VETS have revealed the eight dog breeds they’d never own – warning they may look cute, but each one can lead to “total heartbreak.”
The animal experts, who have treated thousands of pets over the years, said some popular breeds are plagued with painful health problems, short lifespans and sky-high vet bills.
9
Dr. Cat is a vet based in the UK with over 35k followers on Instagram.
While Ben the Vet has gained 211k followers on TikTok.
They urged potential owners to think twice before buying certain dogs – no matter how adorable they look – saying love alone isn’t enough to keep them healthy.
The vets have revealed the eight breeds they’d never own themselves – and say fellow vets agree on at least two of them.
German Shepherd
9
First up is the German Shepherd.
Loyal and clever, yes — but the vets warned they can also be reactive, suspicious and anxious, making them “really challenging” to handle.
Pugs, bulldogs and boxers
9
Flat-faced breeds might look adorable, but these brachycephalic dogs often struggle with breathing problems and other anatomical issues.
They are healthier than others, but they’re prone to a whole host of problems – from spinal issues and skin conditions to eye troubles.
Ben said: “There are specimens of these dogs that are healthier than others, but they are so prone to so many issues.
“Spinal issues, skin problems, eye problems. The fact that over half of them have to have a caesarean to give birth is enough of an ethical issue for me to never want to have one. If you’re OK with that, that’s fine but for me personally it’s not very fair.”
Border Collie
9
Super-smart and bursting with energy, working-line Border Collies need nonstop stimulation.
Without it, they can develop serious behavioural and mental health problems.
Cat said: “I just do not have enough time in my life to put into them to make sure they’re living their best lives with me.”
Shar Pei
9
Shar Peis come with a long list of health and behavioural problems.
Their wrinkles can cause skin and eye issues, and being in constant discomfort often makes them grumpy.
Ben said they are also prone to constant “skin problems and have tiny, narrow ear canals.
“Some can get so stressed that they even bite the staff.”
St Bernard
9
Saint Bernards might look lovable – but their size comes with messy challenges.
Constant slobber and hygiene issues can make life pretty tricky for owners.
Cat revealed: “Quite honestly, I cannot cope with the slobber. I had a client once tell me that she had slobber on her ceilings.”
Dachshund
9
Steer clear of Dachshunds because of the breed’s health issues.
They’re lovely dogs, but one in four develops back problems in their lifetime.
It can range from mild pain to complete paralysis, often requiring spinal surgery.
The recovery is long and Ben added, “there’s too much potential for heartbreak.”
King Charles Spaniel
9
The super popular breed of family dog is known for their affection.
But almost all of King Charles Spaniels develop the same heart condition – mitral valve disease.
It means they often spend their final days “struggling to breathe and eventually die of heart failure.”
Chow Chow
9
Chow Chows can be tricky to manage and are known for a challenging temperament, especially in clinical settings.
They commonly suffer from “eye problems, they’re often aloof and not very friendly.”
Ben shared: “They’re often very aggressive at the vets, but it’s hard to fit a muzzle on their face.”