Dangerous Dog Breeds in the US: Injuries & Damages

Dangerous Dog Breeds

Dog bite accidents happen all the time. Depending on the nature of the attack, the victim may have to deal with injuries that can leave significant physical and emotional after-effects. This is especially true in cases involving bites from a dangerous dog breed.

In the event of a dog bite injury in California, having legal help can be the key to securing the victim’s future. With a dog attack attorney, the affected person may obtain financial compensation for the damages suffered. All without having to go through the legal process. Call Adamson Ahdoot today at (800) 310-1606 if you need someone to take efficient action in a dog’s personal injury case.

Dog bite injuries can maim or kill the victim. Get a dog bite attorney for your case today.

What Breed of Dog Causes the Most Injuries?

When discussing dog breeds most likely to be involved in attacks against humans, it’s important to consider various factors rather than attributing aggression to specific breeds alone. While “Pit Bulls”, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are often cited due to their physical strength and protective nature, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) emphasizes that breed alone does not predict aggression. 

Environmental factors, training, and the dog’s history are crucial in determining behavior. Responsible pet ownership and proper training are essential in mitigating the risk of attacks, regardless of the breed.

Statistics on Dog Bite Fatalities and Injuries

Dog bite statistics provide insight into the severity and frequency of such incidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the United States, with around 800,000 requiring medical attention. 

Fatalities are rare but do happen; the Insurance Information Institute reports that there were 46 dog bite-related fatalities in 2020. These statistics highlight the importance of understanding dog behavior, proper training, and the need for preventative measures to reduce the risk of bites and injuries.

Dog Bites Are More Common Than You Imagine

Getting bitten by a dog happens more regularly than one might think. In fact, Americans are four times more likely to sustain a dog bite than a workplace injury.

Keep in mind that this statistic only counts reported instances. The actual number is likely much higher. Of the hundreds of thousands of injuries, there are approximately three dozen deaths per year, with “Pit Bulls” being the primary culprit.

This is not to say all “Pit Bulls”, or any of the breeds listed here, are inherently dangerous. Violence and aggression are attributed to factors beyond a dog’s genetic makeup. An abusive or neglectful owner may directly or indirectly create an environment that makes these dogs more aggressive.

Still, some breeds merit more caution than others, solely because of their capacity to cause harm. Let’s take a look at the most dangerous dog breeds in the United States, and why they are a potential liability.

Who Monitors Dog Attacks?

Dog attacks are monitored by various entities, including local animal control agencies, public health departments, and national organizations like the CDC. These bodies collect and analyze data to understand the circumstances surrounding dog bites and develop prevention strategies. Additionally, veterinarians, law enforcement, and public health officials work together to address dangerous dog behavior and implement regulations to protect public safety.

Dogs With the Highest Bite Rate

American Pit Bull Terrier

The term “Pit Bull” refers to several types of dogs, including the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Pit Bull Terrier. It’s worth noting that the American Pit Bull Terrier breed is only recognized by the United Kennel Club and the American Dog Breeders Association, but not by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Instead, the AKC recognizes the American Staffordshire Terrier. Historically, these breeds descend from dogs used in bull-baiting, which involved trying to immobilize bulls and bears using the strong grip of their jaws.

By far, the highest number of reported cases of dog bites and fatalities are attributed to “Pit Bulls” (a term that encompasses all the aforementioned breeds).

“Pit bulls” are known for attacking their target and violently shaking their heads side to side. These shakes can cause severe injuries and, in the worst cases, death.

This tendency toward violence corresponds with the breeding habits of “Pit Bulls”. Historically, humans bred “Pit Bulls” for their fighting abilities, eliminating dogs that displayed docility or affection. While this genetic predisposition makes them more likely than most dogs to attack, proper socialization and compassionate, respectful upbringing can mitigate these behaviors.

So, what is the most dangerous dog breed? The “Pit Bull” is considered the most dangerous due to its ability to inflict serious harm very quickly. However, “Pit Bulls” are actually “consistently ranked as one of the least aggressive dogs,” which is not true in the case of the next dog on our list.

Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas fall into the classification of toy dogs. The average Chihuahua is 5 to 6 inches at the shoulder and weighs no more than 6 pounds. While the breed is unlikely to participate in a fatal attack due to its size, it did contribute to one death in 2018. But even if you are slightly injured, can you sue for a minor dog bite in California? Yes, of course you can!

Researchers say the Chihuahua is the most likely breed to bite veterinarians. The breed is liable to bite during grooming and kennel visits, too. So, in the case of dog attacks by breeds like Chihuahuas, you can still file a dog bite lawsuit.

Chihuahuas are small dogs with sharp teeth. Their bites may be minor but can cause significant damage to the victim.

Chihuahuas are known for being one of the most aggressive breeds. While their willingness to bark and bite may be a defense mechanism, they are also prone to attacking other dogs. Some people attribute this behavior to “small dog syndrome” which can occur because owners of small dogs tend to be less likely to train, walk, or play with their dogs and to be less consistent in their approach. 

Other small dog breeds that show above-average signs of aggression include the Dachshund, Toy Poodle, Beagle, Lhasa Apso, and Pomeranian.

Jack Russell Terriers

The Jack Russell terrier is an energetic breed with a centuries-long hunting heritage. The first Jack Russell terrier was bred in 1795 to chase foxes from the ground while maintaining a high stamina level. One of the characteristics that made them ideal for this role is the tempered aggression necessary to pursue foxes.

It is worth noting that hunters discouraged Jack Russell Terriers from killing or harming the prey—otherwise, it would “spoil” the chase. As a result, this breed has a small reputation for drawing blood. Furthermore, there were no Jack Russell attack fatalities recently in the United States. 

Jack Russell is a dangerous dog breed because of their strong jaws and sharp teeth.

Despite their small size, people are still liable to be on the wrong end of a bite. And, in those cases, you might be able to pursue a lawsuit for dog bite. The reason? These canines have powerful jaws with straight, scissors-like teeth. According to the British publication Independent, some researchers have found that Jack Russell terriers are among the most dangerous dogs because they are the most likely to attack people.

German Shepherd

The German Shepherd shares some similarities with the “Pit Bull”. These dogs are docile, friendly, and non-aggressive when they behave well. However, if there is an attack, it can cause catastrophic damage.

As ascertained by press accounts between 1982 and 2014, German Shepherds were the third most deadly breed, killing 113 people. This rate falls behind only the Pitbull (3,397) and Rottweiler (535). Only one person died as a result of a German Shepherd attack in 2018. 

This breed is so dangerous because of its size and strength. In fact, when people think of the dog with the strongest bite, they usually think of German shepherds.

German Shepherds are generally not inherently dangerous dogs, but their bite injuries can have serious consequences.

German Shepherds have a bite force of 238 to 291 pounds per square inch. As a point of reference, the average human has a bite strength of 162 psi. 

Chow Chow

The average adult Chow Chow is 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. Despite their small to medium build, Chow Chows pack a forceful bite, and their jaw strength measures 220 psi.

Despite their cute appearance, Chow Chows are extremely territorial. While they are famous for their loyalty, this dog breed isn’t very friendly to strangers. Fortunately, California’s dog bite law allows victims of both serious and minor injuries to pursue a claim.

Factors Influencing Dog Behavior

Physical Issues that Can Cause Attacks

Physical health plays a significant role in a dog’s behavior. Dogs experiencing pain, illness, or injury may exhibit increased aggression. Conditions such as hip dysplasia, dental disease, or ear infections can cause discomfort and lead to uncharacteristic aggressive responses. Regular veterinary check-ups and addressing any health issues promptly can help mitigate these risks.

Behavioral Causes of Aggression

Behavioral factors are equally critical in understanding dog aggression. Lack of socialization, fear, anxiety, and past traumatic experiences can contribute to aggressive behavior. Dogs that have not been properly socialized may react fearfully to new situations or people, leading to potential attacks. Ensuring dogs receive adequate socialization and training early can prevent many behavioral issues.

Legal Considerations for Dog-Related Injuries

Regarding legal considerations for dog-related injuries, liability often falls on the dog owner. Laws vary by state, but generally, owners can be held responsible if their dog bites someone, especially if the dog has a history of aggression. In some jurisdictions, strict liability laws exist, meaning the owner is liable regardless of the dog’s past behavior. Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. Consulting with a legal professional can clarify the specific laws and liabilities in a given area.

Responsible Dog Ownership and Prevention Strategies

Responsible dog ownership is crucial in preventing dog attacks. Owners should ensure their dogs are properly trained, socialized, and healthy. This includes regular veterinary visits, proper nutrition, and exercise. Additionally, owners should be aware of their dog’s behavior and intervene early if signs of aggression appear. Positive reinforcement training methods and avoiding punishment-based techniques can also reduce the likelihood of aggression. Educating the public about dog safety and responsible ownership practices can significantly decrease the number of dog attacks. Providing proper fencing and secure environments also plays a vital role in preventing dogs from engaging in aggressive behavior.

What Compensation Can I Recover?

Victims of dog attacks may be entitled to various forms of compensation. This can include medical expenses for immediate and ongoing treatment, lost wages if the injury affects the victim’s ability to work, and compensation for pain and suffering. In cases of severe injury or long-term disability, victims may also recover costs for rehabilitation and therapy. Victims need to document their injuries and expenses thoroughly and seek legal advice to understand their rights and the compensation they may be entitled to. Additionally, emotional distress and psychological impact can be part of the compensation, especially if the attack leads to long-term trauma or anxiety. Legal experts can provide detailed guidance on what types of compensation are applicable in specific cases. Victims might also recover punitive damages if it is proven that the dog’s owner acted with gross negligence or intent to harm.

Injured by a Dangerous Dog Breed? Call us

Here is the bottom line: all dogs warrant caution. While “Pit Bulls” and German shepherds may have a bad reputation as aggressive dogs, it is because when there is an attack, breeds like them can cause significant injury. On the other hand, plenty of small dogs, such as Chihuahuas and Jack Russell Terriers, are more likely to bite, though highly unlikely to cause fatal harm.

If you have been injured by a dog bite and want to know how much a dog bite lawsuit is worth, contact us. Our dog bite lawyers can answer your questions and help you with your case.