Choosing the right dog breed can be one of the most exciting and daunting decisions for any potential pet owner
There are hundreds of dog breeds, and choosing the right one can be an exciting yet overwhelming time for prospective owners. Each has its own distinct traits, exercise requirements, grooming demands, and potential health issues.
So it’s unsurprising that many people are unsure of which breed to choose. Some are known for being brilliant with kids, while others demand seemingly endless amounts of walking, have a nervous disposition, or come with medical problems that can result in huge veterinary bills and heartache.
What’s more, you may see what appears to be an adorable puppy on social media that may need more time, dedication, and money than you realise. This is why doing comprehensive research and taking advice from professionals who handle dogs daily is crucial, as reported by the Express.
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One such expert is South African vet Dr Amir Anwary, who has revealed a “brutally honest” rundown of the five dog breeds he personally wouldn’t keep, regardless of how trendy or cherished they may be. In a TikTok clip that has garnered more than 153K likes, Dr Anwary clarifies that whilst every dog is unique with their own character, particular breeds present recurring difficulties that render them less suitable for the typical pet owner.
Here are five dog breeds he says he would never own:
French Bulldog
Dr Anwary began by describing this breed as a “cute little adorable abomination.” From respiratory difficulties and skin ailments to spinal and joint problems, French Bulldogs are regular visitors at the vet’s surgery.
Dr Anwary also emphasised their expensive purchase price and ongoing medical expenses, making them a costly pet to own. He added: “As a vet, I see these dogs coming in all the time for so many different medical issues. I would not own a French Bulldog ever but they are adorable.”
Dachshund
These sausage-shaped pups are adorable and can be extremely loving, he cautioned that they’re not suitable for everyone. The vet explained: “They can be very stubborn, they can bark the whole night if they want to, and they can have some really bad separation anxiety.
“They’re also prone to a condition called IVDD.” Because of their elongated spine and short legs, dachshunds are extremely susceptible to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a painful and sometimes crippling spinal condition.
Combined with their propensity to put on weight, they need careful management, regular exercise, and a lifestyle that prevents them from jumping on furniture and stairs to prevent injury.
Border Collie
Another high-energy working breed, the Border Collie, also makes the list, these “working dogs” need “constant stimulation”. Dr Anwary explains they need to consistently have tasks to do, problems to solve, and plenty of space to run about.
They can become destructive and difficult to manage if their needs aren’t consistently met. This level of intensity can be especially hard to handle for owners who work full-time and can’t be present or engaged throughout the day.
Belgian Malinois
This breed makes the list for similar reasons to the Border Collie. Dr Anwary characterises the Belgian Malinois as a “machine” that “requires constant physical and mental stimulation”. He continued: “I work a full time job, there is no way I can give this type of dog the attention it deserves to thrive.”
If they don’t get enough physical activity, daily training and attention, they can easily become anxious, bored, and destructive. Belgian Malinois dogs, originally bred for herding and protection work, are often used in military and police settings.
As such, they are working dogs through and through, not sofa companions. For many, particularly first-time or passive dog owners, the Belgian Malinois can be an overwhelming and unsuitable choice.
Labrador Retriever
Last but not least is the Labrador Retriever, which will perhaps come as a surprise to some as it’s often hailed the ideal family dog. Friendly, loyal, and easy to train, Labradors seem like the perfect fit for most households.
However, according to Dr Anwary, there’s one major drawback and that is their appetite. Labradors are notorious for eating anything and everything, and they’re also genetically prone to obesity.
This combination can be dangerous, especially for owners who are generous with treats or lack the discipline to maintain a strict diet.