Buzz
In a previous article, I explored ten dog breeds that have been banned worldwide due to their size and aggression. However, large dogs aren’t the only ones that deserve a second look. Smaller breeds often get overlooked, despite biting as often—if not more—than their larger counterparts. Because their bites are typically less severe and don't require medical attention as frequently, the statistics can be misleading. Below is a list of ten breeds that may be smaller or less obviously threatening but are often underestimated in terms of aggression.
10. Dachshund
The word ‘Dachshund’ comes from the German word for ‘badger dog,’ which says a lot about their tough nature. Bred to confront fierce badgers, these dogs were built to be tough and tenacious. Despite their small stature, the dachshund has the grit of an animal far larger in size. Often mocked as the ‘wiener dog,’ its unique physique lets it burrow into tight spaces, chasing its prey into the earth. Weighing in at under 30 pounds, the dachshund is feisty, assertive, and can be more prone to aggression than breeds like Rottweilers or pit bulls. Studies even suggest that it’s one of the most aggressive breeds around, particularly when it comes to interaction with people and other animals.
9. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is one of the most ancient dog breeds, with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Despite its fluffy, bear-like appearance, it is known for being naturally aggressive and unpredictable. With its deeply-set eyes, the Chow has limited peripheral vision, which can easily lead to it being startled or annoyed unexpectedly. Fiercely loyal to its owner and wary of strangers, its aloof nature has often been likened to that of a cat. Weighing up to 70 pounds, the purple-tongued Chow was originally used for hunting and guarding in China, and even served as food in some regions, which might explain its somewhat prickly demeanor.
8. Jack Russell Terrier
Most famous for playing Frasier Crane’s dog Moose or for portraying Wishbone from the popular children’s series and book, the Jack Russell Terrier is primarily a working dog. Once bred to hunt foxes and track vermin underground, this breed has only recently become a common house pet. Despite their small size, rarely exceeding 20lbs, Jack Russells are known for their fierce temperament, strong jaws, and determination. If not given enough stimulation or socialization, they can become aggressive, and their tenacity makes them fearless in any confrontation.
7. Dalmatian
When the animated classic 101 Dalmatians was released in 1961 and its live-action remake followed in 1996, the Dalmatian saw an unprecedented rise in popularity. Sadly, many new owners were unprepared for the challenges of owning one. A medium-sized dog, reaching up to 70lbs, originally bred in Yugoslavia for carriage escort and protection, the Dalmatian also became synonymous with firehouses due to its historical role as a fire wagon dog. Known for its bond with horses, it is a highly independent and protective breed, which is not always the best fit for families with young children. Without proper exercise, this energetic breed can become destructive and aggressive.
6. Cocker Spaniels
With their soft, droopy ears, innocent eyes, and their Disney connection, Cocker Spaniels are the epitome of sweetness. But behind their charming appearance lies a sensitive and sometimes neurotic nature. This breed requires thorough socialization, but even the best training can't always prevent the genetic rage syndrome they are known for. When a Cocker Spaniel suffers from this condition, it may attack without warning, only to seem perfectly calm and unaware moments later. While there’s no definitive cure for rage syndrome, anti-epilepsy medications have occasionally helped alleviate the symptoms.
5. Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier’s amusing egg-shaped head and its portrayal in popular culture, like Spuds MacKenzie and the Target mascot, have given it a reputation far from its true nature. Historically, the Bull Terrier shares a similar background with the Pit Bull, having been used in brutal blood sports. Particularly, they were adept at ratting, being released into rodent-infested areas to clear them out. Though today’s Bull Terriers are generally gentler, they retain some of their fierce, gladiator-like instincts. Without a firm and experienced owner, they can become overly dominant, showing aggression toward other animals. They are also predisposed to conditions like deafness and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
4. Shar Pei
Once considered one of the rarest dog breeds in the world, the Shar Pei, with its characteristic wrinkled, pudgy body, has been a part of Chinese history for over two millennia. While there is no direct evidence, it is likely that the Shar Pei shares a common ancestor with the Chow Chow, as both are ancient breeds with the unique trait of a purple tongue. Despite their adorable appearance, the Shar Pei’s loose skin served a practical and somewhat gruesome purpose: it allowed the dog to twist and bite back during dog fights, making it a formidable opponent even if an adversary gained a solid grip. While dog fighting has become less common due to the rarity of the Shar Pei and the dominance of Western bull breeds, the Shar Pei still retains its protective instincts and serious demeanor.
3. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, the tiniest dog breed in the world, seems to have an innate need to compensate for its diminutive size. Weighing under six pounds when fully grown, these nervous little creatures are particularly ill-suited for households with young children. Known for their strong attachment to their owners, Chihuahuas can become obsessively protective, attacking anyone who comes near, including larger dogs. Often spoiled by their owners, they are allowed to engage in behaviors that would be unacceptable in a bigger breed. This phenomenon is known as 'small dog syndrome,' which can only be corrected if the owner takes charge and demands respect. Chihuahuas are prone to a range of health issues, likely due to early inbreeding meant to achieve their tiny size.
2. Beagle
Snoopy, Charlie Brown’s iconic pet, is perhaps the world’s most famous Beagle, a spirited and versatile hunting breed that falls in the small to medium size range. Like many breeds with a working heritage, the Beagle’s instinctive drive can sometimes become overwhelming. This excitable and impulsive nature makes training challenging and can lead to unwanted behaviors such as biting. When the Beagle picks up an enticing scent, it may ignore its owner completely. With proper training and discipline, Beagles can make excellent pets, but they do suffer when indulged too much.
1. Pekingese
Distinct from many breeds on this list, the Pekingese boasts a royal lineage. An ancient breed, it was once exclusively kept by the Chinese Imperial Court, remaining within China’s borders for centuries. It wasn’t until 1860, during the Second Opium War, when British and French forces invaded and brought some of these dogs back to Europe. With their flat faces and thick, fluffy coats, Pekingese resemble little gremlins. Their temperament mirrors their history as pampered pets of royalty: they tend to be aloof, unfriendly toward strangers and children, and are surprisingly brave in standing up to other dogs, despite their small size and vulnerability.
