So, you’ve finally decided to get a dog—congratulations! Get ready for chewed shoes, surprise puddles, and the kind of unconditional love you’ll never find on Tinder. But before you sprint to the nearest breeder or shelter, let’s talk about what not to bring home.
See, not all dogs are created equal when it comes to “newbie-friendly.” Some breeds were practically designed to test your patience, sanity, and possibly your drywall. Spoiler alert: cute doesn’t always mean convenient.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But that fluffy one on Instagram looks perfect!” Yeah, well, so does cake for breakfast—and we all know how that ends.
Think of this as your crash course in avoiding canine chaos. I’m here to save you from becoming a future episode of “When Good Dogs Go Bad.”
So grab a coffee, take notes, and prepare to meet the seven dog breeds that can turn first-time owners into full-time regretters.
Dog Breeds To Avoid For New Pet Owners
1. Akita
Oh, the Akita—Japan’s fluffy-looking teddy bear that secretly moonlights as a front-door bouncer. Don’t be fooled by the cuddly coat; this is not the lab puppy next door.
Britannica claims that Akitas are dignified, powerful, and have a temperament that makes even experienced dog owners raise an eyebrow.
For first-time dog owners, this breed is a learning curve wrapped in fur. They’re highly intelligent but stubborn enough to pretend you don’t exist when you call. Forget about easy doggy ownership—potty train an Akita, and you’ll understand the phrase “patience is a virtue.”
These dogs thrive with suitable training and firm leadership. If you slack, they’ll run the household while you’re left wondering who’s really in charge. Definitely not a couch potato.
And yes, Akitas need serious exercise, or they’ll invent their own “fun” with your furniture. Not the right dog if you’re hoping for a chill vibe.
They’re loyal, fearless protectors, but also aloof with strangers and sometimes other dogs. Their strong prey drive makes them risky around cats and smaller animals.
This specific breed belongs with experienced owners who know what they’re doing. New owners, consider yourself warned—there are easier, great dogs to start with.
So, if you’re craving peace of mind with your first dog, maybe keep walking past the Akita pen. Poor things are gorgeous, but for most people, they belong on the “worst dog breeds for first timers” list.
2. Siberian Husky
Meet the Siberian Husky, the beautiful dog that looks like it was designed by Disney but acts like it was trained by chaos. They’re the classic sled dogs that can pull sleds for miles, but ask them to sit politely, and you’ll get an eye roll. For new dog owners, Huskies scream, “Don’t even think about it.”
Huskies come with energy levels that make most dogs look like couch potatoes. A quick walk around the block? Cute. They need marathons, mountain climbs, and then maybe they’ll stop redecorating your backyard.
These working dogs are escape artists with a strong prey drive—cats, squirrels, even what moves, beware. Containment is optional in their minds, so secure your yard or prepare to chase your Husky mix down the street.
Their breed characteristics are quirky, stubborn, and vocal. Huskies have a “learning curve” that first-timers just aren’t ready for. Barking? More like opera.
Without the right training, Huskies can develop separation anxiety and can chew through your furniture. That’s not puppy ownership—it’s survival training.
Sure, they’re a beautiful dog with icy eyes and wolf-like charm, but don’t let looks fool you. For a first dog, they’re basically one of the worst dog breeds you could pick.
Unless you’re an experienced dog person with an iron will and endless stamina, steer clear. New owners, trust me—you’re not missing out.
3. Cane Corso
Ah yes, the Cane Corso—the gentle giant that forgot the “gentle” part. Think Rottweiler vibes but with extra muscle and an even stronger attitude. New owners, meet the breed that proves love isn’t always enough.
These dogs are massive, protective, and intimidating. Their temperament requires experienced owners who understand appropriate training and structure. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself dragged across the neighborhood by a dog that outweighs you.
PDSA adds that Cane Corsos are loyal family guardians, but they’re not those dogs that are waiting to cuddle. They need constant guidance, or their energy level and power can spell disaster for first-time dog owners.
This specific breed isn’t a couch potato—it thrives on purpose and mental work. Without it, they’ll get creative, and spoiler alert: you won’t like their projects.
Health issues can arise if they’re not cared for properly, and their size alone means vet bills that make most people gasp. Canine ownership at this level is no joke.
They’re affectionate with children and animals if raised right, but that “if” is huge. First-timers don’t necessarily recommend testing those odds.
So, while Cane Corsos are undeniably great dogs for professional dog owners, they’re also on the short list of worst dog breeds for new owners. Take the hint—your first dog should not double as a medieval guard.
4. Border Collie
Ah, the Border Collie—nature’s overachiever. This highly intelligent herding machine will outsmart most people before breakfast. For first-time owners, that’s not charming; it’s exhausting.
This specific breed has an energy level that rivals a toddler after three sodas. Forget a walk—they need jobs, puzzles, and enough exercise to tire out most terriers. Miss a day, and they’ll herd your cats, children, and even the furniture.
They’re beautiful dogs, but their temperament screams “experienced dog owners only.” Without proper training, a Border Collie will turn your house into a chaos experiment.
Sure, they’re great dogs for the right dog person—someone who thrives on constant stimulation. But if you’re hoping for a couch potato, this isn’t it.
New owners often learn the hard way that this breed isn’t a golden retriever in disguise. It’s a working dog, wired to work.
Potty train one? Easy. Keep it mentally satisfied? Not so much. That’s the real challenge.
Bottom line: Border Collies are amazing, but for first timers, they’re less “dream dog” and more “dog ownership boot camp.”
5. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian—spotted, sleek, and made famous by cartoons. They look like teddy bears with polka dots, but don’t let the Disney magic fool you. For new owners, this is one of the worst dog breeds you can choose.
Hillspet warns that their energy level is through the roof. These dogs need to run, play, and burn energy constantly. Without it, they’ll invent their own games—usually involving destruction.
Temperament-wise, they can be stubborn and strong-willed. For first-time owners, that means a steep learning curve in appropriate training and discipline.
Dalmatians are prone to health problems too, especially deafness. Owning one isn’t just time-consuming; it can get expensive.
They’re protective of family but not always tolerant of other breeds, animals, or even children. Definitely not the right dog if you want an easygoing family companion.
Separation anxiety? Oh yes. Leave a Dalmatian alone too long, and you’ll come back to a DIY home renovation. Poor things just don’t sit still.
So, while they’re beautiful dogs, most people find they’re best suited for experienced owners who know how to handle demanding breeds.
6. Chow Chow
Say hello to the Chow Chow—the teddy bear lookalike with the temperament of a grumpy old man. These fluffy lions are independent, aloof, and not exactly the cuddle bugs first-timers dream of.
Their breed characteristics lean toward stubbornness. Potty train a Chow, and you’ll discover the meaning of “mutual negotiation.” It’s not like most dogs that just want to please you.
They’re protective, but that can morph into aggression without suitable training. For a new dog owner, that’s a dangerous combo.
Exercise-wise, they’re not high-energy, but don’t mistake them for couch potatoes either. They need activity, and without it, their boredom shows in bad habits.
Health issues like hip dysplasia and eye problems are common in this specific breed. Add grooming needs, and you’ve got yourself a full-time job.
Around animals and children, they’re not the most tolerant. Their strong personalities don’t necessarily recommend them as family-friendly.
So while the Chow Chow is a beautiful dog, for first-time pup owners, it’s one of the worst dog breeds you could pick. Grumpy fluff ball? Yes. Beginner-friendly? Absolutely not.
7. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd—Hollywood’s police hero, but also a handful of first-time dog owners. These dogs are intelligent, loyal, and powerful. Translation: they’ll run circles around inexperienced owners.
Their energy level demands hours of exercise, training, and mental stimulation. Miss that, and you’ll meet the destructive side of this breed’s temperament.
German Shepherds need good training from day one. Potty train? Easy. Keep them focused and obedient for years? That’s the real challenge.
Separation anxiety is a common issue—they’re so bonded to their dog person that leaving them alone turns into a symphony of barks and chewed furniture. Poor things just can’t handle boredom.
AKC notes that they’re protective of family and children but can be wary of strangers and other breeds. That strong guardian instinct isn’t for first timers.
Health problems like hip dysplasia are also common, which can lead to long-term care and expenses. Canine ownership here isn’t casual—it’s a lifestyle.
So, while German Shepherds are great dogs for experienced owners, they’re one of the worst dog breeds for new owners. Gorgeous, smart, loyal—but far from beginner-friendly.
Conclusion
Choosing your first dog is more than just falling in love with a cute face—it’s about finding the right match for your lifestyle. Some breeds are simply better suited to skilled dog owners, while others are gentle enough for first-timers.
We’ve talked about several of the worst dog breeds for beginners, but remember, there are always a few breeds that can be wonderful companions if given the right training and patience. It’s not about labeling dogs as “bad,” but about being realistic with breed characteristics.
Certain breeds, like the Alaskan Malamute, may look majestic but demand far more than most new owners can handle. These working dogs thrive on challenges that would overwhelm someone just starting their journey into dog ownership.
And then there’s the “gray ghost” Weimaraner—beautiful, athletic, but clingy enough to make separation anxiety a daily battle. Not exactly the couch potato many first-timers hope for.
In a few years, with experience under your belt, you might feel ready to tackle one of these challenging breeds. Until then, it’s perfectly okay to choose an easier, beginner-friendly companion.
Because at the end of the day, every wagging tail tells a story waiting to be shared—and the best stories begin with finding the right dog for you.
