Unfairly Judged? 8 Dog Breeds That Face the Most Bans Worldwide

Dogs are often referred to as “man’s best friend,” and rightfully so. Their love, loyalty, and playful nature bring joy to millions of households worldwide. However, not all dog breeds are the same; they possess unique characteristics and purposes. Some breeds are ideal as companions, others excel in farm work, and some were originally bred for guarding and protection. Unfortunately, a few breeds have a history of being bred for dogfighting and aggression, leading to their banishment in many countries.

Now, let’s explore these controversial breeds:

8. American Bulldog

Often confused with American Pitbull Terriers, American Bulldogs have a heritage rooted in farm work and later served as guard dogs. These stocky dogs possess strong musculature and large heads. When properly trained, they can be loving and fiercely protective of their families. However, their wariness of strangers, coupled with a strong bite force, has led to bans in numerous American states and countries such as Denmark, Singapore, Italy, and Ukraine. With early socialization and proper training, American Bulldogs can make excellent family guard dogs.

7. Boerboel

Originating from South Africa, the Boerboel is a mastiff-type dog known for its fearlessness and strength. While they rarely attack, Boerboels have an incredibly powerful bite, capable of causing severe injuries. Historically used to protect families in remote areas and hunt leopards and baboons, they have earned bans in Denmark, Russia, Qatar, Ukraine, Romania, Bermuda, France, Malaysia, Mauritius, and Tunisia.

Boerboels are confident, strong-willed, and often dominate threats. They require supervision when interacting with strangers but are highly protective and loving toward their own families.

6. Perro de Presa Canario

Developed in Spain’s Canary Islands, the Perro de Presa Canario is a massive dog breed initially used for livestock work and later in dogfighting. Self-confident and loyal to their humans, they are also aloof and suspicious of strangers. The unpredictability of their attacks has led to bans in several countries, with tragic incidents reported, such as the 2017 attack in Ireland. Consequently, they are banned in Australia, New Zealand, Ukraine, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Germany, Malaysia, and Poland, with restrictions in some American states.

5. Neapolitan Mastiff

The Neapolitan Mastiff, or Neo, hails from Italy and once served as war dogs and gladiator participants in the Roman Empire. With an average weight ranging from 110.23 to 154.32 pounds (50 to 70 kg), these massive dogs can be a risk to small children. While a well-raised Neo can be friendly, their immense size means untrained or psychologically unstable Neos can pose a danger even to their families. Bans exist in certain U.S. states and Singapore, with psychological evaluations required for adoptions in Romania.

4. Dogo Argentino

In Argentina, Dogo Argentinos were initially bred for hunting wild game, including boars and pumas. However, they are notorious for their aggressive nature, making them one of the most aggressive dog breeds globally. Their dominating temperament and potential for violence have led to bans or restrictions in the U.K., New Zealand, Australia, Spain, Ukraine, Denmark, Romania, Norway, Great Britain, Singapore, Bermuda Island, and some U.S. states.

3. Tosa Inu

The Tosa Inu is unique as the sole dog breed used in Japanese dogfighting, where silence is a rule. These large, silent dogs are brave and fearless, similar to sumo fighters. However, they can become aggressive, especially if poorly trained or not trained at all. Bans or restrictions apply in the U.K., UAE, Denmark, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Tunisia, and Iceland.

2. Fila Brasileiro

Originating from Brazil, Fila Brasileiros are powerful dogs known for their large bones and loose skin. Calm yet alert, they often exhibit aggression towards strangers and other dogs. Fila Brasileiros are challenging to train and unresponsive to commands, making them potentially dangerous for humans and other animals. Bans and restrictions apply in the U.K., Malta, Norway, Israel, Denmark, parts of Australia, New Zealand, and Cyprus.

1. American Pitbull Terrier

The American Pitbull Terrier was initially bred for dogfighting but later became beloved family companions. Known for their strength and power, they unfortunately gained notoriety due to poor breeding practices and improper training. While they are sweet-natured dogs that can love and protect their families, improper socialization and training can lead to aggression towards humans.

The American Pitbull Terrier responds well to positive reinforcement training methods and excels in various roles, such as police and military work, search and rescue missions, and even as celebrity pets. Banned in countries like Ontario, Canada, several U.S. states, Australia, Ecuador, New Zealand, France, Spain, and Germany, these dogs, when properly trained and raised, can be well-behaved companions.

In conclusion, while certain dog breeds have been banned or restricted in various places due to their historical roles in aggression and violence, it is crucial to remember that individual temperament and behavior largely depend on upbringing and training. Responsible dog ownership, proper socialization, and positive training methods play pivotal roles in shaping a dog’s behavior. Let’s share this information with fellow dog lovers to promote responsible ownership and understanding of these breeds.

Don’t forget to share this article with fellow dog enthusiasts to spread awareness about these controversial breeds and the importance of responsible ownership!