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Dog Attacks By Breed
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Understanding Dog Attacks by Breed
When a dog attack occurs, people often want to know what breed was responsible. However, research shows breed is not a reliable predictor of aggression in dogs. While some breeds like pit bulls or Rottweilers are often blamed, any dog is capable of attacking given the right circumstances.
Breed Statistics and Dog Bites
According to the CDC, an estimated 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the U.S. Of those, approximately 20-30 fatalities happen per year. However, breed data for attacks is often unreliable since visual identification of mixed breeds is difficult.
For example, a 2011 literature review found reports of breed often conflicted between media accounts, animal control reports, and police reports for the same attack. Also, breed popularity changes over time so bite statistics will reflect that.
In the 70s, Doberman Pinschers and German Shepherds were blamed for more attacks. Now it’s often pit bull-type dogs as they surged in popularity in the 90s. But if another breed becomes popular, they may be unfairly vilified unless we understand what truly drives aggression.
What Causes Dog Aggression?
While genetics contribute, studies show nurture plays a larger role. According to this 2007 literature review, breed differences in aggression are “minimal when compared to breed phenotypic variations in morphology.”
In other words, factors like a dog’s size, sex, early socialization, training, health, and victim behavior better predict aggression than breed alone. For example, intact males are more likely to bite than neutered ones. Dogs who lack socialization or positive training methods are also more prone to reacting aggressively in stressful situations.
Let’s explore some key factors beyond breed that contribute to attacks:
Puppies have a critical socialization window between 3-16 weeks old. When deprived normal, positive interactions during this time, it can lead to fear-based behaviors. Dogs use aggression to cope when feeling threatened by unfamiliar people, animals or environments.
Insufficient socialization is a common factor in severe attacks per multiple studies. So early positive experiences are vital, especially for breeds with guarding instincts.
Abusive Owners
Dogs with abusive owners are more likely to attack. Owners who neglect, chain, fight, beat, or intimidate their dogs can create unstable animals prone to biting.
For example, a 2013 study found physical abuse raised aggression in some breeds more than others. Unfortunately, pit bulls are attractive for dog fighting and intimidation purposes due to their muscular build. But again, it’s the owner behavior – not the breed itself – that creates aggression through abuse.
Poor Health
Sick or injured dogs may bite due to feeling vulnerable. Older dogs can develop cognitive issues or pain that causes unpredictable behavior changes. Dogs in chronic pain are more likely to show aggression when approached or touched in sensitive areas.
Getting regular vet check-ups can help identify health issues before behavior deteriorates. Dogs also need proper grooming as matted fur pulling on skin can be very painful and lead to bites.
Lack of Training
All dogs need basic obedience training to respect boundaries, even little dogs! Untrained dogs are more apt to jump, nip, or react fearfully in public. They often don’t return reliably when called, which can be dangerous.
Using only punishment-based methods can also backfire. Dogs may behave aggressively due to fear of harsh corrections. Or they become confused if owners allow some inappropriate behaviors but not others.
Consistent rules and positive reinforcement methods work best for a well-trained companion.
Victim Behavior
How victims interact with a dog can influence bites too. Running from an unfamiliar dog may trigger predatory chase instincts. Trying to touch or move a sleeping, injured, or territorial dog can prompt defensive reactions. Even petting a dog without letting them see and sniff you first can startle them.
Children also sustain more bites as they don’t always understand dog body language indicating fear or anxiety. Dogs should be slowly introduced to kids and supervised, even family pets.
In short, there are many reasons a dog may attack someone. Assuming it’s breed-specific can prevent addressing the real root causes in that animal and owner’s situation.
Managing Powerful Breeds
That said, some breeds can do more damage if they attack due to physical traits like size, strength and bite style. Herding breeds may nip more. Sighthounds will chase. And terriers are feisty!
Pit bulls, Rottweilers, and other muscular breeds can be wonderful pets but need knowledgeable owners. With proper socialization, handling, and training, they prove no more aggressive than other dogs. However, if they do attack, the injuries can be grave due to their strength.
If considering a powerful breed, be honest with yourself. Do you have the experience to provide structure, exercise, training, and reasonable precautions? Or might a less intense breed be better for your lifestyle? Meet the parents whenever possible too for any breed. Temperament is inherited.
No matter what though, spay/neuter your pet! Intact dogs show more territorial behaviors. And don’t chain dogs unattended – it increases frustration.
Muzzle Training
Muzzle training is also wise for any breed with high prey drive or past bite history. Used properly, a dog can pant, drink, play, and take treats wearing a muzzle. It’s just wise protection against accidents.
Introduce them slowly with lots of praise and rewards. Find a comfortable basket-style one sized appropriately. Never just slap one on in an emergency! Fit is crucial to ensure your dog can open their mouth enough.
Secure Gates/Fences
Make sure your yard is secure too. Some breeds like huskies will roam given any chance. And dogs left alone outside get bored and can dig or jump surprisingly high fences.
Electronic underground ones work well if installed properly. Just be sure to put a top barrier too so cats or wildlife don’t tempt your dog. Gates should latch firmly and have no gap at bottom or sides.
Latch-style handles for gates are wise too. Some clever pups learn to open regular knobs!
Limit Interactions
Set your powerful pup up for success by limiting interactions in uncontrolled environments. For example, don’t leave them unattended with children or strangers. Require introductions to be calm and structured.
If your breed is prone to dog aggression, avoid crowded dog parks and on-leash encounters which can trigger that prey drive. Walk them at less busy times. Cross the street to give wide berth. Carry deterrent spray and train an emergency recall command.
Leash reactivity is also common frustration for dogs who can’t greet every dog they see. So reward calm behavior and use barriers like cars or trees to block sight-lines. The more you avoid reactive scenarios, the less your dog will practice and reinforce that habit.
In home settings, use baby gates, crates and closed doors to control access between dogs and children. Create safe spaces your dog can retreat to when overwhelmed. Read up on canine body language so you can intervene at early stress signals, not escalated growls and bites.
Emergency Training
Work on “drop it” and “leave it!” cues from puppyhood using high-value treats. These commands could save your dog from eating something lethal dropped on a walk. Or you to safely take something harmful from their mouth.
Train emergency recall using long lines before ever relying solely on voice. Dogs often blow off calls when extremely excited, fearful or focused. So that lifeline ensures you can rein them in when safety is at stake.
Desensitize handling and restraint too. Make it fun! You need to be able to examine every inch, treat wounds, remove embedded foxtails, wipe muddy paws etc. without a battle. Plus vets require dogs who tolerate procedures without sedation.
When to Get Help
If you notice any aggressive tendencies developing, don’t wait! Consult an accredited trainer or behaviorist certified in modern reward-based methods. Avoid old school programs based on physical corrections and punishment. They often suppress warning signs without addressing the root emotional cause.
Medication can provide emotional stability alongside training in extreme cases. Some dogs also benefit from custom muzzles, secured outdoor kennels, or even rehoming if an owner cannot provide adequate structure and supervision long-term.
As a last resort, dogs with a known bite history and poor prognosis for rehabilitation may undergo humane euthanasia after a thorough behavioral exam. However this decision is complex with many factors to weigh.
The Role of Responsible Owners
At the end of the day, any breed can attack given the wrong genetics and environment. A responsible owner minimizes aggression risks by:
• Socializing and training properly from puppyhood
• Providing adequate exercise, stimulation and affection
• Managing medical/behavioral issues promptly
• Supervising all interactions carefully
• Using secure gates/fences, crates, muzzles when appropriate
Avoid chaining, tethering, abuse, intimidation or dog fighting which only fosters further aggression.
Spay/neuter your pet too unless you’re a qualified breeder. Intact dogs tend to be more territorial.
And consider your lifestyle match. Honestly assess if you can meet a breed’s complex needs before falling for cute puppies. Require health and temperament proof in parents.
Finally, educate children on safe behavior around dogs. Never approach unfamiliar pets without owner permission. Don’t run/scream/poke around a dog. Be gentle and learn to read body language.
Follow these tips and you’ll likely enjoy a safe, loving bond with your canine companion for years. While breed traits matter, a dog’s behavior ultimately comes down to genetics, early experiences, training, supervision and responsible ownership.