The Belgian Malinois is not a good breed for children. This dog was bred as a herder, and as a herder, he tends to bite or nip at kids, as if to keep them in line. The Belgian Malinois became a popular breed in the late 1800s, when it worked in Belgium either as a shepherd or a guard dog. To this day, the Belgian Malinois remains one of the nation’s most beloved dogs.
This breed is intelligent and obedient, with strong territorial instincts. The master of a Malinois is firm and even-handed. A harsh owner will find a very uncooperative dog. These dogs need vigorous exercise every day. They are high-energy dogs that can become destructive and unmanageable if not properly socialized and trained.
Cane Corso
This dog is intelligent, territorial, and makes a good watchdog. As a mastiff breed from Italy, the Cane Corso is a massive breed raised for hunting large game. These dogs weigh in at 120 pounds. Overall, they are not a good fit for novice dog owners. Even folks who have done well with cooperative breeds like Retrievers and Spaniels are no match for this strong, smart, active, and willful dog.
The Cane Corso will not take to strangers, even after consistent socialization—it’s a guard dog in nature through and through. If you have a Cane, you should walk or run him at least a mile each day. Add to that another 20 minutes of training exercise, and this highly active dog may relax a bit. It’s not advisable to take this strong and aggressive canine to dog parks. Left home alone, a Cane will be very destructive and aggressive. To its credit, the Cane Corso is devoted to its family and very loyal due to its protective, guard dog nature.
Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is another breed banned in the UK under the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act. It was bred in Argentina to be a big-game hunting dog for large prey like puma. It was also bred to be a protectorate for humans. But because of his predominant traits—stubborn, intelligent, and domineering—the Dogo was banned in several countries.
This dog is not recommended for first-time dog owners. Besides being intelligent and stubborn, a Dogo is large, powerful, and energetic. Without a leader who is just as strong, plus calm, firm, and consistent, a Dogo will be destructive and in charge. Even a trained Dogo will go after your neighbors’ pets, killing cats and small dogs. A high fence is a necessity with a Dogo. This dog is a natural worker, and without something to do, it will likely chew up your personal belongings.
Shar-Pei
A defining characteristic of a Shar-Pei is its wrinkly skin, a trait that is especially pronounced in puppies until they gradually grow into the folded flesh. The folds are cute but prone to infection. The folds need to be wiped out with a damp cloth. Like the Chow Chow, Shar-Peis have a dark tongue and were likely cross-bred at some point, as both breeds go back to ancient China.
The Shar-Pei is territorial and aggressive. Like all breeds, it can be trained for proper socialization, but with the Shar-Pei, you will need a professional trainer who starts with it as a puppy. The dog’s aloof attitude, however, may make it a disappointing pet for children. Shar-Peis are not interested in hugs or cuddles, yet need to live inside. It is an intelligent but stubborn breed. This is not the dog for a novice owner.
Doberman Pinscher
These highly energetic dogs are big and strong and make outstanding guard dogs. But a Doberman Pinscher is not for anybody. It needs extensive training by a handler who is more dominant than the dog. Without the correct attention, a Doberman will become bored, destructive, and vociferous.
The breed was developed by a German tax collector who needed a powerful and dependable guard for the tax monies collected. It was first recognized at an Erfurt dog show in 1897. Dobermans are tall, shorthaired, and full of strength and stamina. They are loyal, tolerant, and dedicated to family. Though the breed is easy to train, few can deliver the consistent, confident, rule-setting guidance it requires. A Doberman can become willful and stubborn if left to its own terms.