're also dominant and aggressive with other dogs but are ok around cats.

• Weight: 8 - 11lbs (4 - 5kg)
• Height: 10 - 12.5" (25 - 32cm)
• Api: Miniature Pinscher
• Bred For: Small vermin hunting
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 15 years
• Temperament: Clever, Outgoing, Friendly, Energetic, Responsive, Playful

Dogo Argentino

This Argentinian breed is tough and has also been banned from being kept as a pet in many countries because of their aggressive nature. Even if they're trained, they've been known to attack humans or other dogs without warning.

• Weight: 80 - 100lbs (36 - 45kg)
• Height: 23.5 - 27" (60 - 69cm)
• Api: Dogo Argentino
• Bred For: Big-game hunting
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Cheerful, Loyal, Tolerant, Protective

Rhodesian Ridgeback

These dogs have been used for tracking lions in southern Africa, which should tell you that it wouldn't be a good idea to keep them as pets. They have been known to jump fences and attack children if they feel threatened.

• Weight: 75 - 80lbs (34 - 36kg)
• Height: 24 - 27" (61 - 69cm)
• Api: Rhodesian Ridgeback
• Bred For: Big game hunting, guarding
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Strong Willed, Mischievous, Loyal, Dignified, Sensitive, Intelligent

Border Collie

These dogs are extremely smart and agile and they excel in competitions where they need to perform tricks. They're very energetic and need to be active. For this reason, they are not patient with kids and tend to snap easily.

• Weight: 30 - 45lbs (14 - 20kg)
• Height: 18 - 22" (46 - 56cm)
• Api: Border Collie
• Bred For: Sheep herder
• Breed Group: Herding
• Life Span: 12 - 16 years
• Temperament: Tenacious, Keen, Energetic, Responsive, Alert, Intelligent

Akita

These dogs are very big, powerful, and independent. They have a unique temperament and need special care as they have been bred to be solitary work dogs. That's why they don't enjoy being around too many people and especially children.

• Weight: 65 - 115lbs (29 - 52kg)
• Height: 24 - 28" (61 - 71cm)
• Api: Akita
• Bred For: Hunting bears
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 14 years
• Temperament: Docile, Alert, Responsive, Dignified, Composed, Friendly, Receptive, Faithful, Courageous

Jack Russell Terrier

They may be small and cute but they're not the cuddly type of dog. They're overly energetic and are very short-tempered. This means they have an aggressive streak, which poses a risk around small children because they might bite unexpectedly.

• Weight: 13 - 17lbs (6 - 8kg)
• Height: 13 - 14" (33 - 36cm)
• Api: Jack Russell Terrier
• Bred For: Fox hunting
• Breed Group: Terrier
• Life Span: 12 - 14 years

Shar Pei

These big dogs are very reserved, independent, and appreciate their own space. Kids might see their wrinkles as a reason to cuddle and play with them but that's when they could react badly because of their tendency to be aggressive.

• Weight: 45 - 60lbs (20 - 27kg)
• Height: 18 - 20" (46 - 51cm)
• Api: Chinese Shar-Pei
• Bred For: Fighting
• Breed Group: Non-Sporting
• Life Span: 10 years
• Temperament: Suspicious, Affectionate, Devoted, Reserved, Independent, Loving

Doberman Pinscher

These large and powerful animals were bred strictly as guard dogs because their courageous and highly intelligent. They're not ideal around kids because they're overprotective and they can resort to aggression when they feel the need to protect their owners.

• Weight: 66 - 88lbs (30 - 40kg)
• Height: 24 - 28" (61 - 71cm)
• Api: Doberman Pinscher
• Bred For: Guardian
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 years
• Temperament: Fearless, Energetic, Alert, Loyal, Obedient, Confident, Intelligent

Yorkshire Terrier

These tiny dogs look like stuffed animals they're so cute. They're not great around kids because they're very fragile and can be easily injured if kids play rough or if kids pick them up incorrectly or even drop them.

• Weight: 4 - 7lbs (2 - 3kg)
• Height: 8 - 9" (20 - 23cm)
• Api: Yorkshire Terrier
• Bred For: Small vermin hunting
• Breed Group: Toy
• Life Span: 12 - 16 years
• Temperament: Bold, Independent, Confident, Intelligent, Courageous

American Pit Bull Terrier

Originally bred to be aggressive fighting dogs so they have that instinct hardwired in them. If they bite, they tend to go for the throat and not any other body part. They're all about dominance so shouldn't be around kids.

• Weight: 30 - 60lbs (14 - 27kg)
• Height: 17 - 21" (43 - 53cm)
• Api: American Pit Bull Terrier
• Country Code: US
• Bred For: Fighting
• Breed Group: Terrier
• Life Span: 10 - 15 years
• Temperament: Strong Willed, Stubborn, Friendly, Clownish, Affectionate, Loyal, Obedient, Intelligent, Courageous

Standard Schnauzer

These Schnauzers are known to be aggressive especially with other dogs. They like dominance and if not trained from a young age can become difficult to manage. Because of their dominant nature, they're not suited to be around small children.

• Weight: 30 - 50lbs (14 - 23kg)
• Height: 17.5 - 19.5" (44 - 50cm)
• Api: Standard Schnauzer
• Bred For: Ratting, guarding
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 13 - 15 years
• Temperament: Trainable, Good-natured, Devoted, Lively, Playful, Intelligent

Cocker Spaniel

These Spaniels have a negative trait which is a big enough reason to not have them around kids. They have what's called ‘rage syndrome,' which means they can become violent and lash out at any given moment for no apparent reason.

• Weight: 20 - 30lbs (9 - 14kg)
• Height: 14 - 15" (36 - 38cm)
• Api: Cocker Spaniel
• Bred For: Bird flushing, retrieving
• Breed Group: Sporting
• Life Span: 12 - 15 years
• Temperament: Trainable, Friendly, Affectionate, Playful, Quiet, Faithful

Wire Fox Terrier

These terriers are intelligent and are championship winners but they're not easy pets. They're not very good with other dogs or cats and are quite independent, which means they don't like to be bothered. That's why they're not good with kids.

• Weight: 15 - 19lbs (7 - 9kg)
• Height: 13 - 16" (33 - 41cm)
• Api: Wire Fox Terrier
• Bred For: Vermin hunting, fox bolting
• Life Span: 13 – 14 years
• History: England
• Temperament: Fearless, Friendly, Bold, Keen, Alert, Quick

Newfoundland

The sheer size of these gentle giants poses a risk around kids. They may not intentionally harm your kids but they could knock them over whilst playing. A smaller adult might even have a problem controlling this large dog.

• Weight: 100 - 150lbs (45 - 68kg)
• Height: 26 - 28" (66 - 71cm)
• Api: Newfoundland
• Bred For: All purpose water dog, fishing aid
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 8 - 10 years
• Temperament: Sweet-Tempered, Gentle, Trainable

Irish Wolfhound

This is the tallest of all breeds and was bred to hunt wolves. They have an aggressive nature and are driven by an instinct to hunt smaller prey. That's not a trait you want in a pet around your children.

• Weight: 105 - 180lbs (48 - 82kg)
• Height: 30 - 35" (76 - 89cm)
• Api: Irish Wolfhound
• Bred For: Coursing wolves, elk
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 6 - 8 years
• Temperament: Sweet-Tempered, Loyal, Dignified, Patient, Thoughtful, Generous

Spanish Water Dog

These dogs are very high maintenance and need plenty of exercise every day. Without proper training, they can be difficult to handle. Without stimulation, they can become a nuisance around the house and possibly react aggressively to show their frustration.

• Weight: 30 - 50lbs (14 - 23kg)
• Height: 16 - 20" (41 - 51cm)
• Api: Spanish Water Dog
• Bred For: Herding flocks of sheep and goats from one pasture to another
• Breed Group: Sporting
• Life Span: 12 - 15 years
• Temperament: Trainable, Diligent, Affectionate, Loyal, Athletic, Intelligent

English Foxhound

The English Foxhound has been labeled as one of the most difficult dog breeds because of their excessively active nature. They do well in open spaces as they were bred for hunting. They can be quite driven and boisterous too.

• Weight: 60 - 70lbs (27 - 32kg)
• Height: 24" (61cm)
• Api: English Foxhound
• Bred For: Trailing fox
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 10 - 13 years
• Temperament: Friendly, Sociable, Companionable, Gentle, Tolerant, Active

Cesky Terrier

This dog was created by breeding a Scottish Terrier with a Sealyham Terrier for hunting purposes. They're very active and demand a lot of love and attention, which could be tricky with small children around because they would compete for your attention.

• Weight: 14 - 24lbs (6 - 11kg)
• Height: 10 - 13" (25 - 33cm)
• Api: Cesky Terrier
• Bred For: Hunting in the forests of Bohemia
• Breed Group: Terrier
• Life Span: 10 - 15 years
• Temperament: Cheerful, Reserved, Quiet, Trainable, Calm, Nonaggressive

Finnish Spitz

These dogs are very shy and can be suspicious of new people and animals. This could be dangerous when introducing them to the family with small kids as they may feel threatened and attack. They also suffer from separation anxiety.

• Weight: 23 - 28lbs (10 - 13kg)
• Height: 15.5 - 20" (39 - 51cm)
• Api: Finnish Spitz
• Bred For: Hunting birds, small mammals
• Breed Group: Non-Sporting
• Life Span: 12 - 15 years
• Temperament: Playful, Loyal, Independent, Intelligent, Happy, Vocal

Skye Terrier

Training and maintenance of Skye Terriers are quite challenging because they have an aggressive nature, especially with other animals. They're highly strung and chase down anything that moves and as a result, they tend to be snappy too.

• Weight: 35 - 45lbs (16 - 20kg)
• Height: 9 - 10" (23 - 25cm)
• Api: Skye Terrier
• Bred For: Vermin hunting
• Breed Group: Terrier
• Life Span: 12 - 14 years
• Temperament: Fearless, Friendly, Loyal, Gay, Intelligent, Good-tempered

Pharaoh Hound

They're a very athletic breed that can jump exceptionally high, which means you'll definitely need high fencing to keep this pup in your yard. Their instinct is to hunt and chase which could be dangerous with small kids running around.

• Weight: 40 - 60lbs (18 - 27kg)
• Height: 21 - 25" (53 - 64cm)
• Api: Pharaoh Hound
• Bred For: Hunting rabbits
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 12 - 14 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, Sociable, Playful, Intelligent, Active, Trainable

Bull Terrier

These dogs were originally bred to be fighters so they're very strong and muscular. This could pose a risk when you have children in the family because you never know when their fighting instinct could kick in.

• Weight: 30 - 60lbs (14 - 27kg)
• Height: 17 - 21" (43 - 53cm)
• Api: American Pit Bull Terrier
• Country Code: US
• Bred For: Fighting
• Breed Group: Terrier
• Life Span: 10 - 15 years
• Temperament: Strong Willed, Stubborn, Friendly, Clownish, Affectionate, Loyal, Obedient, Intelligent, Courageous

Caucasian Shepherd

These massive herding dogs that can weigh up to 200 pounds were bred to protect livestock from predators such as bears. They're not ideal pets because they're extremely powerful and can be dangerous and aggressive if not properly trained.

• Weight: 80 - 100lbs (36 - 45kg)
• Height: 24 - 33.5" (61 - 85cm)
• Api: Caucasian Shepherd (Ovcharka)
• Bred For: Guard dogs, defending sheep from predators, mainly wolves, jackals and bears
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Alert, Quick, Dominant, Powerful, Calm, Strong

Perro De Presa Canario

Here's another dog from the mastiff family and they originate from the Canary Islands. They were used as shepherds and to protect livestock from predators. There have been some that have killed people because they were not socialized and trained.

• Weight: 88 - 110lbs (40 - 50kg)
• Height: 22 - 25.5" (56 - 65cm)
• Api: Perro de Presa Canario
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Strong Willed, Suspicious, Gentle, Dominant, Calm

Basenji

This hunting dog originated from Central Africa and has been described as being alert, affectionate, and curious. However, they're a little shy and reserved with strangers and children. They are said to be the second least trainable breed of all.

• Weight: 22 - 24lbs (10 - 11kg)
• Height: 16 - 17" (41 - 43cm)
• Api: Basenji
• Bred For: Hunting
• Breed Group: Hound
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, Energetic, Alert, Curious, Playful, Intelligent

Fila Brasileiro

This beast of a dog is also known as a Brazilian Mastiff. It's known to be aggressive and can be rampant and out of control. They're banned in many countries because of the combination between their size and aggressive temperament.

• Weight: 90 - 100lbs (41 - 45kg)
• Height: 23.5 - 29.5" (60 - 75cm)
• Api: Fila Brasileiro
• Bred For: Tracking, herding and controlling livestock and large game
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Docile, Loyal, Obedient, Determined, Brave, Courageous

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is a herding dog that is extremely intelligent and highly energetic. They are often mistaken for German Shepherds, but they are smaller in stature. The Belgian Malinois is an amazing guard dog, and it is also often used by police departments as canine officers. Personality-wise, however, these dogs can be very aggressive, especially when other animals or small children are in the picture. Their bites are also extremely strong, with a force of 195 PSI.

• Weight: 40 - 80lbs (18 - 36kg)
• Height: 22 - 26" (56 - 66cm)
• Api: Belgian Malinois
• Bred For: Stock herding
• Breed Group: Herding
• Life Span: 12 - 14 years
• Temperament: Watchful, Alert, Stubborn, Friendly, Confident, Hard-working, Active, Protective

Boxer

The Boxer is a popular dog in American households. They are playful, loyal, happy, and smart. They can also be very gentle with the children they are raised with, and they can get along with other animals. On the flip side, however, the Boxer has to be trained to be that type of dog. Without this training, a Boxer can be very aggressive. They are also large and have a powerful bite, which can make them quite dangerous, so seek out proper training if you get one.

• Weight: 50 - 70lbs (23 - 32kg)
• Height: 21.5 - 25" (55 - 64cm)
• Api: Boxer
• Bred For: Bull-baiting, guardian
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 8 - 10 years
• Temperament: Devoted, Fearless, Friendly, Cheerful, Energetic, Loyal, Playful, Confident, Intelligent, Bright, Brave, Calm

American Bulldog

The American Bulldog was derived from the now extinct Old English Bulldog. Like it's cousin, the English Bulldog, these dogs are stocky and strong. Unlike the English Bulldog, however, the American version is taller, more aggressive, and fearless, which can make them a bit more dangerous than other breeds. On the other hand, these dogs can be very friendly and sociable, and they can even be great family dogs, but proper training is essential.

• Weight: 60 - 120lbs (27 - 54kg)
• Height: 22 - 27" (56 - 69cm)
• Api: American Bulldog
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Friendly, Assertive, Energetic, Loyal, Gentle, Confident, Dominant

Boerboel

The Boerboel is from South Africa, and it is one of the most powerful and strong dog breeds in the world. Also known as the “Farmer's Dog,” these dogs were bred as farming dogs and protectors, and eventually was used to hunt baboons and leopards. The Boerboel has a very powerful bite, up to 800 psi, and as you can imagine, they require a lot of training and a firm owner.

• Weight: 110 - 200lbs (50 - 91kg)
• Height: 22 - 27" (56 - 69cm)
• Api: Boerboel
• Bred For: Guarding the homestead, farm work.
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 12 years
• Temperament: Obedient, Confident, Intelligent, Dominant, Territorial

Labrador Retriever

What? The Lab? No! Not so fast…yes, the Labrador Retriever is an extremely popular family dog. They are great with kids and other pets, and if you are like most of us, you had one, have one, or knew someone who did. That being said, statistics show us that they have a pretty high number of attacks and bites. However, you also have to consider that they are the most popular dog breed in the US. So, take this with a grain of salt.

• Weight: 55 - 80lbs (25 - 36kg)
• Height: 21.5 - 24.5" (55 - 62cm)
• Api: Labrador Retriever
• Bred For: Water retrieving
• Breed Group: Sporting
• Life Span: 10 - 13 years
• Temperament: Kind, Outgoing, Agile, Gentle, Intelligent, Trusting, Even Tempered

Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff makes a great guard dog, but in the wrong hands, this breed can certainly be dangerous. In Tibet, where these dogs were first bred, they were often chained to a pole as puppies in order to make them aggressive. One of these large dogs could also guard an entire village of people.

• Weight: 85 - 140lbs (39 - 64kg)
• Height: 24 - 26" (61 - 66cm)
• Api: Tibetan Mastiff
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 10 - 14 years
• Temperament: Strong Willed, Tenacious, Aloof, Stubborn, Intelligent, Protective

Dogue De Bordeaux

Also known as a French Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux was originally used as a working and farm dog. Though some of these dogs can be very loving and friendly, it is certainly not uncommon for them to become aggressive. Thanks to their large size and history of aggression, they are banned in certain areas, and most insurance companies will not insure homes where these dogs live.

• Weight: 90 - 160lbs (41 - 73kg)
• Height: 23 - 27" (58 - 69cm)
• Api: Dogue de Bordeaux
• Bred For: Hunting, Guarding, Fighting against bears, wolves and other dogs
• Breed Group: Working
• Life Span: 5 - 10 years
• Temperament: Devoted, Loyal, Companionable, Vigilant, Even Tempered, Courageous

Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier might be the most unique looking dog on our list, and it, too, can be quite dangerous. Like other breeds we have presented, the Bedlington Terrier was bred to hunt, and that instinct is still alive and well in modern dogs. They are stubborn, they bark, and they can be aggressive, especially towards other animals, so keep this in mind if you bring one into your home.

• Weight: 17 - 23lbs (8 - 10kg)
• Height: 15 - 16" (38 - 41cm)
• Api: Bedlington Terrier
• Bred For: Killing rat, badger, other vermin
• Breed Group: Terrier
• Life Span: 14 - 16 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, Spirited, Intelligent, Good-tempered