A huge number of us decided to welcome new puppies into our homes in the last few years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership is at an all-time high.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
Before they were domesticated, dogs had to fight for everything from food to territory – so signs of aggression were essential to their survival.
Many of these has been bred out to create the perfect family dogs we know today, but some breeds are more likely to retain an aggressive side than others.
There can be good reason for this – for example for those used as service or guard dogs – but prospective owners should be aware that this is the case before choosing to welcome a certain dog into their homes.
It should also be said that individual dogs may display attributes that are unusual for their breed, and all dogs have the potential to be aggressive in certain situations.
Here are the 15 breeds most likely to show signs of aggression – including growling and snapping.
5. Dachshund
Ask any Dachshund owner and they will confess that their adored pup isn't always the easiest pet to have in the house. Sausage Dogs are notoriously badly behaved and are not averse to turning to snarls, growls and nips if they aren't getting their own way. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Chow Chow
The huge Chow Chow is another dog that should only be considered by experience dog owners. It is a breed that has a dominant personality which can turn to aggression to assert that dominance. | Canva/Getty Images
7. German Spitz
The may look like fluffy balls of fun, but the German Spitz has a reputation of being highly suspicious of strangers - both human and canine. They can be highly reactive, lashing out when nervous. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Jack Russell
Energetic, bold and tenacious - the Jack Russell Terrier can become hyperactive without firm training and exhibit aggressive behaviour such as nipping, snapping and chasing. | Canva/Getty Images