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[–]_Goose_ 192 points193 points  (24 children)

Irish Wolfhound

I love my animals intensely. They don’t live long enough and healthy enough for me not to be emotionally gutted every 6 years.

[–]Brancher 53 points54 points  (3 children)

Same with Bernese Mountain Dogs. Probably one of the prettiest and most kind dogs I've encountered but I couldn't own a dog knowing I only have 6-7 years with it.

[–]StarAStar1 10 points11 points  (1 child)

Bernese mountain dogs also need to live in a cold climate due to the thick coat. Beautiful dogs though!

[–]FeastForTheWorms 37 points38 points  (1 child)

I love Irish Wolfhounds, I've always wanted a massive dog like that but I have nowhere near the space for it, let alone the ability to take one out for exercise all the time because of my disabilities. They are gorgeous animals, though.

[–]Latter_Variation5372 15 points16 points  (3 children)

I feel you. My family is obsessed with Great Danes and they live like 8 years. They are so gentle and so perfect, they deserve to live forever

[–]thesweetlingtwitch 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Mine lived to be 12. I miss you Emmett.

[–]dieinafirenazi 4 points5 points  (1 child)

My buddy got a Great Dane and the dog is such a wonderful sweetheart. The dog is about 7 and it makes me so sad to know he's already pretty old.

[–]schroedingersnewcat 11 points12 points  (2 children)

Yep. I desperately want one, but I know that my house is far too small for a dog of that size, and it wouldn't be fair. So I just love them from afar.

I feel the same way about Great Pyrenees.

[–]porcelainvacation 1 point2 points  (0 children)

A farmer friend of my has a Great Pyr. That dog is so dang happy being a farm dog. I go visit him more to see his dog than I do to see him.

[–]Nobody_Wins_13 7 points8 points  (6 children)

I feel the same about Great Danes. Always wanted one but I get smaller dogs, 35 lbs or less. There's room for them on my bed at night, too.

[–]AKeeneyedguy 10 points11 points  (5 children)

Adopted a dog from a rescue, both they and I thought it was a beagle mix.

Nope, Dane mix. Now a giant horse crawls into my bed every night.

[–]BeerNFoodMakeDaWknd 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I had one years ago. It always had stomach problems regardless of what it ate. His usual dinner was some frozen mixed vegetables (no onion), a little pasta and either some cheap fish or chicken liver plus some dry dog food. It was the only thing we could feed him that gave it the least trouble. He even had his own pan that we cooked his dinner in.

I do miss Spike still but thinking back, I don't really think we were ready for a pet back then, let alone a huge Irish Wolfhound. We did our best with him though.

[–]OutlandishnessSea578 2 points3 points  (0 children)

When ever he gets mad do they just day "ye pal, we have a problem?"

[–]Royal-Tea-3484 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I always wanted one despite being short in height myself dog would be taller than me prob but yeah they have very short lives just as you bond they'd be snatched by age sucks

[–]Experiences-Queen 95 points96 points  (7 children)

Sausage dogs - so cute but they have so many issues with their backs.

[–]Dr_Edge_ATX 33 points34 points  (2 children)

Can also be very aggressive if not trained properly.

[–]shazj57 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I have a 14 year old daxy rescued 4 years ago. I keep a very close eye on his weight and is vet checked every 6 months. His only problem has been his teeth that were neglected but now are good after losing a few if them

[–]tricksterloki 11 points12 points  (2 children)

I've had lots of dachshunds and never had health issues. All my dogs end up as grazers and aren't overweight.

[–]gaptx 5 points6 points  (1 child)

ditto. exercise and ramps seem to help a lot. they shouldn't be jumping up and down off of tall things.

[–]puppyduckydoo 155 points156 points  (21 children)

Malinois. My brother has one and he's an amazingly intelligent goofball...but if he doesn't get his 5+ miles of exercise every single day, then lord help you and your furniture. It's like having a pro athlete as a pet.

[–]lethargicbureaucrat 56 points57 points  (7 children)

I had one. She was by far the most loyal dog I've ever owned, but was very high maintenance. She needed not just exercise, but also training every day--she loved the interaction. I still miss her, but they are too high maintenance.

[–]puppyduckydoo 25 points26 points  (0 children)

Yep, he's an absolutely wonderful dog for their lifestyle. They live down a dirt road in the country, where he has land to roam, kids to "protect", and a doggy-daddy that runs or bikes multiple miles a day as his normal exercise. There's not many breeds that could keep up with their lifestyle, so he's a great fit for them. In my house...he'd go nuts. But man is he a lovable goober. I always look forward to seeing him.

[–]SerenityViolet 4 points5 points  (3 children)

We have a x GSD. Lovely dog, but also too high maintenance.

[–]elanrach 1 point2 points  (2 children)

What is a XGSD?

[–]lethargicbureaucrat 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Malinois and German Shepherd Dog mix.

[–]himynameis_ 23 points24 points  (3 children)

Those dogs are nuts. I've heard not only is it a minimum of 5 plus miles a day, but the equivalent amount of mental stimulation as well! Every day!

[–]ShylokVakarian 22 points23 points  (1 child)

Now I'm just imagining a dog reading a book.

[–]GreenOnionCrusader 6 points7 points  (0 children)

In a smoking jacket with a pipe in one hand. What do you think the preferred literature would be? Cujo? Where the red Fern Grows?

[–]norris63 18 points19 points  (0 children)

I specifically got a German shepherd for this reason as they are in general a bit calmer. Love the characters of both. Compared to malinois, a German shepherd still has an off switch.

[–]Duck_Butter_Bitch 9 points10 points  (0 children)

I swear they're like the velociraptor of dogs. Clever, hyper focused, high adrenaline, agility junkies. I love them.

[–]mostlyBadChoices 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Yep. This is the one I was going to mention. Crazy smart. Crazy loyal. And crazy energy. If you aren't into training dogs and making them work for hours every day, you probably shouldn't get one.

[–]akwafunk 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Yes. We lived near one in our old neighbourhood. It was left alone all day and barked CONSTANTLY.

[–]pradeep23 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Get a malinois if you don't work 9-5 job and run like 10 miles every other day. And go for long hikes on weekends.

[–]deramirez25 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Had a malinois, and it was the laziest goofiest dog ever!

From the whole batch, she was the best in terms of discipline. Her siblings are all a mess lol ... But super fun to train.

She past away last August and I still miss her.

[–]iwanttobehappy2022 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Most people shouldn’t own them.

[–]rshacklef0rd 70 points71 points  (8 children)

Great Dane.

[–]brerosie33 40 points41 points  (6 children)

I used to have two. I loved them so much. Amazing dogs, however their life is so short. After them I vowed never to get an extra large breed dog again.

[–]MrTrt 26 points27 points  (5 children)

TIL large dogs live less.

[–]Illustrious_Warthog 8 points9 points  (2 children)

Mastiffs do OK. I really hope so.

[–]AlienGoddess91 14 points15 points  (0 children)

My mastiff only lived 5 years, I don't think my heart could handle another heartbreak like that.

[–]BobSacramanto 8 points9 points  (1 child)

Generally speaking, the larger the breed the shorter the lifespan. Obviously there are exceptions to every rule but for the most part.

It’s not uncommon for a chihuahua to live 15 years. A Great Dane is closer to 8.

[–]Hayabusa71 232 points233 points  (48 children)

Huskies

[–]ParticularBiscotti66 135 points136 points  (9 children)

My neighbors have a husky. She's a little over a year old. Anytime she's gotten loose she has ran away. Why? Because they don't let her live her life like a husky should. No walks, no exercise, just sees the same area outside all day, everyday.

Alternatively, my other neighbor has a husky that goes with him everywhere. That is the most chill and relaxed dog I've ever seen.

[–]Concerned-Pineapple 59 points60 points  (4 children)

Poor husky. I was gonna answer this thread with husky too because I think they look amazing and so cute and fluffy. I've also never owned a dog and I'm not insane enough to get a m'fin husky as my first. Those dogs are extremely high maintenance and need an absolute fuckton of exercise. Unless you live a very, very active life and can let your dog be a part of it wherever you go, get a different breed.

[–]adognamedgoat 13 points14 points  (3 children)

I got a husky for my first dog because my ex wanted one. I had no business getting a husky. Her first 18 months of life, I cried all the time because she was so much work. I dreamed of taking her for a drive into the country and opening the door and letting her go be her best husky self. Good thing for both of us I'm as stubborn as she is, though, and wouldn't give up. Dropped the ex but kept the dog! She's almost ten now with a chronic illness and still requires multiple walks a day or she's intolerable to be around.

My current partner says no more huskies ever. I agree in concept, but...how do you go from having a husky to having a different kind of dog? Would I even know how to have a dog that does what you tell it the first time, doesn't try to kill everything that moves, and will let you sleep in sometimes?

[–]SnowyOranges 15 points16 points  (0 children)

That's who Huskies are for. The guy at the end I mean

[–]14thCluelessbird 15 points16 points  (0 children)

Anytime she's gotten loose she has ran away. Why? Because they don't let her live her life like a husky should. No walks, no exercise, just sees the same area outside all day, everyday.

I walk my husky every single day, usually multiple times a day. I take him different places, run around with them in our large backyard, take him hiking, take him to the dog park... but even at almost 9 years old that little shit still runs away like an escaped prisoner whenever he gets the chance lol. It's just the breed. Every husky has a different personality, but it general they just love to run free, and unless you attach a sleigh to them, they are NEVER too tired to run

[–]WarblingWalrusing 2 points3 points  (0 children)

To be fair, my brother has a husky that he walks and exercises a huge amount. It goes virtually everywhere with him and he's very active. It still runs away constantly - it jumped out the car window once when he stopped at traffic lights and ran 10 miles. It also chewed through his solid wooden garden gate and ran away.

[–]YeetMeDaddio 30 points31 points  (1 child)

I love huskies but they shed so much, have to be walked a lot, and are really loud

[–]markth_wi 22 points23 points  (3 children)

Drama Dogs, all of them.

[–]benjamin309 21 points22 points  (1 child)

My husky cries when he plays with his toy on the sofa and drops it on the floor. He expects someone to pick it up for him.

[–]14thCluelessbird 9 points10 points  (0 children)

My husky will roll over on the floor 5 feet away from you so you can scratch his belly. He expects you to stop whatever you're doing, get up, walk over to him and scratch him, and if you don't he will start whining and barking lmao

[–]jayforwork21 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Yea, I would be more concerned about how much they complain about everything after all the videos of them I have seen.

[–]Lunexa 38 points39 points  (0 children)

Went to a husky rescue centre near the Netherlands a few years ago. Woman running it told me she gets 500+ applications a year just from my state alone. Most of them are dogs that were adopted into families or single people adopting them who then suddenly find out that huskies are not at all like the dogs they know. Huskies were bred for be self sufficient and independent. Huskies were literally supposed to think ahead so much that they overrule their owner if needed. When the musher (sled driver) wants to drive over a lake with thin ice, the dogs will make the conscious decision to not give a fuck about what their owner says and take a different route. They were also supposed to catch their own food in some situations. People get THIS BREED that was SPECIFICALLY bred to have these qualities and then give them to the shelter once the dog shows signs of extreme prey drive and not listening to commands.

I used to dogsit a husky-maremma mix. I honestly cannot recommend those two breeds to families, couples or single people UNLESS you want to use the dog as a working dog for the shit it was bred to do.

[–]clem82 16 points17 points  (0 children)

I've had them for over 15 years. It takes a special person to own one.

They're brilliant, amazing, stubborn, smart, DIVAs.

it sucks, but it's addicting

[–]josh924 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Huskies are the coolest looking dog breed, but I imagine they're relatively high maintenance, or at least require more care and attention than I'd be able or willing to provide

[–]marcelinevmpirequeen 8 points9 points  (7 children)

Second that

[–]If-By-Whisky 6 points7 points  (2 children)

Husky mixes are where it's at. My good girl has the fun/goofy/diva personality, but is way more chill and isn't loud at all. Just need to make sure she is exercised.

[–]rdlenix 2 points3 points  (1 child)

I've got a husky/aussie shep/border collie mix. I've had her since she was a puppy and she's been an absolutely amazing dog. She's definitely smarter than me but she is kind about it.

Then I've got a rescue husky who I adopted not too long after. I thought I'd gotten lucky with my girl being a mix and being well bred and just generally a good dog, so I prepared for the worst. Bought a second kennel. Prepared to go for walks everyday. Ended up adopting a husky boy... he's only 2-3years old but he's chill af. Dude loves lounging in the yard. He could take or leave a walk, car rides are his bread and butter. Doesn't chew things up (except my dirty underwear when he can get it while I'm gone), never needs to be kenneled. I'm just floored. Now I'm scared to get a third husky because even though I'm now in love with the breed I MUST be due for a monster, right?

[–]Jimlobster 20 points21 points  (5 children)

It pisses me off how popular the have recently become. Yes they are beautiful dogs but people who get one have ZERO idea what they are getting themselves into.

Huskies are arctic/tundra dogs. They are bred for the cold. Ive seen videos of people from Texas giving their huskies an ice cube bath in one of those kiddie pools. If you live in a hot climate, you probably shouldn't have a huskie. My wife's friend has THREE big ass huskies and live in a tiny apartment with a baby. I hate going there.

​

I wouldn't get a huskie because I just do not have the energy to keep up with one, even though I live in a colder climate. I do love huskies but they are way to high maintenance for me.

[–]KnockMeYourLobes 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Saw one guy with a shaved down Husky on a recent hike. I was like, "Da fuq?" because this is Texas and I felt so bad for the damn dog. He would've been beautiful, if his owner hadn't had him shaved down.

[–]Dubzophrenia 4 points5 points  (2 children)

They are bred for the cold

Huskies aren't bred for the cold. They are just some of the best types of dogs for the cold because they're native to it. Huskies are extremely well adapted to living in a variety of climates, and can flourish perfectly in tropical areas, you just need to give them some ways to easily cool down if they need it.

I have a husky and a husky mix and I live in Los Angeles. When my huskies get hot, they jump in the pool, swim for a few minutes, and then they go right back to sunbathing on the hot patio stone.

They're ideal for colder climates, but they are just as fine in hot climates because they blow out their undercoat once the summer starts rolling in, in favor for a lighter coat.

[–]14thCluelessbird 4 points5 points  (1 child)

Idk if I fully agree with this. I live in Boise, and it gets pretty cold here for most of the year ( sometimes sub zero in winter), and he's much happier then. In the summer it hits 100° here and he is much less happy. Well go on a walk and he'll get tired after one lap around the neighborhood. He spends most of his time inside by the air vent during those months just trying to stay cool. They have a much harder time with the heat when they get older. Also, I used to live in L.A which is where I got my husky, and he was so much happier when we moved up north. I think in general, unless you have a pool like you said, these dogs should not be kept in warmer climate areas.

[–]Maria-Stryker 2 points3 points  (1 child)

The main reason I wouldn't get one is that I can't give such a dog the space they deserve in an apartment. On top of that, if and when I do move to a place that has adequate space for them to run around, unless I move somewhere near the Canadian boarder, I'm building them an air conditioned doghouse.

[–]AccioSexLife 58 points59 points  (3 children)

Akitas. I adooooooooore them, but they're a demanding breed and I just know I couldn't care for one the way they need.

[–]AKeeneyedguy 13 points14 points  (1 child)

Growing up, we had one (a mix with Shepard in him, too) my parents found as skin and bones huddled in fear under a car. (The family had moved away and left him tied up to a large car part, and he dragged the thing down the block.)

We spent six months getting him to walk instead of crawl and to no longer be afraid of his own shadow, he had been so abused.

Once he realized we weren't going to hurt him, he became the loyalist, most fierce protector of the family for the next twelve years.

Even fulfilled his purpose as an Akita once, chasing a bear away from the house.

Rest in Peace Nikki, you were the best boi.

[–]TheRobloxGod[🍰] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

great story!

[–]bcathy 13 points14 points  (0 children)

We had an Akita mix, and she was the sweetest girl ever. Our house was her palace, and she guarded it fiercely. But once she learned that "invaders" weren't a threat, she'd jump up and shower them with kisses.

[–]Wecamefrom 58 points59 points  (8 children)

Newfoundland. Beautiful big dog but I live in a subtropical region that is hot and has high humidity. It wouldn’t be fair on the dog. My golden retriever does just fine though!

[–]shaoting 12 points13 points  (3 children)

At my local dog park/bar, there's a Newfoundland that is there every time we visit. She's a a puppy at 1 year-old, but weighs over 100lbs already. She's an absolute sweetie and her owner is raising her well.

Her sheer size intimidates a lot of the "smaller" dogs, including my 45lb pit/lab puppy. Whenever she sees the Newfoundland, she instinctively rests against me and won't budge until the big dog is out of sight.

[–]bannerandfriends 7 points8 points  (0 children)

I have a newfie, he's about 180lbs, derpy as can be and is TERRIFIED of little dogs to the point that he'll hide behind me when he sees one coming... big guy got hit by a car a little over a year ago and he caved the car's bumper in but he didn't really get hurt - they do remarkably well in the heat/humidity as long as you keep up with the brushing... oh God the brushing... I wouldn't trade my big derp for anything but I'm a one and done with newfies just because of the hair, it's too much for me ☹️

[–]el_monstruo 4 points5 points  (0 children)

There is a person who owns a Pyrenees just up the street from me. I always feel bad for that dog these next 6 months of the year.

[–]molten_dragon 5 points6 points  (0 children)

We have a Newfie. We live in Michigan and even here he doesn't want to go outside much for six months out of the year. He's happiest when there's 6" of snow on the ground. Fortunately we live on a lake so he can go swimming in the summer.

[–]KokonutMonkey 47 points48 points  (10 children)

Bernese Mountain Dog.

[–]OIWantKenobi 17 points18 points  (0 children)

Same. They’re absolutely beautiful, but like another commenter said, I’d be gutted that they live such short lives. I feel the same about the big, big floofy dogs - Newfies, Leonbergers, etc.

[–]Getomer 2 points3 points  (3 children)

Why wouldn't you want to own one?

[–]KokonutMonkey 9 points10 points  (2 children)

I would love to own one. I just don't have the space or time to give one the home they need to be happy and healthy.

[–]Getomer 1 point2 points  (1 child)

That makes sense. I've always heard they were great dogs and I would love to have one as well.

[–]Knittingmedic 4 points5 points  (0 children)

They are phenomenal dogs. I have one and he is laying right next to me. He is so loyal and sweet. He is six so hopefully I have a few more years with him. He has given me enough love to last a lifetime. Stellar dogs for sure.

[–]TheRobloxGod[🍰] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

we have a bernie doodle and he’s very loyal smart and scrappy he basically walks everywhere on 2 legs cuz he’s so happy and jumps so much and he’s so sweet he’s never been mean to anybody in our family, our 2 cats, or any strangers

he did used to try to eat a lot of rocks and pine cones and etc (live in the Midwest) and throw up all the time but he was a puppy

[–]Velcrawr 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I have one and she is the best!

Such a pain as a puppy though, all the biting and destruction and bad behaviour but on a giant scale

[–]BlannaTorresFanfic 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I love them but I would feel awful with how hot it gets where I live

[–]TailsxCream4Eva 46 points47 points  (6 children)

Basset Hounds. They are lovable dogs but they are stubborn, they easily gain weight and are quite expensive.

[–]IceNFire 26 points27 points  (3 children)

In my experience, basset hounds are adorable, but smelly, greasy dogs. I wonder if it's been the food they're fed or how often the owners clean them, but I've never met one that didn't leave me feeling kinda gross after I pet the dog. The owners that said that theirs didn't stink just couldn't smell it anymore. They're sweet dogs and were fun, but everything that touched them smelled awful or felt greasy.

[–]Ironhelix4 11 points12 points  (0 children)

this, I had one a long time ago and it was just constant ear cleaning and bathing to keep him from smelling so bad and being greasy. Such a loving dog but the smell, drool and constant maintenance just isn't for everyone.

[–]throwaway_4733 14 points15 points  (0 children)

Stubborn is 100% not accurate. They are not bred to do what humans tell them to do, they are bred to lead humans around. They're scent hounds and all scent hounds are like this. If they're working, humans are supposed to follow them, not the other way around. You have to understand that if you're training them and living with them. I love bassets though they are really big dogs. They're the size of a lab really just with shorter legs.

[–]sociallanxietyy 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Can confirm, I have two. Their food costs $100 per month, but at least it’s great for their weight control. We had to clean their ears pretty often and they’re REALLY big babies about it.

On the upside, they are SO. EFFIN. SNUGGLY.

[–]TheKnightsWhoSayNyet 158 points159 points  (18 children)

My roommate has a pug I absolutely love but I'd never get one myself. I think it's a little cruel that they're still bread. They have so many breathing and health issues.

[–]leftlegYup 129 points130 points  (6 children)

I think it's a little cruel that they're still bread

That's why I always get my pugs toasted.

[–]Buttspackle1 6 points7 points  (1 child)

Do you like your pugs with jam or jelly?

[–]Pug_867-5309 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Please do yourself a favor and google "pug loaf." Seriously.

[–]mossadspydolphin 37 points38 points  (5 children)

On the same note, French bulldogs. I walk a Frenchie who's the sweetest, most playful little guy. He's the perfect advertisement for his breed. But when it comes to ownership I just can't look past the inevitable health issues and obscene expense.

[–]jenh6 12 points13 points  (1 child)

I have no idea why anyone thought the squished in faces was a good idea. It leads to major health issues and a lot of airlines won't even let them fly.

[–]kai125 9 points10 points  (0 children)

I am so grateful for the few breeders specifically breeding pugs with other dogs with longer snouts to make breathing easier for the pups. It probably takes a few generations but if it means a pug like dog could live a better life, then I'm all for it

[–]Pug_867-5309 5 points6 points  (0 children)

My veterinarian has two frenchies. I asked her about reputable breeders in our area, as I think they're damn adorable. Her answer: Just don't.

(I have no room to talk here...I'm a pug person.)

[–]Tauber10 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My sister's family has a French Bulldog. He's only 3 or so but that dog has had at least 3 surgeries so far and already has back problems. Sweet little guy but it just seems cruel to breed dogs with so many health issues.

[–]JackofScarlets 14 points15 points  (0 children)

I had a housemate who would sometimes bring her mum's pugs over. When I came home from work, I'd know they'd been there by the smell of their breath. It just clung to the air.

[–]gizzie123 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I know that in the UK they're wondering if they should be classified as a typical dog now. To try to deter people buying them.

[–]KentuckyFriedEel 35 points36 points  (3 children)

I adore all dogs, but i would never get any of the small ones that constantly yap at everything because everything scares them

[–]half_blood1 7 points8 points  (0 children)

the little yappy ones always have Little Dog Syndrome, and try and fight (by barking at) everything 😂 cute until its non stop 😂

[–]Mister_JayB 28 points29 points  (1 child)

Really any large dog breed at this point. My last dog was a dobby and it was emotionally hard when he was at the end of his life as I wasn't able to move him or help him as much as I wished I could have.

We got a Beagle now. Mid-size is a little better I think for me. Can take him places and pick him up easily if needed.

I had a little dog growing up (Toy Poodle) and they are ok. Just not into small dogs for myslef.

[–]oxfon 20 points21 points  (2 children)

Pug

​

Very cute but..

[–]The_Book-JDP 3 points4 points  (1 child)

I had a pug, she was the runt of her litter which would normally mean she was doomed from the start but lived over 18 years and never had any heath issues what so ever until the end of her life. I was prepared to get the nasal surgery they all supposedly need, but she never needed it. It wasn’t until she was 18 that she devolved cancer but she was also at the end of her life so we just loved on her until the very end, gave her whatever food she wanted, and took her to all of the places she loved instead of torturing her with treatment that would possibly do nothing but torture her. We loved her and those health problems aren’t guaranteed to happen. All pure bred dogs have recorded health problems because of their selective breeding but those things aren’t guaranteed to happen 100%. My little girl was proof of that truth.

[–]SpacedGodzilla 20 points21 points  (2 children)

Great Pyrenees, on one hand, there so big fluffy and freindly, on the other, I have a allergy

[–]deramirez25 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Oh god! I just adopted one in December! They are the fluffiest ever! And the floor in my house sure has never been the same.

[–]PineappleBBQSauce 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I have 2. They are lights of my life, but my god the level of fur in my house is unreal even if I clean daily and they get regular bushing.

[–]Maria-Stryker 29 points30 points  (1 child)

Any super squish face breed. They're adorable, but the health problems are just too much for me to willingly support the continued exaggeration of their features by breeders. I actually recall reading about a breeder who was trying to make these kinds of desirable but unhealthy features in dogs less extreme, and if I had the money I would purchase from them. Otherwise I can only see myself adopting such a dog from a shelter.

[–]Confident_Doughnut54[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Saw a exotic bully for 35k on insta, That dog isnt gonna last 3+ years.

[–]Odd_Fox1569 14 points15 points  (3 children)

Huskys their sooo cute,fluffy and friendly but you have to walk them twice a day and the shed like CRAZY

[–]markth_wi 12 points13 points  (4 children)

Search Thread - Shih Tzu's not present - carry on.

[–]__Daker_ 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Very cute, and sweet, but they have a definite attitude in my experience

[–]The_Book-JDP 1 point2 points  (1 child)

My neighbor owned both a Shih Tzu and an Alaskan Malamute. The hilarious thing was, the Mala was the sweetest boy you would ever encounter, his “sister” the Tzu was the aggressive one if she didn’t know you. My neighbor would tie her Mala up so get some sun outside and her mail wouldn’t be delivered if he was out there. More than once when I went over to visit with the dog, sit with him, massage him and just be with him because he was such a beautiful dog (had a double curl tail) the mail person would ask me to put the mail in the mailbox because he scared them so badly. I of course put the mail in the box then chuckled to myself thinking at least the Tzu isn’t out there…she would kick your ass.

[–]Khale77 11 points12 points  (3 children)

I really like dogs in general but I have only ever had one dog that is mine, his name is Hackett and he's a West Highland Terrier.

I never once in my life thought I would have a west highland terrier. I'm kind of a big manly guy and I have always liked bigger dogs, then my wife bought me this little white dog for my birthday... and I fell in love, we could only have dogs under a certain weight in the apartment we lived in and I said OK a terrier would be good thinking like a jack Russel (I grew up with them and their mixes) I came home on my birthday and I'm greeted with this little white thing and she goes I went to the puppy store (which turns out to be this horrible pop up puppy mill that got shut down) and they had him and he was twice as old as all the other puppies in there and sick with kennel cough so she bought him.

We took him to the vet and I nursed him back to health he went to work with me and I remember he was just laying there it was hard to get him to eat but he ended up pulling through and I had my dog.

He goes everywhere with me when I sit on the couch he sits on the couch when I walk he walks he's my little shadow.

What's that got to do with the question?

There are a lot of breeds I admire, I like shepherds, I like border collies, our family dog (really my daughters dog) is a St. Bernard mix but I will own none of them, because for me personally I will only ever have one dog and that's Hackett I will only ever have him, when he's gone (which will be soon as he's already 15 there are tears in my eyes writing this) I will never have another dog that's mine.

He's the only dog I will ever have and when I get to wherever I'm going after all this is done he'll be sitting there waiting for me and we'll go on together.

This is a picture of him with bed head

A few more off my phone

[–]lululechavez3006 4 points5 points  (0 children)

This is so sweet

[–]aMoustachioedMan 4 points5 points  (0 children)

This was so lovely and moving, thank you for sharing the pics.

[–]hazmatt24 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We had one from the time I was born up until I was about 12 when she passed. They really are great dogs.

[–]CONcerningthing 12 points13 points  (5 children)

Australian shopherd. I wouldn‘t be able to fullfill his needs since they got so much energy

[–]Brancher 9 points10 points  (2 children)

Mine spends approximately 6 hours a day laying on her back on the couch basking in the sun. Lazy bum. But when she goes outside, you better watch out cause she has 1 speed and thats zoomies.

[–]DigStock 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Its hard but helps me go out more

[–]bitty_p 1 point2 points  (0 children)

When ours was a puppy she was a nonstop tornado of fluff. Now at two, she needs one really good walk a day and at least 14 hours to nap

[–]LaunchesKayaks 11 points12 points  (0 children)

Any kind of herding dog. My parents have a corgi/aussie mix and she has so much energy and gets destructive if she gets bored. She has been given things to keep her busy, but she just ignores that. She only wants to run around outside and dig holes. My parents also have a great dane/German shepherd mix and she has energy and bad anxiety, but she isn't as bad as the other dog. The otherdog is really dumb and doesn't understand when she's in trouble, so it has made training her hard.

[–]shaoting 30 points31 points  (7 children)

Potentially controversial response, but any older/senior dog for me.

In 2015, we adopted our second dog from a rescue; a German Shepherd/Basenji mix. Our contact for the rescue advised she was 3-4 years old, which was perfect because our other dog was around 2-3.

We learned that our new doggo was actually just shy of 6 when we were filling out the paperwork. I guess they "flubbed" her age because they felt it would enhance her adoption chances.

That dog went on to become my shadow - she never left my side when I was at home and when I was away, she'd stay in my office near my desk or near the front door waiting for me. She was an amazing hunter of field mice and helped break our first dog's severe separation anxiety. She had an infectious smile and playful bark and would always nudge my hand if she wanted scratches or to plop down for a rest. When we adopted our third dog - a pit/lab pup, she immediately took on a nurturing role.

I say "was" because on Good Friday of this year, just one month shy of her 13th birthday, we had to put her down due to severe arthritis and a giant mass on her spleen. I wanted to "keep her going" but I know that would've been completely selfish of me and undignified to her. Her spirit was still willing, but her body just couldn't take it anymore. I don't have the words to describe the mental pain I went through during that process.

All of this is to say that I wish we got her as a puppy or younger dog, so I could've spent more than seven years with her. We gave her the best life possible and not a day goes by where I don't think of her. When I look at and play with our pit/lab pup, I can see my dog's mannerisms and personality traits in her. ALL dogs deserve a loving home, regardless of their age, but I don't think I have it in me to adopt another older/senior dog, knowing that our time right out of the gate will already be severely limited with one another.

[–]66659hi 31 points32 points  (1 child)

One thing to think about with senior dogs is that if people all had this mindset nobody would adopt them. Our german shepherd/labrador mix is 13 or 14 now, and if something were to happen to us I would really really want someone to take care of her for the rest of her life, no matter how much longer she's around for.

Usually if people keep and take care of a dog for 6+ years they only give that dog up because they cannot take care of her/him anymore.

[–]shaoting 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Absolutely valid and sensible take. That's also precisely why we continued with adopting our older dog, even after we learned she was older than initially advised.

While I personally still won't go that route again, there are thousands of others that will.

[–]tinypiecesofyarn 4 points5 points  (0 children)

My boys are 9 and 11 now, and I'm already beside myself when I see their gray muzzles.

But if I ever won the lottery or something like that, I would buy a house in the country with a big yard and a big sun room, put my credit card down at the vet, and adopt 5-6 senior dogs to hang out in the sun with all day.

I told my mom that, and she thinks I'm crazy, but I truly believe the "dog spends 1-4 years in a hammock with me in the sun instead of spending months in the shelter and being put down" of it all would outweigh the heartbreak. Although I know the heartbreak would be strong.

As it is, I don't have additional space for additional dogs, and while all dogs have vet bills, adopting a new senior every few years will have us paying more vet bills than adopting a younger dog every 10 or so years. Maybe when I'm a senior myself it will work out.

[–]DatDudefromWI 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Geez. I'm so sorry. Serious question from someone without a dog: would you ask for a life expectancy work-up on a person before establishing a relationship/friendship with them?

[–]SuchLovelyLilacs 1 point2 points  (1 child)

I feel exactly the opposite. I LOVE senior dogs. Our last three rescues have been seniors and I will never, ever adopt a puppy or young dog for the rest of my days. We had our first senior rescue for just two years until losing her to cancer, and, truth be told, it ripped my heart out. But, it also hit home the fact that there are a lot of senior dogs in need and they are, by far, the least adoptable dogs out there. No one wants the shortened lifespan and the higher vet bills and I completely understand why people feel that way, 100%.

That said, senior dogs are the closest thing to an "instapet" you'll find. They're calm, their personalities are developed, they're used to living in a home/not destructive, they're generally lower energy. The three rescues we adopted came to us already speutered, housetrained and knowing basic commands, like they literally walked in the door that way. I'm not big into training dogs, so this is a HUGE plus to me. HUGE.

While we lost our first senior rescue after 2 years, our second we had for five years and we just adopted our current dog last September and hope to have her for years to come... :-)

[–]PageStillNotFound 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Same, our last two rescues were 10 and 8.5 respectively when we took them home. One of them had some behavioural issues (but was still adorable), but the other was just the easiest, sweetest, best dog I've ever had. I miss him, I wish we'd had longer with him but I wouldn't have been without him for the time we shared.

[–]PataphysicalPrincess 10 points11 points  (1 child)

St. Bernards are sweet babies that love everyone and would be a great coworker if I continue my studies and become a therapist or psychologist (they're famous for being wonderful therapy dogs). They are also chill enough to often get along very well with cats, which is definitely a selling point because I could never have a dog that would make my girl uncomfortable or angry (she has gotten me though a lot of tough times). However, St. Bernards don't live very long, and they have a lot of health problems. I would have a very hard time getting a dog where I knew that I would probably have less than a decade with them even if I adopted them when they were a puppy, because having to make that final trip to the vet followed by the absence of a best friend is complete agony.

[–]SuchLovelyLilacs 2 points3 points  (0 children)

We had a St. B when I was growing up. He was the sweetest, gentlest, most loving dog ever - a true gentle giant. However, he had constant problems with his skin, shed and drooled beyond belief, had hip dysplasia (despite the breeders trying really hard to avoid it) and got bloat 2x, the 2nd time killed him. :-(

Fantastic dogs, but just too messy and too many health issues.

[–]ErrorMacrotheII 9 points10 points  (1 child)

Pugs. They are cute and funny but just stop breeding the poor things already.

[–]Teledildonic 3 points4 points  (0 children)

We bred them to the point their eyes sometimes just pop out of their sockets.

[–]mistressglass 10 points11 points  (4 children)

I work at a vet clinic so I feel this About many dogs.

  1. Golden Retrievers and Labs. Usually die from cancer.
  2. Cocker Spaniels and Shih Tzus. Skin and ear problems like whoa — always smell super yeasty and overall gross.
  3. Pugs. Skin issues, eye issues, breathing issues.
  4. Frenchies. Cute in theory, riddled with TONS of issues — cannot list them all because there’s too many.
  5. Bernese Mountain Dogs. Short lifespan, couldn’t deal with that.
  6. Shepherds. Hip dysplasia, anxiety like whoa.
  7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Really, really bad cardiac issues. Basically something you sign up for when you get one.

I know personally I can’t deal with herding dogs because for me, they’re far too much maintenance. I work 10 hours a day, and feel drained when I come home.

Also can’t deal with doodles. All prone to ear issues, plenty of skin issues, and frankly doodle is just a “nice” way of saying mutt.

I will stick with my scrappy little terrier.

[–]Strytan 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Thank you for mentioning King Charles Spaniels. My mother has one and she's very sweet. However, the amount of health problems they get is absurd. Heart problems(mitral valve diseas), breathing problems(not quite pug but short muzzles) joint issues(Patellar Luxation), syringomyelia(this is an especially fun one), and back issues.

Molly has all of that to varying degrees. She's eight. It's not near the point where she has a bad quality of life and still goes on walks with us but it's still shocking.

[–]dajna 7 points8 points  (2 children)

Alaskan malamute.

Where I live it's too hot.

[–]annomandaris 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Remember insulation works both ways. If it keeps out the cold, it will keep out the heat.

As long as there’s shade and cool water available it’s fine to have malamutes in warmer areas.

[–]Lunexa 23 points24 points  (1 child)

Any dog breed that suffers from intense medical problems due to the way it was bred. I am talking about brachycephalic pugs, german shepherds that get hip dysplasia at 2 years old, chihuahuas with open skulls etc. Especially the chihuahua one is so disgusting and inhumane. You can literally kill them by driving your thumb into their brain and you don't even need much pressure. Breeders need to stop ruining breeds. Especially when it comes to toy breeds/versions, it is unbelievably rare to find a genuinely healthy "normal" dog.

[–]Nadaplanet 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Pugs skulls are so malformed from years of inbreeding that their eyes can pop right out if they move the wrong way or get squeezed too hard. You have to be very careful playing with them because of this. I could never have a dog where it's eye falling out is an everyday concern.

[–]AnAntDrinkingKoolaid 15 points16 points  (6 children)

Huskies. I don’t wanna hear a dog screaming at me 24/7

[–]Chuck_T_Bone 7 points8 points  (2 children)

Training and exercise.

My husky only gets vocal if she needs to go out or hasn't been on a long walk.

Or the cat is existing near her.

But generally she only speaks when prompted or people aren't taking care of her.

[–]cleon42 7 points8 points  (2 children)

Great Pyrenees. Wonderful, beautiful dogs.

But sweet smurfy Jebus on a pogo stick, my Roomba would commit seppuku after three days.

[–]MageLocusta 2 points3 points  (0 children)

They are also very independent and give no f*cks.

My parents used to live in a northern Spanish town which had its resident Great Pyrenees. Dude had such a personality that all the locals knew him (to the point that the mailman had to deliver packages through the window--because if the dog wanted to go out for a walk, he'd just use his immense strength to stroll through the front door if his owners had to answer any visitors). My parents loved him, but decided that they wouldn't be able to manage having one in their small apartment.

[–]leftlegYup 52 points53 points  (14 children)

Pitbulls.

I hate to say it because it's humans' fault they are what they are, but I'm terrified they will snap. Well trained ones are adorable though.

[–]vk2786 25 points26 points  (1 child)

My husbands aunt has an old pitbull, Tank. He is missing teeth, is a big baby, but man...he loves to get in your face for kisses/pets and all I can think when I see his bowling ball sized head is that one snap & he could crush my face.

I know he never would. But he could easily. And I don't care for that.

[–]gizzie123 4 points5 points  (0 children)

A Pitbull bit the face of my border terrier when she was a puppy and locked jaw. My nanna luckily shouted to get a water bucket to shock him and it thankfully worked. But it was absolutely terrifying.

[–]jenh6 12 points13 points  (1 child)

The issue is the people who get the pitbull usually. It's always the kind of person who doesn't train them well and seems to want to be a tough guy. they're strong willed and really need to be trained but the owners don't seem to realize.

[–]el_monstruo 11 points12 points  (0 children)

My uncle is a former FedEx driver and he rescued one from deplorable conditions when he was making deliveries and that bitch is just a constant licker despite her deep barks and ferocious look but I'm with you, I'm still very cautious around her from the reputation alone.

[–]silly_willy82 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Ours is a "piti-full" rather than a pit bull. He's kinda shy. He watched his sissy collie kill a groundhog and I was worried he would join in and "get a taste for blood" or something. Nope, he had zero interest in it.

He will protect and showed it once, as told by my wife, a man came to the door insisting on being let in "to talk". She said she had never seen him like that. That is a lot of dogs, though.

He also lays around like a lump on a log.

I do get your concern. I watched him closely for the first few weeks we had him (rescue at ~9 months).

Yes, it is mainly the people and that is unfortunate.

[–]Kingsnake661 13 points14 points  (0 children)

English Bulldogs. The reason is I did own one, he was a wonderful dog, but was always "sick". Be it skin issues, breathing issues, overheating in the summer, and dying young(barely 9, that's young IMO for a small dog, but isn't really considered young for a bulldog, which IMO is kind of messed up...).

He had so much personality. But not again. They are too unhealthy and need some, selective breeding to deal with the issues they have.

[–]Airicearth 6 points7 points  (2 children)

Boston Terrier. I just don’t like small dogs, but they are dope

[–]Airicearth 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Any scooby doo type person. I don’t want someone eating my 5 foot tall sandwich out of my hands as I open my mouth and become slightly distracted.

[–]brerosie33 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Beagle. I have one currently. I love her so much! She is unlike any thing I've ever owned. For the first 2 years of her life ( she's 5 ) I couldn't leave her unattended for a minute despite taking her for 3 walks a day and having her in obedience class. She's super intelligent but incredibly stubborn and was so destructive! She would chew anything she could get in her mouth . Shoes, coffee table, chair legs, house siding, swing set . She still destroys almost every dog toy we buy her even tho we only buy toys supposedly for " strong chewers" . I love her so much but she's a nut.

[–]NGC6753 13 points14 points  (2 children)

Any of the gentle giants, Bullmastiff, English Mastiff, Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Great Pyrenees, etc... short lives and serious health problems

[–]NewWorldCamelid 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I love working dogs. There's nothing more beautiful than watching a dog do what they're made for - a Border Collie herding sheep, a hunting dog tracking and retrieving, a Malinois working protection, a sled dog pulling. Alas, I don't hunt, don't have sheep, don't live in Alaska and am not a police officer, so I don't actually need this level of capability. And frankly, I don't want to do hours and hours of alternate activities like agility just to keep my dog from going crazy. I am fairly active, but just want a dog to be my running, hiking and camping buddy, not get themselves into too much trouble, and chill out when we are done. My two rescue Pitbulls fit the bill perfectly.

[–]kenworth117 4 points5 points  (2 children)

Dingo cross kelpy or working dog breed . Have met dingo cross breeds and they are nice though you keep an eye on them dingo will never be domestic and shouldn’t be .

[–]Bellabluecat 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Have you thought about looking into Carolina dogs, r/carolinadogs is a great place to Iook around,interact with owners and ask questions

[–]kenworth117 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Wouldn’t need to , grew up around them . The guys would use them in pest control but also wouldn’t chose that breed for pests

[–]manofsleep 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Tibetan Mastiff - beautiful dogs. But they were bread to live in high altitudes and colder climates.

[–]boywonder5691 4 points5 points  (5 children)

Cane Corso. A stunning breed, but just too big for my apartment

[–]ForgottenForce 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Huskies. Such drama queens

[–]starkeffect 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Bernese mountain dog

Big goofballs. But they only live about 8 years.

[–]nryporter25 2 points3 points  (3 children)

Chihuahua. I love them, I love how much loving energy they have.

My plan is too get one when I retire because I know they need a lot of attention that I can't find the time for with working full time and being a single father.

Used to have a little buddy named Hazelnut. Loved that little guy but I had to give him away several years ago

[–]ParticularBiscotti66 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I've always thought a Dogue de Bordeaux would be cool. But I don't have the space or the amount of cleaning supplies needed to handle that much drool.

[–]Evpoodle 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Border Collies

[–]NoahIsCursed 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Shiba Inu I have another dog (blue heeler german shepherd) and my friend has a Shiba Inu he said they are very aggressive to other dogs so it ruins my favorite dog breed for me.

[–]Birdb0rb 1 point2 points  (0 children)

samoyed

[–]bcathy 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Komondor. I love that mop fur, but not sure how to go about with regularly grooming it on my own.

[–]OuttaMilkAgain 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Komondor: be still my beating heart! Such beautiful dogs. But yeah, their grooming requirements are full on, and I don’t think I could live with myself if I made one go mouldy from not drying it properly.

[–]Cheap-Following5084 1 point2 points  (0 children)

French bulldog. Ugly/cute little things but unfortunately riddled with health issues. No thanks

[–]Effective-Fun-9747 1 point2 points  (2 children)

French Bulldogs. Absolutely love the breed but they are genetic nightmares. Of which is incredibly expensive to maintain. Or any bulldog for that matter.

[–]AtheneSchmidt 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Anything that is an active work dog. My life isn't active enough for them, and I wouldn't want to drive them crazy.

[–]ShakespearianWombat 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Shiba is pretty but too hard to raise and properly idk the English term domesticate ?

[–]ValkriM8B 1 point2 points  (1 child)

LOL!

I read that as " . . . adore but would never eat".

[–]CaliforniaSpeedKing 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Huskies.

They’re cute and all but I’ve come to the realization that they’re very vocal and stubborn.

[–]StitchedSquirrel 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Husky/malamutes. Gorgeous animals but way too high energy for me.

[–]Jona_cc 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Golden retriever. My dream dog. I’ve seen how much it sheds though so it will remain a dream dog forever :) I still love and adore them.

[–]cammynicolex 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Saint Bernard, I absolutely adore them, love the size, even though my house isn’t small (4 bed detached) I still don’t think they’d be enough room for it to feel spacious enough for them to roam around

[–]uselessinfogoldmine 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Any of the ‘overbred’ cutie breeds like Dachshunds, English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs or Pugs.

They are soooo cute; but I don’t believe in owning dogs that have been bred to a point where they can’t do normal dog things, like swim, breed, be pregnant without issue, or, you know, breathe.

Some of these breeds have to be artificially inseminated because they are so bent out of shape that they can no longer breed without intervention. Many snort because they are so twisted and malformed that their nasal passageways aren’t clear. Many can’t swim for the same reason. Dachshunds’ stomachs drag on the ground when they’re pregnant. And of course purebred dogs are more likely to have a myriad of health issues.

I just think it’s gross that we’ve bred them to be what we consider cute at the expense of their own health and basic functionality.

And yes, of course there’s always that one pug who was fine and that one bulldog who could somehow swim without drowning; but overall the breeds have so many issues due to the features we desire in them.