Lisa O
When a dog ends up in a shelter, all they want is a second chance—a warm bed, a loving family, and a place to call home. But for some breeds, that second chance takes much longer to come. Here are 15 dog breeds that often spend the most time in shelters.
Pit Bull Terrier – Victims of Stereotypes
Pit bulls are one of the most common breeds found in shelters, but they’re also one of the least adopted. Why? Misconceptions. Many people assume pit bulls are aggressive, even though they can be some of the sweetest, most loyal dogs when raised with love. Unfortunately, breed bans and negative media coverage make it harder for them to find homes. The truth is, with some training and care, pit bulls can be amazing companions.
Chow Chow – Independent and Stubborn
Chow Chows are famous for their fluffy coats and serious expressions, but they can also be a tough sell in shelters. They’re independent and sometimes aloof, which means they don’t always show affection the way other breeds do. Potential adopters looking for a cuddly, social dog may pass them by, not realizing that once a Chow bonds with you, they’re incredibly loyal.
Labrador Retriever Mixes – Overlooked for Purebreds
Labs are one of the most popular dog breeds, but lab mixes often struggle in shelters. People looking for a Labrador oftenwant a specific look—a classic yellow, black, or chocolate Lab. Mixed-breed Labs don’t always fit that mold, so they get overlooked, even though they have the same friendly and playful personality as their purebred counterparts.
Rottweiler – Big Dogs, Big Misconceptions
Like pit bulls, Rottweilers suffer from an unfair reputation. Their size and protective nature can make them intimidating, and they require an experienced owner who understands their training needs. Many shelters struggle to find adopters who are both willing and able to take on a strong, powerful breed like the Rottweiler.
German Shepherd – High Energy, High Commitment
German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and hardworking—but they also require a lot of training, exercise, and mental stimulation. Many end up in shelters because their previous owners underestimated their energy levels. Without a committed adopter who can provide structure and activity, they often get passed over for lower-maintenance breeds.
Husky – Escape Artists Who Need a Job
Huskies are beautiful, but they’re not for everyone. These dogs are independent, vocal, and full of energy. Without enough exercise, they’ll find creative ways to entertain themselves—like escaping from the yard or chewing through furniture.Many people adopt huskies for their looks but quickly realize they can’t meet their high-energy needs, leading to a large number of them in shelters.
Dalmatian – More Than Just a Pretty Coat
Thanks to movies like 101 Dalmatians, people assume Dalmatians are perfect family pets. But these dogs were bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages, meaning they have a ton of energy. Without enough exercise, they can be hyperactive and even destructive. Many end up in shelters because adopters underestimate their need for activity and training.
Bulldog – Expensive Vet Bills Scare People Off
Bulldogs are undeniably adorable, but their squishy faces come with a fair share of health troubles—breathing issues, skin infections, and more. Vet bills for these pups can add up fast, which makes some adopters think twice. Unfortunately, that means a lot of Bulldogs get stuck in shelters, waiting longer than other breeds for a forever home.
Beagle – Too Noisy for Some Homes
Beagles may be small, but their voices are big. These hounds love to bay, howl, and bark—a trait that made them excellent hunting dogs but not always great for apartment living. Many end up in shelters because owners weren’t prepared for their vocal nature. Despite this, they are loving and affectionate dogs that thrive with the right family.
Border Collie – Smart but Needs a Job
Border Collies are too smart for their own good. These dogs are bred to herd livestock, which means they need mental and physical stimulation. Without a job to do, they can develop behavior problems like obsessive spinning, nipping, or destructive chewing. Many people adopt them for their intelligence but don’t realize how much work it takes to keep them happy.
Boxer – Too Energetic for First-Time Owners
Boxers are playful, affectionate, and full of energy—but that energy can be overwhelming for some adopters. Their bouncy nature and need for exercise mean they aren’t a great fit for everyone, and first-time dog owners often find them hard to handle. As a result, many Boxers remain in shelters longer than lower-energy breeds.
Great Dane – Size Matters
Great Danes are gentle pups, but their sheer size can be a deal-breaker for potential adopters. Not everyone has the space for a 150-pound dog, and their food and medical costs can be expensive. Sadly, many end up in shelters simply because people underestimate the challenges of owning such a large breed.
Cane Corso – Requires Experienced Handling
Cane Corsos are powerful, protective dogs that need a confident owner who understands training and socialization. Many end up in shelters because they were purchased as status symbols but not properly trained. Without the right leadership, they can become difficult to manage, making it harder for them to find a second home.
Shar Pei – Unique Looks, Unique Challenges
Shar Peis are famous for their wrinkled skin, but those wrinkles can come with health issues, including skin infections and eye problems. Their independent and sometimes stubborn nature makes them less appealing to first-time dog owners. They’re incredibly loyal to their people, but their quirks make them harder to place in new homes.
Senior Dogs (Any Breed) – Age Is the Biggest Obstacle
It’s not just specific breeds—any senior dog struggles in a shelter. Many adopters want puppies or young dogs, leaving older dogs overlooked. Even though senior dogs are often calm, well-trained, and loving, they tend to stay in shelters longer simply because of their age. The heartbreaking reality? Many never get adopted at all.