Some dog are born with a disadvantage because of their breed. No, it's not health-related, it's reputation-related. Often, these dog breeds have negative reputations that don't necessarily match reality. Here is a list of some of the most misunderstood dog breeds and what their personalities actually tend to look like:
1. American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terriers are loyal, fun-loving, affectionate, playful and fearless. They are actually good family dogs who bring plenty of joy to their people. Although they have a reputation as an aggressive breed, they are actually quite gentle. They love to play with their people in the yard or cuddle up with them on the couch. Sadly, their reputation has been ruined by unethical owners and breeders who train them to be aggressive. But when raised by the right people, they are sweethearts who just want to shower you with love.
2. Boxer
Boxers are loving, playful and energetic. Although they look imposing because of their build, they're actually more like big puppies. They love to play, even into adulthood, and also love snuggling with their people. They're alert, reliable and protective of their family. All of this makes them good family dogs (but may need some supervision with children as they can be overly excited and a bit too rambunctious when playing with them).
3. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are loyal, loving, sensitive and fearless. Each Doberman's personality can vary - some are more outgoing while others are more shy. But no matter the individual, all Dobermans are loyal companions and true friends to their people. Sometimes so much so that they have separation anxiety. Their fearlessness and loyalty makes them excellent guard dogs. This does not, however, make them attack dogs (contrary to popular belief). Dobermans tend to protect their family by keeping the trespasser at bay until backup arrives, not by attacking them.
4. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are strong, alert, courageous, loyal, obedient, intelligent and loving. They can be aloof or indifferent to strangers, but once they get to know you and bond with you, you'll have a life-long friend. Because of this, they are often great family dogs who are loving and devoted. Their personality and stern looks make them top candidates for guard dogs (and police or military dogs) but remember, German Shepherds were bred to guard livestock, not attack them.
5. Mastiff
Mastiffs are patient, nurturing, gentle, loyal, affectionate and protective. They will become deeply attached to their people and are great with children. This makes them excellent companions and great family dogs. They can make for good guard dogs who aren't aggressive, but rather keep trespassers at bay until backup comes. Despite how large they are, Mastiffs will try to snuggle up to you on the couch or bed. They are truly gentle giants and are surprisingly low-maintenance.
6. Pit Bull Terrier
Pit Bull Terriers are perhaps the most misunderstood dog breed. They are actually loyal, loving, gentle and goofy. Nicknamed the "Nanny Dog," Pit Bulls are good with children, which makes them great family dogs. They are social and love being around people - all they really want is to be included in family activities or cuddle up to their people. Like the American Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bulls have a bad reputation from unethical owners and breeders. However, in the right hands, they are wonderful companions.
7. Rottweiler
Rottweilers have a reputation for being vicious but that's not actually their true nature. In reality, they are loyal, fearless, affectionate, obedient and good-natured. They do make great guard dogs and will protect their family when necessary, but are often indifferent to strangers. Once they befriend you, though, Rottweilers are devoted and loving. And despite their size, they often want to snuggle up with their people on the bed or couch. With proper training and socialization, Rottweilers are even-tempered, dignified and true companions.