Which Dogs Are Most Likely to Bite?

While most dogs are affectionate and predictable, certain breeds are not guaranteed. Additionally, some are statistically more prone to attack humans than others. If a dog has hurt you, look to our experienced dog bite injury attorney in New Jersey for the help you need.

The Two Deadliest Breeds 

Ultimately, no dog can be trusted never to bite a human, and temperament varies considerably among specific breeds. However, two breeds are statistically more prone to attack and bite humans, and according to DogsBite.org, these include pit bull terriers and rottweilers. 

Consider the following statistics:

• In an exhaustive 20-year government study of breed-related dog bite fatalities, pit bulls and rottweilers – together – accounted for 50 percent of all 238 deaths, which represents an increase of more than 50 percent over the prior long-term study.
• In 15 years of research by DogsBite.org, pit bulls, and rottweilers were responsible for 76 percent of dog-bite fatalities over a more recent period. 
• Since 2005, pit bulls and pit bull mixes have fatally attacked humans seven times more often than rottweilers have. 
• Pit bulls owe their negative reputation to selective breeding, which makes them well-suited to dog fighting.
• They are more prone to surprise attacks, meaning they don’t always signal their intentions like most other dogs. 
• Pits are exceptionally strong, making their hold-and-shake bite style much more dangerous.
• They are extremely intelligent dogs and engage strategically in attack.
• Pits are less tolerant of other dog breeds, possibly contributing to attacks. 

Other Breeds Likely to Bite

Some other common breeds that are generally considered more likely to bite humans than most others include:

• Australian Shepherds
• Saint Bernards
• English Bulldogs 
• Dobermans
• Mastiffs
• Great Danes
• Chows 
• Labs
• Akitas
• Boxers 
• Huskies
• German Shepherds 

Dog Owners Can Be Responsible for Your Bite-Related Losses 

If someone else’s dog bites and injures you, you can seek fair compensation for your related losses – including all the following – in a dog bite claim:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering, which can eclipse your other damages combined 

Work with an Experienced Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Philip A. DiBartolo, Jr., is a capable New Jersey dog bite attorney at DiBartolo Law with a wealth of experience handling the legal intricacies of complex dog bite claims like yours. Please contact us online or call 215-874-8553 for more information about what we can do to help you today.