Some dog breeds appear more frequently in fatal attacks involving children. While breed alone doesn’t cause aggression, data shows trends that are important for parents and dog owners to understand. Here are ten breeds linked to the highest number of fatal child attacks.
Pit Bull
According to DogsBite.org, pit bulls were responsible for over 120 fatal attacks on children between 2005 and 2017. Despite making up a small percentage of the total dog population, they were involved in 66% of all U.S. dog-related deaths, many involving young children.
Rottweiler
A CDC study covering 1979–1998 found that Rottweilers were the second most common breed involved in fatal attacks. According to DogsBite.org, they were responsible for at least 20 fatal attacks on children during a 13-year span, often involving toddlers or infants.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds were responsible for at least 15 fatal child attacks between 1982 and 2020, according to data compiled by Animal People. Their protective instincts and size may lead to tragedy if not properly managed in households with small children.
Presa Canario
Presa Canarios were involved in at least 18 fatal child attacks over a 38-year period, according to Animal People. These large, muscular dogs are known for their guarding instincts, which can turn dangerous without expert handling and clear boundaries—especially around kids.
Siberian Husky
According to CDC data, Siberian Huskies have been involved in at least 13 fatal child attacks. Many cases involved infants, likely triggered by the breed’s strong prey drive. Huskies require constant supervision and structured environments to prevent misdirected instincts.
Akita
Akitas have been responsible for at least 8 fatal child attacks, based on figures from Animal People. Bred for strength and protection, they can be intolerant of sudden movements or rough handling, making them risky in homes with young or unfamiliar children.
Boxer
Boxers were involved in 7 fatal child attacks between 1982 and 2020, according to Animal People. Though typically friendly, their high energy and strong build may lead to serious injury when combined with lack of training or poor supervision in homes with kids.
Chow Chow
According to Animal People data, Chow Chows were linked to 8 fatal child attacks over nearly four decades. Their aloof, territorial nature may result in aggression if a child enters their space uninvited or behaves unpredictably, especially without early socialization.
Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers have been linked to at least 8 fatal child attacks. According to CDC and Animal People data, these dogs—originally bred for protection—can become reactive when startled or challenged, especially if not socialized from an early age around children.
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs were responsible for 5 fatal attacks on children between 1982 and 2020, according to Animal People. Their immense size and guarding instincts can be dangerous if the dog feels the child is a threat, particularly in unsupervised or chaotic environments.
- Please Note: This content was created with the assistance of AI and thoroughly edited by a human before publishing.
