What are the worst dog breeds for a first-time dog owner?

Have you decided to get a dog for a pet? Great! Now, it’s important to be prepared to meet all of your dog’s needs to ensure their long-term happiness and health.

As a new dog owner, it’s crucial to invest extra effort into learning about your dog’s specific breed and its characteristics.

For beginners, it’s recommended to adopt a dog breed that is easily trainable.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Videos for dogs to watch while you’re at work

Beginner pet owners should thoroughly research a dog breed before adopting it.

This includes understanding their characteristics, physical and mental traits, eating requirements, and grooming needs.

It’s important to consider the dog’s mental stimulation level and the training it will require to stay healthy and fit.

1. BORDER COLLIES

Border Collies are energetic and always ready for work. They need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy.

They are intelligent and quick to learn new commands with just a few repetitions.

Border Collies can become destructive if not properly entertained, leading to behaviors like barking, digging, and nipping.

Some owners have reported house training issues, furniture chewing, and wall scratching with these dogs.

Daily walks of an hour or more are essential for Border Collies, and it’s important to consider their specific lineage (farm, show, or sport) before adoption.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Viral Pet Video of the Day – 26 June 2023

2. SIBERIAN HUSKIES

Siberian Huskies are happy and independent dogs that thrive in cold environments.

They are very energetic and need plenty of exercise to keep them happy.

They are quite vocal and may be noisy, keeping both you and your neighbors on alert.

Huskies have a double coat that requires regular and extensive grooming to keep it clean and tangle-free.

In terms of intelligence, they are reasonably intelligent and may need up to 40 repetitions to understand a command.

These dogs have a strong prey drive, which can be a challenge for new owners, especially those with small children or other small pets.

3. DALMATIANS

Dalmatians are energetic working dogs. They were bred to run and are one of the fastest breeds.

They used to run alongside horses and fire engines. Their high energy levels can be challenging for owners.

They may become destructive and bark excessively without enough stimulation.

Despite their short coat, Dalmatians shed heavily.

They are reasonably intelligent and require 15 to 25 repetitions to understand commands.

4. AKITAS

The Akita is a famous Japanese dog known for its guarding abilities.

Akitas were originally bred for fighting, bear hunting, and protection.

They are not very friendly towards strangers, which can be challenging for first-time dog owners.

Training and socialization can help them become lifelong companions.

Akitas are not excessive barkers but will bark in dangerous situations or to make a point.

ALSO READ: What are the 3 BEST guard dogs for families in 2023?

5. ROTTWEILERS

Rottweilers are large and intimidating dogs with medium affection toward their owners.

Their behavior can vary greatly, being playful with you but aggressive towards strangers and other dogs.

Rottweilers are not recommended for first-time dog owners.

Their size can be challenging for inexperienced owners.

Rottweilers have medium energy levels and slow down with age compared to other breeds.

The positive aspect is that Rottweilers are quick learners.