Dangerous Dog Breeds

At our law firm, we love dogs. But we also acknowledge that statistics provide evidence that some breeds of dogs are more dangerous than others. We've compiled information from across the Internet to inform you about violent and dangerous dog breeds so you can prevent dog bite injuries before they happen.

Just because a dog is listed on on this page, it doesn't mean that they're necessarily dangerous - it just means to approach that particular breed with extra caution. First and foremost, dangerous dog behavior patterns begin with dog owners. If aggressive tendancies are encouraged by a dog's owner, then that dog will have a greater propensity to bite.

Which Dog Breeds Cause the Most Injuries and Deaths?

Commonly recognized as the most authoritative study on dog bite injuries and dangerous dog breeds to date in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released "Breeds of dogs involved in fatal human attacks in the United States between 1979 and 1998" in 2000. This study found that 25 breeds of dogs were involved in 238 fatal dog bites from 1979-1998. In over half of the deaths where the dog's breed was known, Pit Bulls and Rottweilers were responsible.

More recent dog bite statistics continue to back up the CDC's findings. In one study of United States dog bite fatalities from 2006-2008, Pitbulls were found responsible for nearly 60% of all deaths. Other dangerous dog breeds singled out by recent figures include Akitas, Chow-Chows, Doberman Pinschers, Perro de Presa Canarios, Rottweilers, and Wolf-Dog Hybrids.

Insurance Companies Blacklist Dangerous Dog Breeds

Due to the high cost of dog bite liability claims, some insurance companies have blacklisted certain breeds. In this case, "blacklisting" means that insurance providers refuse to cover to homeowners and renters who live with dogs of a specific breed.

Blacklisted dog breeds may include the following:

As a result of insurance blacklisting and safety concerns, some homeowners associations, housing developments, and apartment buildings have banned certain dog breeds. These decisions are made on a case by case basis, as there is no national standard that applies.

Even some cities have banned specific dog breeds – for example, Denver, Colorado banned Pit Bulls. Since dog breed bans and other restrictions tend to be handled on a local level, you must check with your local government to find out which dog breeds are legal in your city or county.

What Happens to Violent Dogs That Attack?

If a dog has a history of violent behavior, it is determined to be dangerous no matter its pedigree. Once a determination has been made that the dog is dangerous, the laws of the state and community must be applied. Find out more about the dog bite laws and leash laws in your state.

Bitten by a Dangerous Dog? Our Law Firm Can Help

Dog bite injuries don't just stop at the physical level – if you've been attacked by a dangerous dog, you already know that medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses can pile up fast.

If you feel overwhelmed by your dog bite injuries, take control of the situation. Get started by contacting our experienced Pennsylvania lawyers. We know all about dog bite laws and how to make the legal system work for you. Get in touch with our law firm today by taking advantage of our free legal evaluation.