Although it seems unfair and outdated, breed-specific laws continue to exist in the United States and across the globe in an effort to reduce the number of dangerous dogs. The laws are extremely difficult and costly to enforce, but many communities continue to outlaw certain breeds they deem "threatening." Organizations such as the ASPCA and the Humane Society are completely against them, stating that there is no evidence that communities are safer because of these laws. Plus, the United States Centers for Disease Control attests that inaccurate dog-bite data makes it near impossible to identify specific breeds. Still, many breeds — particularly Pit Bulls and Fila Brasilieros — suffer from negative reputations. Here are 12 of the most commonly banned dog breeds in the world.
Fila Brasiliero
Why they made the list: Fila Brasilieros are extremely intelligent and athletic, but terribly aggressive and strong. They are banned in the U.K., Israel, Denmark, Norway, Malta and Cyprus.
Alaskan Malamutes
Why they made the list: Alaskan Malamutes can be trained, but they are not for just anyone. They are extremely active and demand a lot of exercise. Because they have a strong prey-drive, their instinct is to hunt down anything they feel endangered by. This can result in fatalities.
Doberman Pinscher
Why they made the list: In a recent study, conducted to determine whether there are breed differences in aggression, the Doberman Pinscher ranked relatively high on stranger-directed aggression. Their aggressive behavior was displayed depending on each situation, but overall, their size and strength makes them a potentially dangerous dog breed.
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
Why they made the list: The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is quick, energetic and extremely fearless. They have a very high prey drive and are extremely unpredictable. They do not make for good household pets and should be kept far from children.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Why they made the list: Although many people do not associate Neapolitan Mastiffs with dangerous dogs, they are illegal to own in Singapore. In order to own one in Romania, one must pass a psychological evaluation. The 200-lb. dog can be dangerous when fully grown and should not be around children.
Presa Canario
Why they made the list: In 2001, a 33-year-old woman was killed by two Presa Canario-Mastiff mixes. In 2006, a 30-year-old woman was killed by her own Presa Canaria. Last August, a woman was killed by several dogs in Georgia, two of which were Presas. They are prohibited in Australia and New Zealand.
Pit Bulls
Why they made the list: Allegedly, several studies conducted have resulted in evidence indicating that Pit Bulls are responsible for many human attacks. One study concluded that Pit Bulls were responsible for 42–45% of dog attacks, with children being the victim 70% of the time. Pit Bulls are restricted widely around the world, from Miami to the entire U.K.
Tosa Ken
Why they made the list: The Tosa can weigh up to 200 pounds and can reach up to 32 inches in height. Because of its size and stature, they have been banned from the United Kingdom, Trinidad & Tobago, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Cyprus, Malta, Turkey, New Zealand and Malaysia.
Perro de Presa Mallorquin
Why they made the list: Like their cousin the Perro de Presa Canario, Perro de Presa Mallorquins are extremely intelligent and powerful dogs. They are not easy to handle and were bred to be fighting dogs. They can stand up to almost any challenge and if they are not taught to be obedient, they can become extremely dangerous creatures.
American Bulldog
Rottweiler
Why they made the list: Rottweilers are very self-confident dogs that a strong will to guard their owners. They are an extremely powerful breed that can sometimes act dangerously. In 2011, four of thirty-three recorded dog attack fatalities were caused by Rottweilers. They are banned in Poland, Romania, Portugal and Ireland.
Bloodhound
Why they made the list: Although many Bloodhounds are known to have a very calm and gentle temperament, their origins as a hunting dog still scare many people away. In addition, they can weigh up to 160 lbs. and can stand up to 27 inches.
