A vet has shared a list of the five dog breeds he would not own himself
Selecting the perfect dog breed can be among the most thrilling yet overwhelming choices for prospective pet owners. With countless dog breeds available, each possessing distinct personalities, activity requirements, grooming demands, and potential health issues, it’s understandable that many find themselves confused when determining which furry friend will suit their way of life best.
Whilst certain breeds are renowned for being excellent around youngsters, others demand continuous physical activity and mental challenges or carry extensive lists of medical problems that can result in expensive veterinary costs and emotional strain.
What may appear to be an adorable puppy on social platforms could, in practice, demand more commitment, understanding, and monetary investment than most individuals are ready to provide.
Conducting comprehensive research and heeding advice from professionals who interact with dogs daily is crucial, reports the Express. One such expert is South African veterinarian Dr Amir Anwary, who has revealed a “brutally honest” catalogue of the five dog breeds he personally wouldn’t choose to own, regardless of their popularity or how cherished they may be.
In a TikTok clip that has garnered more than 153K likes, Dr Anwary clarifies that whilst every canine is unique with their own character, particular breeds present recurring difficulties that render them less suitable for typical pet owners.
Belgian Malinois
Dr Anwary characterises the Belgian Malinois as a “machine”. He stated: “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.”
Without sufficient 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 employed in military and police settings.
Therefore, they are true working dogs, not sofa companions. For many, particularly first-time or passive dog owners, the Belgian Malinois can be an overwhelming and unsuitable choice.
Border Collie
The Border Collie, another high-energy working breed, also makes the list, and for similar reasons to the Belgian Malinois.
Dr Anwary said they too are a working dog and require that “constant stimulation”. He likens them to having ADHD in dog form, stating 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 particularly challenging for owners who work full-time and can’t be present or engaged throughout the day.
Dachshund
The vet begins by acknowledging that whilst many viewers might be surprised to see this breed topping the list, and these elongated pups are undoubtedly charming and can show great affection, he cautioned that they’re not suitable for everyone.
Dr Anwary 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 compact legs, dachshunds are extremely susceptible to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a distressing and occasionally crippling spinal ailment.
Combined with their propensity to put on weight, they need careful supervision, consistent exercise, and a way of life that prevents them from jumping on furniture and climbing stairs to prevent harm.
French Bulldog
Following this is the well-liked French Bulldog, and Dr Anwary was brutally honest. He 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 to the veterinary clinic. Dr Anwary also emphasised their expensive purchase cost and ongoing medical expenses, making them a financially challenging companion.
He continued: “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.”
Labrador Retriever
Perhaps the most unexpected breed to feature on the list is the Labrador Retriever, frequently lauded as the perfect family pet. With their friendly nature, loyalty, and ease of training, Labradors appear to be an ideal match for many homes.
However, Dr Anwary points out a significant downside – their voracious appetite. Labradors are infamous for consuming anything and everything, coupled with a genetic predisposition towards obesity.
This mix can prove hazardous, particularly for owners who are liberal with treats or lack the discipline to enforce a strict diet.
ChronicleLive recently shared the story of Oki, a 14-year-old English Setter, who is still looking for his forever home after ‘lifetime of heartbreak.’ For anyone thinking of rehoming a dog the RSPCA has made an appeal to find loving homes for seven lurcher dogs who have vegetable-themed names. The siblings, who are around two years old, have spent most of their lives being cared for by the animal welfare charity.
Our ChronicleLive Daily newsletter is free. You can sign up to receive it here. It will keep you up to date with all the latest breaking news and top stories from the North East.
ChronicleLive has created a dedicated WhatsApp community for breaking news and our biggest stories. You can join this WhatsApp community here. It will keep you up-to-date with news as it breaks and our top stories of the day sent directly to your phone.
