These are large dogs originally bred for hauling loads. From their ancestors, they retain a strong drive to pursue and capture prey.
These are compactly built dogs known for their strong protective instincts.
Dalmatians were military dogs and hunters. Today, they are devoted and kind to their owners but watchful or even irritable with strangers.
The Doberman was developed to be a personal security dog, fostering independence, intellect, and aggression.
Also known as the Alsatian, this is the second-most popular breed of dog in the United States.
Despite the name, this breed originated in Germany from boarhounds and other large hunting dogs.
Probably the most notorious breed on this list, the pit bull has a reputation for unpredictability and aggression, even against its owner or his family.
Rottweilers were bred to have strong herding and guarding instincts and unusual strength.
A relative of the Spitz, the Husky is known for its athletic temperament. It retains an instinct for being part of a pack, and owners find it a hard breed to train.
The idea of deliberately crossbreeding wolves with dogs was an unfortunate one. The behavior of these animals is often unpredictable.