↓ Read on to watch this amazing video
key point
- Dogs may exhibit aggressive behavior if their territory is violated.
- They may stand still, growl, bark, or snort.
- Their behavior may be triggered by fear or discomfort.
According to the ASPCA, different types of aggressive dogs are the number one problem facing dog owners. Aggression can create fear and can turn even a very small Chihuahua into a scary dog. Many owners who cannot control this behavior find themselves figuring out how to surrender their pets.
A dog that appears to be aggressive by nature will usually follow a set of behaviors. Often, this represents a domestic interior temperament in which the dog delivers messages. Whether it’s to strangers or animals, dogs want to show that something is wrong. You represent prey, territory invaders, or other actions.
Signs of the most aggressive dog idiosyncrasies include:
- become stiff and still
- snarl, slap, or snarl
- show their teeth
- threatening throat barking
- rush at or toward a person or animal
- Attempts to control other people or animals with intense pressure (such as refusing to let them pass)
- Dog punches with the nose (called “muzzle punches”)
- Leave no trace warning clip
- bites that leave bruises or punctures
- Repeated, continuous bite
- bite and shake
What are the main types of aggression in dogs?
Most aggressive dogs will exhibit the usual threatening body language. For many dogs, aggression is a natural form of communication. But this behavior is also classified as problematic and undesirable in different types of aggressive dogs.
Signs of aggressive behavior include:
- gaze
- cry
- roar
- roar
- capture
- bite
- advance
Many of these behaviors are idiopathic. Predatory aggression is based as much on fear or anxiety as it is on an emotional response the brain evokes. The situation can get unmanageable if left unleashed, and now pet owners need to know where to surrender their animals.
The context in which the behavior occurs is different. Finally, the dog wants to convey a message:
- increase distance
- be warned
- you are prey
The following are the main forms of natural aggressive behavior in fearful dogs.
- territory: A dog can sense that its territory is threatened by people or animals it does not know well. This is a temperament associated with control, often towards strangers on the dog owner’s property. It could also involve roaming squirrels or cats.
- Predatory: A predatory attack is usually directed at another animal, but occasionally the target may be a human. It requires seeing another creature as prey for hunting, capturing and potentially consuming. Predatory aggression is usually silent, and attacks are unchecked and destructive.
- Redirection or frustration: Frustrating or redirecting events are often triggered by emotional arousal. A dog that is unable to direct its aggression toward its chosen victim may attack objects, people, or other animals. Usually, it is someone or something that stands between the dog and its intended prey.
- social conflict: The complexity of situations associated with social conflict leads canines to engage in intra-familial fights against people they are unfamiliar with. Unexpected interactions may spark anger and behavior.
- sex: Interactions related to mating often make dogs aggressive. Male dogs may compete with female dogs. Even females have been known to fight over males.
- possessive: Resource conservation is directed at a person or animal, giving the impression that something a dog values is at risk. (A prime example of this is not disturbing dogs while they are eating. Many dogs will bite or bite people out of fear that you will try to take their food.)
- disease: Communicable and non-communicable diseases can trigger aggression in animals. Rabies is a good example.
- Protective or Maternal: Females are more likely to exhibit maternal/protective aggression and perceive threats to offspring. In other cases, we train dogs to be aggressive for protection and safety purposes.
- fear or anxiety: A dog that bites can feel cornered, trapped, or approached without permission. This behavior may lead to unpleasant results.
- Irritability or pain associated with: Dogs in pain or discomfort can become aggressive.
10 Aggressive Dog Breeds
From biting dogs to territorial and fearful dogs, canines exhibit control-related behaviors that cause fear and can lead to injury. But some animals have a greater temperament for this behavior than others. Here is a list of 10 different types of fighting dogs.
1. American Staffordshire Terrier

©iStock.com/Bargais
American Staffordshire Terriers are known as Pit Bulls because they are used as fighting dogs…in the pits. Resource conservation is a strong trait, but generally these are loving and affectionate dogs. Fighting defilement is aggressive training. But even the worst fighters have been canine trained and become trusty pets.
2. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in the world. They are deployed as guides, watchdogs, police dogs and search and rescue animals. Their strength and status within the family can easily come across as intimidating. German Shepherds have a naturally protective temperament that can become aggressive. Early socialization can help with this.
3. Rottweiler

© iStock.com/Megan Jenkins
With a thick build and 150 pounds, the affectionate Rottweiler is a formidable threat. As hard as it gets, the breed once pulled wheelbarrows full of butchery meat. Aggressive and extremely territorial by nature, many owners have taken advantage of these traits, creating attack dogs. The Rottweiler is a docile and loving family pet if the dog is not improperly trained.
4. Sugarcane

©Eudyptula/Shutterstock.com
The Italian bred Cane Corso is a huge mastiff that guards property and hunts big game. It’s extremely protective and social, but still lacks comfort with strangers. The Cane Corso needs a consistent and committed owner, as well as early dog training. In many cases, the dog cannot live with smaller animals, or even around neighbors or roaming animals.
5. Chow Chow

© Maxim Petrichuk/Shutterstock.com
The Chow Chow is very territorial. They hunt, herd, guard and show extraordinary loyalty to their families. Early socialization and dog training are crucial if you want to keep this fluffy puppy as a pet. Otherwise, you could end up with an idiopathic animal showing signs of bad behavior.
6. Siberian Husky

©iStock.com/format35
Famous for sled racing, the Siberian Husky possesses boundless energy and intelligence. They need regular mental and physical stimulation. Frustration can lead to aggressive behavior. They have the ability to hunt down nearby small animals and household pets. The dog is unpredictable and needs to monitor children and strangers around him.
7. Doberman Pinscher

©eAlisa/Shutterstock.com
The Doberman Pinscher is one of the most recognized dog breeds in the world. Their intelligence is sharp and they can be affectionate and friendly when dog training is implemented early on. Untrained animals are often highly sensitive and suspicious of strangers. These dogs exhibit resource conservation behaviors associated with natural controls that can lead to dangerous situations. This behavior needs to be tempered with common sense from training.
8. Chihuahua

© iStock.com/travel agency
The Chihuahua is usually a pet dog to be pampered, but they are believed to have large, aggressive personalities. Like biting dogs, they have no trouble hunting down threats. They are not an option for families with young children, as dogs do not tolerate risky behavior. This animal is known for developing a close bond with a family member and is ready to die for them, even in the face of larger animals.
9. Akita

© Tatyana Panova/Shutterstock.com
Akita Inu is a Japanese breed. Dog training has traditionally gravitated toward guard or police work. They are naturally aggressive towards other dogs and wary of strangers. Early training of dogs is crucial to help them stop seeing animals and people as threats.
10. Perro de Presa Canario

© iStock.com/Mary Swift
Born to herd in the Canary Islands, the giant Perro de Presa Canario was bred to deal with threats. With control-related training, pets need the hands of a firm and experienced dog owner. Smart owners have kept a solid six-foot fence to keep animals from roaming around. For Perro de Presa Canario, socialization and training are not only essential, but must remain constant.
dog training
Training is critical to correcting naturally aggressive behavior. Track when an animal becomes aggressive and what happens at that time. This information will then have an impact on viewing the root cause of the behavior. This information is also important in deciding your next steps, as you will have records to show your veterinarian or trainer.
what can you do
Different types of aggressive dogs can lead to dangerous situations. Here’s how to manage canine aggression.
- Relax: Dogs feed on our anxieties. Stay calm and firm. You don’t want to stress yourself or your dog.
- Evaluate: Frustration may be driving your dog. It may require more exercise, socializing, or outdoor activities. Pay attention to the animal’s temperament to help eliminate signs of aggression.
- no bullying: Much of a dog’s aggression comes from irresponsible training, which often includes taunting and punishment. Avoid putting the dog on trial. Be fair and firm, but don’t get overly angry or punishing.
- Choose carefully: Many newcomers don’t do their research and end up with a breed they weren’t prepared for. This is unfair to the dog and the family.
- Talk to a veterinarian: Medical conditions such as pain-related injuries may be associated with poor behavior.
- For help: Dog training will help correct the animal’s temperament. A certified trainer can reduce stress and potential risks.
We want to prevent owners from needing to figure out where to surrender their beloved pets. Depending on the breed and each dog’s unique temperament, there may be different ways to manage aggressive behavior. Along with professional help, you’ll need time, consistency, and patience.
summarize
ranking | aggressive dog breed |
1 | American Staffordshire Terrier |
2 | german shepherd |
3 | Rottweiler |
4 | sugar cane |
5 | chow chow |
7 | siberian husky |
8 | doberman pinscher |
9 | Chihuahua |
10 | Perro de Presa Canario |
next…
Keep reading these posts for more incredible facts about key animals.
- 10 Species of Wild Dogs: The undomesticated relatives of man’s best friend that roam the globe where they roam free. This article is an ideal starting point for dingoes.
- Top 8 Scariest Dog Breeds: Some Are Half Wolf, Half Dog, Others Represent Canine Law Enforcement. However, that intimidating exterior hides a warm heart that can be revealed with the right training. Read about these adorable tough canines.
- Best Large Dog Breeds: Some have a mind of their own and others have an elephant-like memory. But one thing that unites them all is their size. Find out how big they are capable of getting.
Ready to discover the top 10 cutest dog breeds in the world?
How about the fastest dogs, the biggest dogs, and those who are – quite frankly – just the kindest dogs on earth? Every day, AZ Animals sends out lists like this to our thousands of email subscribers. The best part? free. Join today by entering your email below.

I am broadly interested in how human activities influence the ability of wildlife to persist in the modified environments that we create.
Specifically, my research investigates how the configuration and composition of landscapes influence the movement and population dynamics of forest birds. Both natural and human-derived fragmenting of habitat can influence where birds settle, how they access the resources they need to survive and reproduce, and these factors in turn affect population demographics. Most recently, I have been studying the ability of individuals to move through and utilize forested areas which have been modified through timber harvest as they seek out resources for the breeding and postfledging phases. As well I am working in collaboration with Parks Canada scientists to examine in the influence of high density moose populations on forest bird communities in Gros Morne National Park. Many of my projects are conducted in collaboration or consultation with representatives of industry and government agencies, seeking to improve the management and sustainability of natural resource extraction.