17 Dog Breeds You Think You Want, But Probably Shouldn’t Get

Border Collies are highly intelligent and incredibly trainable, which makes them an appealing choice for many people. However, their brilliance comes with a catch. These dogs are working dogs by nature and require a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Without proper engagement, they can become bored, anxious, and even destructive. They need constant activity and challenges, making them a poor fit for those with a sedentary lifestyle or those who don’t have the time to devote to their high-energy needs.

Siberian Husky

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Siberian Huskies are known for their striking appearance and friendly demeanor. However, they come with some significant challenges. These dogs are incredibly independent and strong-willed, making training difficult for first-time dog owners. Huskies also have high energy levels and require frequent exercise, which can be tough to provide if you don’t have the space or time. Furthermore, their thick double coat requires consistent grooming to avoid mats and tangles. While they are beautiful, they might not be the right fit for everyone due to their demanding nature.

Great Dane

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Great Danes are massive, beautiful dogs that have a reputation for being gentle giants. While they are affectionate and friendly, they come with some considerable drawbacks. Their sheer size means that they require ample space to move around, and their tendency to get the “zoomies” can cause chaos in smaller homes. They also have a relatively short lifespan compared to other breeds, often facing health issues like hip dysplasia and heart problems. Plus, their large appetite and the expense of caring for such a big dog can be overwhelming for some families.

Afghan Hound

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Afghan Hounds are known for their elegant, flowing coats and their aloof, dignified personalities. While they may look like the perfect pet for those who appreciate beauty, these dogs can be quite high-maintenance. Their long coats require regular grooming, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, Afghan Hounds are independent and sometimes difficult to train. Their aloof nature can make them less than ideal for families or individuals looking for an affectionate, easy-to-please companion.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas are tiny, but they have big personalities that can be difficult to manage. While they are great for people who don’t have much space, their feisty and sometimes unpredictable behavior can be a challenge. Chihuahuas tend to bond strongly with one person, making them possessive and jealous, which can result in aggressive behavior toward other pets or people. Their small size means they’re delicate and may require extra care to avoid injury, which can be an issue for households with young children.

Jack Russell Terrier

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Jack Russell Terriers are known for their spunky, energetic nature and intelligence. While these qualities make them appealing to many, they also make them a challenge to manage. These dogs are extremely high-energy and require constant exercise and mental stimulation. If they don’t get enough activity, they can become destructive, chewing furniture or digging up the yard. Their strong hunting instinct can also lead them to chase small animals or even run off if not properly contained. Jack Russells may be too much for people who aren’t ready to handle their spirited personalities.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds are adorable, compact dogs with a lot of personality. However, their stubbornness and independent streak can make them tough to train. Despite their small size, they are known for their strong prey drive and may chase after small animals without hesitation. Additionally, Dachshunds are prone to back issues due to their long bodies, and improper handling or exercise can lead to serious health problems. While they’re a great choice for people looking for a small companion, their stubbornness and physical needs may make them a less-than-ideal choice for first-time dog owners.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are famous for their size and their historically friendly, calm temperament. However, they come with challenges that potential dog owners may not have considered. Their enormous size makes them difficult to manage, especially in smaller living spaces. They require plenty of food and regular grooming, and their short lifespan and predisposition to health issues like hip dysplasia and bloat can be costly and emotionally taxing for their owners. While their loving nature is endearing, the sheer demands of caring for a Saint Bernard can be overwhelming for some.

Akita

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Akitas are majestic, strong-willed dogs that can make wonderful companions, but they require an experienced owner. They are highly independent and can be difficult to train, particularly without proper socialization from a young age. Akitas tend to be aloof and reserved with strangers, which can make them protective and even aggressive if not managed properly. Their strong instincts and powerful build also mean they need a lot of exercise and space to roam. For first-time dog owners or people who cannot provide adequate training, an Akita may not be the best fit.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands are large, loving dogs that are often known for their sweet nature and gentle demeanor. However, their size and drool production can be off-putting for some. They require significant grooming due to their thick coats, and they tend to shed heavily. Their size also means they need ample space and food, which can make them difficult to accommodate in smaller homes. Additionally, while they are generally gentle, they can unintentionally cause damage with their size and strength, especially in a house with fragile items or small children.

Poodle (Standard)

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Standard Poodles are intelligent, elegant, and friendly dogs, but their need for constant grooming can make them more work than some are prepared for. Their curly coats require regular maintenance to prevent mats and tangles. While Poodles are easy to train, they are also known for their high energy and need for both physical and mental stimulation. Without sufficient exercise, they can become bored and restless, leading to undesirable behaviors. For someone not prepared to commit to their grooming and activity requirements, a Standard Poodle might be a challenging choice.

Bullmastiff

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Bullmastiffs are massive dogs known for their calm demeanor and protective instincts. While they are great guard dogs, they can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners due to their size and strength. Bullmastiffs need consistent training to ensure they are well-behaved and socialized. They are also prone to certain health problems like hip dysplasia and bloat, which can be expensive and difficult to manage. Their low energy levels mean they require less exercise, but their size and potential health issues make them a demanding breed for some households.

Shiba Inu

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Shiba Inus are known for their fox-like appearance and strong independence. While they are beautiful and intelligent, they can be challenging to manage due to their aloof and sometimes stubborn nature. Shiba Inus tend to be independent thinkers and can be difficult to train without patience and consistency. They are also known for their strong prey drive, which can result in chasing small animals if not properly controlled. For someone with little dog experience, a Shiba Inu might be too strong-willed to handle comfortably.

Belgian Malinois

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Belgian Malinois are often chosen for their intelligence and ability to perform high-level tasks. However, they are also high-energy, working dogs that need a lot of mental and physical stimulation. Without sufficient exercise, Belgian Malinois can become anxious, destructive, and difficult to handle. Their intelligence and drive to work make them ideal for active families or individuals who can engage with them frequently. However, for someone looking for a more laid-back dog, a Belgian Malinois may not be the best fit due to their intense energy levels and high needs.

Rottweiler

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Rottweilers are loyal, protective, and confident dogs, but they can be too much for an inexperienced owner. While they are known for being excellent guard dogs, they can also be aggressive if not properly trained or socialized. Rottweilers require firm and consistent leadership, as well as early socialization to ensure they are well-behaved around strangers and other animals. Their strength and protective instincts can make them difficult to manage, and without proper training, they can become dominant or unpredictable, making them a challenging breed for first-time owners.

Bull Terrier

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Bull Terriers are strong, energetic, and independent dogs with a unique and sometimes mischievous personality. They require an experienced owner who can provide consistent training and socialization, as they can be stubborn and strong-willed. Bull Terriers can also be somewhat aggressive toward other animals if not raised properly, so early socialization is essential. Their energy levels are high, and without enough exercise or mental stimulation, they may resort to destructive behavior. Their unique personality and strong will may be overwhelming for those who are not prepared to handle them.

French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs are popular for their cute, compact size and affectionate nature, but they come with a few health concerns. Due to their brachycephalic (flat) faces, French Bulldogs can have difficulty breathing, especially in hot weather. They may also be prone to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and spinal issues. Despite their easygoing nature, French Bulldogs require close monitoring to ensure their health remains stable, making them a breed that might not be ideal for first-time owners who aren’t familiar with their specific needs.

The Dogs That Are Too Cool For You

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While these breeds may seem like the perfect companion at first glance, many come with specific needs, strong personalities, and characteristics that could present challenges for less experienced owners or those with a laid-back lifestyle. Before bringing any dog home, it’s important to research thoroughly and assess whether you have the time, space, and energy to meet their needs. Just because a breed looks cute and friendly doesn’t always mean it’s the best fit for you. Be sure you’re ready for the commitment!