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23 “Safe” Dog Breeds That Can Be Surprisingly Dangerous

Do you know some of the dog breeds you consider safe are surprisingly dangerous? You won’t believe which adorable pooches made this list! 

I’ve been around dogs my whole life, but even I was shocked to learn some of these sweet-looking breeds can have a dangerous side. 

1. Chihuahuas

Don’t let their tiny size fool you! These little firecrackers pack a feisty punch. I remember my neighbor’s Chihuahua, Taco, who ruled their house with an iron paw. 

He’d snap at anyone who dared to sit in “his” chair. While they may not cause serious injury, their tendency to nip can be a real problem, especially with kids.

Chihuahuas

2. Golden Retrievers

I know, I know – how could these lovable furballs be dangerous? Well, their enthusiasm can sometimes get the better of them. 

My friend’s Goldie, Max, once knocked over her elderly mother in his excitement to greet her. Their size and energy can be overwhelming for small children or seniors.

Source: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/golden-retriever/

3. Huskies

These stunning snow dogs have a strong prey drive that can spell trouble for smaller pets. My cousin learned this the hard way when her Husky, Luna, chased after the neighbor’s cat. 

Their high energy and need for exercise can also lead to destructive behavior if not properly managed.

Huskies

4. Dalmatians

Thanks to “101 Dalmatians,” everyone thinks these spotted pups are perfect family dogs. But they can be high-strung and nippy if not well-trained. 

My sister’s Dalmatian, Spot (I know, not very original), was a handful as a puppy and needed lots of socialization to become the sweetie he is today.

Dalmatians

5. German Shepherds

While they make excellent police and service dogs, their protective instincts can sometimes go into overdrive. 

My old school’s guard dog, Rex, was fiercely loyal but could be intimidating to visitors. Proper training is crucial to ensure they don’t become overly aggressive.

German Shepherds

6. Beagles

Those floppy ears and puppy dog eyes hide a stubborn streak a mile wide! Their howling can drive neighbors crazy, and their nose often leads them into trouble. 

Beagles

7. Chow Chows

These fluffy lions may look cuddly, but they can be aloof and protective. A friend’s Chow, Bear, was devoted to his family but wary of strangers, making social gatherings a bit tense.

Chow Chows

8. Doberman Pinschers

Their sleek look and intelligence make them popular, but they need a firm hand in training. Without proper socialization, they can be overly protective. 

My uncle’s Dobie, Duke, was a sweetheart with family but could be intimidating to guests.

Doberman Pinschers

9. Jack Russell Terriers

These little bundles of energy are escape artists and can be relentless barkers. One Jack Russell in the neighborhood, Rocket, lives up to his name – he’s always zooming around, digging up gardens, and chasing anything that moves.

Jack Russell Terriers

10. Pekingese

Don’t let their royal history fool you – these little lions can have quite an attitude! They’re often suspicious of strangers and can be snappy if not socialized well. 

Source: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pekingese

11. Rottweilers

Another breed with a reputation for toughness, Rotties need consistent training to manage their protective instincts. When well-trained, they’re gentle giants, but they can be intimidating. 

Rottweilers

12. Cocker Spaniels

Those soulful eyes hide a potential for nervousness that can lead to snapping. My childhood Cocker, Lady, was sweet as pie most of the time but would nip if startled or overly excited.

Cocker Spaniels

13. Alaskan Malamutes

Like their Husky cousins, Malamutes have a strong prey drive and can be a handful to manage. They need tons of exercise and mental stimulation. 

Alaskan Malamutes

14. Boxers

These goofballs are full of energy and can accidentally knock over small children or seniors in their enthusiasm. 

Boxers

15. Dachshunds

These “wiener dogs” can be surprisingly aggressive, especially towards strangers. Their bark is definitely bigger than their bite, but they can be quite protective. 

Dachshunds

16. Siberian Huskies

Beautiful but headstrong, Huskies need a ton of exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, they can become destructive. My friend’s Husky, Loki, once shredded an entire couch when left alone for too long.

Siberian Huskies

17. Australian Cattle Dogs

These intelligent herders can nip at heels and may try to “herd” children, which can be scary for little ones. 

Australian Cattle Dogs

18. Cane Corsos

These massive Italian mastiffs are loyal protectors but need extensive socialization and training. A poorly trained Cane Corso can be a liability due to their size and strength.

Cane Corsos

19. Akitas

Originally bred for hunting bears, these powerful dogs need a confident, experienced owner. They can be aloof with strangers and may not get along with other dogs. 

Akitas

20. Weimaraners

These “gray ghosts” are known for separation anxiety that can lead to destructive behavior. They need lots of exercise and companionship. 

Weimaraners

21. Bullmastiffs

Despite their gentle nature with family, these big pups can be overprotective and intimidating to strangers. Their size alone can be dangerous if they’re not well-trained. 

Bullmastiffs

22. Belgian Malinois

Often used as police and military dogs, Malinois are intense, high-energy dogs that need a job to do. Without proper training and exercise, they can become anxious and destructive. 

Belgian Malinois

23. Great Danes

These gentle giants can be a hazard simply due to their size. They can easily knock over children or seniors without meaning to. 

Great Danes

What Am I Saying?

Remember, any dog can be dangerous without proper training, socialization, and care. It’s up to us as responsible pet owners to ensure our furry friends are well-behaved and safe around others. 

Don’t let this list scare you off these breeds – with the right approach, they can all make wonderful companions. The key is knowing what you’re getting into and being prepared to meet your dog’s specific needs. Happy tails to you all!