Lisa O
If you notice the same kind of dog often at local shelters—you might think that breed isn’t likable. But that’s not fair! People might have the wrong idea because of stereotypes about certain dog breeds. Sometimes, they can’t keep their dog because of where they live, or they didn’t teach the pup how to behave properly. So, they send them to shelters. Here are 15 dog breeds that are the last to be adopted.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are still very popular because they’re great guard dogs. Some people mix them up with “working dogs” because they often do tasks in law enforcement and the military. But actually—they’re in the herding group. They’re very active and can be loyal and protective of their owners and homes.
Border Collie
This breed is full of energy and needs lots of mental and physical activities, which might make some people think twice about adopting them. But not all herding breeds need to run for miles every day to be happy at home. Interactive toys and puzzle games keep them busy and mentally active. Border Collies are very intelligent, so playing games inside and giving them plenty of outdoor exercise will make them happy pets.
American Pit Bull Terrier
People often group American Pit Bull Terriers with other bully breeds and call them Pit Bulls, which could be why there are so many of them in shelters. These dogs are super popular but often misunderstood. People think they’re naturally dangerous, which isn’t fair. Some places even have laws against them, so owners have to give them up. Pit Bulls are usually athletic, loyal, and loving pets who like to protect their owners.
Boxer
Boxers are big dogs with square heads that some people confuse with Pit Bulls. They became very famous in the late 1990s, and lots of people still love them today. But because they’re so popular, some get bred too much and end up in shelters more often. Boxers are active and need a home where they can run around a lot. They’re fantastic with families and usually get along excellent with kids.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is one of the “bully breeds,” the biggest and tallest in the Bulldog family. They weigh between 75 and 125 pounds. They’re more athletic than other bulldogs, so they’re good at guarding and protecting. Like before, they’re loyal and loving, but some places group them with Pit Bulls and other dogs they want to ban.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers often face something called Big Black Dog (BBD) syndrome in shelters, meaning that big black dogs, like Labs, are adopted less often than other dogs. Some people think it’s because there are so many Labs in shelters. But no matter why—Labs are very popular. They’re full of energy, loyal, and loving. They’re awesome family pets who’ll become your best buddy in no time.
Golden Retriever
You might not expect to find a Golden Retriever or a mix like a Golden Doodle in a shelter, but it does happen—especially because these breeds have become popular lately. Golden Retrievers are usually among the first dogs to get adopted because people really want them. They love being around their family and being part of everything. They’re smart, friendly, and great with kids, so they’re perfect for families with young children.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are popular, especially in cities, because they’re tiny. You can find them in shelters nationwide, but there are lots more on the West Coast. Some people don’t adopt them because they can easily get hurt, which might make them act aggressively. After all, they’re scared. Also, since they’re small—some owners don’t bother training or socializing them because they’re not as interested.
Beagle
Ever since Snoopy, the most famous Beagle in America, appeared, everyone has loved this breed. Beagles used to be hunting dogs, but they’re also really loving and calm around people. However, as family pets, they need lots of exercise because they’re hunting dogs. They’re also known for their sad howling, which might bother your neighbors if they’re close by.
American Staffordshire Terrier
This is another breed in the “bully breed” group that sometimes gets banned unfairly. The American Staffordshire Terrier is strong with big muscles, a large head, and powerful jaws. In the U.S., they’ve been used on farms and for herding. They’re courageous and sturdy. As pets, they’re very loyal, playful, and usually great with kids.
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian cattle dogs are herding breeds that have lots of energy and love to work. They’re happiest when they have a job to do. But remember, it’s rare for purebred dogs to end up in shelters, and sometimes shelter pets might look like a certain breed but actually aren’t. So don’t judge solely by spots or ears. If you want a companion for hiking or running—this smart and loyal breed will be perfect for your family.
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is more than just good-looking. People have loved this breed since the 1970s. Sadly, lots of them end up in shelters and sometimes even get put down because their new owners didn’t realize what they were signing up for. Huskies were bred to work—especially pulling sleds, and they’re really good at it. They’re also experts at escaping and can have behavioral issues like digging up yards, chewing a lot, or not listening to commands.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner belongs to the hunting dog group, but it’s not a top pick for many families. They’re not the type of dog to lounge around the house without something to do. They often get separation anxiety and, like lots of hunting breeds—they stick to their owners like glue. If someone just wants a dog for the weekend and can’t handle a pup that’s always by their side, a Weimaraner might not be the best choice.
Afghan Hound
Imagine a dog with beautiful long fur strutting around in stylish coats—that’s the Afghan Hound! But here’s the thing: they’re not the best dogs for kids. These pups prefer calm homes with lots of space and a good fence around the yard. You’ve got to train them well and keep an eye on them, or else they might wander off. Plus, they need plenty of playtime to stay happy and healthy.
Akita
Think of Akitas as similar to Malamutes and Huskies – they have stunning thick fur, tons of energy, and a unique look. But here’s the thing: they’re not the easiest to adopt because they can get out of control, be tough to handle, or even act aggressive. Training them is a big deal—and they need loads of exercise. These dogs are smart but can be stubborn and might not always want to listen.