In order to ensure public safety, many countries around the world have enforced bans or restrictions on certain dog breeds—ones that are perceived as dangerous. If you’re curious about which breeds you probably shouldn’t consider bringing home and why, we’re here to share 17 of the most controversial.
Pit Bull Terrier
Sadly, Pit Bull Terriers face restrictions in some areas of the world due to their powerful build, strength, and potential for aggression. Several countries, including Canada and Venezuela, have enacted either bans or stringent conditions, such as mandatory muzzling and leashing in public areas.
Tosa Inu
This beautiful yet rather large breed of dog is banned in countries such as the United Kingdom, Denmark, and New Zealand. Because these dogs were originally bred for dog fighting in Japan, they can be quite aggressive by nature. Where they’re not banned, they may face other requirements, like muzzling and secure containment.
Dogo Argentino
“Because they are used in dog fighting rings, Dogo Argentinos have been deemed dangerous and banned in several countries,” as per DogTime. They’re perceived by some as highly aggressive and face bans or strict regulations in countries including Australia, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand.
Fila Brasileiro
By some, this breed of dog is considered a gentle giant, but others argue that these dogs can get aggressive due to their overly protective nature. The United Kingdom, Israel, and Denmark are some of the countries that don’t allow Fila Brasileiros, and many of those that do require owners to follow strict leash and muzzling rules.
American Staffordshire Terrier
These muscular, stocky dogs are often confused with Pit Bulls and, by some, are perceived as dangerous. The countries with bans or regulations against American Staffordshire Terriers include Germany, Australia, and Singapore. This is because of the dogs’ strength and potential for aggression.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
For similar reasons as the American Staffordshire, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier unfortunately has a reputation for aggression. Portugal and Russia have banned this breed, and Spain has them under dangerous dog categorization. Where they’re allowed, some countries require licensing, muzzling, and other restrictions.
Rottweiler
According to PetMD, Rottweilers are now one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. So, it may surprise you to learn that elsewhere they have a reputation for being unpredictably aggressive. France, Italy, Portugal, Romania, and Ireland are some of the countries with bans or restrictions against this type of dog.
Doberman Pinscher
Historically used as guard dogs, Doberman Pinschers are known to have the potential to be aggressive at times. They’re also said to be highly protective of their owners. Countries with bans against this dog include Singapore, Malaysia, and Qatar—though elsewhere they’re pretty well respected.
Boerboel
Originally bred in South Africa, the Boerboel breed is banned in Denmark and Singapore due to its very protective nature, which can lead to aggressive incidents if dogs suspect a threat from strangers. Sadly for them, these dogs are often subject to containment and handling regulations.
Bull Terrier
You’ll recognize a Bull Terrier by its distinctive egg-shaped head. While these dogs are largely said to be playful and affectionate, they can also be aggressive if not properly trained, and their powerful builds mean they’re quite strong. They’re banned in Germany and face ownership restrictions elsewhere.
Akita Inu
As told by the American Kennel Club, “The Akita is a muscular, double-coated dog of ancient Japanese lineage famous for their dignity, courage, and loyalty.” Unfortunately, these gorgeous, fluffy dogs have a very protective nature that can lead to aggressive behavior. They’re banned in Bermuda and Singapore.
American Bulldog
Often mistaken for Pit Bulls, American Bulldogs face bans in countries like Denmark and Singapore. The aim of this is to manage the risks associated with their size and power, as they’re typically seen as a threat due to their build and strength.
Dogue de Bordeaux
This large dog breed has a powerful build and a large head and is said to possess main guard dog traits. If not properly trained, this type of dog can get quite aggressive, which could be dangerous considering its strength. The breed is banned in Bermuda and parts of Germany.
Presa Canario
Australia and New Zealand both have strict import and selling bans on this breed in order to prevent possible attacks. The Presa Canario was originally bred for dog fighting and guarding livestock, so these dogs are known for their potential aggression.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Due to their massive builds (weighing up to 150 lbs.) and protective nature, Neapolitan Mastiffs are said to pose potential risks to humans. Many consider them to be loyal and gentle dogs, but they’re banned in Singapore, where they’re seen as intimidating with the potential to attack.
Great Dane
Britannica states that “the Great Dane is typically a swift, alert dog noted for courage, friendliness, and dependability.” However, its size and potential for harm, despite a generally gentle disposition, are considered too much for countries like Bermuda, where it’s currently banned.
Japanese Spitz
Surprisingly, the little Japanese Spitz is banned in Saudi Arabia, though the reasons behind this are largely unknown. These fluffy, happy-looking dogs seem a real joy to own—but unfortunately, they’re part of a broader range of breed bans in the region, perhaps due to behavioral or health issues.
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