What has changed is the total number of dog bites, which now account for over 800,000 medical visits per year. By 1994, 4.7 million people in the US had reported dog bite injuries. Any and every breed or mixed breed of dog can bite and inflict serious or even deadly injuries. The breeds mentioned happen to be favored by individuals who enjoy having a dangerous dog. This is the most important thing to keep in mind when evaluating children's risk from dogs.
Aggressive behavior is linked to a dog's gender and status.
The amount and quality of supervision and training the dog receives from its owner, the health of the dog, and its living conditions are important to the development of its temperament. Chained dogs and dogs on their own property more frequently bite than unrestrained dogs. Leashed dogs with their owners cause the fewest injuries. Children's behavior influences the amount of risk they face. Running, shrieking, teasing, poking, jumping and wild movements stimulate a predatory response.