Currently, there are 202 dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC)—this excludes mixed breeds and designer crossbreeds. Suffice it to say that if you’re thinking about adopting a pup, there are a ton of breeds to consider. To help narrow your search, veterinarians have been posting TikTok videos sharing which dog breeds they’d never own based on their hands-on experience and professional expertise. Whitney Terrell, DVM, (@dr.terrellpetvet) recently jumped on the trend, and her top five "I’d never own" breeds might surprise you.
RELATED: Dog Trainer Shares the 3 Dog Breeds He'd Never Own: "Hard Pass for Me."
5. Chinese Crested
ShutterstockColloquially known as "the hairless dog," Chinese Cresteds can have "zitty" and "greasy" coats, according to Terrell. "I don’t like hairless animals," she told followers in her TikTok video, which has racked up nearly 10 million views.
Because of their petite stature, Chinese Cresteds are prone to weight gain, often necessitating a calorie-mindful diet, per the AKC. The breed is known for inherited eye problems, including progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and primary lens luxation. And while Chinese Cresteds love to play, they can have an overly competitive side, which could unearth some concerning behaviors.
"It’s a no for me," stated Terrell.
4. Chihuahuas
ShutterstockChihuahuas have a reputation for being "ankle biters," and for that reason, they’re not Terrell's "cup of tea."
They’re also considered the world’s smallest dog breed, which could be ideal if you’re looking for a purse/lap dog, or if you live in a studio apartment. However, as Terrell noted, you eventually might harbor a fear of accidentally stepping on them. Plus, "they’re usually a one-person dog," she added.
RELATED: I'm a Veterinarian and These Are the Top 5 Neediest Dog Breeds.
3. Bulldogs and Shih Tzus
2 | BulldogShutterstockAccording to the Humane Veterinary Medical Alliance (HVMA), over 20 canine breeds are classified as brachycephalic, which means they’re more susceptible to breathing problems due to the shape of their nose and skull—it might look "smushed" or pushed-in.
"Some of them are so cute and so sweet, but they can't breathe," said Terrell. "They snore. I already got a husband that snores. I don’t need anything else."
Moreover, Terrell said brachycephalic dogs are prone to dermatitis and allergies, and are "smelly" and gassy."
Popular brachycephalic dogs include:
- French Bulldogs
- Bulldogs
- Boxers
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Shih Tzus
- Boston Terriers
- Mastiffs
- Pugs
2. German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois
6 | German ShepherdShutterstock"They have the potential to be really great dogs, good police dogs, [and] good rescue-type scenario [dogs], but 95 percent of the ones we see in clinic want to bite your face off because they aren’t properly trained," said Terrell of German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois.
"I know I would not be able to properly train them because I have no time," she continued, adding that anyone considering these breeds should do so "lightly," because "they need lots of training, lots of attention."
The AKC has similar notes, mentioning that German Shepherds shed a lot, have super high energy levels, are hyper-vigilant, and need lots of mental stimulation.
RELATED: The 10 Most High-Maintenance Dog Breeds, New Study Shows.
1. Goldendoodles
2 | Secure your animals and clean up after them.Shutterstock
Coming in first place is the Goldendoodle. The adorable mixed breed (part Golden Retriever, part Poodle) is known for its playful nature and fluffy coat, but Terrell said she would never bring one home based on her expertise.
"Some of these dogs are really sweet, but a lot of them are crazy hyper—can’t sit still for more than two seconds. They’re just kind of squirrely," she shared.
Terrell said they also get "ear infections out the wazoo," and can be "expensive" to groom. "Too high maintenance for me," she stated.
