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In order to make an informed opinion about whether dangerous breeds should be banned, we first need to figure out what is actually dangerous. Is it size, weight, muscling or temperament? Is it training or lack there of? In my mind a dangerous breed is one that is one that isn't treated with the respect due it. I've been bitten by "lapdog" breeds more often than I can count. These little monsters may not be large enough to do serious damage to an adult, however they are perfectly capable of hurting a child.

I believe in taking every dog on his own terms only taking his breed into momentary consideration. The only breed that is truly dangerous are the ones who are misunderstood, abused, unsocialized or spoiled. Maybe some dogs should have the same type of licensing laws as some exotic species. For instance dogs who are large, strong, and classified as more difficult to train. Such a law might possibly read like this:

"To qualify for ownership of any said breed (listed below) the potential owner must attend and pass an "Owner's Course" for their intended breed. Said person must attend basic obedience classes within the first eight months of ownership and provide all medical care in accordance with their state's laws."

I'm sure you get the idea. Banning any breed isn't going to solve anything. Since all domestic dogs are descendants of wild dogs/wolves it is therefore common sense that all dogs have the same basic instincts. Said instincts are usually what is interpreted as viciousness so it stands to reason that all dogs can be aggressive, vicious, violent or even deadly.

Learn more about this author, Skathock Motyka.
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