6 Dog Breeds Experts Advise Against Owning – Plus 20 More to Carefully Consider

Facts
By Samira Patel

Owning a dog is a rewarding experience, but not all breeds are suitable for every household. Some breeds require special care, training, or environments to thrive. Whether it’s their temperament, energy levels, or specific needs, certain dog breeds may pose challenges to potential owners. Experts often advise caution when considering these breeds to ensure a harmonious relationship between pet and owner. Here, we explore 26 dog breeds that might require a closer examination before making a commitment.

Akita Inu

© skylineakitas

Akita Inus are noble and powerful dogs known for their loyalty and independence. They require experienced handling due to their dominant nature and can be reserved with strangers.
Akitas thrive in environments where they receive consistent training and socialization from an early age. Their strong prey drive means they may not coexist well with smaller animals.
These dogs require ample exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Due to their protective instincts, they may not always be the best choice for novice owners. However, with the right approach, they make wonderful companions.

Chow Chow

© minichow.eu

Chow Chows are known for their distinctive appearance and aloof demeanor. They are often compared to cats due to their independent and reserved nature.
These dogs require patient training and socialization to ensure they develop into well-rounded pets. Their stubbornness can be challenging for inexperienced owners.
Due to their protective instincts, they can be wary of strangers and may require supervision around children. Chow Chows need regular grooming to maintain their lush coats. Despite their challenges, they can be affectionate with their families if given the proper care.

Dalmatian

© missouridalmatians

Dalmatians are high-energy dogs known for their striking spotted coats. They thrive on physical activities and need plenty of exercise to quell their lively nature.
These dogs are intelligent but can be headstrong, requiring consistent training and firm leadership. Without proper outlets for their energy, they may become destructive.
Dalmatians also have a reputation for being sensitive, so positive reinforcement works best in training. While they are loyal and loving with family, their exuberance might be overwhelming for small children. They are best suited for active households that can match their energy levels.

Rottweiler

© rottweiler.dogs.life

Rottweilers are confident and powerful dogs often used as working breeds. They possess a natural protective instinct that can be daunting without proper management.
These dogs benefit from early socialization and consistent training to ensure they are well-behaved members of society. Their size and strength mean they are best handled by experienced owners.
Rottweilers are loyal and affectionate with their families but can be wary of strangers. They require regular exercise and mental challenges to prevent boredom-induced behaviors. With the right guidance, they can be gentle giants and devoted companions.

Siberian Husky

© gonetothesnowdogs

Siberian Huskies are known for their striking appearance and boundless energy. They are highly social and thrive in environments where they can engage in physical activities.
These dogs have a strong prey drive and may not do well with smaller animals. Their independent nature can make training a challenge, so patience is essential.
Huskies are prone to escaping if not provided with secure enclosures. They require regular grooming to manage their thick coats, especially in warmer climates. Despite the challenges, their friendly and gentle demeanor makes them great companions for active families.

Doberman Pinscher

© rubydooby_do

Doberman Pinschers are intelligent and loyal dogs known for their protective nature. They excel in roles requiring alertness and are often used as guard dogs.
These dogs need firm and consistent training to channel their energy positively. Early socialization is crucial to prevent aggression towards strangers or other animals.
Dobermans require mental stimulation and physical exercise to remain balanced. Their sleek coats need minimal grooming, making them relatively low-maintenance in that regard. With proper care and attention, they become affectionate and devoted companions, though they may not be suitable for first-time dog owners.

Alaskan Malamute

© novamal_alaskanmalamutes

Alaskan Malamutes are powerful and hardworking dogs bred for sled pulling. They are known for their endurance and need ample physical activity.
These dogs possess a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for homes with smaller pets. Early training and socialization are essential to manage their independent streak.
Malamutes require secure enclosures as they are adept escape artists. They have a thick double coat that needs regular grooming. While they are friendly and affectionate, they thrive best in environments that cater to their high energy and working dog instincts.

Bullmastiff

© bullmastiff.dog.ins

Bullmastiffs are powerful dogs known for their protective instincts and loyalty. Their imposing size can be intimidating, making them excellent watchdogs.
These dogs require firm leadership and early training to ensure they are well-mannered. Socialization is crucial to prevent wariness towards strangers.
Despite their size, Bullmastiffs are gentle and affectionate with their families. They need regular exercise to maintain their health but are otherwise low-energy compared to other breeds. With the right guidance, they can be calm and dependable companions, though they may not be ideal for inexperienced owners.

Greyhound

© thegregmurray

Greyhounds are renowned for their speed and grace, often associated with racing. They are surprisingly gentle and calm, making them excellent pets for the right household.
Despite their athletic build, Greyhounds are relatively low-energy indoors and enjoy lounging around. They do require regular exercise to keep them fit.
Known for their gentle nature, they are generally good with children and other pets. Their thin coats mean they are sensitive to cold weather, necessitating appropriate care. While they are generally easygoing, their prey drive may require management when around smaller animals.

Dogo Argentino

© dogoargentino.only

Dogo Argentinos are strong and courageous dogs originally bred for big-game hunting. They possess a protective nature that requires responsible management.
These dogs thrive in homes with experienced owners who can provide firm and consistent training. Early socialization is key to ensuring they are well-adjusted.
Due to their strength, they may not be suitable for households with small children or other pets. They require regular exercise to manage their energy levels. Given the right environment and leadership, Dogo Argentinos can be loyal and loving family members, though they may not be for everyone.

Presa Canario

© dogface.k9

Presa Canarios are powerful dogs known for their strong protective instincts. They require experienced handling to ensure they are well-behaved.
These dogs benefit from early socialization and training to prevent aggressive tendencies. They are best suited for homes with ample space and secure enclosures.
Presa Canarios need regular exercise to maintain their health and prevent boredom-induced behaviors. Their imposing presence makes them excellent guard dogs. With the right approach, they can be loyal and loving companions, though they may not be ideal for novice owners or families with young children.

Cane Corso

© canecorso_django

Cane Corsos are intelligent and imposing dogs known for their protective instincts. They excel as watchdogs and require firm leadership from experienced owners.
These dogs need early socialization and consistent training to prevent aggression and ensure they are well-rounded companions. Their strength and size mean they are not suited for all families.
Cane Corsos require regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain balanced. Their short coats need minimal grooming. With the right care, they become devoted and loving family members, though they are best suited for those familiar with large working breeds.

Fila Brasileiro

© alfredo_benito_c

Fila Brasileiros are powerful dogs with a strong protective instinct, often used as guard dogs. They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families.
These dogs require early socialization and training to ensure they are well-behaved around strangers. Their size and strength necessitate experienced handling.
Filas are best suited to homes with ample space and secure fencing. They require regular exercise to prevent boredom and maintain their health. While they are affectionate with their families, they can be wary of strangers, making them ideal for those seeking a protective companion.

Wolfdog

© wander_with_willow

Wolfdogs are unique hybrids with genetic traits of both dogs and wolves. They require special care and understanding due to their wild ancestry.
These animals need secure enclosures and are best suited for experienced owners familiar with their complex behavior and needs. Early socialization and training are essential.
Wolfdogs thrive in environments where they can engage in physical activities. Their independent nature and high energy levels make them unsuitable for casual pet ownership. They can form strong bonds with their handlers but may not be ideal for families with young children or other pets.

Belgian Malinois

© kavikmalinois

Belgian Malinois are intelligent and high-energy dogs often used in police and military roles. They excel in environments that provide mental and physical challenges.
These dogs require experienced handlers who can provide firm leadership and regular training. Their intelligence means they quickly pick up on tasks but also need stimulation.
Malinois are best suited for active households that can match their energy. They may develop behavioral issues without adequate exercise and engagement. While they are loyal and protective, they require a commitment to training and socialization to ensure they are well-adjusted companions.

Pit Bull Terrier

© release_thehoundds

Pit Bull Terriers are strong and energetic dogs known for their loyalty and determination. They thrive in environments where they receive consistent training and socialization.
These dogs have a reputation for being aggressive, but with the right guidance, they can be affectionate and loving pets. Early socialization is key to managing their instincts.
Pit Bulls need regular exercise to manage their energy levels and prevent boredom. They are best suited for active families who can provide firm leadership. Despite misconceptions, they can be gentle companions when raised in a nurturing environment with proper care.

American Bulldog

© dogpoundcompound

American Bulldogs are powerful dogs known for their strength and protective instincts. They require firm leadership and early training to ensure they are well-mannered.
These dogs benefit from socialization to prevent wariness towards strangers. They are best suited for homes with ample space and secure enclosures.
Bulldogs need regular exercise to maintain their health but are otherwise low-energy compared to other breeds. With the right guidance, they can be calm and dependable companions, though they may not be ideal for inexperienced owners. Their loyalty and affection make them beloved family members.

Tosa Inu

© calicatchers

Tosa Inus are powerful dogs originally bred for fighting. They require experienced handling and are often subject to breed-specific legislation.
These dogs benefit from early socialization and consistent training to prevent aggressive tendencies. They are best suited for homes with ample space and secure enclosures.
Tosas need regular exercise to maintain their health and prevent boredom-induced behaviors. Their imposing presence makes them excellent guard dogs. With the right approach, they can be loyal and loving companions, though they may not be ideal for novice owners or families with young children.

Neapolitan Mastiff

© majorleaguemastino

Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their imposing appearance and protective instincts. They require experienced handling due to their size and strength.
These dogs benefit from early socialization and training to ensure they are well-adjusted around strangers. Their loyalty makes them excellent watchdogs.
Mastiffs have a calm demeanor but need regular exercise to maintain their health. Their loose skin requires occasional grooming. Despite their challenges, they can be affectionate family members with the right guidance but may not be suited for first-time dog owners due to their size and needs.

Perro de Presa Mallorquin

© Earth.com

Perro de Presa Mallorquins are powerful dogs known for their loyalty and protective nature. They require firm leadership and experienced handling to manage their instincts.
Early socialization and training are crucial to prevent aggression towards strangers or other animals. These dogs are best suited for homes with ample space and secure enclosures.
They need regular exercise to maintain their health and prevent boredom-induced behaviors. While they are affectionate with their families, their strong-willed nature means they may not be ideal for novice owners. With the right care, they can be devoted companions.

Boerboel

© boerboel.realm

Boerboels are powerful dogs known for their protective instincts and loyalty. They require experienced handling and firm leadership to ensure they are well-mannered.
These dogs benefit from early socialization and training to prevent aggressive tendencies. They are best suited for homes with ample space and secure enclosures.
Boerboels need regular exercise to maintain their health but are otherwise low-energy compared to other breeds. With the right guidance, they can be calm and dependable companions, though they may not be ideal for inexperienced owners. Their loyalty and affection make them beloved family members.

Saint Bernard

© saint.in.the.city

Saint Bernards are known for their gentle nature and imposing size. They are often associated with rescue work in snowy terrains.
These dogs require early socialization and training to ensure they are well-mannered. Their large size means they need ample space and regular exercise to prevent health issues.
Saint Bernards are affectionate and good with children but can be clumsy due to their size. Their thick coats require regular grooming. While they are generally easygoing, their needs may not be suitable for all households. With proper care, they can be loving and gentle companions.

Great Dane

© thedogist

Great Danes are known for their impressive size and gentle demeanor. Despite their stature, they are often referred to as gentle giants.
These dogs require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they are well-behaved. Their large size necessitates ample space and regular exercise to prevent health issues.
Danes are affectionate and good with families but may not be suitable for homes with very young children due to their size. Their short coats need minimal grooming. While they are generally easygoing, potential owners should be prepared for their specific needs and care requirements.

Komondor

© packofblairs

Komondors are known for their unique corded coats and protective nature. Originally bred to guard livestock, they are strong-willed and independent.
These dogs require early socialization and firm training to manage their natural instincts. Their coats need regular maintenance to prevent matting and require special grooming techniques.
Komondors are best suited for homes with ample space and secure enclosures. They are loyal to their families but may be wary of strangers. With the right care, they can be devoted companions, but their unique needs may not be suited for all households.

Shar Pei

© peipeoplerescue

Shar Peis are known for their distinctive wrinkled appearance and calm nature. They require experienced handling due to their independent and sometimes aloof demeanor.
These dogs benefit from early socialization and training to prevent aggression towards strangers or other animals. Their wrinkles require regular cleaning to prevent skin issues.
Shar Peis are generally low-energy but need regular exercise to maintain their health. They are loyal to their families but may be reserved with outsiders. With proper care, they can be affectionate companions, though they may not be ideal for novice owners due to their specific needs.

Furry Fluffernugget

© midwestbulldogs

The Furry Fluffernugget is a breed that exists more in imagination than reality. Known for its charmingly fluffy coat, the Fluffernugget captivates with its bright blue eyes. While playful, it can be unexpectedly aloof, often ignoring commands and preferring solitude. Its stubborn nature might make training a challenge, leading to frustration for first-time pet owners.

This breed thrives in a spacious environment but can become easily bored, potentially developing mischievous behaviors. Engaging toys and interactive play are essential to keep their minds active. Though its existence is a playful myth, the Fluffernugget serves as a whimsical reminder to consider a dog’s traits before bringing one home.