Have you ever felt that burst of excitement when you lock eyes with a puppy, imagining a life full of wagging tails and endless cuddles? Picking your first dog is a heart-thumping adventure, but it’s also a decision that can shape your life for years. Not all dog breeds are made equal—some need more patience, space, and experience than others. Choosing the wrong breed might turn your dream into a daily struggle. To help you start your dog-owning journey on the right paw, let’s explore the breeds that are best left to more seasoned owners. If you want an easy, joyful start to dog parenthood, these are the ten breeds you should think twice about.
Border Collie
Border Collies are often lauded as the geniuses of the canine world. While their intelligence is impressive, it comes with a price: they require constant mental and physical stimulation. Left alone or unstimulated, they can quickly become destructive, herding anything that moves—including children, bikes, or even your vacuum cleaner. Their endless energy and drive to work make them one of the most challenging breeds for first-timers.
For a novice dog owner, the Border Collie’s need for attention can feel overwhelming. Training them is a full-time job, and boredom often leads to creative mischief. If you’re looking for a laid-back companion who’s content with short walks and couch cuddles, the Border Collie will likely leave you frazzled rather than fulfilled.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are undeniably beautiful, with their striking eyes and wolf-like appearance. But their free spirit and stubborn streak can be a nightmare for beginners. Huskies were bred to pull sleds over vast distances, so they crave intense exercise and have a knack for escaping fenced yards. Their independent nature means they often ignore commands, which can be frustrating for inexperienced owners.
If you’re dreaming of an obedient dog who follows your every word, the Husky will surely surprise you. They’re notorious for being escape artists and are prone to loud, mournful howling. Their exercise needs are intense, and without enough activity, they can quickly develop bad habits like chewing and digging.
Akita
The Akita is a majestic dog with a loyal heart, but their protective instincts can be tough to manage for newbies. Akitas are naturally aloof with strangers and can be territorial, sometimes leading to aggressive behavior if not properly trained and socialized from an early age. They’re also strong-willed and are not eager to please, making training a challenge.
For someone new to dog ownership, the Akita’s size and temperament can be intimidating. Their thick coats also require regular grooming to avoid matting. If you’re looking for an easygoing first companion, the Akita’s bold personality and care requirements might be more than you bargained for.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians may be the stars of movies and storybooks, but in real life, they aren’t always the best pick for first-time owners. These spotted beauties are high-energy dogs with a strong will, and they can be quite stubborn. They need lots of exercise and mental stimulation; otherwise, they get bored and destructive.
Many people don’t realize Dalmatians are prone to certain health issues, including allergies and deafness. Their spirited nature can be overwhelming for beginners, and their need for constant activity can leave you feeling run ragged. If you’re hoping for a calm, low-maintenance pup, a Dalmatian won’t fit the bill.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are gorgeous with their lion-like manes, but they’re also known for their aloofness and independence. They tend to bond strongly with one person and can be wary of strangers, making them challenging to socialize. Chows are not naturally eager to please, which can make training slow and frustrating.
Their thick coats demand diligent grooming and can shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes. For a first-time dog owner, the Chow Chow’s strong personality and grooming needs can be daunting. They thrive with experienced handlers who understand their unique quirks and needs.
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a favorite among police and military units for a reason—they’re extremely intelligent, intense, and driven. But these same traits make them unsuitable for most first-time dog owners. Malinois need constant physical and mental activity; without it, they can become anxious or destructive.
They’re quick learners but need someone who can provide firm, consistent training. If you’re not ready for a dog that needs a job to do every single day, the Malinois will quickly become too much to handle. Their energy is best matched by an experienced, active owner who can keep up with their pace.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are tiny firecrackers—full of energy, mischief, and determination. Don’t let their small size fool you; they require more exercise and stimulation than many larger breeds. Jack Russells are notorious for their stubbornness and need plenty of attention and training.
For first-timers, their boundless energy and clever minds can quickly become a handful. Left alone, they’ll find their own entertainment, often at your home’s expense. Their strong prey drive can make walks challenging, as they’ll chase anything that moves.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners are sleek, athletic, and absolutely stunning, but they’re also a handful for novice owners. These dogs are bred to hunt, which means they have endless reserves of energy and a strong desire to work. Without daily vigorous exercise and mental engagement, they can become anxious and even destructive.
They’re also notorious for separation anxiety, which means they don’t do well being left alone for long periods. Their size, strength, and sometimes stubborn personality can be a lot to manage if you’re new to the world of dog ownership. If you’re hoping for a low-maintenance companion, the Weimaraner is almost certainly not the right choice.
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, stunning dogs bred to haul heavy loads in harsh conditions. They’re incredibly strong-willed and need a confident, experienced owner to guide them. Malamutes are pack animals and can be dominant if not properly trained and socialized.
Their thick double coats require regular brushing, and they shed heavily, especially when seasons change. If you’re a first-timer looking for an easy companion, the Malamute’s strength, independence, and grooming needs will likely prove overwhelming. They thrive with knowledgeable owners who can handle their high energy and determination.
Shar Pei
The Shar Pei stands out thanks to its wrinkled, unforgettable face—but that uniqueness comes with challenges. These dogs are known for being stubborn, independent, and sometimes aloof. They’re not eager to please, which can make training a real struggle for beginners.
Shar Peis are also prone to specific health issues, particularly skin problems due to their many folds. Their wariness of strangers can lead to guarding behavior, which needs careful management and early socialization. For someone without dog experience, the Shar Pei’s unique needs and temperament can be a steep learning curve.
Choosing your first dog is an exciting milestone, but it’s important to match your experience level with a breed that fits your lifestyle and abilities. While the breeds on this list are wonderful in their own right, their specific needs, energy levels, or training demands can be overwhelming for first-time owners. Starting with a more beginner-friendly breed sets the stage for a smoother, more rewarding relationship. Remember, the best first dog is one that helps you grow into a confident, responsible, and loving pet parent.
Born and bred in South Africa, a Capetonian at heart. Amy-Leigh’s love for nature and animals was inherited from her Dad. He loves taking the family on road trips to experience nature at its finest; Amy-Leigh’s favourite being whale watching in Hermanus and spotting Kudu along the West Coast. Amy-Leigh holds a BA in English Literature and Communication Studies.
