As a pet parent, we’re sure you would agree that some dog breeds get a bad rap.
Whether it’s their hulking frame, piercing stare, or confident strut, some breeds have gotten a not-so nice reputation for being scary when they’re actually secretly softies.
Why is that, though? Well, back in the old days, working dogs had to excel at hunting, fishing, guarding, and herding, so they had to be stocky, rugged, and fearless. But over time, because of those skills, some breeds were (unfairly) assumed to be being aggressive and unsafe.
So, if you’re looking to bring a new furry friend home to the family, don’t be fooled by those bad stigmas.
Instead, read further to check out three so-called scary dogs that are actually quite pawsome. And hey, who knows? One of these breeds might just make for your next family pet!
German Shepherd Dog
This noble canine is part of the Herding group and was bred to assist shepherds tend their flocks in Germany. They’re even used in the military and police force nowadays.
But because of that, yup... you guessed it. Scary reputation. However, their swift, stealthy, and stout skills don’t make them meanies!
Here are their best characteristics (oh yes, they have many) that make them popular family pups:
- Loyal
- Courageous
- Confident
- Gentle
- Affectionate
- Friendly (although they can be aloof with new folks until they get to know them)
- Great with the kiddos
- Well-balanced
- Trainable
- Alert and watchful (protectors – they never forget their herding history)
Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club, the largest organization in the UK devoted to dog health, welfare, and training, says: “German Shepherd Dogs are a good choice for a variety of owners due to their intelligence and well-balanced character. They can be a good addition to a family, but can also be a great four-legged companion for a single owner or a couple.”
We don’t know about you, but that doesn’t sound scary at all!
American Pit Bull Terrier
Perhaps the most misunderstood dog breed of all is the American Pit Bull Terrier.
Pit Bulls were originally bred to combine the Terrier’s spunkiness with the Bulldog’s strength and athleticism. But, their tough, muscular, and agile exteriors can be misleading and sadly... misused – as some ruthless people use those traits to turn them aggressive, which is abnormal for this breed.
In reality, American Pit Bull Terriers are anything but mean.
The United Kennel Club of the UK (UKC) said “The essential characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier are strength, confidence, and zest for life. This breed is eager to please and brimming over with enthusiasm. APBTs make excellent family companions and have always been noted for their love of children.”
Need more proof? Here are a few more amazing traits you’ll love about pits:
- Very loyal
- Great with kids
- Eager to please
- Cuddlers
- Playful personality
- The best happy face ever
With traits like those, perhaps “misunderstood” was putting it lightly!
Rottweilers
Rottweilers (or rotties, as they’re affectionally called) are yet another breed that has a negative stigma hanging over their cute heads. No fair!
The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes them as a loyal, loving, and confident guardian. They’re also seen as being incredibly intelligent, strong, and alert.
They add: “A well-bred and properly raised Rottie will be calm, confident, and courageous but not unduly aggressive. The aloof demeanor these world-class guardians present to outsiders belies the playfulness and downright silliness that endear Rotties to their loved ones. (No one told the Rottie he’s not a Toy breed, so they’re liable to plop onto your lap for a cuddle!)”
Pet paw-rents will find them to be sensitive, loving, and loyal companions who’ll make them laugh every day!
Rottie’s Rule! So don’t count them out!
Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover
Lots of our scary-looking dogs are really just sheep in wolf’s clothing. So, don’t fall for those myths that these three breeds are unruly.
What are your thoughts on scary-looking dogs? If you have one in your pack, let us know how other people view them. Do you defend them all the time, or are perceptions changing?
We certainly hope so.
Send us your feedback in the comment box below, as we love hearing from all of you wonderful pet moms and dads.
And we’re always here for you!
These gentle giants like to feel zesty, too! We provide various “scary good” joint, calming, tummy, and immune supplements that will help keep them happy, healthy, and ready to be your furry fave!
If you want to learn more about our range of products, you can contact us directly at 1-800-738-0661 or bark@zestypaws.com.
We also love it when you share photos of your besties living their zestiest lives! Join the fun and add them to our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest pages using #ZestyPaws.
