Choosing a canine companion based solely on appearance can lead to serious challenges, with experts urging prospective owners to prioritise temperament and care requirements. In an effort to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce shelter intakes, veterinary surgeon Amir Anwary has highlighted five dog breeds he believes are particularly unsuitable for first-time owners.
Expert Guidance on Canine Compatibility
Known online as @amirthevet, Mr Anwary regularly uses social media platforms to educate pet owners, answer common queries, and emphasise the importance of matching dogs to appropriate lifestyles. In a recent informative video, he detailed why certain breeds, despite their visual appeal, demand experienced handling that novice owners often lack.
The Five Breeds Requiring Experienced Hands
Rottweiler
Describing Rottweilers as powerful, intelligent, and profoundly loyal, Mr Anwary stressed they require confident, consistent leadership alongside early, structured training. "Without clear boundaries and proper socialisation, their guarding instincts can become problematic," he explained. First-time owners frequently underestimate the responsibility of managing a large, strong dog capable of causing serious harm if poorly trained or mishandled.
Border Collie
Border Collies featured next due to their exceptional intelligence and intense drive to work. This breed necessitates substantial daily mental stimulation and physical exercise—far exceeding routine walks. "When their needs aren’t met, they commonly develop anxiety, obsessive behaviours, destructiveness or reactivity," Mr Anwary noted. Novice owners often mistake high intelligence for ease of care, when in reality this breed demands constant engagement and purposeful activity.
Chow Chow
While resembling oversized teddy bears, Chow Chows are independent, aloof, and naturally wary of strangers. Mr Anwary clarified that many owners struggle because these dogs are not eager to please and respond poorly to inexperienced or inconsistent training methods. "Without excellent early socialisation and firm but calm handling, they can become defensive or aggressive," he added. Their temperament and low tolerance for mistakes render them a poor match for novice owners.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians remain popular but require structured exercise and consistent training. These high-energy, sensitive dogs are prone to behavioural issues like hyperactivity and anxiety if understimulated. They also present specific health considerations, including a predisposition to urinary stones, which requires careful dietary management—a complexity first-time owners may be unprepared to address.
Belgian Malinois
Characterising them as "elite working dogs", Mr Anwary explained Belgian Malinois are bred for intense drive, endurance, and focus. They require near-constant training, advanced mental stimulation, and an experienced handler. "In a typical pet home, they frequently develop severe behavioural problems due to unmet needs," he warned. This breed is widely considered unsuitable for first-time owners and can prove challenging even for experienced ones.
Prioritising Responsible Pet Selection
Mr Anwary's insights underscore a critical message for prospective dog owners: thorough research into breed characteristics is essential. By understanding the specific demands of certain breeds, individuals can make informed decisions that benefit both the animal and their household, ultimately fostering happier, healthier human-canine relationships and reducing the likelihood of pets being surrendered to shelters.
