Our family has had a couple of dachshunds over the years. I thought they made great pets and watchdogs. Their barking was a major problem. I'm sure that they would chew your toes off or your fingers, if you let them. You shouldn't let them.
Posted on 07/08/2008 10:10:23 PM PDT by stainlessbanner
They may not look as threatening as some of the larger canine, but research revealed that the dachshund is the most aggressive breed of dog.
Citing a study published by Applied Animal Behavior Science, the British newspaper The Daily Telegraph reported that one in five dachshunds has bitten or tried to bite strangers, and one in 12 has shown aggression toward its owners.
The study involved researchers from the University of Pennsylvania. About 6,000 dog owners were questioned about their dogs' behavior. Thirty-three breeds were ranked on their aggression.
Ranking below the dachshund was an even smaller dog, the Chihuahua. According to the newspaper, research found that the tiny breed often snaps at most beings it encounters -- including its owners, strangers and other dogs.
The Jack Russell terrier was third, followed by the Akita and the Australian cattle dog. The pit bull was sixth, followed by the beagle, the English springer spaniel, the border collie and the German shepherd.
The Telegraph reported that researchers said previous studies on canine aggression could have been misleading as most bites from smaller dogs were not reported. According to the researchers, bites from larger dogs were more likely to require medical attention than those from smaller dogs.
According to the Telegraph, the Rottweiler, which is widely believed to be an aggressive dog, scored average to below average ratings for its hostility toward strangers.
The newspaper reported that some of the lowest scoring breeds for aggression included the Basset hound, golden retriever, Labradors, Siberian huskies and greyhounds.
Had our Chow for 12 years. He was aggressive when dealing with other male dogs he didn’t know and protecting his home and family.
He was a sweetheart to all that knew him. He knew how to act when he was around my blind elderly Aunt or when the niece and nephews were visiting. I know dogs have a sense about certain people and he proved it until his last day.
We miss that big red boy like crazy.
Breeding is one consideration, training is another. A dog who believes he is “alpha”, whether of a dog or human “pack” will be more aggressive than a dog who believes himself subordinate to a person. With proper training, most dogs will accept that they are subordinate to at least one human.
Chows are definitely the most “mindless” protective breed, I agree.
But, I think the smaller breeds are kookier...and bossier. For no apparent reason, except they aren’t big.
Having taken in countless strays over the years (whatever wanders up in my yard) I’d take a Chow over a Chihuahua any day..
That being said..I’m a Lab Lover.
Our family has had a couple of dachshunds over the years. I thought they made great pets and watchdogs. Their barking was a major problem. I'm sure that they would chew your toes off or your fingers, if you let them. You shouldn't let them.
Ankle biters are aggressive because they’re allowed to be.
When an 8 pound dog is nipping at strangers it’s only annoying. The breeders are happy to sell them anyway. The owners don’t take them to socialization classes, often don’t but half heartedly scold them.
When a 80 pound Shepherd (or a puppy on its way to same) shows aggression it’s clear that someone is going to be badly hurt. Most owners will do something to correct it the first time.
Just like people, dogs will be as bad as they’re allowed to be.
Used to go to the Jack Russell trials...they keep ‘em muzzled for a reason.
I completely agree with you. People don’t take them as seriously because of their size...and they can become brats.
You are very correct. If the human isn’t the alpha...turn out the lights..the party is over.
I would have said the Chihuahua was #1.
Of course an aggressive Chihuahua might break the skin on your ankle. A mildly aggressive Pit Bull can cause some serious damage.
The pup’s doing fine, thanks! She’s definitely a handful.
Sometimes.
MY dog is laying at my feet.
The pup is with Gramps.
:)
*My Jack Russell is a sweetheart, except when he attacks the German Shepard and Rotty next door.*
We have a Lakeland Terrier that is the same. Sweet, good with the kids...
When she first met the new Golden Lab next door she went for his throat. The owner of the Lab looked down and said to our dog “Oh sweetie, you don’t have to be afraid.” I informed her that my Lakie wasn’t afraid, but was trying to kill her dog.
Yup! That's why, from the moment you pick that pup up, he/she HAS to know that it's a lowly animal and YOU are the alpha! Works like a charm when done right!!!
Utter rubbish!
But a great benefit to Chow owners who get to enjoy a most wonderfully good natured and protective dog while also having the benefit of a "guard dog" based on their reputation.
Now we know why Paris Hilton carries that fierce Chihuahua around — personal protection!!!
I have a miniature dachshund (chocolate dapple) and she is not aggressive at all; she loves to roughhouse but loves kids.
Please please please post a picture!
what a sweet pic! My dachsie is only agressive towards other dogs she doesn’t know... if you walk into my house, she will lick you to death and beg you relentlessly to throw her ball...
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