While there are no banned dog breeds at the federal level in the US, many states have introduced dog ownership laws and breed-specific legislation that can impact owning certain breeds that are considered dangerous.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the breeds regularly subjected to breed-specific legislation across the US.
Are banned dogs dangerous?
What makes a dog dangerous? We asked expert vet Dr Lisa Coder.
“While dangerous dogs are a public health threat, many breeds of dogs are assumed to be inherently and automatically dangerous. This is decidedly untrue as no dog is fundamentally dangerous, and aggression and behavior depend on a multitude of factors regarding the dog, the owner, and the environment,” says Dr Coder.
Despite the controversy surrounding this topic, many states have implemented breed-specific legislation. But what exactly is that?
“Most breed-specific legislation is aimed at breeds that are wrongly assumed to be more naturally aggressive, unsafe, or have a genetic predisposition toward unfriendly behaviors,” says Dr Coder. “These laws can vary by state and may require extra registrations, wearing of a muzzle in public, or housing and signage postings. They may even require owners to carry a predetermined amount of liability insurance for the dog or outright prohibit the owning of certain breeds.”
If you’re interested in finding out the most up-to-date information on breed specific legislation, check out the BSL Census, which is continually updated.
Banned dogs in some parts of the US
1. Pit bull
The term pit bull refers to a few different types of dogs descended from bulldog and terrier breeds, including American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and dogs of mixed pit bull breeding, such as American Bullies.
Considered a controversial breed due to their background in dog fighting and a number of high profile attacks, these heavily muscled dogs are often subjected to breed specific legislation. Despite their reputation, pit bulls are renowned for their loyalty and affection towards their family.
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
A robust, stocky dog, the AmStaff is whip smart, sure of himself and good natured to boot. They're often real characters around the home, and their love of training makes them brilliant companions.
3. Bull Terrier
A cheeky chappy, the Bull Terrier might at first look quite serious with his peculiar head shape and funny erect ears. But it doesn't take long to see what a goofball this breed can be.
Playful, charming and just a bit stubborn, this loving breed can make for a lovely pet. You'll just need to guarantee early socialisation with other dogs and people, firm but kind training, plenty of exercise and lots of time with you.
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Originally bred for bull and bear baiting, followed by dog fighting, today the Staffie is a beloved pet by many.
Natural comedians, the breed is playful and even sometimes referred to as nanny dogs due to their natural affinity with children. Pick a well bred dog and make sure you socialise them young.
5. American Bulldog
A descendant of the English Bulldog, the American Bulldog is an athletic dog with a fantastic balance of strength, endurance and a pleasant nature. As such, they thrived as the best farm dogs, including as guardians. They make for a loyal, confident canine companion.
6. Bullmastiff
Big and powerful, the bullmastiff was created to guard large estates from poachers. They were bred from an Old English mastiff, which provided a heavy dose of courage, and the English Bulldog for strength and tenacity.
They continue to make excellent natural guard dogs and respond brilliantly to training. While incredibly strong, the bullmastiff is also very sweet with their families.
7. Belgian Malinois
Loyal and clever, the Belgian Malinois also needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation too, as well as proper training and socialising. Bred as a herding dog, this Belgian breed is also used for assistance, detection, guard, police and search and rescue work.
8. Dogo Argentino
A pack hunting dog bred for tracking down game like wild board and puma, the Dogo Aregentino is a seriously athletic dog. With a built body, strong head and muscular legs, the Dogo is both powerful and agile. They're smart, strong and protective of their family.
9. Doberman Pinscher
If you're looking for one of the best protection dogs, you'd be hard pressed to find a finer dog for the job than the Doberman Pinscher. They are courageous and vigilant, compactly built boasting both muscle and speed. Their stunning coat and characteristic wedge shaped head helps them stand out in the crowd, and will put any intruder immediately off.
10. Cane corso
With a history dating back to the ancient Romans, the name cane corso translates to bodyguard dog. And that's exactly what you'll get with this clever, assertive and highly trainable dog. Often clocking in at more than 100 pounds, and with a seriously hench stature to boot, the corso must be responsibly bred, well trained and socialised from an early age.
11. German Shepherd
One of the best all purpose workers out, the German Shepherd can turn his hand to many tasks, from search and rescue to police and military work. This loyal breed is also unbeatably brave and very sharp. Aloof with strangers, they are gentle within the home and dedicated guardians to those they love.
12. Rottweiler
Believed to have descended from the mastiffs of ancient Rome, Rottweilers are known for their gorgeous wide set eyes, loyalty and energy. You'll need an active lifestyle and plenty of mental stimulation to keep a Rottweiler happy, out of trouble and in good shape.
13. Alaskan Malamute
Looking every bit the sled dog he was bred to be, the Alaskan Malamute is heavy set with powerful shoulders and chest and an all weather coat, which makes them one of the best dogs for cold weather.
While they work hard and need plenty of exercise, they love nothing more than a post-work cuddle with their best humans. A strong dog, they benefit from plenty of training early on.
14. Siberian Husky
Another sled dog, the Siberian Husky is agile and strong, bred to pull light loads over frozen ground. They can be vocal and have plenty of energy, so they need lots of exercise and mental stimulation, as well as plenty of training early on.
15. Presa Canario
Bred for herding cattle, the Presa Canario is also a fine candidate for guard dog. A sturdy build with a deep bark, this confident dog is naturally wary of strangers. Despite that, the breed is well mannered and totally devoted to his family.
16. Akita
Hailing from ancient Japan, the akita has an air of dignity about them. In Japan they are believed to be omens for health, happiness and longevity. Heavy boned, muscly and double-coated, the akita is an impressive dog characterised with its curled over tail and erect ears.
While they are standoffish with strangers and often other animals, they are affectionate and even playful with their favourite people. They must be socialised early on for success as a family pet.
17. Chow chow
With their trademark lion's mane ruff and said to be as clean as cats, the chow chow is a dignified dog dating back to ancient China. They might be aloof with strangers, but they more than make up for it with their favourite people, to whom they are enduringly loyal.
18. Wolf hybrids
A wolf hybrid is created when breeding a domestic dog with a wolf. These dogs can be challenging to keep, as they are partially wild.
They need a specialised diet, can be incredibly shy and wary of new experiences and require a huge amount of exercise. They also have the potential to become aggressive, especially during the reproductive stage of the year when they become more territorial.
Read next: Best guard dog breeds
