17 dog breeds that are the most aggressive according to scientists (18 photos)

Aggressive behavior in dogs is a controversial topic that generates a lot of debate. For example, dog lovers are sure that there are no evil breeds and the behavior of a pet depends solely on upbringing. Other people are convinced of the genetic tendency of certain dogs to want to show their teeth and their crappy character at the most unpredictable moment. Which one is right?





Researchers from the University of Helsinki decided to resolve the eternal dispute. They found that there are quite a few breeds in the world whose representatives have the potential for aggressive behavior. Let's find out in more detail how they managed to do this, and also see who made the list of “winners”. The results of the study were published on the Daily Mail website.

Northern hunting spitz - 17th place



In the study, the University of Helsinki team set out to examine fundamental behavioral differences between dog breeds. The researchers collected a huge behavioral dataset containing information on 11,000 dogs from 300 different breeds. Then they were all divided into 52 groups. The findings revealed a strong association between breed and seven personality traits: lack of self-confidence, trainability, aggressiveness/dominance, energy, sociability with other dogs, sociability with humans and stubbornness.

The lowest places in the ranking were taken by the poodle, Spanish water dog, border collie, Welsh corgi, English shepherd, pinschers and schnauzers.

Yard dogs - 16th place





Outbred dogs are famous for their genetic diversity. As a rule, they have higher health indicators compared to purebred dogs. However, their behavioral characteristics defy any description. The need to survive on the streets often leads to increased levels of aggression towards other animals and people.

Brachycephalic breeds - 15th place



Brachycephalic breeds include dogs with flat faces. These include English and French Bulldogs, Bull Mastiffs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Pugs, Shih Tsu, Lhasso Apso and Pekingese.

Mixed breed dogs - 14th place



Mixing different dog breeds can lead to an unexpected genetic combination that can cause the mixed breed to become more aggressive.

Aboriginal greyhound - 13th place



Chinese Crested Dog – 12th place



Australian Shepherd – 11th place



Besides breed, several other factors have been found to be associated with dog aggression. It was found that males are more aggressive than females. The researchers also found that adult dogs (over 9 years old) are more prone to aggressive behavior than young ones.

Lapp Reindeer Dog – 10th place



Jack Russell Terrier - 9th place



Central European Service Dogs – 8th place



Here, perhaps, it is worth adding the Rottweiler, Hovawart, Kurzahaar, Weimaraner and other dogs that were bred in central Europe.

Central European Cattle Dogs - 7th place



Belgian Shepherd – 6th place



Miniature Pinscher – 5th place



Asian native breeds - 4th place



Aborins are dog breeds that were born naturally, without the help of selection. Such animals have incredible intelligence and are able to make independent decisions.

Parson Russell Terrier - 3rd place



This is a dog breed related to the Jack Russell Terrier.

German Shepherd – 2nd place



Fighting breed dogs - 1st place



First place is occupied by all representatives of fighting breeds. These include the American Bulldog, Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull, Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Canario, Dogo Argentino and Cane Corso.

Scientists are confident that understanding the nature of aggressive dog breeds will help society make more informed and safer decisions when choosing and raising pets.

Who do you think deservedly or undeservedly ended up on this list?