There are a lot of myths out there about the behavior issues of certain dog breeds. Most of these are based on decades’ worth of misinformation and the media’s tendency to focus strictly on worse case scenarios and isolated horror stories. The bottom line is that behavior issues are not simply inherited – there are a number of social, environmental, experiential, circumstantial, and genetic factors at play.
According to Dr. Emily Weiss, Vice President of Shelter Research & Development for the ASPCA, “Speaking in breed generalities risks not only the likelihood that we will miss identify behaviorally sound pets, but could also mean that we may put ourselves at risk of assuming that another pet is friendly and safe simply because of his breed.” With that in mind, let’s examine a few breeds that have been unfairly portrayed to better understand the misconceptions surrounding them.
German Shepherd
Although they are the second most popular dog in the United States, German Shepherds are often the victim of uninformed stereotypes. This is likely due to their imposing build and notoriously strong bites when they do attack. They are a large, muscular, and brave breed, but they are rarely hostile, which makes them excellent guard dogs. They’re also considered one of the smartest dog breeds. For this reason, they are frequently used by law enforcement and search-and-rescue teams.
German Shepherds tend to develop very close bonds with their families, which can sometimes exhibit as overprotection. Additionally, they have exceptionally strong jaws that are capable of delivering a devastating bite. However, with proper training and socialization early on, this breed will develop into an excellent family companion.
Chihuahua
Unfortunately, there are a lot of breeding concerns surrounding Chihuahuas these days. They’ve become the novelty dog of mindless debutantes, and their media exposure has inspired irresponsible breeders to capitalize on the fad. These breeders are recklessly breeding dogs with poor dispositions and violent tendencies, leading to a disproportionate number of ankle-biting dogs.
Obviously, Chihuahuas are a smaller breed, so there isn’t a ton of risk involved when they decide to take a nip. Still, they have been known to snip at adults as they walk past or at young children who are overly aggressive. They’re also full of personality and loyal to a fault. As with most dogs, making blanket statements about Chihuahuas is unfair and detracts from their loving temperaments.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers descend from Roman cattle dogs, but with the advancement of modern modes of transportation, they no longer serve that purpose. They are imposing dogs with nearly unrivaled size and strength, but underneath those muscles is a heart of gold. They are extremely active and highly protective, which can occasionally cause aggressive behavior.
Most Rotties possess an inherent desire to protect their territory and their families, which makes them best suited for country living. However, the flip side of this coin is that they are extremely loyal and do well in family environments. Be sure to introduce strangers properly and with care. As with most dogs, proper training and socialization can make them the perfect family pet.
Cocker Spaniel
It seems as though all small dogs get labeled as “snappy,” but this is perhaps nowhere more a misnomer than with a Cocker Spaniel. (After all, Lady from Lady and the Tramp was a Cocker Spaniel!) They are frequently referred to as gentle, loyal, and loving, yet the myth that they are rabid ankle-biters persists.
They are excellent family dogs and hard-working hunting companions, but they do sometimes have a tendency to become dominant toward other dogs. Still, basic socialization and training as puppies will allow them to grow into the busy people-pleasers that they were born to be!
Pit Bulls
There’s probably no greater misunderstood animal on the planet than the Pit Bull Terrier. Pits are unbelievably strong, possess muscular jaws, and strike an imposing figure, but when properly trained and socialized they are one of the most reliable family breeds around. In fact, before they began being bred as fighting dogs, they were known as “nanny dogs” because of their gentle nature around children.
Sadly, many individuals continue to breed these magnificent creatures for fighting even today. This results in an abundance of poorly bred, viciously trained animals that give the entire breed a poor name. Remember, pits aren’t naturally violent or aggressive, we’re responsible for that reputation through our actions and our ignorance.
When you’re looking for a new dog to add to the family, don’t rule out a breed based solely on their poor reputation. Do your research, interact with the animal, and speak with their owners about their breeding processes and the dog’s parent’s disposition. Chances are that with training, socialization, love, and affection, even the “worst” dogs can become lifelong friends.
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Reference:
Bryant, C. (2015). 7 Dog breeds who don’t deserve a bad rap. Pet360. Retrieved from www.pet360.com/dog/breeds/7-dog-breeds-who-dont-deserve-a-bad-rap
