20 Dog Breeds You Think You Want But Probably Don’t

We should preface this article by saying that every dog has unique gifts and challenges. The point of this information is not to bash or discourage ownership of any one breed, but rather to encourage thoughtful ownership. And don’t forget, their are many wonderful mixed breeds waiting in shelters for their forever home!

There are hundreds of dog breeds in the world, each with their own unique look, purpose and personality. While many people think they want a certain breed, they sometimes find out that the dog they thought looked really cool is actually a lot of work to live with. This is why so many trainers and rescues try to advice first time owner to avoid certain breeds. Many breeds are becoming more popular on looks alone, but end up most often in the shelter when their novice owners can’t control them. Here are 12 breeds you think you might want but should probably avoid – unless you’re truly prepared.

 

#1 – Border Collie

The Border Collie is growing in popularity in pet homes because of its popularity out in the working fields. They are intelligent dogs that need a job, so while they’re very good at cool tricks, they also need to be out herding, running agility courses or working on competitive obedience to be happy. They may be small, but their drive and intensity is a lot more dog than the average owner is expecting.

 

#2 – Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is gaining popularity after the media noted it was the breed that helped bring down Osama Bin Laden. While it’s true that the Malinois is the most versatile police and military working dog, it’s also a dog that needs a job. The breed is bred almost exclusively for protection work and its drive, intensity and aggressive tendencies make it a very poor choice for a pet.

 

#3 – Dutch Shepherd

The Dutch Shepherd is also a popular police and military working dog and shares many of the same traits as the Belgian Malinois. These dogs need jobs and will not only become destructive if left under-stimulated, but even somewhat aggressive and difficult to handle.

 

#4 – Patterdale Terrier

Patterdale Terriers are becoming more and more popular among the terrier hunting crowd and although they share some qualities of many other pet terriers, they’re much more intense dogs. Although small, they are bred almost exclusively for work and can become a major liability in the wrong hands.

 

#5 – Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is beautiful, but novice owners typically looking for a pretty dog to sit around all day find themselves way in over their heads with a Sibe. These dogs were bred for endurance running and without a lot of exercise and proper training, they are very difficult dogs to live with.

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