Adopting a dog is an amazing thing that can benefit both the animal that’s in need of a home and the owner that’s looking for a companion. However, it’s important to know what kind of dog will suit your needs and what you can handle as an owner. Here are some dog breeds that are frequently taken back to shelters and why.
Pit Bull Terrier
Pit bull terriers are highly misunderstood animals that have a stigma surrounding them. Many believe that all of them are highly aggressive, but in reality, if they are properly socialized and trained, they can be very loyal and affectionate dogs. Their high energy can also be a turn-off for inexperienced or inactive owners.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers are some of the most popular breeds in America, which means there are a lot of them in shelters. This means that generally when a dog is returned to a shelter, there is a higher chance of it being a Labrador or lab mix based on the fact that there are so many of them.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are another extremely popular breed. Many people romanticize the idea of adopting a German shepherd but may not know what they are getting into. German shepherds are amazing dogs, but they require patience, training, and frequent exercise.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas’ small stature makes them an appealing breed for prospective owners that want a handbag dog, but they are unlike many other toy breeds, with a lot of energy and rowdiness. Unprepared owners may not be prepared for their barking and snapping due to their nervous temperament.
Boxer
Boxers are excitable dogs with a lot of energy that can be too much for families with small children. They require frequent exercise and can make amazing pets, but unfortunately, many owners are not willing to put in the time and effort to train them.
Beagle
Beagles are highly affectionate dogs, but their drawback comes with their lineage as a hunting dog. If they are left alone for too long or aren’t stimulated, they may become destructive and loud, leading many owners to giving up on them.
Dachshund
The Dachshund is not a recommended pet for inexperienced owners due to potential spinal complications and their stubborn nature. As owners struggle to take care of these animals and tend to their needs, they may become overwhelmed and return them to the shelter.
Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian sheepdog is a highly intelligent breed with a lot of loyalty, but they require their owners to put in a lot of effort to train them and keep them stimulated. Without stimulation, they may become bored and destructive.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are affectionate and loyal dogs, but due to a long line of complicated breeding, they suffer from many health issues that owners may not be willing to put up with. They can also be a very stubborn breed, only complicating the matter.
Siberian Huskies
Siberian Huskies are another breed that is frequently romanticized, but without the proper research, owners may not understand how difficult the breed can be to adopt. They need a lot of activity and engagement and can manage to escape the confines of their yard more than other breeds.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers have a history as police and security dogs, which makes them loyal animals. Unfortunately, if not trained properly, they may adopt the wrong behaviorial cues, leading in frustrating and a return to the shelter.
Shih Tzu
The Shi Tzu is an attractive toy breed that many first-time owners may think is the perfect fit. However, many are unprepared for what is required to take care of them, including frequent grooming and attention.
