17 Scariest Dog Breeds

There isn’t truly a “scariest” dog breed. The perception of a dog breed as “scary” often results from misconceptions, stereotypes, and lack of knowledge.

However, some breeds are often misperceived as “scary” due to their physical characteristics or misrepresented behaviors, such as Pitbulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, and German Shepherds.

It’s important to remember that a dog’s temperament and behavior are heavily influenced by their upbringing, training, socialization, and treatment. Therefore, labeling a particular breed as “scary” is unfair and inaccurate.

Last Updated on September 20, 2023

. Are you searching for the scariest dog breed that will keep criminals away? These “scary” dog breeds are often gentle giants. In reality, some of the most frightening-looking dog breeds are actually the gentlest and kindest dogs you’ve ever seen.

Humans are visual-dependent and can be scared off by the sight of an animal.

A scary looking dog will protect your home. However, other breeds are capable of protecting your home with actions. The following dog breeds can help you find the perfect furry friend and protector to protect your family and home.

Scariest Dog Breeds

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is quickly becoming a common guard and work dog, on top of being a favorite dog breed of military personnel. They are strong runners and have curious gazes. They were not specifically created as a single breed but were grouped in 1891 when dog shows started to become the rage.

Belgian Malinois, like German Shepherds, are often seen as guard dogs and can turn away burglars by their looks alone. They are quick runner with strong muscles that can keep up to a fleeing criminal. Belgian Malinois need to do a lot of exercise as well as proper nutrition in order to maintain their body. They are not suited for enclosed spaces, and can end up running in circles.


Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a sturdy, muscular breed hailing from Germany ,. They were trained to pull carts for their marketgoers. Rottweilers, despite their labor-intensive past, are extremely strong dogs . Rottweilers are intelligent and can be trained to learn quickly. Rottweilers are not afraid to face danger, and they can protect their family members fiercely. Rottweilers are not quick to jump into attack mode when faced with a stranger or in a new environment. Proper breeding is essential for Rottweilers.

They can be very rowdy when provoked and learn to be aggressive if they are not taught and led with a firm hand. Rottweilers are able to learn to be gentle with their family and friends, but can also learn how to be aggressive when necessary.


American Bully

American Bull Terriers are one of many types of “pitbull”, a group that includes bull terriers, Staffordshire English Terriers, and others. American Bull Terriers nowadays are happy at home. Pitbulls are known for being aggressive fighting dogs.

This is because American Bull Terriers are often the top choices for underground fighting pits. American Bull Terriers, even without their pit-fighting training, are loving lap dogs who love to be cuddled and squealed with.

But their nature does not necessarily mean they can’t protect their family. People who don’t do their research about American Bull Terriers are likely to run and hide in fear of a vicious predator. If necessary, American Bull Terriers can protect their masters by using their powerful build and stocky bodies to their full advantage.


Caucasian Ovcharka

The Caucasian Ovcharka, or the Caucasian Shepherd Dog, is an ancient massive breed with a thick coat of fur. They were created in the Caucasus to guard sheep against wolves and other intruders, as their name implies. They are also waterproof and can be useful in the harsh winters on the steppe.

Besides imposing , Caucasian Ovcharka are extremely protective of their family members and property. If they wanted to, they could easily knock over a burglar or unwelcome person. They are excellent guard dogs.

*Caucasian Ovcharki requires a special diet. It is essential to consult a registered breeder to ensure that your dog receives the right food. Ovcharki can also be difficult to train in obedience because they are very independent. Ovcharki can also be very hostile to strangers which could cause problems in your relationship.


Great Dane

Great Danes are the tallest breed of dog, standing at an average of 30-32 inches at the withers. Although they were originally bred to hunt boars, they have been bred with a hunting mindset. This makes Great Danes adjust quite well to a domestic setting.

Great Danes make wonderful family pets and are gentle with children . The Great Dane’s size and powerful bark can deter criminals, as well as alert homeowners to an intrusion.

Great Danes require a lot of exercise and plenty of space, just like other large breeds. Great Danes require a lot of social interaction and play to avoid getting moody. Their wagging tail can cause damage to objects and make it difficult for them to live in small apartments. Obedience training may be beneficial for some Great Danes, since they can become too playful and cause problems.


German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a rival to the Doberman in the role of working dog on television. German Shepherds are intelligent, strong, loyal and loyal. They are often taken up as guard dogs. A lot of hardened criminals understand that a German Shepherd who is well-trained is not a dog to be played with ..

Originally bred to protect their flocks, the sheer energy and strength that a German Shepherd possesses can turn away someone who does not wish to be met with a terrifying defender. To be fearsome and loyal, German Shepherds must be properly trained, exercised, and socialized.

*Puppy obedience classes should be a regular part of your puppy’s training. To avoid hyperactivity and high-strung behavior, they need to be exercised regularly. German Shepherds are ideal for active households with a large, fenced-in yard to play in and explore.


Newfoundland

The Newfoundland dog breed is a massive one. These dogs were originally bred to be work dogs. They pulled fish nets through the Newfoundland waters. Their thick, shaggy, black, or brown coat doubles their size . Newfoundlands are well-known for being great swimmers, but they move and run just as well on land! This trait is even inherited by some Newfoundland mix.

Newfoundland dogs can be dangerous for criminals or unwelcome individuals. The Newfoundland dog is also willing to defend their owners. They will often put themselves between their owners’ and a threat.

Although they can look intimidating, Newfoundland dogs tend to be gentle and docile. Newfoundland dogs can also gain weight faster than they need so anyone wanting to own one will require a lot of yard space . Newfoundland dogs love being in the water, so a swimming pool may be in order!


Great Pyrenees

These dogs are a bit like friendly Golden Retrievers. They are serious workers and were bred from herding dogs. Some of the heaviest Great Pyrenees dogs grow up to 115 pounds and can stand up to 32 inches at the withers.

The Great Pyrenees are a guardian dogs and use their powerful bark fully to scare away burglars or intruders. The Great Pyrenees can also be an independent dog, and will scare away intruders on its own when it feels threatened.

Great Pyrenees are a wonderful family pet if they are not being provoked. They can be very gentle with small pets and children. Because they are often curious about the boundaries of their territory, they need a secure area.


Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the world’s oldest breeds, originating in France. They were originally bred to be hunting and fighting dogs until the French Revolution. The guard dogs for livestock . were their original purpose. They are an affectionate and lively breed, which thrives in a family with a lot of activity.

Their expression might give intruders cause to pause. They are a strong individual who will not be intimidated by a threat or challenge. They are happy to spend time with family, even though they do drool about everything.


Tosa Inu

The Tosa Inu is another huge breed originating from Japan. These dogs were originally bred to be fighting dogs. This breed is dangerous in many , countries, including the UK and Ireland. Most Tosa Inu are calm, gentle giants when unprovoked.

The Tosa Inu’s ingrained aggression toward other animals is what makes it scary. It is not likely to want to live in a house with other pets or children. They can make a wonderful pet if they are well trained, even if they drool a lot or lunge at squirrels too often.


Tibetan Mastiff

The ancient Tibetan Mastiff is another scary looking dog breed. This pup weighs well over 100 pounds in adulthood. Their expressive faces and fluffy coat make them appear larger .. This breed dates back to the Common Era. These dogs were originally used to protect monasteries, villages, and campsites.

Tibetan Mastiffs are independent and strong-willed, despite their status as solitary guard dogs. Although they may be a bit aloof to strangers, their loyalty to their family is unwavering. They may refuse to accept strangers and use all the force of their mass against them. Tibetan Mastiffs can jump up to 6 feet high, and the sight of a huge dog scaling a high fence is not something to balk at!


Presa Canario

The Perro de Presa Canario or Canary Mastiff is a breed of dog that was originally bred in Canary Islands to catch birds. The Canary Mastiff is also usually banned in areas that do not allow certain dog breeds. They are known for their aggressive nature and can cause serious and permanent injuries.

*) A Perro de Presa Canario enjoys a lot socialization and outings. The Perro learns what is and is not a threat by this socialization. Dog owners often find it difficult to control their Perro’s behavior. They can also chew when they are bored or stressed, which can be a problem.


English Mastiff

Another massive dog breed, the English Mastiff is a powerful and muscular breed that can weigh up to 230 pounds in adulthood, often outweighing even their owners! They are usually quiet guard dogs and will only bark when they feel threatened.

An English Mastiff, a guard dog born from birth, is constantly on the lookout for intruders. It does not require training to guard. They don’t attack with their teeth, but they tend to pin or trap intruders in corners. An English Mastiff, due to its size, would be able to handle and control most adult intruders.


Boxer

The Boxer is a large, often mischievous dog breed. They are energetic, bright and alert with a tendency to run around. They need to be walked a lot and have an active family. This is normal for a breed that was once a fighting dog back in the day.

Due to their high energy,

Boxers can also be responsible for numerous bites. A Boxer’s grinning face may be deterrent to some of their friends and enemies. The combination of speed and power that a Boxer has is very dangerous. They are also known for standing on their hind legs to bat at people, just like a boxer. Even friends who aren’t used to dogs can be scared by this behavior.


Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino

is a strong, elegant dog that was bred to hunt and chase dangerous game. Their short, white coats make them easily identifiable. They are highly prey-driven and require lots of mental and physical stimulation. They may wander around or chase small animals ,, which can cause them to be unfriendly with other pets.

Dogo Argentinos were also used in dog fighting rings. They have been banned in many countries including Australia, Denmark and Singapore. An intruder might have to reconsider breaking into a Dogo Argentino-protected home. They still possess the speed and power of hunting dogs.


Bullmastiff

Finally, the Bullmastiff is another mastiff dog that has a negative reputation. Bull Mastiffs were first recognized in 1924 and were initially bred by farmers to track and capture poachers. Although Bull Mastiffs are generally gentle and friendly with people they know, it is not uncommon for them to attack people they don’t know.

It can be very distressing to see an animal suddenly appear to be asleep and then start growling. You need to socialize them properly as they can switch between calm and aggressive behavior.


Boerboel

Boerboels are another type of Mastiff that was bred in South Africa in the 1600s. They were initially meant to be guard dogs that protected farms and people from natural predators like hyenas. These dogs are fearless , and will not be challenged by authority.

Boerboels are one of the most agile and fast Mastiffs. With the proper training, they can quickly chase down intruders and burglars. Boerboels also sports powerful jaws, which can come in handy at the right moment.


Final Thoughts

These are generalizations about each breed. However, each dog is unique. Every puppy and dog is unique. It is up to the owners to learn from trusted breeders and other online resources. These dog breeds can be a trusted friend, protector, and powerful ally if you do the right preparation.

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