Born dangerous

Charmaine Fernando

Humans rear dogs as pets and there are actually more homes with dogs as pets, than there isn't. A man's best friend, we call them, and of course they can be trained to be that. There are some dog breeds that can even be trained to become fiercer than they were born to be. Despite the training of it all, we cannot deny the fact that almost all the dog breeds have a tendency to go back to their brutal ways, at certain times, when provoked. How and what triggers their provocation is perplexing.

Men do have a way with dogs! It all depends on how well you train your dog. Remember all dogs are born wild and the instincts for survival are in tact in their subconscious. Some dogs are born defensive and soldier-like: They attack any intruder, visitor and sometimes family members. It is not wise to buy or accept any dog variety in to your home because you or your families desperately want to have a pet. Or rear a guard dog in the house for safety's sake.

Origin wilderness

Dogs by nature are born with the potential to pose a danger to humans but then there are some breeds which are more dangerous than others. Various breeds can be noticeably stronger and bigger than a person of average size. Training, socialization and proper care can make a considerable impact. However, some dogs are by years of training can be made more aggressive.

According to research it has been found that some dogs are born with genes that bring out the brute in them far more aggressively than others. Dogs do have endearing qualities like all living creatures, despite their inborn traits but can be reared, trained and turned into pets who can be an asset to humans.

Dalmatian: Man's protector

Dalmatians originated in Yugoslavia and a well grown dog may weigh 40 to 70 lbs. They can be hostile and aggressive to humans. But they are by nature very protective towards who ever takes care of them. They are very active and need workout and proper exercise.

They are very sensitive by nature and boast an exceptional memory. Dalmatians are well-known for their intelligence, independence, endurance and survival instincts. They can be trained to be one of the best pets there can be.

Boxer: Hard to tame shrew

Originally German they are by nature a bright, energetic and playful. When fully grown Boxers weigh around 50 to 70 lbs. Quite contrary to their name, these dogs are not intrinsically aggressive. But like their human counterparts, Boxers, are famous for their headstrong quality, which makes training quite a tough task.

But then there is always a way to tame the most stubborn creatures; like the tactics in Shakespeare's Taming of the shrew. Of course with constructive reinforcement techniques, Boxers often respond positively.

Chow Chow: Dog with the lion mane

A breed of dog known as Chow Chow evolved in Mongolia some 4,000 years ago. Later they were introduced to China where it was called Songshi Quan which means puffy-lion dog. They weigh 50 to 70 lbs when grown.

The Chow Chow is a dog with sturdily built, square in profile with broad skull, a very dense double coat and fur particularly thick around the neck, giving the distinctive ruff or mane appearance. These dogs can be aggressive if poorly bred. It all depends on how well you train your dog.

The Chow may appear to be independent and aloof for much of the day but needs constant reinforcement. The chow is extremely loyal to its own family and will bond tightly to its master. A healthy Chow Chow may live up to 10 to 15 years. Famous Chow Chow owners include Elvis

Presley, the wife of Walt Disney, Martha Stewart and the father of psychology: Sigmund Freud

Smart-dog: Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans make great guard dogs for their alertness, intelligence and loyalty. They can be aggressive when provoked. The typical pet Doberman attacks only if it believes that it, its property or its family are in danger. They weigh 65 to 90 lbs and are of German origin.

Fearless German Shepherds

These dogs are intelligent and very alert. They are highly used by local authorities such as the police K-9 unit. German shepherds are known to be fearless and confident. Weighing a good 70 to 100 lbs, they are of German origin.

Rottweilers: Ideal guard-dog

Rottweilers are known to be very aggressive because of their keen territorial instincts. That's why they make great guard dogs. Weighing around 100 to 130 lbs, these big boned dogs are originally from Germany.

Pit Bull: The killer

A pit bull is a fearless dog that will take on any opponent. They will lock their jaws onto the prey until it is dead. Pit bulls have a reputation of mauling people to death and they are highly sought after for dog fighting. With around 55 to 65 lbs, the Pitt Bulls originated in USA. Man knows exactly how to bring out the worst, even in a dog!

Properly trained dogs most often make wonderful pets. However in certain circumstances, any type of dog can be dangerous especially when provoked. Even friendly dogs, can inflict great harm in the wrong circumstance. Children and even adults may become unfortunate victims due to bad up bringing of your precious pet dog. Good professional training and study on the breed is of utmost importance to prevent your 'pet becoming a threat' to your social circle.