26 Worst Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners (In-Depth Guide)

Don't make the mistake of choosing the wrong breed for your first dog. Learn about the worst dog breeds for first-time owners.
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Are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of dog ownership? Well, before you head to the pet store, be sure to read this article to avoid making the classic rookie mistake of choosing the wrong breed. 

These pups may be cute and cuddly, but they’re definitely not the easiest to handle for first-time owners. 

So , whether you’re a newbie or just looking for a good laugh, grab a leash and let’s dive into the list of the worst dog breeds for first-time owners.

Worst Breeds for First-Time Dog Owners

The following list includes some of the worst dog breeds for first-time owners, based on factors such as level of activity, trainability, and grooming needs.

Shiba Inu

Shiba inu for novice owners

Are you ready to add some spunk and sass to your life? Meet Shiba Inu! This pint-sized pup hails from Japan and packs a punch with their independent and strong-willed nature.

Sure, they may be a bit of a handful for first-time dog owners to train and control,  but where’s the fun in easy?

These little balls of energy require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from turning your living room into their own personal demolition site.

But be warned, these cuties have a strong prey drive and may be inclined to chase small animals, so keeping them on a leash is a must. And their tendency to be aggressive towards strangers and other dogs means socialization is key in order to have a well-behaved and well-mannered companion.

So, if you’re an experienced and confident dog owner looking for a challenge, the Shiba Inu just might be the perfect fit.

Just don’t blame us when your new furry friend outsmarts you on a daily basis.

Dalmatian

dalmatian for novice owners

Are you ready for a wild ride? Meet the Dalmatian! These pooches are like a rollercoaster, full of energy and excitement. With their high prey drive and active personalities, they’ll keep you on your toes and make sure you stay in shape.

But don’t let their cute spots fool you, they can be stubborn and independent, making them a bit of a challenge to train for first-time dog owners.

But don’t worry, Dalmatians are highly trainable and with the right leader (aka you), they’ll be following your commands in no time.

Just make sure you have the time and energy to keep up with their exercise needs because these pups require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior.

And let’s not forget about their short, smooth coat which requires minimal grooming, but their vocal nature might require a little extra patience.

So, if you’re a first-time dog owner or have limited time, the Dalmatian might not be the best fit for you. But if you’re ready to take on a fun and energetic companion, with a bit of training and commitment, the Dalmatian will be your best friend for life.

Just don’t forget to pack your running shoes!

Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff for novice owners

Are you looking for a dog that will make you feel like a superhero just by holding the leash? Look no further than the Tibetan Mastiff!

This majestic breed is not for the faint of heart – they can weigh up to 150 pounds of pure muscle. But don’t let their size intimidate you, they’re also known for their stubbornness and independent streak, making training a real adventure.

But don’t worry, all that stubbornness and independence makes them great guard dogs. They’ll protect your family and property like they’re guarding the crown jewels.

Just be prepared for them to treat strangers like they’re trying to steal said crown jewels. Socialization is key to having a well-behaved Mastiff.

But all that guarding and protecting takes energy, and these dogs have plenty of it. Regular exercise and mental stimulation is a must for these high-energy hounds.

And let’s be real, if you’re living in a small apartment or have limited space,  you might want to consider a different breed. These dogs need room to roam and strong leaders to guide them.

But if you’re up for the challenge and have the space, a Tibetan Mastiff just might be your new best friend.

Cane Corso

Cane Corso for novice owners

Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to the Cane Corso – a hulking, muscular powerhouse of a pup that could probably arm-wrestle a bear and come out victorious. But don’t let their impressive brawn fool you – these pups are also known for their stubborn streak and independent nature.

So, if you’re a first-time dog owner looking for a lapdog, the Cane Corso might not be the best fit for you.

But if you’re up for a challenge and have a love for all things strong and mighty, the Cane Corso could be your new best friend. With a protective instinct that would make even the bravest of bodyguards jealous, these pups will have your back in any situation.

But, be warned, if you don’t properly socialize them from an early age, they may be a bit too protective and end up scaring your visitors.

Training a Cane Corso is no walk in the park either. They’re highly trainable, but you’ll need to put in some serious effort to get them to obey. These pups require a strong leader who can provide them with regular exercise, mental stimulation, and training to prevent destructive behavior.

And let ‘s not forget, they’re not exactly low maintenance – their high-energy levels mean they need plenty of space to run around and burn off steam.

In short, if you’re up for a challenge and have a lot of time and patience, the Cane Corso could be the perfect companion for you.

Just don’t be surprised if you end up with a 120-pound shadow that follows you around everywhere. And, if you’re looking for a low maintenance dog, you might want to look for a different breed.

Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky for novice owners

Are you ready for a workout partner that never gets tired? Look no further than the Siberian Husky! These fluffy bundles of energy are known for their high energy levels and strong independent streak.

They may be friendly and outgoing, but their high energy levels can make them a handful for first-time dog owners.

But don’t let that discourage you! Regular exercise and mental stimulation can prevent destructive behavior and keep your Husky happy. Just be prepared for some extra cardio, and maybe a few lost socks.

Also, beware of the Siberian Husky’s strong prey drive. They may be inclined to chase small animals, which can make them difficult to control off-leash. Training them may require a bit of patience, as they can be stubborn and independent. But with the right leader, they can sd be trained to be well-behaved and obedient.

One thing to keep in mind is that these dogs have a thick coat which requires regular grooming, so if you’re not a fan of dog hair all over your clothes, this may not be the dog for you.

But if you’re ready for a fun-loving, energetic companion that will keep you on your toes, the Siberian Husky is the perfect fit.

Just remember, they require a lot of exercise and space to move around, and need strong and experienced leaders who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier

Are you ready for a pint-sized bundle of energy? Meet the Jack Russell Terrier! These little dogs pack a punch when it comes to energy levels and a strong prey drive.

They’re like a shot of espresso in furry form.

But don’t let their small size fool you, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from turning your living room into their own personal playground.

Training a Jack Russell Terrier can be a bit like trying to herd cats. They’re highly trainable, but they also have a strong independent streak, which can make them a bit stubborn at times. And their strong prey drive means they’ll chase anything that moves, so don’t even think about letting them off the leash unless you want to play a game of “Where’s Waldo… er… Fido?”

And let’s talk about their vocal cords. These little dogs have big personalities and aren’t shy about expressing themselves. So if you ‘re looking for a quiet companion, you might want to look elsewhere.

On the plus side, grooming a Jack Russell Terrier is a breeze. They have a short coat that requires minimal maintenance. But, be warned, they do need a lot of exercise and space to move around, and they need an owner who can commit to regular training and exercise to keep their energy levels in check.

So, if you’re ready for the ultimate high-energy workout partner, the Jack Russell Terrier might just be the dog for you.

Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois for novice owners

Are you ready to put your energy levels to the test? Look no further than the Belgian Malinois, the ultimate workout buddy and personal trainer rolled into one furry package.

These pups are known for their high energy levels, trainability, and intelligence, making them the go-to choice for police and military work. But be warned, they’re not just a pretty face and wagging tail – they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from turning your living room into an obstacle course.

But let’s not forget the protective side of these pooches, they’ll guard their family with their life but without proper socialization, they might mistake your guests for burglars.

So,  think of them as a personal security guard, but with a cuter uniform.

Don’t let their cute and cuddly exterior fool you, Belgian Malinois are not for the faint of heart or first-time dog owners. They need a strong and experienced leader who can commit to regular training and exercise, or else they’ll have you running in circles trying to keep up with them.

But, if you’re up for the challenge, these pups will not only keep you fit, but also keep you on your toes with their intense and focused nature. So, grab your running shoes, and get ready for a wild ride with the Belgian Malinois.

Akita

Akita for novice owners

The Akita is a hulking, powerhouse of a pup hailing from Japan. With their strong guard dog instincts and fierce loyalty to their family, they can be a bit stand-offish with strangers if they aren’t properly socialized.

But don’t let their aloof and independent nature fool you – training these pups can be a real “ruff” task for first-time dog owners.

Just like any high-energy athlete, Akitas need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming destructive little monsters. And let’s not forget about their thick, fluffy coat – regular grooming is a must to keep them looking and feeling their best. Plus, their stubborn streak and independent nature can make them a handful to train and control.

So, if you’re thinking about getting an Akita, be prepared for a real commitment. They’re not the best choice for first-time dog owners or for those with limited time for training and exercise.

These pups need a lot of space to roam and an experienced leader to provide proper training and socialization. And don’t forget, regular training and grooming are a must to keep them healthy and well-behaved.

And if you want to avoid any ” stranger danger ” issues, make sure to start socializing them at an early age.

Rottweiler

Rottweiler best guard dog breeds for families and protection

Introducing the Rottweiler: the beefcake of the dog world! Known for their impressive strength and size, these pups can weigh up to 130 pounds of pure muscle (and a little bit of fluff, let’s be real). But don’t let their brawn fool you, they can be a handful for first-time dog owners.

With a strong guarding instinct and a protective nature towards their family, Rottweilers can be a bit wary of strangers if they haven’t been properly socialized.

But don’t worry, they’re highly trainable and with some patience and persistence, you can turn them into the ultimate guard dog (or couch potato, if that’s more your style).

Just be prepared for a bit of a stubborn streak and a strong independent streak, which can make training and controlling them a bit of a challenge.

And don’t forget,  these dogs have a high energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Plus, their short coat is low maintenance, but still requires a bit of grooming.

But let’s be real, owning a Rottweiler isn’t for the faint of heart. These pups require a lot of exercise, space to move around, and a strong and experienced leader who can provide proper training and socialization.

Plus, they need an owner that can commit to regular training to keep their minds stimulated and prevent boredom.

So , if you’re up for the challenge and ready to commit, go ahead and adopt a Rottweiler, just don’t be surprised if strangers start crossing the street when they see you coming.

Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier for novice owners

Meet the Airedale Terrier, the ultimate combination of brains and brawn! These high-energy, intelligent pups are like the Einsteins of the dog world, but with the added bonus of being able to run a marathon without breaking a sweat.

They’re highly trainable, but don’t let that fool you – they’ve got a stubborn streak a mile wide and an independent spirit that could rival a teenager.

But hey, who doesn’t love a little challenge?

But let’s talk about that coat, because it’s a real conversation starter. These pups have got a wiry coat that’ll make you want to run your fingers through it (once you’re done brushing, of course).

Grooming is a must to keep them looking their best, but let’s be real, they’ll still be adorable even if you’re a little lazy on the grooming front.

Just don’t let them off-leash near any small animals –  their strong prey drive will have them chasing after them faster than you can say “come back here, you silly dog!”

Now, before you go off and adopt an Airedale Terrier, there are a few things you should know.

They’re not for first-time dog owners or for people who have limited time to devote to training and exercise. These pups need a lot of space to run around, regular exercise, and a strong leader who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

But if you’re up for the challenge and ready to commit to regular grooming and training to keep their minds stimulated and to prevent them from getting bored, then an Airedale Terrier might just be the perfect pup for you.

Plus, with a personality like theirs, you’re guaranteed to never be bored either!

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher for novice owners

Introducing the Doberman Pinscher! These medium-sized pups are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and trainability. But don’t let their cute faces fool you, they’re also highly active and energetic, which means they’re always up for a game of fetch or a brisk run.

Just don’t leave them cooped up for too long or you’ll be dealing with some pretty destructive behavior.

Think you’re up for the challenge? Great, because Doberman Pinschers can be stubborn and have a strong independent streak, which can make training and controlling them a bit of a handful for first-time owners.

But don’t worry, with patience and consistency, you’ll have a well-trained companion in no time.

Grooming is a breeze with these pups – their short, smooth coat requires minimal upkeep. And while they’re fiercely loyal to their family, they can be a bit protective of them, so it’s important to start socialization early to prevent any aggression towards strangers.

But before you bring one of these pups home, it ‘s important to note that they’re not recommended for first-time dog owners or for people who have limited time to devote to training and exercise.

These pups need a lot of exercise and space to move around, and a strong and experienced leader to provide proper training and socialization. So,  if you’re ready for a lifelong commitment of regular training and mental stimulation, then the Doberman Pinscher is the pup for you!

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees

Are you ready for a dog that’s larger than life? Meet the Great Pyrenees! This fluffy giant weighs in at a whopping 140 pounds of pure majestic muscle. But don’t let their size fool you, they can be a handful for first-time dog owners.

Think of them like a big fluffy toddler that never grows out of the “I do it myself” phase. They have a strong guarding instinct and will fiercely protect their family, but if not properly socialized, they may see strangers as a threat and bark up a storm.

And let’s not forget about their thick double coat that requires regular grooming, otherwise you’ll be covered in fur like a yeti.

They have a strong independent streak and can be stubborn, so be prepared for a workout both physically and mentally when training them. They have high energy levels and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior.

In short, the Great Pyrenees is not for the faint of heart. They require a lot of exercise and space to move around, and need strong and experienced leaders who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

And don’t forget, they need an owner that can commit to regular grooming and training to keep them healthy and well-behaved. If you ‘re up for the challenge, the Great Pyrenees will be your loyal companion for life.

Just make sure to socialize them early on so they don’t mistake your friends for burglars.

Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff for first-time owners

Are you ready for a cuddle monster that could double as a weightlifting partner? Look no further than the Bullmastiff!

These gentle giants are known for their strength and size, weighing up to 130 pounds of pure muscle.

But don’t let their size fool you, these pups have a heart of gold and will fiercely protect their family. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and these pups may require a bit more handling than your average lap dog.

Bullmastiffs are known for their calm and docile nature, but don’t let that fool you into thinking they’re couch potatoes. These pups need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from turning your living room into their own personal demolition site.

Grooming is a breeze with their short, smooth coat, but training them may require a bit more patience and persistence. They can be independent and stubborn, but with the right leader (aka you), they’ll be following your commands in no time.

So, are you ready for a Bullmastiff?

Just make sure you have a big backyard, plenty of time for exercise and training, and the determination to be a strong leader.

Trust us, with a Bullmastiff by your side, you’ll never be alone, and you’ll never be bored!

German Shepherd

German Shepherd for first-time owners

The German Shepherd is a dog breed that’s as loyal as it is lovable. With its intelligence, trainability, and high energy level, this pup is a true jack-of-all-trades.

Whether it’s working as a service dog, serving in law enforcement, or even helping out with search and rescue, this breed excels in a variety of roles. But don’t let that fool you,  they’re not just all work and no play. These pups have a playful side too and will keep you entertained with their silly antics.

They’re protective of their families and make great watchdogs, but they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. And let’s not forget their double coat, which requires regular grooming to keep it in tip-top shape.

So, if you’re a first-time dog owner or someone with limited time, the German Shepherd may not be the best choice for you. They require a lot of exercise and space to move around, and need strong and experienced leaders who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

They also need an owner that can commit to regular grooming and training to keep them healthy and well-behaved. But if you’re up for the challenge , a German Shepherd will be your best friend for life.

Just be sure to socialize them at an early age to prevent them from becoming aggressive towards strangers, because nobody wants a guard dog that’s too friendly.

Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dog for first-time owners

Are you ready to herding cattle in the Australian outback (or at least in your backyard)? Look no further than the Australian Cattle Dog!

This energetic and intelligent breed, also known as the Blue Heeler or Queensland Heeler, was bred to herd cattle in the harsh outback and has a strong herding instinct.

But be warned, first-time dog owners, these pups can be a handful to train and control. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from turning your living room into their own personal cattle pen.

Don’t let their rough and tough exterior fool you, Australian Cattle Dogs have a short, smooth coat that’s low maintenance. But they do tend to be independent and can be stubborn during training. But they’re fiercely loyal to their family and make great watchdogs.

Just make sure you’re ready to put in the work, these pups need a lot of exercise and space to move around, and need a strong leader who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

And let’s not forget , they need an owner who can commit to regular training to keep their minds stimulated and prevent boredom.

Trust us, you don’t want to be on the receiving end of a bored Blue Heeler’s herding instincts. But socialize them early and you’ll have a loving companion who’s the life of the party!

Border Collie

Border Collie for first-time owners

​​The Border Collie is a medium-sized dog breed with a brain the size of a small planet and a work ethic that would put most humans to shame. They were originally bred to herd sheep and cattle, and have a strong herding instinct, which can make them challenging for first-time owners to train and control.

In other words, if you’re looking for a couch potato, this ain’t the breed for you!

They have a high energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior like eating the couch or digging a hole to China.

Border Collies have a medium-length, double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. But let’s be real, all that grooming is worth it when you have a dog that can outsmart most of the population.

They are known to be highly trainable and excel in a variety of roles such as obedience, agility, and herding. They are also known to be highly active and need regular physical and mental stimulation.

They have a strong herding instinct, which can make them nip at the heels of people and other animals if not properly trained, but with the right training they’ll be herding compliments instead.

It is important to note that the Border Collie is not recommended for first-time dog owners or for people who have limited time to devote to training and exercise. They require a lot of exercise and space to move around, and need strong and experienced leaders who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

They also need an owwner that can commit to regular training to keep their minds stimulated and to prevent them from getting bored.

Socialization at an early age is important to prevent them from becoming aggressive towards strangers. They also need regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent them from developing behavioral issues, but trust us, with a Border Collie, you’ll never be bored.

Weimaraner

Weimaraner for first-time owners

Are you ready for a dog that’s as elegant as a ballroom dancer and as smart as a Harvard grad? Look no further than the Weimaraner! These majestic pups are known for their intelligence, trainability, and loyalty. And let’s not forget about that short, smooth coat that makes grooming a breeze.

But be warned, these dogs have more energy than a room full of toddlers on a sugar high. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from turning your living room into a demolition zone.

And while they’re highly trainable, they can also be stubborn and have a strong independent streak. So, if you’re a first-time dog owner , the Weimaraner may not be the best choice for you.

But if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with a loving companion that’s protective of their family and makes a great watchdog.

Just be ready for their hunting instincts to kick in and for them to chase small animals. And remember, they need plenty of space to run around and strong, experienced leaders to guide them through training and socialization.

So, if you’re ready to commit to regular training and have the energy to keep up with these high-energy hounds, the Weimaraner just might be the perfect pup for you!

Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamute for first-time owners

Are you ready for a wild ride with a furry, fluffy ball of energy? Meet the Alaskan Malamute, the ultimate sled-pulling, fluffy giant of the dog world. These fluffy beasts were bred to haul heavy loads in the Arctic tundra, so they’re no strangers to roughing it up.

But, don’t let their cute and cuddly appearance fool you – these dogs have a high energy level and need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from turning your living room into their own personal obstacle course.

Training an Alaskan Malamute can be a bit of a challenge, especially for first-time dog owners. These pups can be stubborn and independent, so you’ll need to bring your A-game when it comes to training. But, with patience and consistency, you’ll soon have a loyal companion who’ll follow you to the ends of the earth.

Grooming an Alaskan Malamute is like taking care of a small yet fluffy polar bear. Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to keep them looking their best. And, watch out for their strong prey drive, these dogs have been known to chase small animals , making them difficult to control off-leash.

In short, the Alaskan Malamute is not for the faint-hearted. They require a lot of exercise, space and a strong leader to guide them. If you’re ready to take on the challenge of owning one of these fluffy giants, be prepared to devote time to training, grooming, and socialization.

But, if you’re up for the task, you’ll be rewarded with a loving and loyal companion who’ll make you laugh, and keep you on your toes.

Shar Pei

Shar Pei for first-time owners

Meet the Shar Pei, the wrinkle-faced wonder with a personality as strong as its wrinkles. These medium-sized pups are known for their guarding instincts and their love for their family, but be warned, if not properly socialized they may be a bit too protective of their loved ones and give strangers the cold shoulder.

Training a Shar Pei can be a bit like trying to teach a stubborn mule to tap dance, so it’s best not to attempt it as a first-time dog owner. These independent pups also have a high energy level and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from getting into mischief.

Grooming a Shar Pei is a breeze, their short, rough coat requires minimal upkeep, but their aloof and independent nature can make them a handful for inexperienced owners.

They need a lot of space to move around, regular exercise and strong , experienced leaders who can provide them with proper training and socialization to keep them well-behaved.

In short, the Shar Pei is not a dog for the faint of heart or those with limited time on their hands. They need a committed owner who is ready to put in the time and effort to give them the training and socialization they need to thrive.

But if you’re up for the challenge, the Shar Pei will reward you with a lifetime of love and loyalty.

Chow Chow

Chow Chow for first-time owners

Introducing the Chow Chow, the big, burly, fluffy ball of love and sass! This powerful pup can weigh up to 90 pounds of pure muscle, but don’t let their size fool you – they can be quite the handful for first-time dog owners.

But don’t worry, with proper training and socialization, this breed can be the perfect companion for strong and experienced leaders. Just think of them as a personal bodyguard, always on the lookout for potential threats and ready to protect their family at all costs.

But remember, if you’re not careful, they might mistake your delivery guy for a burglar, so early socialization is key.

Grooming is also a must with the Chow Chow. Their thick double coat requires regular maintenance to keep them looking and feeling their best. But with all that fluff, comes a lot of shedding , so be prepared to vacuum a lot!

And let’s not forget their independent streak, these dogs can be stubborn and aloof, so they’re not for the faint of heart or for those who have limited time to devote to training and exercise. But for those who are willing to put in the work,  the rewards are endless.

So, if you’re ready to take on the challenge and bring home a fluffy bundle of love and sass, the Chow Chow might just be the perfect pup for you!

Skye Terrier

Skye Terrier for first-time owners

Meet the Skye Terrier, the little dog with the big personality and the even bigger hair! These pint-sized pups may be small, but don’t let their size fool you – they pack a punch when it comes to energy and attitude.

With their long, flowing coat and strong hunting instincts, they’re the perfect companion for anyone who wants a dog that’s always up for a good chase (just maybe not after the neighbor’s cat).

But, like all good things, the Skye Terrier does come with a few challenges. For starters, they can be stubborn as all get-out during training, so if you’re a first-time dog owner, you might want to consider a different breed.

They also have a tendency to bark up a storm if they don’t get enough mental stimulation and exercise, so if you’re looking for a dog that’s going to be content lounging on the couch all day, the Skye Terrier probably isn’t the right fit.

And let’s not forget about that long, thick coat! These dogs require regular grooming to keep them looking their best, so if you’re not up for a little bit of dog hair on your clothes (and in your mouth, and on your furniture),  you might want to think twice about bringing a Skye Terrier into your home.

But, if you’re up for the challenge and have the time and energy to devote to training, exercising, and grooming a Skye Terrier, you’ll be rewarded with a loyal and loving companion that’s sure to keep you on your toes (and maybe even make you laugh a little bit).

Just be ready to put in the work, and be prepared to have your heart stolen by a little dog with a big heart.

Pitbull

Pitbull for first-time owners

Meet the Pitbull, the ultimate powerhouse of the dog world! These medium-sized pooches are known for their strength and athleticism, making them the ultimate workout buddy. But let’s be real, they weren’t just bred for their looks, they were also bred for hunting and dog fighting, which can make them a handful to train and control.

Pitbulls have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, because let’s face it, who has time for all that fuss when there’s belly rubs to be had? And just like any loving family member, they’re protective of their pack, which can make them a little wary of strangers if not properly socialized.

But don’t let the bad reputation fool you, Pitbulls are loving and affectionate pets when given proper socialization, training, and responsible ownership.

But before you run out to adopt one, it’s important to note that Pitbulls are not recommended for first-time dog owners or for people who have limited time to devote to training and exercise.

These pooches need plenty of space to run and play , and a strong leader to guide them through training and socialization. Think of them as a high maintenance supermodel, they require a lot of attention and care but the end result is worth it.

Socialization at an early age is important to prevent them from becoming aggressive towards strangers. So, if you’re up for the challenge, the Pitbull just might be the perfect pooch for you.

Treeing Walker Coonhound

Treeing Walker Coonhound for first-time dog owners

Are you ready for a pup with more energy than a toddler on a sugar rush? Look no further than the Treeing Walker Coonhound!

These medium-sized dogs were bred for hunting raccoons and other small game, so they come pre-installed with a strong prey drive that can make them difficult to control off-leash.

But don’t let that scare you, these pups have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, so you can spend more time playing fetch and less time brushing. Just be prepared for them to be vocal, so if you’re looking for a silent companion, this may not be the breed for you.

Treeing Walker Coonhounds can also be independent and stubborn during training, making them a handful for first-time owners or those with limited time. But for those willling to put in the work, these pups make loyal and loving companions.

They need strong and experienced leaders who can provide them with proper training and socialization,  as well as regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior.

And let’s not forget the importance of socialization at an early age, to prevent them from becoming aggressive towards strangers.

So, if you’re up for the challenge, and have the time, space and commitment to raise a Treeing Walker Coonhound, you’ll be rewarded with a loyal, active and fun-loving companion.

Mastiff

Mastiff for first-time dog owners

Are you ready to unleash the power of a 220-pound gentle giant on your household? Meet the Mastiff! These big fluffy beasts are known for their size and strength, but don’t let that fool you – they have hearts of gold.

However, first-time dog owners may want to think twice before adopting one of these beasts, as they can be a handful to handle.

Mastiffs have a calm and docile temperament, but they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Don’t let their relaxed attitude fool you, they are also known to be independent and can be stubborn during training. So, if you’re not ready to put in the work, you might want to consider a smaller, more obedient breed.

But, if you’re up for the challenge, the Mastiff is a great companion. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming and they will be protective of their family,  which can make them aggressive towards strangers if not properly socialized.

But, before you adopt a Mastiff, keep in mind they need a lot of exercise and space to move around, and they need a strong and experienced leader who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

They also need an owner that can commit to regular training to keep their minds stimulated and to prevent them from getting bored. Socialization at an early age is important to prevent them from becoming aggressive towards strangers. And don ‘t forget, the size and strength of the Mastiff means that they require a significant amount of space, food, and veterinary care.

So, if you’re ready to take on the challenge and have a lot of space in your home, a Mastiff might be the perfect fit for you!

Bloodhound

Bloodhound for first-time dog owners

Are you ready for a nose-tastic adventure? Meet the Bloodhound, the ultimate scent hound with a sniffer so powerful, it could track a skunk in a perfume factory.

These hounds are known for their high energy levels and tracking abilities, but be warned, they’re not for the faint of heart.

Bloodhounds have a bit of a stubborn streak, so training and exercising them can be a bit of a challenge. But let’s be real, who wants a pushover of a dog anyway?

They also have a strong urge to follow their nose, so don’t be surprised if they suddenly take off in hot pursuit of a tantalizing scent. But don’t worry, with proper training, they can be taught to come back to you, even if there’s a freshly baked pie just around the corner.

Grooming these hounds is a breeze , as they have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal maintenance. They may be a little reserved with strangers, but they’re generally friendly and not aggressive. Just watch out for their vocal tendencies, as they may bark excessively if not properly trained.

Now, if you’re a first-time dog owner or have limited time to devote to training and exercise, the Bloodhound may not be the best fit for you. These hounds need plenty of exercise and space to move around, and an experienced leader who can provide them with proper training and socialization.

But for those who are up for the challenge,  the Bloodhound will be a loyal and loving companion.

Just remember, always keep them on a leash or in a securely fenced area when they’re outside, or you might never see them again.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard for first-time dog owners

Are you ready for a cuddly giant in your life? Meet the Saint Bernard, a fluffy bundle of love and drool weighing in at a whopping 180 pounds!

These gentle giants may have a calm and docile temperament, but don’t let that fool you – they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from getting bored and destroying your couch.

Training them can be a bit of a challenge, as they can be stubborn and independent, but with a strong and experienced leader (AKA you) they’ll be well on their way to being the best behaved pup on the block.

But wait, there’s more! Not only do they need a lot of exercise and space, but they also have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. And let’s not forget about the drooling – if you’re not a fan of slobber, this may not be the breed for you.

But with all that said, they are known to be friendly and good with children,  just be aware that their size means they may accidentally knock over little ones or the elderly.

So, if you’re a first-time dog owner or someone with limited time, the Saint Bernard may not be the best fit. But if you’re ready to commit to regular exercise and training, have a big space and love to groom, and don’t mind a bit of drool,  the Saint Bernard could be your new best friend.

Remember, early socialization is key to prevent any unwanted aggressive behavior and don’t forget to budget for a lot of food and veterinary care.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks: the top worst dog breeds for first-time owners. If you’re still set on getting one of these breeds, just remember to stock up on furniture and patience. 

But let’s be real, you’ll probably be better off with a nice and easygoing Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever. But hey, if you’re feeling daring and want to live on the edge, go ahead and adopt that Shar Pei or Rottweiler. 

Just don’t say we didn’t warn you. In any case, always remember to do your research and choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and personality.

Happy training!

Paws up for sharing this dog-related article!
Housam Ayouni
Housam Ayouni

I am a professional in the field of canine behavior and care with many years of experience. Through my dog blog, which has reached over one million dog owners, I offer practical tips and guidance to support dog owners in creating strong, positive relationships with their pets and promoting the well-being and happiness of all dogs. My goal is to help dog owners create a harmonious and fulfilling life with their furry companions.

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