I have to basically agree with the article overall. The smaller dog breeds it listed are the ones we most often have to put caution or muzzle lables on their files. I've told people time and time again I'd rather deal with a rottie or pit anyday (of course I'm partial to those breeds) than a small dog anyday. I can't say how much is the owner, the breeding, or the dog itself, but it does seem to bear up with what I encounter at work most often.

Although we've noticed a tendancy for long haired chihuahuas, dashounds, and Jack Russels to be a bit more cooperative and friendly compared to the short haired versions of their breeds. Maybe it's just the particular ones we've encountered.

Quote Originally Posted by BC_MoM View Post
I wonder if Border Collies were deemed "aggressive" because of their nipping... I honestly don't think it is a very accurate or researched article.
Not that I have anything against you or Boder Collies (they are rather cute). However the article states the survey was based on OWNER responses to their own dogs. "About 6,000 dog owners were questioned about their dogs' behavior."

From a vet assistant's standpoint I'm not going to stop and take the time to determine if a dog is 'nipping' or actually going to bite. After recently having had 7 stitches in my finger from a dog bite I can tell you the difference is irrelevent when it comes to safety.