What Breed of Dog Do Vets Not Recommend? A Vet's Honest List
Veterinarians commonly advise against brachycephalic breeds like English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs, high-energy working breeds like Border Collies and Belgian Malinois, and breeds with severe health issues like Shar Pei and Chow Chow. The reasons range from respiratory distress and joint problems to temperament challenges that require experienced owners.
Why Vets Advise Against These Breeds: Health, Temperament & Lifestyle
When we say we don't recommend certain breeds, it's not because we dislike them—it's because we see the consequences of breed-specific issues play out in our exam rooms every day. At our Berkeley clinic, we've treated thousands of dogs over 50+ years, and patterns emerge. The most common reasons fall into three categories: health problems (like brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in flat-faced breeds, hip dysplasia in large breeds, or intervertebral disc disease in Dachshunds), temperament challenges (high prey drive, stubbornness, or aggression that requires expert handling), and lifestyle mismatch (a high-energy working dog stuck in a small apartment).
For example, brachycephalic breeds—English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers—have shortened skulls that cause narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palates, and small tracheas. This leads to BOAS, a life-threatening condition where the dog can't pant effectively to cool down or catch its breath during exercise or stress. Many airlines refuse to transport them. We've seen owners spend thousands on surgery to open airways, and even then, these dogs often struggle on warm days. Similarly, breeds like the Shar Pei suffer from Shar Pei fever (a periodic fever syndrome) and severe skin folds that trap infection. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a high rate of mitral valve disease, a heart condition that can require lifelong medication and monitoring.
Then there's temperament: Border Collies and Belgian Malinois were bred to work all day. Without a job, they can develop anxiety, destructive behaviors, and even aggression. A Belgian Malinois has a bite force that demands a confident, experienced handler. Chow Chows can be aloof and protective, not the cuddly lapdog many expect. And while Pit Bulls and Rottweilers can be wonderful family dogs, they face breed-specific legislation, higher insurance costs, and liability concerns that make ownership more complicated. Our goal isn't to scare you—it's to help you choose a dog whose needs match your lifestyle.
Dog Breeds Vets Often Advise Against: A Closer Look
| Breed | Primary Concern | Typical Issues | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Bulldog | Brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS) | Respiratory distress, overheating, skin fold infections | Experienced owners who can afford surgeries and AC |
| French Bulldog | BOAS, spinal issues | Same as Bulldog plus hemivertebrae (screw-tail) | Owners committed to brachycephalic care |
| Pug | BOAS, eye ulcers | Corneal ulcers from bulging eyes, breathing trouble | Owners who monitor eyes and breathing daily |
| Dachshund | Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) | Back paralysis, expensive surgery, weight management | Owners who keep them lean and avoid stairs |
| Shar Pei | Shar Pei fever, skin folds | Recurrent fever, entropion (eyelids turning in), infections | Owners with vet fund for fevers and eye care |
| Chow Chow | Temperament, hip dysplasia | Aloof, protective, can be aggressive; hip issues in old age | Experienced handlers, no small children |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Mitral valve disease | Heart murmur, early heart failure, lifelong meds | Owners who can afford cardiac monitoring |
| Belgian Malinois | High drive, bite force | Needs 2+ hours intense exercise daily; can be destructive | Active owners with training experience |
| Border Collie | Herding instinct, energy | Chases cars/kids, needs job, can develop OCD | Farm or agility homes |
| Pit Bull / Rottweiler | Insurance, liability, BSL | Breed-specific laws, higher premiums, public perception | Responsible owners who train and socialize early |
This list isn't exhaustive, and every dog is an individual. But these breeds consistently appear in vets' 'not recommended' discussions because their health or behavioral needs are significant. If you're drawn to one, talk to your vet early about preventive care and realistic costs.
Challenging Breeds: Which Dogs Are Hardest to Train or Handle?
| Breed | Challenge | Why It's Hard | Owner Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Border Collie | Herding instinct | Will herd kids, cars, bikes—can't be left untrained | Daily mental puzzles, agility, or herding work |
| Belgian Malinois | High drive, bite inhibition | Needs a job; can become neurotic without structure | Experienced handler, protection training or sport |
| Chow Chow | Stubborn, aloof | Not eager to please; can be aggressive with strangers | Firm, calm leader; no force-based training |
| Shar Pei | Independent, pain-sensitive | Can be difficult to handle for exams; skin issues cause pain | Gentle handling, positive reinforcement |
| Dachshund | Stubborn, prey drive | Will chase small animals; hard to housetrain | Consistent, patient owner; secure yard |
| English Bulldog | Low energy but stubborn | Can be hard to motivate for training; heat intolerant | Short, positive sessions; avoid heat |
If you're a first-time owner, these breeds can be overwhelming. We often recommend starting with a breed that's more forgiving of mistakes—like a Labrador Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (if you're prepared for heart care), or a mixed-breed rescue with a known temperament.
Healthier Alternatives: Dog Breeds with Fewer Health Issues
| Breed | Typical Health Strengths | Common Issues (if any) | Lifespan (varies) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | Low incidence of major genetic diseases | Hip dysplasia, obesity if overfed | 10–12 years |
| Mixed Breed (Rescue) | Hybrid vigor reduces inherited conditions | Depends on mix; often fewer breed-specific issues | Varies, often 12–15 years |
| Beagle | Healthy, few breathing or spine issues | Ear infections, obesity | 12–15 years |
| Australian Cattle Dog | Robust, few genetic problems | Hip dysplasia, but less severe than large breeds | 12–16 years |
| Poodle (Standard) | Long-lived, few breathing issues | Ear infections, skin allergies | 12–15 years |
No breed is guaranteed healthy, but these tend to have fewer vet visits for breed-specific problems. Always ask about the parents' health history and get a vet check early.
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a serious respiratory condition that affects dogs with short, flat faces—like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers. It results from four anatomical abnormalities: an elongated soft palate, narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), a small windpipe (hypoplastic trachea), and everted laryngeal saccules that block the airway during stress. Dogs with BOAS struggle to pant effectively, which means they can't cool down or catch their breath during exercise, heat, or excitement. This creates a dangerous cycle: the dog breathes faster, gets more distressed, and can collapse. Many airlines refuse to transport these breeds because of the risk. If you're considering a brachycephalic breed, be prepared for potential surgery, lifelong breathing management, and avoiding hot days. At Campus Veterinary Clinic in Berkeley, we've treated many BOAS cases and recommend discussing the condition with your vet before bringing one home.
Directions to our animal hospital in Berkeley from Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Start at Berkeley Repertory Theatre and head to Campus Veterinary Clinic at 1807 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Berkeley, CA 94709.
Insurance & Liability: Dog Breeds That Are Hard to Insure
| Breed | Insurance Issue | Why | What to Do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pit Bull | Many carriers exclude or charge 2–3x | Bite statistics, breed-specific bans | Shop around; some insurers cover if dog is CGC-certified |
| Rottweiler | Similar to Pit Bull | Liability concerns | Same; look for specialty pet insurers |
| Doberman Pinscher | Often excluded | Bite force, reputation | Ask about temperament testing |
| Chow Chow | Higher premiums | Aggression history | Some carriers require behavioral assessment |
| English Bulldog | High health insurance costs | BOAS, skin, spinal issues | Expect higher deductibles; consider CareCredit |
Cost varies widely by carrier and location. In Berkeley, some owners of these breeds pay 50–100% more for liability coverage. We recommend getting quotes before choosing a breed.
Real Owner Experiences: What Reddit and Forums Say
A good fit if…
- You've done your research and understand the breed's specific needs.
- You have time and money for potential health issues or training.
- You're willing to adapt your home (e.g., no stairs for Dachshunds).
Consider another option if…
- You're a first-time owner without breed experience.
- You have a sedentary lifestyle or limited space.
- You're on a tight budget for vet care.
Online forums often echo what we see in our clinic: owners of these breeds love them deeply but warn about costs and challenges. The best decision is to talk to your local vet—like our team at Campus Veterinary Clinic—before bringing one home.
Low-Maintenance & First-Time Owner Friendly Breeds
| Breed | Why It's Easier | Ideal For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | Eager to please, trainable, healthy | Families, first-timers | Needs exercise; watch weight |
| Beagle | Healthy, friendly, low grooming | Active owners | Can be vocal; needs secure fence |
| Mixed Breed (Rescue) | Often fewer health issues, known temperament | Any owner willing to adopt | Ask about history; foster first |
| Poodle (Toy) | Low shedding, smart, healthy | Apartment dwellers | Needs grooming every 6–8 weeks |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Affectionate, moderate energy | Owners prepared for heart care | Mitral valve disease is common |
If you're looking for a dog that won't require constant vet visits or intense training, these breeds are a good starting point. Always meet the parents if possible, and schedule a pre-purchase vet exam.
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Frequently asked questions
What dog costs $1,000,000?
No dog costs $1 million to buy, but some breeds can incur that much in lifetime medical costs. For example, an English Bulldog with repeated BOAS surgeries, skin infections, and spinal issues could easily exceed $100,000 over its life. The 'million-dollar dog' is a myth, but the cost of owning a high-maintenance breed can be staggering.
What's the hardest dog breed to take care of?
Many vets say the Belgian Malinois is among the hardest because of its intense drive and need for a job. Without daily rigorous exercise and mental stimulation, they can become destructive and aggressive. The English Bulldog is also very hard due to its health issues—owners must be prepared for frequent vet visits and surgeries.
Which dog breeds are uninsurable?
Some insurers refuse to cover Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and Chow Chows due to liability concerns. For health insurance, brachycephalic breeds like English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs often have high premiums or exclusions for breathing issues. Always check with multiple insurers before choosing a breed.
Which dog breed has the least amount of medical issues?
Mixed-breed dogs (mutts) generally have the fewest breed-specific health problems due to hybrid vigor. Among purebreds, Beagles, Labrador Retrievers, and Australian Cattle Dogs tend to have fewer genetic conditions, though no breed is immune to illness.
What is the #1 nicest dog breed?
The Labrador Retriever is often called the nicest breed due to its friendly, patient temperament with kids and strangers. However, 'nicest' depends on your lifestyle—a high-energy Border Collie might be too intense for a calm home, while a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is affectionate but needs heart monitoring.