26. St. Bernard
These giant dogs from the Swiss Alps are famous for rescuing people from the snow. They are generally intelligent and friendly animals. However, they can become aggressive in certain situations, especially if they are not properly socialized. Due to their enormous size, this can mean trouble.
25. English Mastiff
Large, strong and instinctively protective, English mastiffs are naturally low-maintenance guard dogs. The massive breed is generally gentle but is better suited for homes without small children. With a bite force of 556 PSI, they can do some damage with their jaws.
24. Chow Chow
This East Asian dog breed is one of the most ancient still in existence. In northern China, chow chows are called Songshi Quan, which means “puffy lion dog,” and it is easy to see why, with their small ears and bushy “manes.” They also have powerful jaws like a lion, with a bite force of 220 pounds per square inch (PSI), and can become aggressive due to lack of socialization or an overprotectiveness of their owners.
23. Bull Terrier
Depending on your age, these pups might make you think of either Spuds MacKenzie or Bullseye, the Target dog. Bull terriers are affectionate pets that love to have fun. Although the unique-looking dogs are not especially large, they are quite muscular and were originally bred to be champion dog fighters. Because of their strength and strong prey drive, they should be watched around children and other animals.
22. Great Dane
Standing as high as 32 inches at the shoulder and taller than an adult human when on their hind legs, Great Danes tend to be sweet, friendly and patient with children. However, they are still alert guard dogs. Just their sheer size is capable of injuring a person with a tackle. Great Danes have caused fatalities in the past.
21. Bullmastiff
As the name would suggest, the bullmastiff was originally a cross between bulldogs and mastiffs. These big dogs can weigh more than 100 pounds and stand as tall as 27 inches at the shoulder. During the 19th century, gamekeepers bred bullmastiffs to stop poachers in their tracks. Although they usually form deep bonds with their people, a dog that is not used to socialization can be dangerous.
20. Kangal
This large sheepdog has its roots in Turkestan and comes from the mastiff family. Kangals are large and strong enough to ward off impressive predators, such as wolves and bears. Although they are protective, Kangals are also gentle and friendly. However, their size and bite force, which is reportedly as strong as 743 PSI, make them dangerous to anyone who threatens these gentle giants or anything in their care.
19. Labrador
Labrador retrievers are consistently the most popular pet dogs in the United States. Perhaps this is why they are also responsible for a high number of serious biting incidents. While labs are generally very well-natured, lab owners should learn and watch out for signs of reactivity, such as fearfulness, frustration and even medical issues, that may cause them to bite.
18. Australian Shepherd
Aussies are highly intelligent, energetic and agile ranch dogs with a strong urge to herd everyone and everything. Because of their herding nature and tendencies to chase and nip, they should be watched around small children and other animals. They can also become aggressive, particularly toward strangers, so early socialization is vital.
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