15 Dog Breeds First-Time Owners Often Regret Getting

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Getting a dog can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make, but it’s not something to rush into—especially if you’ve never owned one before. Some breeds are adorable and loving, but also come with needs, habits, or energy levels that can surprise first-time owners. If you’re new to dog ownership, here are 15 breeds that people often regret getting once reality sets in.

Siberian Husky

Huskies are beautiful, friendly, and full of personality, but their energy levels are not for beginners. They need hours of daily exercise, mental stimulation, and space to run. Without it, they can become destructive and try to escape any yard or enclosure. Many first-time owners underestimate how challenging it is to keep up with their needs, leading to frustration for both the pup and the owner.

Border Collie

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Border Collies are intelligent and quick learners, but that brilliance comes with a cost—they need constant engagement. Without any physical and mental stimulation, they get bored very easily and can also develop destructive behaviors. First-time owners often find their boundless energy overwhelming and struggle to provide the level of training and activity this breed needs to be happy and well-behaved.

Dalmatian

Dalmatians are striking to look at, but they are high-energy dogs with a stubborn streak. They need plenty of exercise, and if they don’t get it, they can be restless and even aggressive. They also have a reputation for being sensitive to rough handling so it’s tricky to fit them in homes with small children. Many first-timers realize too late that looks aren’t everything.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are loyal, protective, and intelligent, but they require consistent training and strong leadership. They can become overprotective without the right guidance. They also need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Many first-time owners struggle to meet these needs, not realizing that this breed demands more time, energy, and training than most.

Jack Russell Terrier

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Jack Russells have endless energy and a strong prey drive. They need hours of exercise and mental challenges every day. Without that, they can become hyperactive, dig up your yard, and bark excessively. First-time owners often underestimate how much work such a small dog can be, leading to frustration on both sides.

Akita

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Akitas are loyal and protective but can be aloof and independent. They need experienced handling to prevent dominance issues and to ensure they’re properly socialized. Without that, they may become aggressive toward strangers or other animals. Many first-time owners aren’t prepared for their strong-willed personality, which can make training and everyday management a serious challenge.

Belgian Malinois

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The Belgian Malinois is an extremely intelligent and hardworking breed often used in police and military work. They require constant training, exercise, and tasks to stay mentally balanced. They can also develop behavioral issues and become very destructive (chewing your furniture level destructive). Pet parents find themselves over their heads with this breed’s intense energy and demanding nature.

Weimaraner

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Weimaraners are affectionate and athletic, but they’re also incredibly needy when it comes to exercise and attention. They can develop separation anxiety quickly and don’t do well when you leave them alone for long periods. First-time owners who work long hours or have a less active lifestyle often regret getting a Weimaraner because they simply can’t keep up with its needs.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows are independent and can be reserved, even with their families. They need consistent training from an early age and can be territorial. They may become aggressive toward strangers or other pets without proper socialization. Their thick coat also requires regular grooming, and many first-time owners struggle with their aloof nature and those grooming demands.

Rottweiler

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Rottweilers are loyal, protective, and intelligent, but they can be a challenge for inexperienced owners. They need consistent training, early socialization, and strong leadership. If they don’t get all this, they develop guarding behaviors that are hard to manage. First-time owners often underestimate their strength and dominance, which leads to situations that are out of their hands.

Australian Cattle Dog

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Australian Cattle Dogs are smart, alert, and full of energy, but they were bred for herding livestock, meaning they’re used to working all day. They need both physical exercise and mental challenges to stay happy. Without it, they may try to “herd” people, nip at their heels, and act out. Many first-time owners regret getting one because they can’t match its energy level.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are strong, beautiful, and affectionate, but they are also incredibly powerful and independent. They need a lot of space, training, and exercise. Without all that, they can become stubborn and hard to control. First-time owners often underestimate their physical strength and the effort needed to train them, which can lead to dangerous situations.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are gentle giants and require a confident and experienced hand in training. Their size alone makes them difficult to handle if they’re not well-trained from the start. They can be very protective, and without proper socialization, this can lead to aggression. First-time owners struggle to manage such a large, strong-willed dog.

Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a very powerful and protective breed that needs early, consistent training and socialization. Without it, they can become difficult to control and potentially aggressive. They also need plenty of exercise and mental engagement. First-time owners often regret getting one because they underestimate how much responsibility comes with owning such a strong, dominant breed.

Great Dane

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Great Danes are gentle and loving, but their big size brings big challenges. They require space, a lot of food, and careful management to prevent injuries to themselves and others. Training is important because controlling a dog that big is not easy. First-time owners fall in love with their looks, but they don’t realize the realities of living with such a massive dog.