Have you ever noticed how the first rush of excitement over a new puppy can quickly fade into a reality check? A study revealed that 22% of pet owners have admitted to regretting their breed choice.1
This realization tends to happen after they’ve experienced the challenges of ownership and felt the weight of their initial decisions. Ending up with a dog that doesn’t suit your lifestyle is a huge disappointment.
Before you bring home that adorable furball, make sure you know what you’re getting into. Here are 15 of the worst dog breeds that people most often regret buying to help you avoid making the same mistake.
1. Siberian Husky

Huskies are stunning dogs, but their beauty often seduces owners who are unprepared for their high energy needs. These endurance athletes require tons of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Without enough activity, they quickly become bored and destructive, escaping yards and howling incessantly. Huskies shed heavily year-round and have an independent nature that makes training challenging for novice owners.
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2. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russells pack a lot of energy and attitude into a small package. While undeniably cute, these feisty terriers have a “go-go-go” personality that frequently exhausts unprepared owners.
They need extensive exercise, are prone to digging and chasing small animals, and require patient, consistent training to curb their bossy tendencies. Jack Russells are best suited for experienced dog owners with active lifestyles.
3. Dalmatian
The spotted coats of Dalmatians are certainly eye-catching, but don’t let their Disney fame fool you. Originally bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages, these dogs have immense stamina and easily become restless without enough exercise.
Dalmatians are strong-willed and can be difficult to train. Many new owners underestimate the breed’s need for physical and mental stimulation, leading to destructive behaviors at home.
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4. Chow Chow
Chow Chows resemble cuddly teddy bears, yet their aloof and sometimes stubborn nature often clashes with owners expecting affectionate lap dogs. Chows are also heavy shedders with thick double coats that require regular grooming.
They need early socialization and firm training to overcome their natural wariness of strangers. Chows do best with experienced owners who can be strong, consistent pack leaders.
5. Weimaraner
Nicknamed the “Velcro Dog,” Weimaraners are notorious for developing severe separation anxiety when left alone for too long. They crave constant companionship and can become extremely destructive if their needs aren’t met.
Weimaraners have high exercise requirements that can be too demanding for first-time or less active owners. These intelligent dogs need a job to do and plenty of mental stimulation to thrive.
6. Akita
Akitas are powerful, independent dogs with strong protective instincts. While intensely loyal to their families, Akitas can be territorial and aggressive toward other animals without proper socialization and training.
These large, headstrong dogs require an experienced owner who can confidently establish leadership. Akitas also have dense double coats that shed profusely, requiring regular brushing.
7. Shar Pei
The distinctive wrinkled appearance of Shar Peis often appeals to dog lovers, but their strong-willed, aloof nature can be challenging. Shar Peis were bred as guard dogs and have a natural suspicion of strangers that requires careful socialization from an early age.
They tend to be “one-person” dogs and may not do well in households with small children. Shar Peis also struggle with a variety of health issues that can lead to expensive vet bills.
8. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are undeniably elegant, but their long, silky coats demand hours of grooming each week to prevent matting. Many owners underestimate the time and effort needed to maintain the breed’s luxurious locks.
Afghans can also be aloof and independent, with a tendency to wander off and chase small prey. They require patient training and ample exercise to keep their free-spirited nature in check.
9. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are loyal guardians, but their immense size and strength can quickly overwhelm inexperienced owners. Weighing up to 130 pounds, these massive dogs need space to move and a firm hand in training.
Bullmastiffs drool heavily and shed moderately year-round. They require an assertive, consistent owner who can handle their stubborn streak and establish clear boundaries.
10. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are beloved for their droopy expressions and easy-going personalities, but their stubborn nature often frustrates first-time owners. These low-energy dogs can be difficult to motivate and slow to respond to commands.
Bassets are also prone to excessive barking and howling if left alone too much. Their long ears and skin folds require regular cleaning to prevent infections.
11. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a powerful, intelligent breed that requires an experienced, assertive owner. These dogs have strong protective instincts and can become aggressive without proper training and socialization.
Cane Corsos need extensive exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They also drool heavily and shed moderately, which can be off-putting for some owners.
12. Pekingese
Pekingese are charming little lions, but their stubborn, independent nature can make training a challenge. These toy breeds are prone to excessive barking and can be difficult to housebreak.
They have flat faces that make them susceptible to breathing problems and heat intolerance. They also require regular grooming to prevent their long coats from matting.
13. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are gentle giants with an unparalleled sense of smell, but their strong tracking instincts can lead them to wander off if not securely confined. These large, active dogs need plenty of space to move and daily exercise to stay happy.
They are also notorious droolers and heavy shedders. Their wrinkled skin requires regular cleaning to prevent irritation and infection.
14. Alaskan Malamute
Like their Siberian Husky cousins, Alaskan Malamutes are high-energy working dogs that require ample exercise and mental stimulation. They have a strong prey drive and a tendency to roam if not properly secured.
Malamutes shed heavily year-round and can be challenging to train due to their independent nature. They do best with experienced owners who can provide firm, consistent leadership.
15. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are intelligent, loyal companions, but their size and strength can be too much for novice owners to handle. These powerful dogs require extensive socialization and training from an early age to prevent aggression.
They need daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. They also shed moderately and drool frequently, which can be a dealbreaker for some households.
Choosing the right dog breed is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your life and the well-being of your pet. While every breed has its unique charms, it’s essential to look beyond appearances and consider factors like energy levels, grooming needs, and temperament.
By thoroughly researching and honestly assessing your lifestyle, you can avoid the regrets that many owners experience.
Source:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.