If you’re a dog owner or have always dreamed of getting one, chances are, you have a favourite breed.
Lots of time, our preference depends on the breeds we find to be cutest. However, as adorable as these pups are, they can be total nightmares to deal with when you actually have one as a pet. You’ve been warned!
1. Chihuahuas can be surprisingly aggressive and demanding.
Don’t let their tiny size fool you. Chihuahuas often have big personalities packed into small bodies. They can be fiercely protective, prone to barking, and sometimes aggressive towards strangers or other dogs. Their demanding nature and tendency to bond strongly with one person can make them challenging pets for families.
2. Huskies have an insatiable urge to run and howl.
With their striking blue eyes and wolf-like appearance, Huskies are undeniably beautiful. However, they’re working dogs with high energy levels and a strong desire to run. Without proper exercise, they can become destructive. Their tendency to howl can also be a nuisance, especially in urban settings. They’re expert escape artists too, often finding creative ways to break free from yards.
3. Beagles have a stubborn streak and a loud bark.
Those floppy ears and puppy dog eyes might melt your heart, but Beagles can be a handful. They’re scent hounds with a strong prey drive, which means they’ll follow their nose regardless of your commands. Their howl-like bark can be extremely loud and persistent. Training a Beagle requires patience and consistency, as they can be quite stubborn.
4. Jack Russell Terriers are bundles of endless energy.
These small dogs are often seen as cute and lively, but their energy levels can be overwhelming. Jack Russells need constant mental and physical stimulation. Without it, they can become destructive, digging up gardens or chewing furniture. They’re also known for their strong prey drive and can be aggressive towards other animals if not properly socialised.
5. Bulldogs often come with a host of health issues.
With their wrinkled faces and stocky bodies, Bulldogs are undeniably charming. However, their cute features often come with serious health problems. They’re prone to breathing difficulties, overheating, skin infections, and joint issues. These health concerns can lead to frequent vet visits and high medical bills, not to mention the heartache of seeing your pet struggle.
6. Dalmatians can be high-strung and prone to deafness.
Made famous by Disney, Dalmatians are striking dogs. However, they’re high-energy breeds that need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, they can become anxious and destructive. They’re also prone to deafness, which can make training challenging. Their strong-willed nature means they’re not ideal for first-time dog owners.
7. Pugs struggle with breathing and overheat easily.
Those squished faces might look adorable, but they cause serious breathing problems for Pugs. They often snore loudly and struggle to breathe during exercise. Pugs are also prone to overheating due to their short snouts, which means they need constant monitoring in warm weather. Their bulging eyes are prone to injury and infections too.
8. Chow Chows can be aloof and challenging to train.
With their fluffy lion-like manes, Chow Chows are certainly eye-catching. However, their independent and aloof nature can make them challenging pets. They’re often standoffish with strangers and can be aggressive if not properly socialised. Their thick coats require extensive grooming, and they’re prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and eye problems.
9. Border Collies need constant mental stimulation.
Renowned for their intelligence, Border Collies are working dogs that need a job to do. Without proper mental and physical stimulation, they can become anxious and destructive. Their herding instincts might lead them to nip at children or try to herd other pets. They’re not well-suited to flat living or families who can’t provide hours of daily exercise and training.
10. Great Danes come with short lifespans and high care costs.
These gentle giants are known for their sweet nature, but their size comes with challenges. Great Danes need a lot of space and can accidentally knock over furniture or small children. They’re prone to health issues like bloat, which can be life-threatening. Their large size means everything from food to medication is pricier. Sadly, they also have relatively short lifespans, often only living 6–8 years.
