This has become a rather controversial subject especially in recent years. With an increase of reports in the press of fatal dog attacks, many of which focus on specific breeds of dog. We rarely seem to hear about the attack from the “Maltese”. Now is this because attacks from other breeds are rarely seen or because we only hear about the ones committed by breeds labelled as “aggressive”?
The BBC news recently reported on research into aggressive behavior after dog attacks. The Dogs Trust welcomed the research but warned this kind may “demonize” breeds. This demonization of certain breeds has led to many stereotyping a particular breed as aggressive. I cannot tell you the amount of times I have walked down the road with a Staffordshire bull terrier, a Doberman or a German shepherd and I have seen the person in front of me cross over the road. It surprises me at times, as all the hundreds of dogs I have worked with over the years, I have only actually been bitten by two dogs and neither were of what people typically class as an “aggressive breed”.
The Dogs Trust in another interview with the Daily mirror claimed the bull breeds and other status dogs had an undeserved reputation for aggression – and could make good pets when cared for by responsible dog owners.
Now this is a subject close to my heart, “Maisie” our patron is a rescue Staffy cross and has a beautiful nature. She has been brought up with love and kindness however boundaries have been enforced when necessary. I am sure there are many of you out there who also own one of these labelled dogs and they actually are very friendly and also have a great nature.
So next time you see one of those “aggressive breeds” please will you keep an open mind, you will soon realize that this stereotype that has been developed is simply that a stereotype!!
