Getting your very first dog is exciting—like bringing home a new best friend who loves you unconditionally. But not every breed makes that first experience easy. While some dogs are patient, forgiving, and eager to please, others demand more time, skill, and energy than a beginner may be ready for.
Choosing the wrong breed can turn joy into overwhelm faster than you can say “walkies.” Certain breeds have strong-willed personalities, boundless energy, or complex care requirements that even seasoned owners find challenging.
For someone just starting out, these dogs may unintentionally create stress, frustration, and unmet expectations. That’s why knowing which breeds to avoid is just as important as knowing which ones to consider.
We’ll explore dog breeds that aren’t ideal for first-time owners. From training challenges to high-maintenance lifestyles, we’ll break down why these pups may not be the smoothest introduction to dog parenthood.
If you’re new to the world of wagging tails and wet noses, this guide will help you make a choice that leads to joy—not headaches.
TIP: Beginner pet owners should always research before adopting a dog, taking into account its physical and mental traits, dietary needs, and grooming requirements to ensure the right match and a happy, healthy life for both pet and owner.
Ideal Dog Breeds to Avoid for First-Time Owners
1. Akita
The Akita: Japan’s noble, stoic, and utterly loyal powerhouse. Famous, thanks to the heartwarming tale of Hachikō, these dogs are majestic, strong, and built for guarding. But don’t let their gorgeous looks fool you—they weren’t bred to be lapdogs.
Historically, Akitas were used for bear hunting, protection, and even fighting, which means they come with a natural instinct to protect and a strong sense of independence.
PetMD noted that Akitas are naturally suspicious of strangers and other animals. While training and socialization can help, first-time dog owners may struggle to establish themselves as the “alpha” without experience and consistency.
Commands may take up to 40 repetitions to stick, and their mood can swing from affectionate to aloof—or even slightly moody—if they don’t get the structure they need. These dogs aren’t particularly vocal; they’ll bark only when there’s a genuine reason—like danger or an important message for their favorite human.
They require regular exercise to stay fit, but what they really need is a confident, experienced owner who can provide leadership and consistency. Without it, an Akita’s protective instincts can turn into unwanted challenges with visitors, delivery people, or even other pets.
Pro tip: Akitas are loyal beyond measure and deeply loving once trust is earned—but they are not beginner-friendly. You need confidence, patience, and a calm, assertive approach to raise one successfully. Think of them as the wise, powerful guardian who are willing to love you if you earn their respect.
2. Chow Chow
Chow Chows: the “teddy bear” dogs that look sweet but secretly run a strict household dictatorship. With their fluffy mane, squishy face, and famous purple tongue, they’re basically the royalty of the dog world—majestic, aloof, and a little intimidating once you get past the cuteness.
But don’t let those adorable looks fool you. Chow Chows are famously stubborn, Petplan noted. Teaching them a command can take anywhere from 80 to 100 repetitions. Yes, you read that right—they have strong opinions, and training requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humor.
These dogs are naturally suspicious of strangers and may not be the best match for households with other animals. While they don’t need endless exercise—an hour a day usually does the trick—they need more training and socialization than many other breeds to be safe, well-behaved companions.
Chow Chows are not “cuddle-first” dogs. They’re more like polite roommates who occasionally grace you with affection once they’ve decided you’ve earned it.
On top of that, their gorgeous coat demands regular grooming to keep them looking regal rather than resembling a walking tumbleweed.
Pro tip: Chow Chows are best for owners who have confidence, experience, and a love for a dog with personality and boundaries. New dog parents, approach with caution—or be ready to earn their royal approval.
3. Siberian Husky
Ah, the Siberian Husky: the ultimate snow-loving escape artist with a mischievous grin. These dogs were bred to pull sleds across icy tundras, which basically means energy overload is built into their DNA. If your idea of a calm, low-maintenance dog is curling up on the couch, a Husky will politely remind you that they prefer marathons over naps.
Huskies are independent, vocal, and, yes, notorious for testing your patience. They’ll howl, “talk,” and occasionally sing along with your smoke alarm just for fun. Apartment life? Forget it—they need space to run and burn off that boundless energy.
Their gorgeous double coat is stunning but requires serious grooming to prevent tangles, shedding, and accidental carpet snowstorms.
WebMD says Siberian Huskies have a natural passion for running, so they should always be kept on a leash or within a secure fenced yard. Since they’re athletic and excellent jumpers, the fence should be at least 6 feet high to keep them safely contained.
While they’re reasonably intelligent, Huskies have a stubborn streak—you might need up to 40 repetitions to get them to follow a command. They also have a high prey drive, so small pets like cats, birds, or hamsters could find themselves under unintentional Husky surveillance.
Their size and strength mean consistent training and socialization are a must. Siberian Huskies are beautiful, playful, and full of personality—but not ideal for first-time owners looking for an easy-going companion. They’re more like the canine equivalent of a spirited teenager: fun, full of energy, and slightly unpredictable.
Pro tip: If you can handle a dog that thinks running laps around the yard is a full-time job and howling at your life choices is their hobby, a Husky might just steal your heart.
4. Border Collie
Meet the Border Collie: the canine equivalent of a caffeinated genius who never stops moving. These dogs were bred to herd sheep all day, which basically means their default setting is nonstop activity.
If you’re looking for a dog that will happily snooze on the couch, keep scrolling—this is not that kind of dog. Border Collies are incredibly intelligent—so intelligent, in fact, that they often learn new commands in fewer than five repetitions.
Impressive, right? But here’s the catch: their brains are always on, and if you don’t keep them busy, they’ll invent their own entertainment. Unfortunately, “their own entertainment” can include barking at thin air, digging holes like a small excavation crew, nipping at your heels, or redecorating your furniture with teeth and claws.
They also have strong independent streaks, meaning they won’t always follow instructions if they’re bored. Expect to commit 1½ to 2 hours a day to physical and mental exercise. And a word of wisdom before adoption: check whether your Border Collie is a farm, show, or sport line—each has different needs, energy levels, and quirks.
Border Collies are brilliant, loyal, and incredibly fun—but only for owners who can match their energy and keep their minds engaged. Otherwise, you might end up with a four-legged whirlwind of chaos disguised as a dog.
Pro tip: If your idea of a relaxing day involves a calm dog at your side, a Border Collie will politely remind you that relaxing is for humans, not for geniuses with paws.
5. Rottweiler
Rottweilers: the canine equivalent of a bodyguard who also wants belly rubs. With their impressive size and muscular build, these dogs can look intimidating, but anyone who’s been on the receiving end of their loyalty knows they’re big softies for their humans.
However, let’s be real—Rottweilers are not exactly “beginner-friendly.” They can be stubborn during training, and their behavior can swing faster than a rollercoaster.
One minute, they’re happily playing fetch with you, the next, they might be wary of strangers or other dogs. Their size alone can be a handful, especially if you’re new to managing a large breed.
While their energy levels are moderate compared to hyperactive breeds like the Weimaraner, Rottweilers still need regular exercise and—most importantly—consistent training and socialization. Without that, you might end up with a dog who’s more “oops” than “aww” when guests arrive.
In short, if you’re a first-time owner hoping for an easy-going couch companion, a Rottweiler might be a bit too much dog for your first rodeo. But for someone ready to invest time, patience, and leadership, they’re fiercely loyal, loving, and a companion you’ll never forget.
Pro tip: Think of a Rottweiler as a lifelong gym partner with a heart of gold—be ready to train, socialize, and, yes, give plenty of affection.
6. Weimaraner
Meet the Weimaraner: the sleek, silver-coated rocket of the dog world. With eyes that could practically hypnotize you and legs built for speed, these dogs were basically designed to run, hunt, and steal hearts—sometimes all at once.
But here’s the catch: Weimaraners are basically the Energizer bunnies of the canine kingdom. They need a lot of exercise, both physical and mental, or risk becoming bored, restless, and creatively mischievous.
Left alone for too long, they’re prone to separation anxiety—so if you’re hoping for a dog that will nap while you binge-watch your favorite series, think again.
On top of that, Weimaraners are intelligent, independent thinkers. Training them at home can be a challenge, especially if you have smaller pets around—they’re notorious for chasing anything that moves. Think of them as a mix between a personal trainer and a detective: full of energy, curiosity, and a little bit of mischief.
Minimal grooming? Check. Prey drive? High alert. Patience and experience? Absolutely necessary. For first-time dog owners, a Weimaraner might just be a little too much dog for your first rodeo. But for seasoned dog lovers who love long runs, mental puzzles, and a four-legged adventure buddy, they can be an exhilarating companion.
Pro tip: If you can’t outrun them, at least keep up with their brains—they’re as sharp as they are fast.
7. Doberman Pinscher
Ah, the Doberman Pinscher—a sleek, muscular marvel that can make anyone do a double-take. With their chiseled features and alert stance, these dogs practically scream, “I mean business.”
Originally bred in Germany as protection dogs, Dobermans are basically canine superheroes, excelling in law enforcement, military roles, and personal protection. If your dream is a dog that can moonlight as a bodyguard while still looking dapper, they’re basically a paw-some choice.
But here’s the thing: just because they can be your four-legged Batman doesn’t mean they should be your first dog. Dobermans are highly energetic, incredibly smart, and require a ton of mental and physical stimulation.
Think of them as the Ferrari of dogs—you can’t just park them in the garage and forget about them for a few hours. Without enough activity, they get bored, frustrated, and might even test their own version of “creative chaos.”
On top of that, Dobermans are notorious for separation anxiety. Leave them alone, and they might turn your favorite pair of shoes into abstract art. Training can help, yes—but it requires consistency, patience, and a confident hand.
If you’re a first-time dog owner looking for a chill Netflix buddy, the Doberman may not be the best fit. But if you’ve got experience, time, energy, and a love for a dog that will challenge you as much as it charms you, these elegant protectors can be truly rewarding companions.
Pro tip: Consider this breed only if you’re ready to commit to long walks, mental puzzles, and the occasional heroic “I’m guarding the house” stare-down.
Conclusion
When it comes to breeds for first-time dog parents, some of the worst breeds are best avoided. The Australian Cattle Dog, Jack Russell Terrier, Belgian Malinois, Dutch Shepherd, German Shepherd Dog, Cane Corso, Pit Bull, and Alaskan Malamute may look like loyal companions with cuddly looks, but they require intense training, consistent leadership, and massive amounts of mental stimulation and daily exercise.
These herding dogs and large dogs, with their endless energy, strong prey drive, and history in police work or being bred to hunt big game, can develop behavioral issues or health issues in the wrong hands. For new dog owners and first-time pet parents, such high-energy breeds tend to overwhelm, making them some of the worst dog breeds for inexperienced owners, despite their loyal nature when properly trained and given proper socialization.
