A professional dog trainer who’s worked with animals for more than three decades has shared the five “hardest” breeds which he believes some owners should “avoid” – and the list includes some popular options
A professional dog trainer has named the five breeds he believes people should “avoid” – but it’s not because they’re aggressive or “bad”. Welcoming a dog into your home is a massive decision as dogs require constant care, attention, exercise and more from their owners for their entire lives.
Choosing which breed to get can be difficult as not all breeds are suitable for first time or inexperienced owners, and training is often essential. This is where content creator and “dog behaviour expert” Casey Ray steps in. With more than 30 years of experience with dogs, the expert revealed a list of five breeds people should “avoid” in a YouTube video but emphasised this isn’t because they’re “bad dogs”, it’s because they’re often paired with “the wrong people, in the wrong environments, with unrealistic expectations” which can result in unhappy dogs and stressed owners.
If you’re considering getting a dog, make sure to weigh up the pros and cons, as well as your lifestyle, before committing to the decision.
5. Dachshunds
In fifth place, Casey put the dachshund, a breed he has personally owned and branded “fantastic”, but they’re not easy.
Casey explained: “People see ‘cute’, trainers or experts see ‘stubborn, vocal, and tough to motivate’. Bred to fight underground – and it shows when you try to tell them ‘no’.
“And they can really just be a pain, guys. And like I said, this is coming from a trainer’s standpoint.”
He stated: “They’re fantastic dogs. I’m not knocking the breed by any means. It’s just, they can be a pain in the butt to train. They really can.”
4. Rat terrier
This American dog, which is present in the UK, has history as a farm dog and hunting companion.
Casey ranked them in fourth place due to their intelligent and lively nature which can lead to training issues for inexperienced owners.
The expert said: “Hyper intelligent, hyper reactive, and built for movement. Have you ever seen a rat terrier?
“Have you ever tried to own one or train one? They’re constantly scanning for something to chase, bark at, or dominate, and they’re just go, go, go.”
He added: “Talk about causing stress levels in a trainer and owners. Have a rat terrier around for a little while.”
3. English bull terrier
The English bull terrier’s “egg-shaped” head is instantly recognisable, and they’re popular for their playful, loyal and affectionate nature – but they need firm, consistent training from experienced owners.
Casey shared: “I had trained many and I would always say, ‘oh man, these things are hard.'”
The expert said they need “a special person” to “understand and not get frustrated” with them because they can be very “stubborn”.
2. Miniature pinscher
In second place, the expert put the miniature pinscher. These clever, playful and outgoing dogs are known for their high energy levels, stubbornness and desire to dominate.
Casey stated: “Tiny body, huge ego, reactive, bold, and not afraid to start trouble they can’t finish. Most people underestimate how serious this little dog can get.”
1. Chow Chow
Taking the top spot was the chow chow, recognised for their thick, fluffy coats, black tongues, and aloof nature.
They are protective but also quite independent, making them more suited for owners with experience.
Casey said: “I know several people that have been bitten by this breed. I’ve trained several, I know trainers that have trouble with this breed – it’s a hard breed to read.”
Wrapping up his list, Casey said: “They’re all fantastic dogs and they can all be trained to very high levels, all these breeds. What I’m trying to say here is that some of these just make things a lot harder on you.”
Regardless of breed, training is often a necessity for all dogs, as well as proper socialisation which can be key to ensuring they don’t become too reactive or aggressive.
Remember, never leave dogs unattended around children.