It is easy to be won over by big brown eyes and soft fur when buying a dog, but looks can often be deceiving. It is true that there is a dog for everyone, but some dogs are more difficult to manage than others. We take a look at 18 of the cutest dogs that make the worst pets and will need researching before you invest:
Basenji
Basenjis are known as the “Barkless Dog, “but this doesn’t mean they don’t make noise. They can be quite vocal, expressing themselves with yodeling, howling, or other sounds. They can also be stubborn and not easily pleased, so they need experienced owners. If you have lots of energy and patience, you may be the perfect companion for a basenji, but be prepared to be kept on your toes.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas can be nervous or anxious around strangers and new situations. This can lead to them becoming yappy or even nipping if they feel threatened. They can also be quite demanding of attention and exhibit jealous behavior if neglected. You can overcome most of these issues if you socialize these dogs early and establish clear boundaries early in.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners were bred as hunting dogs and had seemingly endless stamina. Without daily walks and playtime, they can become destructive in the home and display behavioral issues when bored. These dogs can be a problem if you live around a lot of wildlife, as their predatory behavior means they will run after squirrels and other small animals.
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are giant dog breeds, reaching heights of up to 32 inches and weighing over 100 pounds. While very handsome and protective, their large size requires a home with plenty of space and a strong owner who can handle their powerful physique on walks.
Pomeranian
Despite their adorable appearance, Pomeranians can be quite stubborn and require experienced owners who can provide firm but positive training. They may not always be eager to please and can be independent thinkers, so they keep owners on their toes.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an increasingly popular breed, with over 10,000 registered in the U.S. While these large dogs look cute, they can be difficult around other dogs and strangers, so they need to be trained effectively. Even with the most consistent training, Chow Chows can quickly become aggressive and difficult to control, so they are not good to have around children.
Shar-Pei
Shar-Pei dogs have a strong guarding instinct and can be suspicious of strangers. Extensive socialization from a young age is crucial to prevent them from becoming overly suspicious or aggressive. They can also be stubborn in the home and are generally dominant dogs that can prove challenging for first-time owners.
Shiba Inus
Shiba Inus is a TikTok sensation and is in high demand around the world. They give adorable curled tails and fox-like expressions that give them the cute factor, but they are high-spirited and demanding. They love their independence, so they are not the cuddliest of dogs. They can also be difficult on the leash as they get excited around other dogs and wildlife.
Pekingese
With their wrinkled faces and sophisticated demeanor, Pekingese are a cute addition to the family. However, they can be stubborn and snappy when they do not have consistent training. Vet fees can be expensive as they often run into skin problems and breathing issues because of the folds in their face.
Pugs
Pugs, with their wrinkled faces and curly tails, are undeniably cute. However, due to their unique physical characteristics and temperament, they can be challenging pets for some owners. Their short, flat faces can cause breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or during exercise, which can lead to high vet bills and stubbornness when trying to walk. Pugs are also prone to separation anxiety, so they suit people who can be home most of the day.
Atikas
Unlike breeds known for their obedience, Akitas are known for their independence. Training them requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques that can prove difficult for first-time owners.
Cane Corso
Cane Corsos are handsome-looking dogs, but they can reach 28 inches and weigh over 100 pounds, making them difficult to manage. They are bred for protection, so they can be overly dominant in the home without proper training. Supervision is needed around children and new people coming into the home, as they can be strong and aggressive.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russells are notorious for their boundless energy. They require daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. A Jack Russell might leave you feeling exhausted if you have a low-energy lifestyle.
West Highland Terriers
Another terrier that can be difficult to manage is the West Highland. This dog can be stubborn and hard to train, mainly because it loves to chase, so it can get easily distracted. Westies love to bark at strangers and sometimes become vocal at the slightest sound in the home, so you must be prepared for noisy days.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are undeniably cute but difficult to communicate with, as they often ignore commands. Their ignorant and, sometimes, stubborn nature makes it difficult to train them at home, and they can be temperamental when on the lead.
French Bulldog
French bulldogs are incredibly cute but incredibly stubborn. These dogs know what they want and will not do anything they don’t want to. This means that early and consistent training is key to a good relationship. The bigger issue with “Frenchies” is that they probe a lot of health issues, including breathing issues, joint problems, and skin infections.
Beagle
Beagles are notorious for howling, a form of communication used with their pack. Boredom, separation anxiety, or even hearing sirens can trigger howling, which might not be appreciated by neighbors or those seeking a quieter companion.
Maltese
Maltese dogs are certainly headturners with their long glossy coats, but they are difficult to maintain. Their coat sheds heavily and can become matted, so grooming costs can be high. They are generally even-tempered but can bark when they feel threatened or have not had enough exercise.
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