Is there a most dangerous dog in Wisconsin? Is a certain breed of dog more likely to be responsible for Wisconsin dog bites? Yes and no. Our Milwaukee dog bite lawyers explain.

Studies show that almost any breed of dog can be dangerous. Researchers at the Children's Hospital on the University of Colorado's Anschutz Medical Campus found that mixed-breed dogs (23 percent) and Labrador retrievers (14 percent) were the most likely to be associated with dog bites in children. But when it comes to fatal dog bites, the story is different.

Nearly three-quarters of fatal dog bites in the United States can be attributed to just two dog breeds: pit bull terriers and Rottweilers. This may not be surprising. Pit bulls are selectively bred to be aggressive. Unlike other dogs, they do not signal before attacking, have a firm bite, and will continue to fight their victim even after biting.

Here is a list of the top ten most dangerous dog breeds based on dog bite fatality statistics from the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

  • Pit Bull: These dogs have extremely strong jaws and bred to be aggressive fighters for dog-fighting purposes. This category actually includes several dog breeds, including American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. 
  • Rottweiler: Rottweilers can be fine dogs if properly trained, but can be aggressive and disobedient without good training.
  • Siberian Husky: Siberian Huskies were bread as working dogs. They don’t socialize well with humans and may mistake children for prey.
  • Saint Bernard: St. Bernards are often good family dogs. However, because of their large size, these dogs may be aggressive and dangerous if not properly trained.
  • German Shepherd: German Shepherds are usually very intelligent and friendly. But they have strong jaws and can be territorial and aggressive in certain situations. 
  • Great Dane: Most Great Danes are gentle dogs—but like many breeds, they can develop aggressive behavior with improper training. Because the dogs are large and have long teeth, an aggressive Great Dane can be very dangerous.
  • Doberman Pinscher: Dobermans exhibit a wide range of behavior and may respond aggressively when they feel threatened.
  • Chow Chow: Chows are very territorial and, even if well-trained dogs, will consider any unfamiliar person a threat to their family and territory.
  • Alaskan Malamute: Malamutes are pack dogs with naturally aggressive hunting instincts.
  • Akita: These large dogs were originally bred in Japan to hunt bears. Because they have aggressive guarding instincts, they are often used as police or guard dogs.

The Milwaukee personal injury lawyers at Hupy and Abraham help victims of dog attacks in Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa. To schedule a free consultation, contact Hupy and Abraham at 800-800-5678.

Jason F. Abraham
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Helping car accident and personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa since 1993.