Jul 15 2008
Most and Least Aggressive Dogs
It turns out bigger might really be better after all. According to a study conducted by researchers Deborah Duffy and James Serpell of the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for the Interaction of Animals and Society, and Yuying Hsu of the National Taiwan Normal University, it seems that the smaller the dog, the more snap.
The researchers gathered data from multiple dog clubs, as well as an extensive online survey which asked owners to report on whether or not their dog nips, or tries to attack, unfamiliar (stranger) humans, owners, or other dogs, including whether or not their dog exhibits any rivalry toward other canines in general.
Ranking in the top ten most aggressive were Dachshunds coming in first; followed by the Chihuahua, which is noted to often snaps at its owners, strangers and other dogs; the Jack Russell terrier; the Akita; the Australian cattle dog; the pit bull; the beagle; the English springer spaniel; the border collie; and the German shepherd.
Among the least aggressive breeds were the Basset hound, golden retriever, Labradors, Siberian husky and greyhound.
Canine aggression studies based solely on reported attacks are often skewed because while most bites from small dogs aren’t serious, bites from large dogs often require medical attention and thus are reported.
While this is just anecdotal information taken straight from the mouths of owners, it does help explain why little dogs are often referred to as “ankle biters”. It’s also a generalization and is not intended to base sweeping breed assumptions upon. Every dog has a different temperment and should not be judged solely on his or her breed.
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[...] the show has already backed up these findings, as a Jack Russell Terrier bit an English Bull [...]
I found this study interesting. Some small dogs can be yapping and snappy and
some of the larger breeds can be very gentle but when studying canine aggression, the
information provided by dog owners is often not detailed and reliable enough for a
serious consensus.
Aggressive behaviors are natural and normal for dogs but unacceptable for humans.
The truth is, all dogs can be provoked or egged on to bite. There is
really no such thing as a “bad breed”. Most dogs are trainable. The sooner proper training
and socialization is started the better, generally in the first 14 weeks making
otherwise violent dogs, adorable and gentle.
Punishment can be a major contributing factor to aggression. Even an occasional
physical rebuke can lead to increased fear, anxiety or defensive behavior.
As you pointed out there are three types of aggression: stranger-directed aggression,
owner-directed aggression and dog-directed aggression.
Here is a short list on the “good, bad and the ugly” based on my knowledge of the
characteristics of some dog breeds:
Faithful to owners but can be aggressive to strangers: Chow Chows, Papillon, Old
English Sheepdogs, Pekingese
cranky around kids – Llasa Apso, Chihuahua
Collies like to nip at moving things: children, joggers, other animals, bikes and
cars but generally are not aggressive. They do; however; make good watchdogs. These sensitive
and sweet-natured canines are usually polite with strangers and other pets.
Not known for their patience – Dachshunds
Jack Russell Terriers are feisty and need early training to prevent biting problems.
Toy Poodles may bite people and other animals out of self defense.
Giant Schnauzers are very dominant.
German Shepherds were on this list of aggressive dogs. What I know of this breed
is that they are great with kids, courageous and very loyal. If trained properly,
the Shepherd will be extremely gentle to family and guests.
Rottweilers are extremely protective of their masters. If they trust you, you’ll
never have to worry.
Great Danes, while large in size, are generally kind and affectionate.
As you pointed out a small dogs’ bark is usually worse that its bite which is not necessarily
the case with a large dog, which could skew the facts.
Not unlike us humans each dog has its own personality but when choosing a dog breed it
is nice to know the general characteristics to see if it will be a good fit for your
family.
[...] The Golden Retriever is one of those quintessential dogs. They’ve got big hearts and gentle demeanors, so it’s no wonder that the breed is so darn popular. [...]