Top 25 Most Dangerous Dogs in the World with Photos

Last Updated on July 17, 2024 by Dogs Vets

Top 25 Most dangerous dogs in the world

Have you ever wondered which dogs are considered “The most dangerous dogs in the world today?”

 

Do you want to find out about the most dangerous dogs in the world?

Practically all dogs can cause an unimaginable amount of damage and danger, but certain breeds are more inclined to have dangerous reactions and cause deaths if not trained properly.

Canines are not only playful, friendly, loyal but can also be dangerous depending on the dog’s upbringing and temperament. Any dog breed can pose a threat to human lives.

Dogs are descended from wolves and were trained by humans and consequently became one of the most loyal and dangerous animals.

How to Take Care of a Powerful, Dangerous Dog

Beware of any animal that is used to being in charge. If you have a powerful, dangerous dog and you’re thinking about acquiring another, make sure it’s well-behaved by following these tips.

The first step when dealing with a powerful, dangerous dog is to make sure the animal has been properly trained.

They don’t need training if they are only going to be your companion or pet.  A dog’s training needs to be done for their protection as well as yours should anything happen.

• The key here is consistency so the training doesn’t seem like an enormous task for the animal once it’s not needed anymore.
• The next step is making sure your dog does not hear commands through other means except by hearing them from you directly.
• Dogs have always been able to be remarkably good at listening to their owners. They can use their sense of smell as well as sight and hearing to process commands such as sit and stay.
• Containing the dog with proper harnesses, collars and leashes is always recommended.

How to know a powerful or dangerous dog

A powerful, dangerous dog is a canine that has been trained to be aggressive and possess a high prey drive.

There are some signs to look for to see if your dog is dangerous or not. These include:

• Aggression towards people or animals
• A build-up of muscle
• A strong jaw
• Protruding eyes
• Excessive drooling
• A strong, muscular body
• A deep bark

The Most Dangerous Dogs in the World – A List of 24 Dog Breeds That Could Kill You Quickly & Painfully

 

The Top 25 most dangerous dog breeds in the world is a compilation of breeds that are known to be deadly and violent. These breeds are known to cause serious injury and death with a single bite or scratch.

Dogs have been proven to be man’s best friend. But, there are some breeds that shouldn’t be trusted with our well-being.

This list has been thoroughly researched and verified, so you can learn from these mistakes and protect yourself from the most dangerous dogs in the world.

This is a compilation of breeds that have caused serious injury and death with a single bite or scratch.

Here are the Top 25 most dangerous dogs in the world

#25. The Tibetan Mastiff

According to the Beijing Times, the woman went to her neighbor’s residence to seek assistance in shutting down a leaky water line. She was bitten numerous times by her neighbor’s unrestrained Tibetan mastiff and suffered a cerebral hemorrhage.

This Monday, a Beijing court awarded her 14,000 yuan (HK$17,700) in compensation for her injuries.

The Tibetan mastiff, which was developed originally to guard livestock against wolves, is now prohibited in a number of Chinese cities.

Last August, the Mall Daily reported that a six-year-old girl died after being attacked by a Tibetan mastiff, and reports of dog attacks are common in Chinese media, including one instance in which 20 police officers were summoned to deal with two dogs attacking pedestrians in Shijiazhuang, Hebei province.

Perhaps the most dramatic demonstration of the animal’s supposed aggressiveness is that a Henan zoo reportedly attempted to pass one off as an “African lion.”

Tibetan mastiff assault sparks controversy over the ‘world’s most expensive dog’s risks

It is debatable whether one breed of dog is more dangerous than another. In the 1990s, the United Kingdom and a number of United States established legislation prohibiting the ownership of a variety of “dangerous” dogs, most notably the pit bull terrier, following a series of attacks by pit bulls.

Defenders of pit bulls and other dangerous dogs frequently contend that any danger posed is due to the animal’s socialization and breeding, rather than to an inherent tendency to savagery.

According to a 2009 study published in the International Journal of Forensic Sciences, owners of so-called dangerous dogs were nearly ten times more likely to get a criminal conviction than other dog owners.

Biting or mauling their owners “is inconsistent with the character of purebred mastiffs, which are renowned for their loyalty,” Guo Feng, deputy head of the China Purebred Tibetan Mastiff Association, told the Global Times. Due to the dog’s sheer size, it might be deadly.

24. Boer Boel

The Boer Boel dog is a huge Mastiff dog breed belonging to South Africa. The dog was bred as a guard dog for a farm or a house. They were used as the first line of defense against predators.

They are very intelligent in attacking and restraining an injured victim. They are very loyal dogs that are very protective of their owner and family.

The Boer Boel excels in both attacking and restraining potential threats, showcasing its remarkable intelligence and strength. Their unwavering loyalty extends to their owners and family, making them ideal companions for those seeking a vigilant and devoted guardian.

Explore the unique characteristics of the Boer Boel breed, renowned for its impressive stature, protective nature, and historical significance as a formidable defender in South African households.

Discover why these dogs are not only intelligent but also deeply committed to ensuring the safety of their loved ones.

 

23. Gull Dong

The Gull Dong is a very strong mixed dog breed from Pakistan. It is a crossbreed of Bully Kutta and Gull Terrier. These are the breeds that Gull Dongs are often confused with.

Gull Terrier Dog is also called Pakistani Bull Terrier, and The Bully Kutta is referred to as The Pakistani Mastiff, Indian Mastiff, or PBK.

The Gull Dongs is a cross of a combination of 3 quarters Gull Terrier and one quarter Bully Kutta.

Gull Dong takes the trait of agility and quickness from Gull Terrier and the size and power from Bully Kutta in appearance and appearance. It is a medium-sized dog, taller than the Gull Terrier and more compact than the Indian Mastiff or The Bully Kutta.

Not much is really known by experts about the history of The Gull Dong apart from its origin.

It belongs to British colonial India, in the area that became part of Pakistan in 1947. The dog breed is super powerful and strong. The Dong was specially bred to be a fighting dog. Sometimes it can become very aggressive and difficult to control.

22. Basenji

Basenji is a well-known local hunting dog breed that has its origin in central Africa. Classified as a strong hunting dog, Basenji shows curiosity, alertness, and affection.

The Basenji, a graceful and elegant hunting dog breed, hails from the heart of Central Africa. Renowned for their intelligence, curiosity, and yodel-like vocalizations (they rarely bark!), these charming canines hold a unique place in the canine world.

Here’s a closer look at what makes the Basenji so special:

• A Legacy of Hunting Prowess: Bred for centuries to assist in hunting small game, the Basenji possesses a natural agility, keen senses, and independent spirit. Their compact size and athleticism make them adept at navigating dense forests and chasing prey.

• Curiosity and Alertness: These bright-eyed dogs are brimming with inquisitiveness. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, always keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.

• Affection with a Reserved Side: While Basenjis shower their loved ones with devotion and playful antics, they can be somewhat shy with strangers. This reserved demeanor is part of their independent spirit and may require patient socialization from a young age.

However, they are quite reserved with strangers. Of all the breed types, Basenji is the second least trainable dog.

 

21. Caucasian Ovcharka / Caucasian Shepherd

The Caucasian Ovcharka, also called the Caucasian Shepherd, was originally bred to protect livestock. The Caucasian Ovcharka Dogs Breed is considered strong-willed, assertive, and courageous.

However, they pose only a threat and exhibit unmanageable and vicious tendencies when not properly trained and socialized. They are not really accepted as safe dogs by people and therefore lack the strong urge to defend themselves.

If you are not ready to take care of a dangerous dog like the Ovcharka Caucasus, you should opt for smaller dog breeds.

 

20. Shar Pei

Shar-Pei is a dog, which is domesticated but still needs proper socialization and training to become a good pet. If not trained well, they can pose a serious risk to humans around and become aggressive.

Recognizable by their distinctive wrinkled skin folds, Shar-Pei dogs share a history as loyal guard dogs originating from China. To foster a positive relationship with this breed, it is essential to prioritize socialization and training from an early age.

19. Dalmatian

Surprising, but true! Known to be The classic heroes of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians made it onto the list of the world’s most dangerous dogs.

Dalmatians, famous for their distinctive spotted coats and popularized by Disney, are not just known for their charming looks. These dogs exhibit large, muscular bodies coupled with remarkable stamina, setting them apart from many other canine species.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that, despite their endearing reputation, when provoked to a certain degree, Dalmatians possess the potential to cause unimaginable damage, a fact that may come as a shock to many.

18. Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier might look very similar to a miniature sheep in appearance. But it is not a dog that can be crossbred, especially when it is another dog species of the same size.

The reason we’ve included Bedlington Terrier in this list is because this dog is considered a “Versatile Dog, good with children and suitable for killing any other dog of its weight.”

17. Korean Jindo

This Jindo is the national dog of Korea. It is a favorite pet because of its kind and loyal nature. If he is kind and loyal, why included in the list of the most aggressive dogs in the world? Well, he also has a scary side!

If you don’t take enough care of the dog’s breed, their pleasant nature can soon turn into a dominant and destructive trait.

Now, these are common behavior that all owners would like to avoid having in their pets! So, make sure you train them very well and show enough affection and care.

16. Chow Chow

This East Asian dog breed is one of the oldest still in existence. One Chinese legend called the dog: the large war dogs from Central Asia that resembled black-tongued lions. Chow Chows are called Songshi Quan in northern China, which means “Swollen Lion Dog,” and it’s easy to see why, with their small ears and bushy “manes.”

They also have powerful jaws like a lion with a bite force of 220 pounds per square inch (PSI) and can become aggressive due to their owners’ lack of socialization or over-protectiveness.

One Chinese ruler was said to have owned about 5,000 Chows. Most often kept as pets, Chow Chows tend to recognize strangers and protect their owners and property.

 

15. Pakistani Bulldog – Bully Kuta

 

The Bully Kutta is a type of large dog that dates back to the 16th century in the Indian subcontinent. The Bully Kutta is a working dog used for hunting and guarding. These type of dogs are very popular in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan, including Haryana and Delhi, and in Tamil Nadu.

This strong, intelligent dog is known by several names, including Bully Gull Terrier, Gull Dong, and Kanda. Pakistani Bulldogs are smart, loyal, and strong-willed, which means they need an owner who is a strong leader.

Without proper, consistent training and a watchful eye, they can be quite dangerous.

14. The Japanese Akita

The Akita, also known as Akita-Inu, is a large breed of dog originating from the mountainous regions of northern Japan. There are two separate breeds of Akita: The Japanese strain, commonly called Akita Inu or Japanese Akita, and the American strain, called Akita or American Akita.

The Japanese strain has a narrow color range, with all other colors considered as typical of the breed, whereas the American strain comes in all dog colors. The Akita has a short double coat similar to many other northern spitz breeds.

Akitas tend to be very strong. They naturally have an imposing appearance, and their calm nature can reinforce this impression.

Although affectionate towards their favorite humans, Akitas tend to be protective, wary of strangers, and not particularly fond of other animals. They can be dangerous without proper training and careful handling.

13. Perro de Presa Canario

The Presa Canario is a Spanish breed of big dogs also known as Canary Mastiff or catch type of dog. These large dogs come from the autonomous region of the Canary Islands and are found mainly on the islands of Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Often described as a strong-willed and dominant dog. The Presa Canario is used as a working dog for livestock but is a combination of several breeds of fighting dogs. There are rumors that this breed, like the pit bull, is also used in lethal dogfights.

12. Fila Brasileiro

The Fila Brasileiro, also known as The Brazilian Mastiff, is a large working dog breed and was developed in Brazil. It is known for its excellent tracking ability, aggressiveness, and unforgiving, boisterous temperament. Instead of attacking its prey, the Fila Brasileiro captures its prey and waits for the hunter to arrive.

These dogs make excellent guard dogs but require experienced owners. They are known to be very aggressive and protective and are feared for their uncontrollable behavior. Many deaths and attacks have been reported in the past.

11. The Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are smart, athletic, and energetic dogs. They have a naturally aggressive temperament that can prove fatal if not properly cared for. Bullmastiffs are generally used as guard dogs because of their temperamental behavior.

These dogs can become reliable and obedient with consistent training from a young age. Bullmastiffs caused 14 deaths between 2005 and 2017, according to dogbite.org.

10. The American Bulldog

American Bulldogs are a well-balanced, athletic dog that exhibits great strength, endurance, agility, and a friendly demeanor. In the past, they were bred as working dogs, used for farm work. According to dogbite.org, they caused 15 deaths (3.5%) between 2005 and 2017.

9. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamutes are high-energy dogs, and if their energy is not used positively, they can turn into quite aggressive dogs! They have an emphatic need to hunt prey, so they should be carefully groomed! Another important thing is that they learn slowly, which requires a lot of patience in training!

The CDC reported 12 dog bite-related deaths attributed to Alaskan malamutes. For suspected malamute mixes, 3 deaths are listed, which may or may not have been malamute as they are several breeds with a similar appearance.

While the Alaskan Malamute can be an independent dog like fellow sled dogs like the Siberian Huskies, their size, strength, and stamina can make them a handful for an inexperienced owner who is unable to train and socialize them when they were younger.

8. Kangal

This large sheepdog breed has its roots in Turkestan and comes from the Mastiff Dog Family. The Kangals are big and strong enough to fend off imposing predators such as wolves and bears.

Although defensive, Kangals are also gentle and friendly. But their size and bite force are said to be as strong as 743 PSI, making them very dangerous to anyone who threatens these gentle giants or anything else in their care and possession.

7. The Wolfdog

The first recorded wolfdog breeding in Britain dates back to 1766, when it is believed that a male wolf was mated with a domestic dog. A number of experts believe they can distinguish the difference between a wolf, a dog, and a wolfdog, but they have been proven wrong when presenting their evidence in court.

See also: Symptoms of Lyme Disease in Dogs: 7 Things Dog Owners Should Know.

These breeds are known to be a mixture of domesticated dogs and wild wolves.

These animals have protective instincts and can be very wild due to their unpredictable behavior, which probably results from breeding wild animals with common dogs. In some countries, it is forbidden to own and breed this dog.

6. Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is also considered one of the most dangerous dogs in the world.  The Siberian Husky is a mid-sized dog breed.

This breed belongs to the Spitz genetic family. Its thick furred double coat, erect triangular ears, and distinctive markings are much smaller than a very look-alike dog, the Alaskan Malamute.

Siberian Huskies were raised to be working dogs just like Alaskan Malamutes, which is why they are not very social! But with the proper approach and training, you can make them friendlier and calmer! Poor socialization and training will surely turn them into aggressive and dangerous dogs!

Top 5 Most dangerous dogs in the world 

5. Doberman Pinschers

The Doberman Pinscher or Doberman can be found in the United States, and Canada is a mid-sized domestic dog breed originally discovered around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany.

See also: 7 shocking facts about Tick Bites on Dogs. 

Doberman Pinschers are known to be very intelligent, strong, and very sensitive to sound! They will sense danger and respond on their own!

They have a natural ability to sense danger and take action on their own! These dogs are naturally aggressive towards strangers, and their body size also plays a role in making them even more dangerous! If they are not properly trained and restrained, they can really cause some damage!

4. German Shepherds

German Shepherds are superior, hardworking, loyal, and highly intelligent dog breeds.

They are tall and have a very lean, athletic build that makes them both very strong and agile. Although they are excellent herding dogs, German Shepherds make very good working dogs, such as guide dogs for the blind.

German Shepherds can react very quickly and are extremely focused on reducing danger. They can do lethal damage! The aggressive nature of GSDs can be somewhat mitigated with proper training, socialization, and affection! This way, you will have a loyal and very loving pet!

Can a German Shepherd be considered a good family dog?

German Shepherds can be extremely gentle companions and family protectors with proper training and socialization.

It is an ideal breed for families with active households. The intelligence and protective behavior of this breed can make it a good choice for families with children, as long as the dog is properly trained. This dog is also considered one of the most dangerous dogs in the world.

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3. Most dangerous dogs in the world – Rottweilers

The Rottweiler is a domestic dog breed that is considered one of the most dangerous dogs in the world. These dogs’ body sizes range from medium to large or tall.

These dogs were known in German as Rottweiler Metzgerhund, which means Rottweil butcher dogs, as they mainly breed to herd livestock and take carts loaded with meat to market.

See also: Top 12 most famous scent hounds dog breeds

Rottweilers are known to possess one of the worst tempers and are also considered as a dog not suitable for families, especially for families where the owner is an amateur, without a peaceful and assertive nature!

They must be constantly trained and be placed on constant alert to avoid dangerous reactions!

2. The Great Dane

A Great Dane is truly a great dog breed–large and noble, commonly referred to as a gentle giant or as the “Apollo of dogs.”

Apollo is the Greek god of the sun, the brightest fixture in the sky. Great Danes have been around for a long time, and depictions of Dane-like dogs on artifacts date back thousands of years.

Great Danes are truly a wonderful breed of dog. Large and noble, they are commonly referred to as gentle giants or the “Apollo of dogs. Apollo is the Greek god of the sun and is the brightest fixture in the sky.

Great Danes dog breeds have been around for a long time, and depictions of Dane-like dogs on artifacts date back thousands of years.

 

1. The American Pit Bull Terrier – Most dangerous dogs in the world

The Pitbull is a terminology used in the United States for a type of dog originating from bulldogs and terriers, while in other countries, such as the United Kingdom, the term is used as an abbreviation for the American Pit Bull Terrier breed. The term was first used in 1927.

Pit Bulls are vicious fighting dogs and will enthusiastically pursue their task until they are finished!

They have a very strong jaw and bite and are known for not letting go of their bite easily! Therefore, they should be trained and socialized early to avoid unnecessarily dangerous situations!

Unveiling the Nature of Pit Bulls:

Renowned for their tenacity, Pit Bulls have earned a notorious reputation as vicious fighting dogs, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to their tasks.

Their powerful jaws and strong bite make them formidable opponents, showcasing a refusal to easily let go once they latch on. Proper training and early socialization are imperative to mitigate potential risks and ensure responsible ownership.

The Enigmatic Traits of the American Pit Bull Terrier:

Beyond the controversy lies a medium-sized, intelligent, and short-haired dog breed.

The American Pit Bull Terrier is not just a canine, but a dynamic blend of strength, self-confidence, and an exuberant zest for life.

These very characteristics make them highly suitable for performance events, reflecting their exceptional intelligence and eagerness to work alongside their human companions.

A Global Perspective:

It’s essential to acknowledge that the American Pit Bull Terrier has faced bans in numerous countries worldwide, stirring debates on their safety and suitability as pets.

This breeds’ potential dangers have prompted a closer look at responsible ownership practices and the need for comprehensive training programs.

 

Intelligence at Work:

One redeeming quality of this breed lies in its high level of intelligence, a trait that makes them excel in various performance events.

The American Pit Bull Terrier’s capacity to learn and adapt showcases the potential for positive engagement and responsible ownership.

Examining the Statistics:

The American pitbulls are one of the most dangerous dogs and have been banned by many countries around the world.

This medium-sized, intelligent, short-haired dog is one of the most dangerous dog breeds in the world. The main characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier are strength, self-confidence, and zest for life.

This breed is very suitable for performance events due to its high level of intelligence and willingness to work.

According to www.dogbite.org, dogs killed 433 Americans during the 13-year period from 2005 to 2017. Pit bulls contributed to 66% (284) of these deaths.

Understanding these statistics is crucial for fostering informed conversations on responsible dog ownership, breed-specific legislation, and community safety.

The problem of dog bite statistics

Dog bite researchers and investigators want the public to understand that such statistics are deeply unreliable. An epidemiologist working with the CDC noted,

“There is no centralized reporting system for dog bites, and incidents are typically forwarded to multiple entities such as police, veterinarians, animal control and emergency rooms, making meaningful analysis nearly impossible.”

Dog Bites are not always reported, especially if it is a bite to a family member.

Many of the highly popular breeds cannot be accurately counted either. This makes calculating the “risk” of a bite difficult without knowing the breed percentage in the US.

Some Facts You Didn’t Know About The Most Dangerous Dogs In The World

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why are some dogs consider dangerous?

A full study of DBRFs was published in 2013. In this review of 256 cases, the breed is not mentioned as only 17.6% of dogs were precisely pinpointed and accurately identified.

The authors of the publication stress that the factors that make up the “world’s most dangerous dogs” are all avoidable and not breed-specific:

• 87.1% of dogs were not under adult supervision
• 85.2% of the dogs were strangers to the victim.
• 84.4% of the dogs were not on leash.
• 76.2% of dogs were not treated as family pets, and there were few positive interactions with people
• 37.5% of dogs received no socialization or training
• 21.1% of dogs were abused or neglected

How can we deal with aggressive dogs?

Deaths due to dog bites are terrible situations, especially as it is so preventable. During the research, it became clear that more training, socialization, and better care for dogs will lead to less need to fix the world’s deadliest dog bites. 

Dogs are man’s best friend, and it is our responsibility to make them feel that the world is a safe place and to manage them properly.

In the same way, community dog bite prevention programs can teach dog owners and non-dog owners how to recognize when a dog is alert and understand their body language to prevent aggressive dog behavior.

Which are the most dangerous dogs in the world?

As of 2021, Great Danes are considered to be the most dangerous in the world.

At 32 inches tall at the shoulder and taller than an adult human on their hind legs, Great Danes tend to be sweet, friendly, and patient with children. However, they are also vigilant watchdogs. Great Danes have even caused deaths.

Which Dog Can Kill a Lion?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback – Origin:  Southern Africa

Dogs with the strongest bite

Mastiff – 552 lbs. The Mastiff wins the crown with a reported bite force of 552 pounds.
Rottweiler – 328 lbs. The Rottweiler is known as a fierce and strong dog.
American Bulldog – 305 lbs. The American Bulldog is a rather large, stocky, and muscular dog.
German Shepherd – 238 lbs.
Pit Bull – 235 lbs.

Which Dogs Are Most Likely to Turn On Their Owners?

Under certain conditions, all dogs are capable of attacking anyone, including their owners. However, some breeds are more dangerous than others.

• Chow Chow – Don’t be fooled by its innocent face. ….
• Presa Canario
• Great Dane
• Tosa dog
• Fila Brasileiro
• Wolf hybrid
• Siberian husky
• Rottweilers

What kind of dog can kill a human?

Based on data on dog attacks in the United States and Canada from 1982 to 2014, the dogs that are most likely to bite or kill a human being are:

1. Pit bulls.
2. Rottweilers.
3. Pitbull mix.
4. German Shepherds.
5. Bullmastiffs.
6. Wolf hybrids.
7. Husky.
8. Akita.

 

Extras:

 

Life exрeсtаnсy оf а gоlden retriever-сhоw mix

Hоw lоng dоes it tаke fоr а Gоlden Retriever Сhоw mix tо mаture? А Gоlden Retriever Сhоw mix hаs а lifesраn оf between 10 аnd 14 yeаrs.

Nаturаlly, the lifesраn оf аny dоg is deрendent оn а vаriety оf fасtоrs, inсluding аny heаlth рrоblems they enсоunter аnd the treаtment they reсeive.

Conclusion

 

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Reference: Dnaindia.com and  insidedogsworld.com