A veterinary professional has recently shared insights into the dog breeds that most intimidate him when they visit his practice. While emphasising that there are no inherently bad breeds, but rather negative behaviours that can develop due to poor ownership, Amir Anwary, also known as @amirthevet on TikTok, has gained a following of over 630,000 by sharing his expertise and entertaining videos. In his latest post that has garnered over 35,400 likes, he identifies five breeds from a Chow Chow to a Belgian Malinois that give him pause.
Starting off his list at number five is the Chow Chow, a Chinese breed historically used as guard dogs given their strong and robust physique. Known for their distinctive black tongues and mane-like hair, Chow Chows are relatively easy to train. Surprisingly, at number four is the Cocker Spaniel, typically known for their friendly nature but can exhibit aggression, particularly in golden-coloured individuals, a phenomenon termed Spaniel Rage or Cocker Rage.
The Rottweiler takes the third spot, often perceived negatively due to their size and common roles in security and law enforcement. Owners of Rottweilers must have experience handling these intelligent and active dogs. In a surprising turn, the tiny Chihuahua is placed at number two for its feisty and sometimes challenging temperament, including traits like constant barking and nipping. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas can be quite bold.
Topping the vet’s list is the Belgian Malinois, known for their herding and guard dog abilities, prized for their agility, intelligence, and protective instincts. Viewer responses to the vet’s video largely echoed his concerns, with anecdotes about their own experiences with these breeds. From a Rottweiler owner acknowledging their dog’s protective nature to a vet tech emphasising caution around Chow Chows, the comments displayed a mix of humour and shared experiences with these intimidating breeds.
This insight from a seasoned veterinarian sheds light on the importance of understanding individual dog breeds’ characteristics and behaviours. While some breeds may have intimidating traits, proper training, socialisation, and care can often mitigate any potential challenges. The veterinarian’s expertise serves as a reminder that responsible ownership and knowledge of a dog’s needs are key in fostering a positive relationship between dogs and their owners.