Dog Safety in Zimbabwe: Top 10 Breeds for Homes and Security Amid Rising Attacks

A Vicious pitbull (image source)

With over 26,000 dog bites reported in Zimbabwe in 2024 and several fatal attacks in 2025—including the tragic mauling of Samuel Machara in Bluffhill—concerns over dangerous dog breeds have reached a boiling point. Lawmakers and veterinarians are now calling for stricter regulations and stronger public education on responsible dog ownership.

Top 10 Safest Dog Breeds for Zimbabwean Homes

Here’s a curated list of breeds that balance security, safety, and companionship, including native Zimbabwean breeds:

Rank	Breed	Traits	Origin
1	Rhodesian Ridgeback	Loyal, protective, intelligent	Zimbabwe
2	Zimbabwean Sighthound	Agile, alert, gentle	Zimbabwe
3	Maltese Terrier	Small, affectionate, low-risk	Zimbabwe
4	German Shepherd	Trainable, loyal, versatile	Global
5	Doberman Pinscher	Intelligent, protective	Global
6	Labrador Retriever	Friendly, safe with children	Global
7	Golden Retriever	Calm, obedient, affectionate	Global
8	Zimbabwean Mastiff	Strong, family-friendly	Zimbabwe
9	Beagle	Alert, gentle, good with kids	Global
10	Border Collie	Smart, trainable, non-aggressive	Global

Expert Commentary

Veterinary surgeon Dr. Anele Dube warns:

“People gravitate toward aggressive breeds like pit bulls without understanding their needs. Proper training and socialization are key.”

Meanwhile, Shamva South MP Tatenda Mapiki has proposed legislation to regulate dangerous breeds and provide affordable rabies treatment.

Breeds to Approach with Caution

Some breeds have been linked to fatal attacks in Zimbabwe and require experienced handlers, secure environments, and constant supervision:

• Pit Bulls

• Boerboels

• Rottweilers
  

Tips for Safe Dog Ownership

To ensure safety while benefiting from the loyalty of man’s best friend, experts recommend:

• Vaccinate regularly against rabies and other diseases

• Secure your property with strong fencing and gates

• Socialize dogs early to reduce aggression

• Avoid aggressive breeds in small spaces like crowded neighborhoods
  

Final Word

Dogs can be loving companions and effective security tools—but only when chosen wisely and raised responsibly. For Zimbabwe, prioritizing safety, training, and breed suitability is essential to prevent future tragedies and foster healthy human-canine relationships.