When you’re serious about your health, every choice matters—even the dog you bring home. After all, your lifestyle impacts your pup’s wellbeing, and their needs can greatly affect yours. If you’re the type who thrives on daily workouts, meal prep, and an active schedule, some breeds may be more of a challenge than a complement.
Not all dogs are made for jogging at sunrise or hiking miles of trails. Some prefer naps over sprints, snacks over long walks, and cozy afternoons over fitness adventures.
Choosing a breed that mismatches your healthy lifestyle could leave both you and your pup frustrated. You’ll be pushing for activity while they’re pushing for another nap.
That’s why it’s important to know which breeds aren’t the best fit for health-conscious owners. We’ll highlight dog breeds that may struggle to keep up with an active, wellness-centered household.
From energy levels to exercise requirements, we’ll break down what makes them less suitable for the fitness-minded. Because when it comes to health, compatibility matters—for both two-legged and four-legged family members.
Quick Fact: According to the American Kennel Club, some breeds are genetically prone to health problems like hip dysplasia, heart disease, or breathing difficulties. Knowing this before you adopt can help you make a healthier choice for both you and your pup.
Dog Breeds to Avoid if You’re Health-Conscious
1. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is basically a living teddy bear with a permanent grumpy face—and yes, it’s as cute as it sounds. The English Bulldog usually has a friendly disposition, making it an excellent choice as a family dog. But those lovable wrinkles come with some serious health baggage.
Breathing can be a real challenge for Bulldogs. Their short noses and narrow airways mean they often wheeze, snort, and pant like they’ve just climbed Everest, even if all they did was stroll to the mailbox.
Their compact, muscular bodies are great for cuddles but tough on joints. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common, making movement sometimes uncomfortable or even painful. And let’s not forget the skin folds—adorable for photos, but perfect breeding grounds for irritation and infections if not cleaned regularly.
Bulldogs can also have eye problems like Cherry Eye, where the third eyelid pops out like it wants its own Instagram account. Eye drops and sometimes surgery are often needed to fix it.
In short, Bulldogs are charming couch potatoes, but if you’re aiming for a dog who’s spry, low-maintenance, and heat-resistant, this breed might not make the cut.
2. Pug
Pugs: tiny, wrinkly charmers who can melt hearts with a single snort. The Pug is an ancient breed that originated in China roughly 2,000 years ago. Once cherished by royalty worldwide, Pugs have remained a highly popular dog breed today.
But behind those big, expressive eyes lies a tendency for a few health hiccups. Like other brachycephalic dogs, Pugs can struggle to breathe. Their short skulls and narrow airways make even casual strolls sound like a tiny foghorn symphony—this is called brachycephalic airway syndrome.
Summers and vigorous play sessions can quickly turn risky, so keeping your pug cool and calm is key, PetMD noted. Then there’s the matter of those prominent, bulging eyes. While they give Pugs their trademark puppy-dog gaze, they also make the breed prone to serious eye injuries.
In extreme cases, an eye can actually pop out of its socket. (Yes, it sounds scary—and it is.) If this happens, a damp cloth over the eye and a fast trip to the vet are essential. Whether your pug keeps full vision depends on how severe the injury is.
Pugs are irresistible bundles of personality, but their delicate noses and precious peepers mean they require careful attention—especially if you’re aiming for a dog that’s both cute and low-maintenance.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are basically love wrapped in fur—gentle, affectionate, and always ready to snuggle. These friendly dogs are known for their gentle temperament, making them an ideal choice for first-time dog owners. They are currently ranked as the most popular dog breed.
WebMD says Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are loving dogs that develop strong bonds with their families. But don’t let their sweet demeanor fool you; this royal-looking breed has a few health conditions that potential owners should know about.
One of the most serious concerns is mitral valve disease, a heart condition that can sneak up over time, causing murmurs and potentially leading to heart failure if left unmanaged. Their expressive eyes are another area to watch: cataracts and retinal problems can affect vision as they age, making regular check-ups essential.
Then there’s syringomyelia, a neurological condition caused by fluid-filled cavities in the spinal cord. It may sound technical, but in practice, it means your dog could experience neck or head pain and heightened sensitivity—definitely not ideal for a cuddle session gone wrong!
They’re perfect companions for someone willing to give a little extra TLC—and let’s be honest, with a face like that, it’s hard not to spoil them anyway.
4. Great Dane
Great Danes: the gentle giants of the dog world. Nicknamed the “Apollo of dogs,” Great Danes are the tallest among working dog breeds and rank among the largest breeds in the world.
Originally developed in the 1800s for hunting wild boar and guarding estates in Germany, the breed’s name—Great Dane—remains a mystery, as it has no historical ties to Denmark.
They’re affectionate, loyal, and big enough to double as a sofa, but their impressive size comes with some serious health considerations. One of the most urgent concerns is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), or bloat—a condition where the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow and turning an ordinary meal into a life-threatening emergency.
Fast action is critical, so if you hear your Dane retching unsuccessfully, it’s vet time—stat. Their massive frames also put pressure on joints, making hip and elbow dysplasia common issues that can affect mobility and comfort.
And don’t forget about Wobbler syndrome, a neurological disorder that can cause weakness or coordination problems, especially around the neck. It’s a reminder that even the gentlest giant can be surprisingly fragile in certain ways.
With careful monitoring, proper exercise, and routine veterinary care, Great Danes can thrive and bring endless love to their families—but prospective owners should be prepared for the responsibilities that come with owning such a colossal companion.
5. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are the ultimate gentle giants—think of them as living teddy bears with paws the size of small dinner plates.
Although Saint Bernards continue to work as search and rescue dogs, they are most commonly found as affectionate, gentle companions in family homes. Their friendly and calm nature makes them excellent with young children, earning them a reputation as wonderful family dogs.
They’re lovable, loyal, and always ready to snuggle, but their enormous size brings some serious health considerations. One of the most common concerns is hip and elbow dysplasia, which can make walking or climbing stairs painful as they grow older.
Their massive bodies also put them at risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat—a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. It’s the kind of emergency no one wants, so slow meals and avoiding vigorous exercise right after eating are crucial.
Saint Bernards are also prone to heart problems, including dilated cardiomyopathy, and osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that affects large breeds disproportionately. On top of that, their thick, droopy skin folds can trap moisture, leading to skin infections if not kept clean and dry.
Despite these potential health challenges, Saint Bernards are incredibly gentle and devoted companions. Just be ready for regular vet checkups, proper diet, and plenty of room to stretch those giant legs.
6. German Shepherd
Originally bred for herding sheep, this breed has since taken on a variety of roles, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police work, and military service. Today, it is also commonly kept as a loyal companion dog.
But along with their impressive skills comes a handful of health issues that every prospective owner should know about. Like many large breeds, German Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, where the ball-and-socket joints don’t fit properly. This can lead to pain, arthritis, and mobility problems later in life.
If you’re puppy shopping, ask breeders whether the parents were screened for healthy hips—a small step that can make a big difference. They’re also at risk for degenerative myelopathy, a progressive neurological condition that affects the spinal cord and can eventually lead to paralysis.
And yes, the dreaded bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) is another concern, where the stomach twists and becomes a life-threatening emergency—so careful feeding and avoiding strenuous activity after meals is a must.
On the less dramatic side, German Shepherds can suffer from allergies, causing itchy skin, digestive issues, and general discomfort. A good diet, regular vet visits, and attentive care can help manage these issues, but it’s important to know what you’re signing up for.
German Shepherds are incredible companions, but their large frames and genetic predispositions mean they need proactive care to stay happy, healthy, and active.
7. Shar Pei
Chinese farmers initially used Shar-Pei to guard and herd their livestock. By the 1900s, Shar-Pei were also used for hunting boar and guarding the home.
Shar Peis: the wrinkly, squishy-faced charmers who look like they’ve just stepped out of an ancient Chinese scroll. Cute? Absolutely. Low-maintenance? Not quite. These folds of skin come with a surprising list of health quirks.
First up, the signature wrinkles aren’t just for show—they can trap moisture and debris, making skin infections a common issue. Regular cleaning and drying of those folds is a must, or your adorable wrinkled pup might be scratching more than cuddling.
Shar Peis are also prone to hip dysplasia, which can lead to joint pain and mobility problems as they age. Add entropion to the mix, a condition where the eyelids roll inward and irritate the eyes—sometimes requiring surgery—and it’s clear this breed demands attentive care.
Another notable concern is Shar Pei fever, a genetic condition that causes recurring fevers and swelling in the hocks, potentially leading to a serious kidney issue called amyloidosis if left unmanaged.
Despite these challenges, Shar Peis are devoted, loyal, and undeniably charming. They just require a little extra TLC, regular vet visits, and lots of love to keep those wrinkles—and their health—in check.
8. Dachshund
Dachshunds: the “wiener dogs” with tiny legs and long, sausage-shaped bodies that somehow manage to fit a personality twice their size.
Dachshunds can be fearless to the point of recklessness and quite tenacious, yet their charming personality and distinctive long, low body have made them one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S.
Cute? Absolutely. But their unique shape comes with some serious health considerations. Thanks to their elongated spine, Dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which can lead to painful back injuries and even paralysis if severe.
Jumping off couches or racing up and down stairs may seem like harmless fun, but for a dachshund, it’s like asking a tightrope walker to perform without a safety net. Limiting these activities can help protect their spine and keep them moving comfortably for years.
Dachshunds are lively, loving, and endlessly entertaining, but their quirky bodies demand a little extra care. With the right precautions, your little long-bodied friend can enjoy a happy, active, and pain-free life.
9. Boxer
Boxers: energetic, playful, and forever looking like they’re ready for mischief. These lovable clowns steal hearts wherever they go—but behind all that enthusiasm lies a few serious health concerns.
One of the biggest threats? Cancer. Studies show that nearly half of Boxers may face some form of cancer in their lifetime, with lymphoma and mast cell tumors being the most common.
Boxers are also prone to heart conditions, particularly cardiomyopathy, which can affect the heart muscle and lead to irregular rhythms or even heart failure if untreated.
Their large, muscular frames make hip dysplasia another concern, causing potential pain and mobility issues as they age. And like many deep-chested breeds, Boxers can suffer from gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and requires immediate emergency care.
Boxers are amazing companions full of personality and energy, but their health vulnerabilities mean they need attentive care, regular checkups, and a watchful eye to keep them happy and thriving.
10. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels: sweet, affectionate, and practically made for snuggles. But behind those soulful eyes and floppy ears lies a predisposition to a handful of health issues that owners should know about.
Their long, luscious ears are adorable—but also a hotspot for ear infections. Without regular cleaning and monitoring, these infections can become chronic. Add skin allergies into the mix, and your spaniel might be scratching more than cuddling at times.
Cocker Spaniels can also develop hip dysplasia, which may lead to joint pain and mobility challenges as they age. Their expressive eyes aren’t immune either; progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a degenerative condition that can result in vision loss over time.
With regular grooming, proactive care, and plenty of love, Cocker Spaniels can live happy, healthy lives—but it’s important to stay on top of their unique health needs to keep those floppy ears and sparkling eyes in tip-top shape.
Conclusion
If you’re health-conscious, there are certain dog breeds that are more prone to breed-specific health issues that may be a major concern. Flat-faced breeds like Boston Terriers often suffer breathing problems and an elongated soft palate, while large dogs such as Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers face joint problems, pain, and mobility problems, and risk of developing diabetes if kept above a healthy weight. Small dogs and pedigree dogs can also experience dental disease, periodontal disease, or chronic infections from a young age.
Other breeds, including Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, and Collies, may face collie eye anomaly or autoimmune disorders, while other dog breeds struggle with spinal problems, food allergies, or severe cases of health conditions that affect quality of life. While most dogs can stay healthy and happy with a balanced diet, controlled exercise, and preventive measures, pet parents should be prepared for regular exercise, vet care, and even pet insurance to manage the most common health concerns in these unhealthiest dog breeds and ensure their dog’s health and longevity.
