Attack dog

[1][2] Attack dogs have been utilized throughout history and are used today primarily in police and military roles.

The effect of this was documented by Roman naturalist and writer Pliny the Elder, who wrote that the animals would not back down, even when confronted by swords.

The Roman attack dogs were given metal armour covered in razor-sharp spikes, designed to force the enemy out of formation.

Military contractors have been supplying the Department of Defense with nearly as many patrol and explosives detection dogs as the government trains in the recent wars in the Middle East.

They are often used for guarding illegal narcotics operations, intimidating people to facilitate deals and collect debts, defending gang members and turf against law enforcement, and as attack dogs to intimidate and attack rival criminals.

[15] Today attack or guard dogs with military-level training may also be used outside the military by individuals or families.