Vet names 5 dog breeds you should not own as a pet

Published: 2025-08-16 20:33:30 | Views: 7


Choosing the right dog breed can be one of the most exciting and daunting decisions for any potential pet owner. With hundreds of dog breeds to consider, each with its own unique temperament, energy level, grooming needs, and health risks, it’s no surprise that many people find themselves overwhelmed when deciding which four-legged companion will best fit their lifestyle. While some breeds are known for being great with children, others require constant exercise and mental stimulation or come with a long list of medical conditions that can lead to costly vet bills and emotional stress.

What might seem like an adorable pup on social media could, in reality, require more time, patience, and financial resources than most people are prepared for. That’s why doing thorough research and listening to professionals who work with dogs every day is essential. One such professional is South African veterinarian Dr Amir Anwary, who has shared a "brutally honest" list of the five dog breeds he personally wouldn’t own, despite how popular or beloved they might be. In a TikTok video that has received over 153K likes, Dr Anwary explains that although every dog is an individual with its own personality, certain breeds come with consistent challenges that make them less ideal for the average pet owner.

1. Dachshund

The vet starts by stating that while many of the viewers may be shocked to find this breed at the top of the list and these sausage-shaped pups are undeniably adorable and can be very affectionate, he warned that they’re not for everyone.

Dr Anwary said: "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."

Due to their long spine and short legs, dachshunds are highly prone to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a painful and sometimes debilitating spinal condition.

Coupled with their tendency to gain weight, they require careful management, regular exercise, and a lifestyle that keeps them off furniture and stairs to avoid injury.

2. French bulldog

Next up is the popular French Bulldog and Dr Anwary didn't hold back. He started by calling this type of dog a "cute little adorable abomination."

From breathing problems and skin conditions to back and joint issues, French Bulldogs are frequent flyers at the vet’s office. Dr Anwary also highlighted their high purchase price and lifelong medical costs, making them a financially demanding pet.

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."

3. Belgian Malinois

Dr Anwary describes the Belgian Malinois as a "machine".

He said: "This is not a dog. This is a machine. It requires constant physical and mental stimulation. 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 do enough physical activity, daily training and attention, they can easily become anxious, bored, and destructive. Originally bred for herding and protection work, Belgian Malinois dogs are often used in military and police settings.

As such, they are working dogs through and through, not couch companions. For many, especially first-time or passive dog owners, the Belgian Malinois can be an overwhelming and unsuitable choice.

4. Border Collie

Another high-energy working breed, the Border Collie, also makes the list, and for similar reasons to the Belgian Malinois.

Dr Anwary said they are also a working dog and need that "constant stimulation" and compares them to having ADHD in dog form, saying they constantly need tasks to do, space to run, and problems to solve.

Like the Belgian Malinois, 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.

5. Labrador Retriever

Perhaps the most surprising breed of them all to make the list is the Labrador Retriever, often hailed as the ideal family dog. Friendly, loyal, and easy to train, Labradors seem like the perfect fit for most households.

According to Dr Anwary, however, 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.



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