Dog aggression towards other dogs can be a difficult behavior for pet owners to control. While many dogs get along well with their canine companions, some breeds are more prone to aggression towards other dogs. This behavior can be influenced by a number of factors, including genetics, upbringing, socialization, and environment. Some breeds have stronger hunting instincts, territorial instincts, or protective tendencies, making them more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior towards other dogs. Understanding which breeds are more prone to this behavior can help prospective dog owners take necessary precautions and provide appropriate training and socialization programs. In this article, we will explore the 11 dog breeds that are known to be most aggressive towards other dogs, delving into the reasons behind their behavior and what makes them stand out in this regard.
11. Akita
Akitas are a powerful and majestic breed of dog originating from Japan. Traditionally used for hunting large game and guarding, Akitas have strong hunting instincts and can be highly territorial. Although they are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families, these traits can manifest as aggression towards other dogs, especially if they feel their territory is being invaded. Akitas have a fierce nature and can be aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Socialization and training from an early age are important to help control this behavior, but even with proper training, Akitas can remain reserved or even hostile towards strange dogs. Their strong nature makes them better suited to experienced owners who can provide firm and consistent leadership.
10. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an ancient Chinese dog breed known for its independent and somewhat aloof nature. These dogs have a strong sense of territory and are protective of their family and home. This protective instinct can lead to aggressive behavior towards other dogs, especially if they perceive the other dog as a threat. The Chow Chow does not get along well with other dogs and can be quite aggressive, especially towards dogs of the same sex. Their independent nature means that they are unlikely to seek out the companionship of other dogs and can become aggressive if not properly socialized. Early and consistent socialization is essential to help the Chow Chow learn to tolerate other dogs, but they are not generally a breed that enjoys dog parks or group play sessions.
9. Shar Pei dog
The Shar Pei is a breed with a strong sense of independence and territoriality, traits that can contribute to aggression toward other dogs. Originating in China, the Shar Pei was historically used for guarding and herding livestock, roles that require a certain degree of aggression and dominance. These traits have been passed down through generations, making the Shar Pei naturally wary of other dogs. They are known to be particularly aggressive toward dogs of the same sex and may not tolerate the presence of other dogs in their territory. Shar Peis need early and consistent socialization to help alleviate these tendencies, but they are generally not a breed that gets along well with other dogs, especially in unfamiliar environments.
8. Dogo Argentina
The Dogo Argentino is a strong and energetic dog breed, originally bred in Argentina to hunt large game. The breed has a strong prey drive and an innate sense of dominance, which can lead to aggressive behavior towards other dogs. The Dogo is known for its courageous and protective nature, traits that make it an excellent watchdog, but can also cause aggression towards other dogs. They are particularly aggressive towards dogs of the same sex and may not tolerate the presence of other dogs, especially in their territory. Socialization and training are important for the Dogo Argentino, but even with proper training, they can be aggressive towards strange dogs, making them better suited to homes with only one dog or where their interactions with other dogs can be closely monitored.
7. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small but feisty dog breed known for its high energy levels and strong hunting instincts. Originally bred to hunt small game, the Jack Russell is naturally aggressive, especially towards other small animals and dogs. Despite their small size, they are extremely determined and can be quite aggressive, which can lead to aggressive behavior towards other dogs, especially those of similar size or smaller. Jack Russells need early and consistent socialization to help reduce these tendencies, but they are not generally a breed that gets along well with other dogs. Their energetic nature and strong will make them better suited to homes with only one dog or where their interactions with other dogs can be closely monitored.
6. Fila Brazil
The Fila Brasileiro, or Brazilian Mastiff, is a breed of dog known for its fierce loyalty and protective nature. Historically used to guard livestock and property, the Fila Brasileiro has strong territorial instincts and can be very aggressive towards other dogs. This breed is generally suspicious of unfamiliar dogs and can react aggressively if it perceives a threat to its family or territory. The Fila is particularly aggressive and may not get along well with other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Socialization from a young age is important to help control these tendencies, but even with proper training, the Fila Brasileiro can still be aggressive towards other dogs. This breed is best suited to experienced owners who can provide the training and supervision necessary to ensure they get along well with other dogs.
5. American Pit Bull
The American Pit Bull Terrier is a dog breed with a bad reputation, known for its strength, determination, and loyalty. Originally bred for bullfighting and later dog fighting, Pit Bulls have a naturally aggressive nature, especially towards other dogs. While they can be loving and affectionate with their families, Pit Bulls can be very aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Their strong hunting instincts and natural dominance make them more likely to engage in fights with other dogs, especially if they feel challenged or threatened. Early socialization and training are important to help control these tendencies, but even with proper guidance, Pit Bulls can still be aggressive towards unfamiliar dogs. It is important for owners to demonstrate firm leadership and be aware of the breed’s potential for aggression to prevent unwanted incidents.
4. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a sturdy and energetic dog breed that was originally developed in Africa for hunting and guarding. The breed is known for its strong prey drive and independent nature, which can lead to aggression towards other dogs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is naturally aggressive and can be intolerant of other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Their protective instincts make them wary of unfamiliar dogs, and they can react aggressively if they perceive a threat to their territory or family. Early socialization and training are important to help control these tendencies, but even with proper training, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can remain reserved or hostile towards strange dogs. This breed is best suited to experienced owners who can provide firm and consistent leadership.
3. bull mastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large, majestic dog breed that was originally developed in England to guard estates and wildlife reserves. The breed has strong protective instincts and can be quite aggressive, traits that can lead to aggression towards other dogs. Bullmastiffs are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families, but these traits can also make them aggressive towards other dogs, especially those they perceive as a threat. They are naturally aggressive and may not tolerate the presence of other dogs, especially in their territory. Socialization and training from a young age are important to help control these tendencies, but even with proper training, Bullmastiffs can still be aggressive towards strange dogs. This breed is best suited to experienced owners who can provide firm and consistent leadership.
2. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a large, powerful dog that was originally used for guarding and hunting in Italy. This breed has strong protective instincts and can be very territorial, traits that can lead to aggression towards other dogs. The Cane Corso is naturally aggressive and can be intolerant of the presence of other dogs, especially those of the same sex. They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their family, but these traits can also make them aggressive towards other dogs, especially if they feel their territory is being threatened. Socialization and training from an early age are important to help control these tendencies, but even with proper training, the Cane Corso can be aggressive towards strange dogs. This breed is best suited to experienced owners who can provide firm and consistent leadership.
1. American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a sturdy and energetic dog breed that was originally bred in the United States to herd livestock and guard property. The breed has strong protective instincts and can be quite aggressive, traits that can lead to aggression toward other dogs. The American Bulldog is known for its loyalty and devotion to its family, but these traits can also make it aggressive toward other dogs, especially those it perceives as a threat. They are naturally aggressive and may not tolerate the presence of other dogs, especially in their territory. Socialization and training from an early age are important to help control these tendencies, but even with proper training, the American Bulldog can be aggressive toward strange dogs. This breed is best suited to experienced owners who can provide firm and consistent leadership.
Each of these breeds has its own characteristics and temperaments that make them prone to aggression towards other dogs. While they can be loyal and loving companions, their instincts and tendencies require careful management and responsible ownership. Proper socialization, training, and supervision are essential to ensure that these breeds can coexist safely with other dogs. For those considering one of these breeds, it is important to understand the potential challenges and be prepared to provide the guidance and leadership needed to manage their behavior.
