Behind every wagging tail, there can be hidden struggles that shape a dog’s behavior and well-being. A recent large-scale study from the Dog Aging Project revealed that 99.12% of dogs in the U.S. show at least one moderate to serious behavioral issue — from separation anxiety to aggression and fear.
As a canine fan, I find such statistics both sobering and deeply informative. Behavior problems are nearly universal, even if many are mild or seldom noticed.
They tend to worsen when ignored — what begins as occasional barking or avoidance can escalate without early intervention.
In this article, we’ll guide you through understanding early warning signs, realistic prevention, and effective training strategies grounded in current research for some unusual dogs. Our goal isn’t to alarm you about the most dangerous dogs, but to equip you, so your dog and your household can thrive together.
Let’s proceed with care, respect for canine nature, and a commitment to gentle, evidence-based guidance. We know many dogs can benefit from these.
Unusual Dog Breeds to Avoid
1. Ibizan Hound
The Ibizan Hound is an athletic, lean sighthound developed over millennia for coursing rabbits on the rocky terrain of the Balearic Islands.
Early warning signs of trouble include obsessive chasing (of small animals, cars, or bikes) and escape behavior—this breed is known to jump high fences and bolt if prey is in sight.
Strength concerns: they possess strong hindquarters and explosive speed, which means joints (hips, elbows) can take strain, especially in young, developing dogs, explains Hills Pet.
Protective or guarding instincts are mild—Ibizans are not bred to defend, but will alert. Their prey drive far eclipses their guard drive.
Behavioral traits and training needs: very independent, can be stubborn. Positive reinforcement, short sessions, and early socialization (with children, pets) are essential. Harsh methods tend to backfire.
Prevention strategies: include secure, high fencing; leash discipline in open areas; and structured outlets for energy, such as running, scent work, and agility. Proper physical & mental stimulation greatly reduces anxiety, escape attempts, and destructive behaviors.
2. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a compact, long-bodied terrier from the UK, historically used for badger and otter work.
An early warning sign to watch for is spinal discomfort or reluctance to climb/descend stairs—due to their elongated back and short legs, they are prone to intervertebral disc disease.
Strength concerns are more skeletal than muscular: the back and spine are under stress; fore and hind limb structure must be maintained to avoid joint issues. Weight management is important to avoid overloading the frame.
Protective and guarding instincts: moderate and selective. They are loyal and territorial in small sets (family/home), but not aggressive. They may bark or warn, but they are not ideal as guard dogs in the sense of protection.
Behavioral traits & training needs: tough little characters, strong terrier instincts. They can be stubborn; early socialization (other dogs, strangers) and consistent positive reinforcement are crucial. Boredom leads to digging or barking.
Prevention strategies: avoid letting them reach the point of long periods alone. Provide mental enrichment. Maintain a healthy weight. Use protected staircases or ramps for older dogs to minimize spinal stress. Vet screening for inherited issues.
3. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an Italian sporting/working breed, famous for truffle-hunting and earlier water retrieval.
Early warning signs include restlessness, destructive chewing, or digging if not mentally stimulated—it’s hunting and scent instincts are strong and frustrate them if suppressed.
Strength concerns: though medium-sized, Lagotti have considerable endurance and working muscle—they need gradual introduction to intense activity as puppies to protect joints.
Protective or guarding instincts: generally low. They are more alert and watchful, barking to signal something unusual, but do not show strong territorial aggression. Early socialization helps ensure confidence around strangers, recommends PetMD.
Behavioral traits & training needs: very intelligent, eager learners, but with sensitivity. Positive reinforcement, consistency, clear routines, and training from a young age help. They thrive in nose work, scent games, and canine sports to allow their instincts.
Prevention strategies: kennel rest periods, prevent boredom (to avoid digging/destructive behavior), health screenings for known genetic issues (hip/elbow dysplasia, storage disease, epilepsy). Grooming must be regular to avoid matting, which can lead to skin issues or discomfort.
4. Cirneco dell’Etna
The Cirneco dell’Etna is a lean Sicilian hound bred for coursing small game with a notable blend of scent, sight, and hearing sensitivity.
Early warning signs of trouble include escape attempts, high prey drive (chasing birds, rabbits), and stubbornness during recall. These can worsen if not managed from puppyhood.
Strength concerns center on joints and muscle strain: their long limbs and active hunting history mean hip dysplasia or luxating patella are risks if over-exercised too young or if weight is poorly managed.
Protective/guarding instincts: are mild — they may alert to strangers but are not territorial aggressors. Proper socialization tempers their wariness.
Behavioral traits: demand independent thinking, sensitivity, and loyalty. Training needs include short sessions, positive reinforcement, strong recall training, and early desensitization to loud noises.
Prevention (to avoid destructive behavior) means daily exercise (running, scent work), secure fencing, and mental enrichment.
5. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a medium-sized, alert, and very vocal breed originally used in Finland to hunt birds by barking.
Early warning signs of trouble include excessive barking, restlessness, or suddenly shying away from strangers—these behaviours often stem from a lack of mental stimulation or poor socialization.
Strength concerns are largely orthopedic: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and elbow dysplasia are known risks. Also, hypothyroidism has moderate prevalence, causing weight gain, coat changes, or lethargy if undetected.
Protective or guarding instincts: Though they bark a lot and alert owners to intruders or new things, they are not aggressive guardians.
Behavioral traits and training needs demand patience: they are independent, intelligent, sometimes stubborn, with strong prey drive, according to AKC.
Realistic prevention strategies include early socialization, consistent positive-reinforcement training, structured exercise (long walks, mental tasks), and regular health screening by a vet to catch joint or metabolic issues early.
6. Otterhound
The Otterhound is a large, rugged scent-hound historically bred in England for otter hunting, known for a shaggy, water-resistant double coat and powerful sense of smell.
Early warning signs include over-zealous tracking, ignoring commands, loud vocalizations, and a destructive tendency when under-stimulated. If left alone or bored, Otterhounds may roam or become noisy.
Strength concerns: heavy build, large size, deep chest make them prone to hip and elbow dysplasia; risk of bloat (gastric torsion) in deep-chested large breeds. Proper gradual growth and weight control are critical.
Protective/guarding instincts are low: these dogs are friendly, sociable, rather than protective in a guard-dog sense. They may bark but not guard property aggressively.
Behavioral traits: are playful, affectionate, and sometimes clownish; training needs include patience, consistent reinforcement, early socialization, and obedience.
Prevention of common problems involves plenty of daily exercise (including swimming if possible), secure fencing, and grooming to prevent matting/ear infections, especially for large droopy ears.
7. Azawakh
The Azawakh is an elegant, slender sighthound from West Africa, bred by nomadic tribes as both hunter and guardian; it has a striking appearance, speed, and dignified temperament.
Early warning signs include fearfulness or shutdown under harsh correction, strong prey drive (chasing small animals), and reluctance around strangers or unfamiliar dogs. Without early, gentle exposure, these traits may lead to excessive shyness or territoriality.
Strength/growth concerns: thin coat and lean build mean cold weather is particularly stressful; joints need protection; maintain lean condition. Some lines may show hip dysplasia or bloat risks, though overall, they are relatively healthy.
Protective and guarding instincts: moderate — breed tends to be aloof with strangers, will alert, sometimes protect territory or family, but not aggressive. Requires socialization to avoid reactive guarding behavior.
Behavioral traits & training needs: highly independent, sensitive, requiring positive reinforcement; responds poorly to harsh or punitive methods. Training must begin early (puppy age) with exposure, consistency, and use of reward systems.
Preventing bad behavior means ensuring sufficient exercise (running speed bursts, safe enclosed areas), mental stimulation, and avoiding over-handling unfamiliar settings. Lifespan roughly 12-15 years in well-cared lines.
FAQs
1. Why should some unusual dog breeds be avoided?
Some unusual breeds were originally bred for hunting or large game, giving them high energy and sometimes powerful jaws. Without proper guidance, they can be quite a handful for average dog owners. It’s less about “bad dogs” and more about choosing responsibly.
2. Can unusual dog breeds adapt to family life?
Yes, but adaptation depends on training, environment, and the dog’s temperament. Even most dogs with natural protectiveness or a strong build can settle into a house when socialized early. Other breeds, like huskies, may need more space and structure.
3. What should I research before choosing an unusual breed?
Look into exercise needs, health issues, and temperament. Some breeds with muscular bodies or herding instincts may not fit all homes. Always consult a trusted breeder or consider mixed-breed dogs from a shelter as alternatives.
Conclusion
For prospective owners, knowing a dog’s temperament matters as much as the breed itself. With proper training, even intelligent dogs like German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois can avoid aggressive behaviors.
Certain breeds often labeled as dangerous and aggressive dogs—from Pit Bulls to Doberman Pinschers—can still become loyal companions. Even gentle giants like the Great Dane or Alaskan Malamute need guidance to prevent aggressive behaviors around other animals and humans.
Whether drawn to energetic breeds like the Australian Shepherd or choosing rescues, every decision shapes the bond you’ll share. Explore more insights on our blog and join responsible pet owners who value safety, care, and balance.
