Originally Posted by
urbanknight
You need to learn how to read statistics. This is FATAL attacks. Of course Rottweilers and Pit Bulls will have the largest numbers of deaths. Do you know how difficult it is for a Chihuahua to kill a person?
"Many small dog owners overlook their dog's behavior because they are small and/or think they cannot hurt anyone. The truth is, little dogs bite more than big dogs."
http://www.dogbite.org/pages/dogsmostlikely.html
I agree with the statement that it's how you raise the dog that matters. I have a large mutt that was rescued and definitely abused (18" burn mark down its back) and can tear a tennis ball into shreds in less than 5 minutes, yet it is gentle (even with small children and other animals), puts up with anything you can dish out (pulling tail, smothering its face, etc.), won't take a piece of food out of another person or animal's mouth or plate (I've tested it), and respects the toys of other animals and people by not using them unless offered. You will never convince me that breed is the cause of violent behavior in dogs, just as race isn't the cause of violent behavior in humans.
Oh, and for the record, I don't blame your father for shooting in self defense. That's completely justified in my book.
The breeds that seem to chase me are at the top of the list for fatal attacks. My experience seems to closely match the statistics offered.
And it's not just about getting bit. My worst wreck was caused when a pack of dogs gave chase, and one ran right in front of my front wheel. Boom!
I don't think I've been chased by a Chihuahua, but I HAVE been chased by pits, dobermans, and shepards.
Don't get me wrong, I like dogs. But when they start chasing me (usually at the base of a climb!),I really don't have the time nor the inclination to start wondering about the pooch's upbringing or history of past abuse, or the owner's dog education skills and relationship with said pooch, etc. I generally have only time to think "Hmmm...sprint or fight??"
DPN