You are at a friend’s house, and their adorable Bulldog greets you with sloppy kisses. Ten minutes later, your throat feels scratchy, your eyes are watering, and you are sneezing like it is pollen season in July.
Or maybe you have met a gigantic Great Dane. Gentle as can be. But one tail wag nearly knocks over your coffee table (and your back is not exactly thanking you after being dragged across the yard on a leash…).
The truth is, certain dog breeds are lovable and loyal, but they can also bring a suitcase full of health concerns, both for themselves and the humans who care for them. That’s why we are looking at the best dog breeds to avoid for your health.
Best Dog Breeds To Avoid For Your Health
1. Dachshund
The famous “Weiner dog” looks like a cartoon come to life. But let us tell you the downside. Purina mentions the long spine of the Dachshund makes them prone to Intervertebral disc disease and other spinal problems.
For them, even jumping off the couch can spell trouble. Tsk Tsk!
When a Dachshund, the hunting dog of the past, struggles with pain and mobility problems, owners often end up lifting and carrying them more than expected. That constant strain can take a toll on a human’s back and shoulders, mostly for older dog owners (mind you, they can be heavy and can gain weight).
Just like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dachshunds are also EXTREMELY prone (63% prevalent) to mitral valve disease, where the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, which leads to a life-threatening condition for the dog and major stress for the family.
Bottom line: A Dachshund can be a lovable lap dog, but between their own mobility issues and the physical demands they place on you, they can affect both your dog’s and your own health.
2. Pug
Pugs are little comedians, wrinkly dogs with curly tails. But their squishy faces put them in the category of brachycephalic breeds, which means chronic breathing difficulties for them!!
Living with a Pug means you will get to listen to constant snoring, wheezing, and coughing. OFTEN!! Sometimes, even sleep apnea, as noted by PetMD. For the dog, it is a serious health condition. For the owner, it can lead to poor sleep (yes, your Pug’s snoring can keep you up at night).
They are also prone to skin conditions, eye injuries, and obesity, which require careful monitoring.
Bottom line: Cute as they are, Pugs come with a list of health problems and can trigger allergy flare-ups. And that’s exactly the reason they can be the best dog breeds to avoid for your health.
3. English Bulldog
Bulldogs are lovable clowns with stocky builds and squished faces. But their health record is…. a disaster! Thanks to questionable breeding practices, these affectionate dogs face nearly every issue in the book. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, breathing problems, skin conditions, eye problems, and even mast cell tumors.
For the dog, it means a lifetime of vet visits. For owners, the challenges add up: higher vet bills, stress, and sleepless nights caring for a struggling puppy. Bulldogs are also heavy droolers, and their tendency to overheat means you are constantly adjusting your thermostat to keep them safe.
From a human health angle, their drool and wrinkles can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly, sometimes triggering skin reactions in sensitive people.
Bottom line: Bulldogs may melt your heart, but they can be overwhelming for your health, your wallet, and your patience.
4. Cocker Spaniel
Floppy ears, soulful eyes, and a sweet personality make the Cocker Spaniel a family favorite. But underneath the charm are a lot of health problems.
These long ears are prime territory for ear infections. Add in skin conditions, eye disorders like progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune issues, as noted by PDSA, and you have a dog that needs constant care.
For owners, this means a lot of cleaning, vet trips, and dealing with allergens. Spaniels also shed (yep, they are not hypoallergenic dogs), which can make life miserable for allergy sufferers. And due to those skin folds, they are prone to atopy, which causes itchy skin.
Bottom line: Sweet as sugar, but if you are sensitive to allergens, or don’t want to spend half your life at the vet with those health issues that come with the Cocker Spaniel, this is one to avoid. Sadly.
5. Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans are sleek, athletic, protective, and loyal dogs. But their bodies hide some scary genetic conditions.
They are at a higher risk of developing hip dysplasia, Von Willebrand’s disease (a blood-clotting disorder), and heart issues like dilated cardiomyopathy. Some even face bone cancer at a young age, as mentioned by VCA Animal Hospitals. All this adds up to huge emotional and financial strain on owners.
And let’s not ignore human health. Dobermans can be affectionate, but they are also powerful guard dogs. Inexperienced owners may face safety risks if the dog becomes aggressive or overly protective.
Bottom Line: A wonderful companion for the right handler, but the health problems and potential safety concerns make the Dobermans a tough fit for many homes.
6. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is America’s classic working dog. Brave, smart, and loyal. They are also notorious for hip and elbow dysplasia, a major concern that leads to Arthritis and mobility issues.
They are also at risk for degenerative myelopathy (a genetic condition causing paralysis) and even skin conditions. For the dog, these health issues often shorten the quality of a healthy life. For the owner, it means helping a heavy, large breed with daily mobility. Lifting, struggling, and assisting. It can physically strain you.
Some Shepherds also develop behavioral issues if not given enough mental stimulation, which can lead to biting or aggression. A direct breed-specific health issue and risk for humans.
Bottom Line: German Shepherds are incredible service dogs, but they demand serious commitment to both their health challenges and their strong personalities.
7. Great Dane
Gentle, goofy, and massive dog, the gentle giants of the dog world. But sadly, Great Danes have one of the shortest lifespans among large breeds, often only 7-10 years.
PetMD noted they face hip dysplasia, joint problems, bone cancer, and most dangerously, gastric-dilation-volvulus (bloat), a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. For owners, this means constant careful monitoring and emergency readiness.
And let’s be honest, owning a Great Dane can be physically demanding. Walking a 175-pound dog is no joke, and a playful jump can easily knock over an adult, let alone kids or older family members.
Bottom Line: sweet as they are, Great Danes can unintentionally put your health at risk while struggling with severe health concerns of their own!
Conclusion
Every dog deserves love. But when it comes to the best dog breed to avoid for your health, we are just being realistic here! Some dogs come with heavy health issues that make their life harder. Others, through their size, strength, or shedding, directly affect their owner’s health… whether through allergies, injuries, or the stress of constant vet visits.
Breeds like French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzu, Golden Retrievers, and Yorkshire Terriers also come with their own health concerns, from respiratory issues to joint problems. On the flip side, breeds like the Australian Cattle Dog and Siberian Husky are often praised for fewer health issues.
The key takeaway is to do your homework! Think about not just what a dog looks like, but what it will mean for both your furry friend’s well-being and your own. Commit to preventive care, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and recognizing early signs of problems. Because the healthiest breed is the one where both human and dog can thrive together!!
