30 Dog Breeds People Regret Buying

Choosing the right dog breed is a big decision that involves considering various factors such as temperament, energy levels, and compatibility with your lifestyle. Let’s discuss 30 dog breeds that people often regret purchasing and adopting due to a mismatch of expectations or unforeseen challenges.
Dalmatian

Dalmatians are energetic and playful dogs that need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. They’re not suitable for owners with limited time for exercise or in small living spaces. These high-energy dogs also love to run and play. Without sufficient physical and mental activity, Dalmatians can become bored and resort to destructive behaviors.
Siberian Husky

It’s no surprise that Siberian Huskies attract many dog lovers. However, their strong prey drive and tendency to roam make them a challenge to contain. Without a well-fenced yard and consistent training, Huskies can escape and engage in unwanted behaviors, causing frustration and regret for their human families.
Chow Chow

Chow Chows are loyal and protective dogs, but they are not a great fit for everyone. This breed can be difficult to train, especially for first-time dog owners. Owners often find it challenging to establish authority and manage their dog’s behavior, leading to potential regrets over their choice of breed.
Border Collie

Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic dogs bred for herding livestock with a strong work drive and quick learning abilities. However, their intelligence and energy levels require consistent mental stimulation and physical exercise. Border Collies can develop behavioral issues without proper outlets for their energy, such as excessive barking or destructive behaviors.
Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are big dogs known for their friendly nature and relaxed demeanor. However, their massive size and need for space can be difficult for owners living in smaller homes or apartments. Additionally, the cost of feeding and caring for a large dog like an Irish Wolfhound can be substantial. As a result, owners who were unprepared for the financial commitment associated with this breed might regret their decision.
Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are energetic dogs with a strong prey drive and endless energy. While their playful nature can be adorable, it can also be overwhelming for owners who are not prepared for the intensity of this breed. Their very high energy levels and tendency to chase small animals can pose a challenge for families with young children or other pets at home.
Bulldog

Bulldogs are cute pups with a sweet temperament. Sadly, their brachycephalic skull shape predisposes them to several health issues, including respiratory problems and skin fold infections. The high veterinary costs linked to caring for a Bulldog’s health issues can be significant. This can cause regret among owners who were unprepared for the potential expenses.
Dachshund

With their long bodies and energetic personalities, Dachshunds are loved by many people worldwide. However, their stubborn and independent nature can present challenges in training and socialization. Dachshunds are known for digging and barking. These traits can become problematic for owners living in close quarters or with noise restrictions.
Great Dane

Great Danes make loving family pets. Yet, their big size and massive food consumption can be daunting for some owners. Great Danes also need large living spaces and sturdy furniture to accommodate their size comfortably. Plus, the cost of feeding and caring for a giant breed dog like a Great Dane can be substantial, leading some owners to regret their decision due to financial and logistical challenges.
Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs are intelligent and energetic working dogs. Their strong herding instincts and high energy levels need owners who can provide them with regular mental and physical exercise. Without sufficient activity and engagement, Australian Cattle Dogs may become bored and exhibit destructive behaviors, causing frustration and potential regrets among their human families.
Shiba Inu

Apart from their independent nature and strong prey drive, Shiba Inus can also be quite aloof and reserved with strangers, requiring patient socialization efforts to prevent potential behavioral issues. As a result, their intelligence and strong will can make training difficult for first-time owners.
Beagle

In addition to howling and digging, Beagles have a strong sense of smell. They will follow scents and potentially wander off if they are not properly secured in a fenced area. Beagle owners should also be prepared for their strong pack instincts. These pups don’t like being alone and can exhibit anxiety or destructive behaviors when left alone for extended periods.
Rottweiler

Rottweilers are particularly sensitive to their owners’ emotions and can become protective or territorial if not properly socialized. These pups can be overwhelming for owners who are not experienced in handling large, powerful breeds like this one. Also, their imposing stature and natural instinct to guard can be misinterpreted by strangers. This breed needs ongoing early socialization to ensure they are well-adjusted and friendly in different situations.
Chihuahua

Chihuahuas sometimes develop small dog syndrome if not given clear boundaries and rules to follow. This syndrome leads to dominant behavior and potential aggression toward other pets or people in the household. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas have big personalities and need consistent training and positive reinforcement to prevent behavioral issues and maintain a harmonious home environment.
Boxer

Boxers can become boisterous and overly exuberant if not given proper outlets for their energy, potentially causing unintentional harm to children or elderly family members. Owners of Boxers should engage in regular exercise routines and mental stimulation to channel their energy in positive ways, preventing boredom-related behaviors.
Pit Bull

Despite their loyal and affectionate nature towards their families, Pit Bulls are often subject to breed-specific legislation and societal stigma. It can create challenges for their owners in finding housing or securing liability insurance. Educating the public on responsible ownership and advocating for breed-neutral policies can help combat misconceptions and discrimination against Pit Bulls.
Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus’ long coats require regular brushing and grooming to prevent matted fur and skin issues, which can be time-consuming and costly for owners who are not willing to commit to this maintenance routine. Also, this breed loves being around its owners and may exhibit separation anxiety or boredom-related behaviors if left alone for long periods.
Poodle

Poodles are highly intelligent dogs that enjoy mental challenges such as puzzle toys and obedience training. Without proper mental stimulation, they can start barking and become destructive. Engaging Poodles in activities that stimulate their minds and bodies, such as agility training or interactive games, not only prevents behavioral issues but also strengthens the relationship between the owner and their furry friend.
Golden Retriever

While Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly and sociable personality, they are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. This can become a problem for busy people who cannot spend much time at home. As a solution, owners can gradually teach their Golden Retriever to feel comfortable being alone by giving them rewards and helping them get used to it in small steps.
Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans are protective and alert dogs that need consistent training to distinguish between real threats and perceived dangers, as their guarding instincts can sometimes be misunderstood. Owners should prioritize early socialization and obedience training so that their dog can differentiate between friend and foe.
Saint Bernard

Due to their large size and potential for drooling, Saint Bernards may not suit households with limited living space or people who love cleanliness, as their grooming needs and messiness can be difficult to manage. However, despite their size, Saint Bernards have a gentle and patient temperament, making them great pets for individuals and families with the space and time to accommodate their needs.
Weimaraner

Weimaraners are known to develop separation anxiety if deprived of company for extended periods. This dog breed is best suited for households where someone is usually present or can offer alternative forms of mental stimulation in their absence. Plus, their high energy levels and intelligence require engaging activities and consistent training to prevent boredom and anxiety.
Pomeranian

Although Pomeranians are small, their bold and fearless nature can lead them to challenge larger dogs or even strangers if they are not properly socialized. Their feisty personality and luxurious coat require regular grooming and maintenance to keep them healthy and happy. By taking care of their socialization and grooming needs, owners can enjoy the company of a happy and well-behaved Pomeranian pal.
English Bulldog

English Bulldogs can easily get overheated because of their breathing problems, so they need extra attention in hot weather, making it tough for owners in warmer areas. Despite this, their loving nature makes them wonderful pets for families who can keep them cool and cozy. By creating a comfortable environment, these affectionate dogs can stay happy and healthy without worrying about getting too hot or having trouble breathing.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often at risk for heart problems like mitral valve disease, so they need to have regular check-ups with the vet to stay healthy. Even though they may have health issues to watch out for, Cavaliers are loving pets that become very attached to their owners. They enjoy showing affection and being close to their family members, and in return, they value the love and care they receive from them.
Basset Hound

Basset Hounds have a strong inclination to follow their noses whenever they are outdoors. This natural behavior can lead to them getting lost or injured if they are not closely supervised or trained to respond to recall commands. As a result, it is crucial for owners to exercise patience and provide consistent training to prevent them from wandering off and engaging in escapades.
Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers have a natural instinct to retrieve objects, which can lead to destructive chewing if they don’t have the right toys or ways to release their energy. To prevent boredom, owners need to give them mental challenges along with physical exercise. Labs are also known for being friendly and outgoing, making them great family pets. They can excel in different roles, from being service animals to being loving furry friends at home.
Maltese

Some people might end up regretting having a Maltese due to their high-maintenance grooming needs. Maltese dogs have silky coats that can easily get tangled and matted. They need regular grooming to keep their skin healthy and avoid any discomfort. This can be a challenge for owners who are busy. Despite their grooming needs, Maltese dogs are loving and playful pets that love being around people and receiving attention.
Pug

Pugs are brachycephalic breeds that may struggle with breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or during physical activity, requiring owners to monitor their activity levels and provide a cool, well-ventilated environment. By being aware of their needs, we can make sure our pug friends have a happy and comfortable life.
French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are known for their loud snoring and flatulence, which are caused by their distinctive skull shape. Their owners need to make some adjustments to help their Frenchies breathe and digest comfortably. Despite these quirks, French Bulldogs make great pets that create strong connections with their families. They love socializing and affectionate moments with their human family.