10 Cute Dog Breeds That Are Not for First-Time Owners

Have you seen those cute videos of huskies "talking" and howling like wolves on social media? Wait a moment before you decide to get one. Huskies are beautiful dogs, but they need at least two hours of intense exercise every single day. They were made to run long distances in cold weather. Without enough activity, they will chew your furniture, dig holes in your garden, and may escape from your yard by jumping fences. They are also very stubborn and independent, often ignoring your commands even after training. They shed heavily year-round, requiring daily brushing and constant cleaning of fur around the house. Be prepared to vacuum every day.

Akitas are large, fluffy dogs that look like gentle giants. Many people love their loyal and protective nature. However, these dogs can weigh up to 130 pounds and can be very territorial. They do not trust strangers easily and may bark or growl at visitors to your home. They need strong, consistent training from someone who knows how to be the pack leader. Akitas can also be aggressive toward other dogs if not properly socialized from puppyhood. Walking them requires strength and experience, especially around other animals.

The fluffy fur and cute teddy bear face of a Chow Chow may make many people think about getting them as their first dog. However, these dogs are not as cuddly as they look. Chow Chows are independent and do not like being hugged or petted too much. They can be unfriendly to strangers and may bite if they feel threatened. They need patient, experienced training because they often refuse to obey commands. Their thick double coat also requires daily brushing to prevent matting, and they drool frequently, leaving wet spots around your home.

You might have seen Belgian Malinois working as police or military dogs in movies and think they look amazing. These dogs are extremely smart and athletic, but this makes them very challenging pets. They need at least three hours of intense exercise and mental challenges every day. Without proper stimulation, they will destroy your home by chewing walls, doors, and furniture. They can also become aggressive and bite if bored or stressed. These dogs need experienced handlers who can provide constant training and activities. They are not suitable for apartments or calm, quiet homes.

Many people confuse Alaskan Malamutes with Huskies because they look similar. Like Huskies, Malamutes were bred to pull heavy sleds in cold weather. They are very strong dogs that can weigh up to 85 pounds and will easily pull you down the street during walks. These dogs love to dig large holes in yards and can escape by digging under fences. They also prefer cold weather and may suffer in warm climates. They need several hours of exercise daily and will howl loudly if left alone, which can upset your neighbors.

Rottweiler puppies are adorable and may seem like perfect family pets. However, these dogs grow into very large animals that can weigh over 130 pounds. They have strong protective instincts and can be territorial with strangers, delivery people, and visitors. Rottweilers need consistent, firm training from someone who can establish clear rules from puppyhood. Without proper training, their size and strength can become dangerous when they jump on people or pull on the leash. They also drool frequently and need regular cleaning around their mouth area.

Dobermans have an elegant and sleek appearance that attracts many people. These dogs were originally bred as guard dogs and still have those protective instincts today. They can be nervous and suspicious around strangers, which may lead to aggressive behavior if not properly socialized. Dobermans are very active dogs that need daily running and mental challenges. They can develop anxiety and destructive behaviors if left alone for long periods. These dogs require experienced owners who understand how to manage their high energy and protective nature.

Have you watched videos of Australian Cattle Dogs herding sheep and cattle with amazing skills? These dogs are incredibly smart and energetic working animals. They were made to work 10-12 hours a day and need constant mental and physical challenges. Without enough activity, they will find their own "jobs" like destroying your furniture or herding family members. They may nip at children's heels or chase cars and bicycles. These dogs need experienced owners who can provide structured activities and understand their intense need to work and stay busy all day.

Cane Corso puppies may look cute and manageable, but they grow into massive dogs that can weigh over 110 pounds. These dogs have a strong protective nature and can be suspicious of strangers, potentially becoming aggressive if they feel their family is threatened. They need early socialization and consistent training from someone who understands large, powerful breeds. Their size alone makes them difficult to control if they decide to pull on the leash or jump on people. They also drool heavily and need a large living space with a secure yard.

Did you watch "101 Dalmatians" and think about getting a spotted Dalmatian as your first dog? You might want to think again. Dalmatians are much more active and energetic than they appear in movies. They were bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages for hours and still have that endless energy today. They need at least two hours of exercise daily or they will become destructive and bark excessively. These dogs can be stubborn during training and may take many months to learn basic commands. They also shed white hairs constantly, which will stick to your dark clothes and furniture.