The Top 10 Meanest Dog Breeds

Most dogs aren’t inherently mean, but they are still animals, even when domesticated. This means that they can behave in ways that don’t mesh well with humans, especially when they feel scared or threatened.

With over 4.5 million dog bite incidents reported annually, some dogs have earned a reputation for being the meanest dog breeds. However, studies reveal that no breed of dog is inherently aggressive, and significant behavior variations are noted within breeds.

Still, this doesn’t stop people from breeding and training dogs for certain attributes like strength and aggression. Which types of dogs are known for unsociable behaviors like growling, biting, and being the scariest dog breeds?

1. Pit Bulls

Like any breed, pit bulls can be incredibly loving and loyal pets. However, they are a larger breed known for a relatively strong bite force of 235 psi.

It’s a common misconception that this breed has “locking jaws” that are impossible to remove once they clamp on. No breed exhibits this trait. Pit bulls get a bad rap because they’re frequently bred for aggression — and for illegal activities like dogfighting — and this has earned them the stamp of meanest type of dog.

2. Rottweilers

These one-time herding dogs are more commonly used for security these days, thanks to their protective natures and strong, compact physiques. Surprisingly, their bite force is significantly higher than that of a pit bull, at 328 psi.

3. Doberman Pinschers

Dobermans are strong, fast, and wiry, which is why they’re often bred for aggression and trained as attack dogs. They tend to be intelligent, alert, and highly trainable, but because of the way they’re bred, they’ve become synonymous with a mean disposition.

4. German Shepherds

German shepherds can be incredibly sweet dogs, thanks to their herding instincts. They’re also incredibly quick and powerful, making them ideal guard dogs. Often used for police and military applications, German shepherds have long been bred for protection, which can make them dangerous.

5. Bully Breeds (American Bulldog and Others)

There are dozens of recognized bully breeds, and several are bred for protective and, unfortunately, fighting purposes. With so many bred for aggressive traits, it’s no wonder these breeds have a bad reputation.

6. Dalmatians

Dalmatian puppies are some of the cutest around, so how have they become known as mean dogs? This high-energy breed requires intense amounts of exercise, socialization, and training. If the owner can’t keep up, their pet can exhibit nervous and aggressive behaviors, potentially resulting in adult or child injury.

7. Chow Chows

Guarding, hunting, and herding are all in the ancient Chow Chow’s repertoire, but it’s their protective instincts that can get them in trouble as a mean dog type. Fluffy but stout, these pets tend to be overprotective of their humans.

8. Chihuahuas

While this small breed is unlikely to cause catastrophic injuries to adults, Chihuahuas can be dangerous to children when they get aggressive. Known for nervous behavior, Chihuahuas may lash out with barking and biting when they feel threatened.

9. Terriers

Feisty terriers can be fun pets for active adults, jogging alongside runners and playing fetch for hours. Bred for hunting and killing rodents, this breed can also be aggressive and tenacious when a target is in sight. When not well-trained, they may not differentiate between a rat’s tail and waggling human fingers.

10. Huskies

These high-strung dogs are certainly beautiful. They’re also known for their speed and stamina. Unfortunately, their excitable nature and wild temperament are less than low-key. Huskies are sometimes poorly domesticated, and their survival instincts can cause problems around people and other pets.

Chris O’Brien

Chris O’Brien is a nationally recognized personal injury attorney with over 30 years of experience fighting for accident victims in Western New York. A founding partner at O’Brien & Ford, he has helped recover millions for clients and built a reputation as a top trial lawyer and educator. Chris is a Diplomate of the National College of Advocacy, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and was named one of Western New York’s Top Ten Lawyers by Buffalo Business First. He lives in Amherst with his family and their Bernedoodle, Moose.

Years of experience: 33 years
Practice areas: Personal Injury Law, Car Accidents
Location: Buffalo, New York

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