NOTE: aggressive and dangerous have different meanings.
From Daniel
Allow me to cut to the chase. I am in no way inferring any specific breed of dog is “bad.” While it’s true I prefer some breeds over others, (I LOVE ALL DOGS), but some people should not own certain dogs or a certain breed of dog.
WHY, as a dog professional, would I state this? Because I have trained the majority of the breeds in this area. I have witnessed their behaviors and mindsets, I know how the general population is bred and what they are bred for, and, I follow statistics which only back what I have witnessed. I know the characteristics of the breeds themselves as well as the human characteristics as to WHY each human selects the dog he or she chooses.
There are definite breeds prone to aggression. Some are large breeds, some are small. Chihuahuas, in example, are known to be an aggressive little dog. They might not make the stats as dangerous because they do not pose a serious threat like a Shephard or a Rottweiler. Remember that aggressive and dangerous have entirely different meanings.
ANY AGGRESSIVE DOG, REGARDLESS OF SIZE, NEEDS TO BE TRAINED SO HE DOES NOT BECOME DANGEROUS!
Let me give you an example. German Shepherds are a beautiful, intelligent, energetic, protective and confident breed. They make excellent guard and watch dogs, (there is a difference), and are usually good with children when introduced and trained as puppies. They are one of the most capable and trainable breeds and thus are selected nationwide as “police dogs” and a commonly used for guiding the disabled. Their loyalty is unsurpassed…. usually. The German Shepherd is my choice in a breed and “Gunny” was my loyal companion for many years, and before him, Abby, was my best friend for 15 1/2 years. I can’t imagine life without either of them. Gunny would fetch, roll over, and play dead. However, just as with people, there can always be a downside to a dog’s personality and I have witnessed this in Shepherds. German Shepherds may be my chosen breed, but, just as not everyone is skilled enough to drive a race car, not everyone should own a Shepherd. I have worked with Shepherds who were obstinate and did not take to command easily. By the time I was called in, the Shepherd ruled the roost, some even becoming dangerous. Not a welcomed characteristic in any household, especially those with small children or vulnerable adults.
THIS is precisely why, while I am obviously training your dog, I am also here to educate you in your role as the “master.”
As I have stated previously, not every dog is suited for “any environment.” One must be cautious when dealing with a dog who holds aggressive tendencies. Many dogs make the list for having the propensity to carry more dominant, protective, and active behaviors in their roles. It can become a hazardous environment when dealing with these particular breeds, and unfortunately, it is not always a happy ending for the family. In saying this, understand, a dog of ANY breed can be dangerous.
As a father of four and a professional dog trainer, I have, and always will hold the same stance. Children come first.
I applaud April and her family for recognizing that some risks are simply not worth it. I am always available to assist in placing dogs in the proper environment more suited for their temperament.
Aggressive behavior.....
- April Wood White
Human Fatalities - a sad reality
ASPCA on AGGRESSION
What personality fits YOUR needs?
Let me give you an example. German Shepherds are a beautiful, intelligent, energetic, protective and confident breed. They make excellent guard and watch dogs, (there is a difference), and are usually good with children when introduced and trained as puppies. They are one of the most capable and trainable breeds and thus are selected nationwide as “police dogs” and a commonly used for guiding the disabled. Their loyalty is unsurpassed…. usually. The German Shepherd is my choice in a breed and “Gunny” was my loyal companion for many years, and before him, Abby, was my best friend for 15 1/2 years. I can’t imagine life without either of them. Gunny would fetch, roll over, and play dead. However, just as with people, there can always be a downside to a dog’s personality and I have witnessed this in Shepherds. German Shepherds may be my chosen breed, but, just as not everyone is skilled enough to drive a race car, not everyone should own a Shepherd. I have worked with Shepherds who were obstinate and did not take to command easily. By the time I was called in, the Shepherd ruled the roost, some even becoming dangerous. Not a welcomed characteristic in any household, especially those with small children or vulnerable adults.
THIS is precisely why, while I am obviously training your dog, I am also here to educate you in your role as the “master.”
As I have stated previously, not every dog is suited for “any environment.” One must be cautious when dealing with a dog who holds aggressive tendencies. Many dogs make the list for having the propensity to carry more dominant, protective, and active behaviors in their roles. It can become a hazardous environment when dealing with these particular breeds, and unfortunately, it is not always a happy ending for the family. In saying this, understand, a dog of ANY breed can be dangerous.
As a father of four and a professional dog trainer, I have, and always will hold the same stance. Children come first.
I applaud April and her family for recognizing that some risks are simply not worth it. I am always available to assist in placing dogs in the proper environment more suited for their temperament.
