Top 7 Misunderstood Dogs and Why Perceptions Need to Be Changed

We hear it all the time -- stories about mistreated animals that can cause our blood to boil. These stories, unfortunately, are all too common. But why? Dogs are often misunderstood, which can lead to their mistreatment. Here we break down the top seven misunderstood dogs and why these perceptions need to be changed.

1. Chow Chow: A Chow Chow appears to be just fluff and love at first glance. How can anyone think this dog is aggressive? Chows were originally bred to be protectors and are independent in nature -- this leads them to be viewed as a breed that is vicious. However, many Chows are very loving in nature. Just because they are doing their job of protecting, doesn’t mean the breed will only be aggressive.
2. Boxers: Boxers have gained in popularity over the past several years, but this breed was typically thought to reflect characteristics stemming from their name -- a fighter. In reality, Boxers are highly sociable, energetic and playful. Providing these dogs with toys that they can actively engage with will channel their energy in a positive way.
3. English Mastiff: English Mastiffs are often feared because of their size. People associate their large presence as threatening and dangerous, however, this breed has a docile and proud temperament. English Mastiffs even have fewer instances of injury as opposed to smaller pocket dogs of popularity.
4. Chihuahua: This pint-sized pup is completely different in size than the other towering dogs on the list. Because of that, Chihuahuas are thought to be “yappy,” and stories of certain instances where they have snapped at children have kept families away from the breed. Providing these pups with proper chew toys and enrichment will help ensure that they keep their teeth to themselves.
5. Rottweiler: HealthyPet.com describes a well-bred Rottweiler's temperament in three words; calm, confident, and courageous. It’s the poorly bred and cared for Rotties that tend to become aggressive. Overall, this breed is known to be powerful, trainable, devoted, serious, even-tempered, loyal, and protective. Rottweilers need to be trained and given plenty of exercise from a young age in order to encourage positive behavior and a loving personality.
6. American Pit Bull: Pit Bulls could be the icon of misunderstood dogs. Due to abuse, illegal fight rings, and poor breeding, Pit Bulls have been viewed as one of the most aggressive dog breeds. Thankfully, efforts have recently been made to change the way people perceive Pit Bulls. Many movements have begun to erase the stigma that Pit Bulls are naturally aggressive, violent, and mean. In reality, these dogs are very loving and loyal companions.
7. German Shepherd: People often picture German Shepherds as a police dog, attacking someone on the run. The Daily Puppy cites this as a reason why “it’s no wonder this breed gets a bad reputation for being overly aggressive.” Because of their original roots as a herding dog, German Shepherds are extremely loyal and protective of their “flock.” In families, this means the dogs like to look after your children.

Do you have one of the mentioned dogs or another one that’s misunderstood? Let us know by sharing below, and try our dog toy finder to pick the perfect fit for your canine friend based on their size, personality and behavior patterns.