As you may know, Rottweilers and Pitbulls are sometimes known to be aggressive breeds. Their fierce appearances can seem intimidating to strangers, and there is much debate over which dog breed tops the list.
Are Rottweilers More Aggressive Than Pitbulls?
The Rottweiler and the Pitbull tend to show differences in how they process aggression. Rottweilers tend to be more aggressive toward other dogs. However, research statistics show that Pitbulls are involved in most dog bite fatalities in the USA. Pitbulls are therefore considered the more dangerous and aggressive breed.
Although both dogs can be aggressive, it’s important to note that both are usually playful, kind, and loving towards their owners and loved ones.
We look into the history of aggression with both breeds, some of the triggers to be aware of, and some proactive ways to reduce their aggressive behavior.
You might be surprised by some of the methods available!
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How Are Rottweilers And Pitbulls Built? What Does That Mean For Aggression?
The Rottweiler and the Pitbull both have strong muscular physiques. We look at their size and stature in more detail to understand if this can impact their aggression.
Rottweilers
In the early days, Rottweilers were known as “drovers” or the “working” dog. They were used to herd cattle and stubborn livestock and pull carts for butchers. Over time, they are also used in law enforcement as protective or guard dogs.
They are considered “medium to large-sized” dog breeds, weighing over 100 pounds. Rottweilers are more guarded and may react aggressively if they feel a threat.
Moreover, they like to sit back and observe a situation before taking action. Because of their massive strength, they require proper training to control their aggression.
Pitbulls
Pitbulls are traced back to the 1800s in the United Kingdom, known as the “bull-baiting” dog. In early history, this breed was bred to bite or hold bulls or larger animals, such as bears, at the face and head. Nowadays, you can see these species in many family households.
Pits are “average size” dogs weighing 30-65 pounds, and are powerful and athletic.
Compared to the Rottweiler, they are considered less tolerant towards unfamiliar situations. Studies also show that Pitbulls are involved in many more attacks, which is typically due to trauma they have suffered or improper training.
What Do The Experts Say About Who’s The More “Aggressive” Dog?
Many have reported that Pitbulls tend to be more aggressive than Rottweilers.
As previously mentioned, Rottweilers are natural-born protectors, while Pitbulls can be known for their aggression, especially towards other animals, unwelcoming strangers, and children.
This is supported by the many unfortunate news stories over the years of Pitbulls unexpectedly attacking young children.
Animal behavior professionals believe that dogs’ behavior can be unpredictable, especially for children left unattended. This is particularly the case with Pitbulls.
“The American Veterinary Medical Association states that “a dog’s tendency toward aggressive behavior depends on a variety of factors, not just its breed or looks.”
Factors such as environment, training, socialization, and genetics all play a key role in determining aggression levels in specific dog breeds.
This clearly demonstrates that dog owners can have a major influence on the aggression levels of their dogs, based on how they are raised and brought up.
Which Breed Is More Responsible For Fatalities in Recent Years?
Over the years, both breeds have been accused of causing more deaths than any other breed of dog combined. But which one is responsible for more fatalities?
There have been numerous studies conducted to compare the two breeds and their involvement in fatal attacks.
According to recent data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over half of all fatal dog attacks involve Pitbulls, while only 8% involve Rottweilers.
This clearly suggests that Rottweilers are not more aggressive than Pitbulls.
In fact, Pitbulls pose a greater danger when it comes to causing fatalities than Rottweilers do.
What Are Some Ways To Reduce Aggression In Rottweilers and Pitbulls?
As a dog owner, having an aggressive dog can be overwhelming. Past traumas, such as fear, neglect, and abuse, can trigger their behavior.
In other cases, these triggers can come from bad ownership. If you want to prevent your dog from portraying aggressive behavior, here are some symptoms to watch out for and some tactics that might help you.
Symptoms of aggression can include:
Behavioral Differences in Territory
Territorial behavior can manifest in a variety of ways in dogs. Some of the most common forms of territorial behavior include lunging, biting or nipping, growling, snarling, or baring their sharp canines. Additionally, some dogs may display territorial behavior by being still and rigid.
Lunging
Lunging is when a dog lunges forward, often in an aggressive or defensive manner. This type of territorial behavior is often directed at other dogs or people who the dog perceives as a threat to its territory.
Biting or Nipping
Biting or nipping is another common form of territorial behavior. This type of behavior is often directed at other animals or people who the dog perceives as a threat to its territory.
Growling, Snarling or Baring Teeth
Growling, snarling, or baring their sharp teeth are also common forms of territorial behavior. This type of behavior is usually directed at other animals or people who the dog perceives as a threat to its territory.
Being Still and Rigid
Being still and rigid is a less common form of territorial behavior, but it can still occur. This type of behavior is usually directed at other animals or people who the dog perceives as a threat to its territory.
Tactics to Tame an Aggressive Rottweiler
Find Out The Cause
● Observe your Rottie and note any triggers that may cause their sudden aggression. As Rottweilers are usually watchful, they may become overly territorial and aggressive toward visitors.
If they give you a stare or a “low growl,” they may be expressing this behavior.
● You can use a no-pull harness when taking your dog on walks. The harness is a helpful way to prevent your dog from unexpected attacks.
● Monitor the way they respond to different stimuli. For instance, your Rottie’s aggression will usually be triggered by certain factors related to fear or anxiety.
Avoid Aggressive Triggers
● You can create a routine that can reduce exposure to fatal dog attacks. For example, you can distract your dog with a toy if a visitor suddenly stops by.
● If you’re expecting visitors your dog is unfamiliar with, place them in a different setting. They are more likely to become suspicious of strangers.
● You can reward your Rottie’s passive behavior by exposing them to a trigger.
Neutralization
It is advisable to take your dog for long walks to burn off energy. There is a better chance they will behave better when they are tired and not full of energy.
You can gradually expose your Rottweiler to aggression triggers, such as people or other dogs, while they are on a leash. Reward positive behavior with treats or praise.
Tactics to Tame an Aggressive Pitbull
Here are some ways to tame aggressive behavior in Pitbulls.
Observe the cause
Pitbulls are usually confident, curious, and watchful, but other animals are likely to trigger their aggression. It is best to observe your dog’s body language around different stimuli.
If they are fearful, this can escalate towards aggression. If there are other animals around, they are expressing territorial aggression.
Make the most of their Physical Characteristics
Pits are very athletic and have lots of energy. To help reduce aggressive tendencies, take them on hikes, swim, or have them run alongside you while biking to burn off their energy.
Desensitization Training
It is advisable to expose your dog to aggressive triggers using desensitization training. This tactic aims to start at a low intensity and gradually increase it once your dog tolerates these triggers.
Socialization
Pitbulls may need socialization more than many other dog breeds. Ensure you socialize your dog early with other people and dogs. This could be at the park, the beach, or through organizing host playdates with other dog owners.
Which Breed Is Suitable For Your Lifestyle?
This will depend of course on your expectations from dog ownership and your lifestyle.
Both breeds make excellent pets as long as they are cared for in the right manner.
Neither of these breeds requires a huge amount of grooming, however, they do need a lot of attention from their owners.
Some may question the temperaments and suitability of both breeds, but with proper training and socialization, this can be managed in most cases.
If your focus is more on having a dog for protection, a Rottweiler is likely the preferred breed.
However, if you are looking for a more playful dog with incredible energy, then the Pitbull is the better choice.
While both the Rottweiler and Pitbull can display aggression in different ways, Rottweilers are not more aggressive than Pitbulls when looking at all factors.
The good news is there are plenty of methods available to control their aggression. Although the two make look intimidating, these two breeds are very loving of those close to them.
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