16 Dog Breeds That Are More Likely to Bite Humans

It’s crucial to comprehend that dogs’ behaviors vary considerably across different breeds. Most dogs with loving owners aren’t prone to biting, but certain breeds are more protective, potentially making them more likely to bite. Especially if they feel threatened or frightened, certain breeds are known for their defensive tendencies. Interestingly, some breeds are more susceptible to feeling threatened, thus they may be more inclined to bite!

Pit Bull

Pit Bulls are not inherently aggressive. They are affectionate, loyal, and loving to their family. However, they may be wary of strangers due to their protective instincts. They have powerful jaws and a strong bite force can make their bite more dangerous, especially if they perceive a threat to their loved ones.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are among the top three dog breeds involved in bite incidents. are fiercely protective, distinctly loyal, and affectionate with their families. They are typically level-headed but can be aloof towards strangers until they determine a lack of threat. Their protective instincts can lead to aggressive behavior if not properly managed.

German Shepherds

When it comes to strangers, German Shepherds may be more reserved and cautious. Their instinctive characteristic as a working dog means they need mental and physical stimulation regularly. Although they have a balanced temperament, circumstances that trigger fear or stress can make them resort to biting as a defensive measure.

Doberman Pinschers

At home, Doberman Pinschers form a close bond with their family members, displaying affection and protectiveness commonly. However, they can be wary of strangers. Their guarding instinct may lead to aggression if they feel their household is in danger. Most incidents of Doberman bites revolve around the protection of their families, meaning appropriate training and socialization is key in managing this behavior.

Chihuahuas

Known for being vivacious and full of spunk, chihuahuas display a fiercely loyal side of their personality. On the other hand, they can be cautious with strangers due to their instinctive apprehensive nature. Chihuahuas have been known to bite, primarily due to fear. Their bites, while not as physically damaging as larger breeds, can still cause harm, particularly to young children.

American Bulldogs

These muscular and large breeds may have either an intimidating or friendly aesthetic depending on a person’s perspective. However, American Bulldogs are known for their protective nature, especially towards their families, which may occasionally lead to unpredictable behavioral reactions.

Bull Mastiffs

Bull Mastiffs have a natural instinct to protect, making them one of the dog breeds with an increased likelihood of biting. Although generally good-natured and gentle with their families, they can react assertively when they perceive a threat. 

Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a friendly, outgoing dog. Typically, they are very sociable, and they don’t usually show the territorial qualities necessary for a good guard dog, making them great family pets. Despite this, their strong prey drive can sometimes lead them to show aggression. Biting incidents often occur because they instinctively see small animals, children, or unfamiliar adults as prey.

Presa Canarios

The Presa Canario, originally bred for working livestock, boasts an intimidating stature with its powerful body and broad head. Despite their usually calm behavior in the right conditions, this breed has strong territorial instincts that can lead to aggression and even biting.

Akitas

Akitas were initially bred to hunt bears and other large game. As a result, they harbor a strong guarding instinct and can often be aloof and reserved, particularly around strangers. They are fiercely protective, and if they perceive someone as a threat, they may respond with aggression, increasing the risk of biting. 

Chow Chows

With a naturally protective and somewhat aloof disposition, this companion breed can, unfortunately, show aggressive tendencies if they perceive a threat. Consequently, Chow Chows may bite when experiencing fear or anxiety, reacting instinctively to perceived dangers.

Boxers

The friendly Boxer dog breed can mislead people into perceiving them as harmless. However, due to their background as hunting and guard dogs, they can show aggression or resort to biting if they feel threatened. They might also bite if their protective instincts are triggered.

Jack Russells

Jack Russells can certainly pack a punch despite their small size. Known for their energetic and headstrong character, these terriers have been bred for hunting, which explains their strong prey drive. If not properly trained and socialized, they can show aggression towards people and other animals, which can result in a potential bite incident.

Cocker Spaniels

Traditionally, the amiable Cocker Spaniels are family pets and bird dogs. Although typically genial and peace-loving, there have been recorded instances where they’ve resorted to biting, mainly due to feeling threatened or unwell.

Collies

Collies are usually equated with intelligence, loyalty, and gentleness. However, unsocialized or bored Collies can sometimes display aggressive behavior. Because of their herding instincts, they may nip at children’s heels during play.

Tosa

As a family member, Tosas can be intensely loyal, protective, and sensitive to their kin’s emotions, forming deep bonds over time. With strangers, these canines are typically wary and can display a calm, but distant character. Tosas will bite in certain situations, mainly if they sense potential harm to their family. Their large robust, structure could inflict significant harm, including deep wounds leading to possible infections and severe scarring. 

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