No one wants to welcome a a dangerous dog breed into their home. If you have kids or are just safety-conscious, it makes sense to do your due diligence on the most aggressive dog breeds before you get a pet. To help you with that, we compiled a list of the 7 most dangerous dog breeds, according to experts. That way, you’ll no which dogs can be best to avoid.

However, while some aggressive dog breeds are known for being more “dangerous” than others, every dog is different. “There are going to be some members of a breed that are considered aggressive that are perfectly sweet and trustworthy dogs, and some individuals of a non-aggressive breed that can be overly aggressive,” says Chyrle Bonk, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. A dog’s personality and behavior come from a range of factors, including their environment, training, and personal genetics, she says.

That doesn’t mean that any dog will attack, but the potential is there. If you fall in love with a dog from a breed often listed among the most dangerous dog breeds, don’t panic. “Breed isn’t destiny—training, structure, and trust shape behavior far more than labels ever could,” says Abel Gonzalez, DVM, clinical director at Dutch.

Still, Bonk notes that there are some intimidating dog breeds to avoid for safety reasons as they may be considered more dangerous than others, which is why herself and other pet experts would avoid owning certain dogs as pets. “There are some breeds that have been bred for certain duties that require more aggression than others, leading the breed as a whole to be considered more aggressive,” she says. Many of these powerful dogs have strong builds and a lot of muscle, which adds to their potential for danger.

So, if you want to be extra cautious, it’s worth considering breeds other than the ones listed below. But with proper training and responsible ownership, even one of these surprisingly fierce dog breeds can become good pets.

Related: The #1 Small Dog Breed a Vet Wouldn’t Own May Surprise You

7 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds

Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are big dogs that usually weigh 100 pounds or more, which can make them dangerous dog breeds to be around children and adults. “Because of this, handling this intimidating for socialization may be more difficult, especially for adult dogs,” Bonk says. “Socialization plays a huge role in how a dog behaves towards humans and other dogs, and lack of socialization can make some dogs aggressive when they’re in unfamiliar situations.”

Cane Corsos have a guard dog history, which can transfer to how they behave around others. “They can be very territorial and protective of their family and show aggression when in unfamiliar situations,” Bonk says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Intelligent, affectionate, majestic

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are another large breed that can be considered dangerous. “Most Bullmastiffs are gentle giants with their family and people they are familiar with, but they can be highly protective and territorial, so strangers and unknown animals may bring on some aggression,” Bonk says.

As with many aggressive dog breeds considered “dangerous,” this is especially true if a Bullmastiff hasn’t been socialized in a range of situations to increase their comfort levels with unfamiliar surroundings and people, Bonk says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, affectionate, brave

Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino is a powerful dog breed that was originally bred to hunt big game like pumas. These muscular dogs are strong and athletic, and are typically unafraid of large people and animals. They also have a natural watchdog nature, which can make them a potentially dangerous dog breed in some situations.

While Dogo Argentinos have the potential to be dangerous dogs, they tend to be loving to their owners, says Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel. However, the American Kennel Club (AKC) only lists Dogo Argentinos as moderately good with children—something to keep in mind if you have little ones at home.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, courageous, athletic

Related: 7 Most Popular Dog Breeds That Make Perfect Pets, Say Experts

American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a strong, muscular breed of dog often considered among potentially dangerous dog breeds due to its protective instincts and strength. “They’re powerful, confident dogs bred for farm and guard work,” Gonzalez says. “ Without consistent, positive training and socialization, that strength can become a liability.” Because of this, American Bulldogs can be a potentially dangerous dog breed if not properly managed.

Though, Gonzalez notes that American Bulldogs that receive plenty of structure and exercise tend to do well. “They’re loyal family protectors who just need clear leadership and mental engagement,” he says, showing that even aggressive dog breeds can thrive with proper training and care.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, self-confident

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one type of breed that’s lumped into the category of “Pit Bull,” which are considered among the most dangerous dog breeds by some. “Their reputation stems from human misuse, not inherent aggression,” Gonzalez says. He points out that this breed, which it can be risky to have like other large breeds, can also be affectionate, playful and eager-to-please when it’s raised with love. Basically, how they are raised and the training they get can influence how dangerous they are.

The good news is, this tough-looking breed is easy to train and highly adaptable. The AKC also notes that Staffordshire Bull Terriers tend to have a special affection for children, showing that even breeds often labeled dangerous dogs can be safe and loving with proper care, training and guidance.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Clever, brave, tenacious

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are a strong and fierce breed with a guard dog history, and are often listed among potentially dangerous dog breeds due to their strength and protective instincts. While this intimidating breed has been involved in some animal attacks over the years, it’s often due to mishandling. In fact, Nita Vasudevan, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, says this breed can be misunderstood.

While this tough breed is a born guardian and will do what it can to protect family members, it can make them a little more wary of strangers, Vasudevan says. Though, Rottweilers are naturally affectionate with their owners and can be family pets when trained and cared for.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, loving, confident guardian

Presa Canario

The Presa Canario is a stocky breed with a low bark that can be intimidating. This muscular dog looks very similar to a Cane Corso, too.

It’s worth noting that the AKC does not recommend that Presa Canarios be around children or other dogs. The organization also notes that this high-risk dog breed is less affectionate with family members, unlike some other powerful dogs that can have a gentler side. When you combine those factors together, it makes sense why this dog breed is often considered dangerous and may not be the best choice for a family pet.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Strong-willed, confident, calm

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This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Nov 22, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.