Experts at Urban Pet Hospital have compiled a list of dog breeds they say can be more prone to aggressive behaviour. The list includes wolf-dog hybrids, Dachshunds, Boxers, Chow Chows, and Dogo Argentinos, among others.
Millions of dogs live in homes across the UK, and for most owners they are very much part of the family. Dogs can be incredibly loyal and loving, but just like people, their personalities and behaviour can be very different. There is no guarantee that a particular breed will or will not become aggressive.
Factors Behind Aggression
How a dog has been raised, trained and socialised can all make a difference, while fear, pain, injury, mistreatment or previous trauma can also affect the way an animal behaves. Some breeds are bigger and stronger than others, while certain dogs were originally bred for jobs such as hunting, guarding or protecting livestock. That means responsible ownership and proper training can be particularly important.
Urban Pet Hospital stresses that early training and socialisation can help and that being included on the list does not mean every individual dog from that breed will be aggressive.
Breeds Highlighted by Experts
Wolf-dog hybrids are a cross between wolves and domestic dogs, making them very different from the average family pet. Their behaviour can be difficult to predict and they can be challenging for owners to look after. They need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, while extensive training and an experienced handler are important. Leaving them alone for long periods can also cause problems because they may become bored or destructive.
Dachshunds may be much smaller than most of the other dogs on the list, but their size doesn't necessarily match their personality. They were originally bred to hunt small animals, including badgers, and can be confident, stubborn and independent. They may show aggression towards strangers and other animals. Regular walks, play and mental stimulation are important, while the experts recommend encouraging good behaviour through positive training. Owners also need to be careful with their backs because Dachshunds can be prone to spinal problems.
Boxers are powerful and energetic dogs which have carried out plenty of different jobs over the years, including police dogs, protection dogs, watchdogs and even guide dogs. They need plenty to keep them occupied. Boxers can become bored or frustrated if they do not get enough exercise, which can contribute to unwanted behaviour. Consistent care and socialisation are important. Boxers can also develop a close relationship with their owners and, when properly looked after and trained, can make good family pets.
Chow Chows are one of the oldest Chinese dog breeds and have been used for everything from hunting to guarding livestock and pulling sleds. They are known for being very loyal towards their families, but that protective nature can also mean they are wary of strangers. They can be territorial and have an independent personality. Training can take patience. They also have a thick double coat which needs regular grooming, although they do not require as much exercise as some of the other breeds on the list.
Dogo Argentinos were originally developed in Argentina to hunt large animals such as wild boar and puma, and they are extremely strong dogs. They are energetic and need plenty of exercise, as well as consistent training from an early age. They can be difficult to manage if they reach adulthood without being properly trained and socialised. The experts say they are generally better suited to experienced owners. In the UK, the Dogo Argentino is also one of the prohibited dog types under the Dangerous Dogs Act, subject to exemptions.
