It’s easy to become smitten with a dog breed you see on social media or your favorite television show. However, the breed you’ve fallen in love with may not necessarily be a good fit for your family.
“While many people are drawn to dogs because of their appearance, you'll want to make sure your preferred breed will actually be a good match for your lifestyle,” says Dr. Kelly Ballantyne, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and owner of Insight Animal Behavior Services in Chicago.
With that in mind, here are five popular breeds that you may want to rethink:
Siberian Husky
Thanks to the popularity of “Game of Thrones,” the Siberian Husky has become a highly sought-after breed. Huskies resemble “direwolves,” mythical companions on the hit show. While Huskies are friendly and sociable, they’re also extremely active and intelligent.
“If not given enough exercise, a Husky may use its problem-solving skills to become an escape artist,” says Gina DiNardo, executive secretary of the American Kennel Club. “Only those who are prepared to provide daily running time in a safe, fenced-in yard should consider adding a Siberian Husky to their home.”
Beagle
The Beagle consistently rates as one of AKC’s 10 most popular breeds. Beagles are friendly, good-natured pups who make great family pets—but not if you spend a lot of time away from home. These social dogs require plenty of bonding time with their families.
“They’re pack hunters by nature and prefer company,” says DiNardo.
As hunters, Beagles have a hard time ignoring an intriguing scent. Anyone interested in adopting a Beagle should have a securely fenced yard and be prepared to take plenty of leash walks. “Beagles have a very keen sense of smell and tend to follow their nose wherever it may lead them,” says DiNardo.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies may be small in stature, but they’re tenacious, feisty and brave, says DiNardo. “They’re a very popular breed and make wonderful companions.”
However, if you’re starting a family, a Yorkshire Terrier may not be the best breed. “Families need to keep in mind that even though Yorkies may act like tough terriers, they can be easily hurt by small children who are still learning how to act around small dogs,” says DiNardo. “Yorkies are better suited for older children who understand how to treat a dog.”
Rottweiler
Another of the AKC’s most popular breeds, Rottweilers are “playful, silly and loving at home,” says DiNardo. While extremely loyal, their innate protective and territorial instincts can be intense.
“These instincts require owners to be very diligent in positively training this breed,” says DiNardo. “If not, a Rottweiler can become bossy and domineering. Their strength is also a factor for first-time dog owners—one must be prepared to handle such a strong dog.”
French Bulldog
With their trademark squished-in faces and friendly nature, French Bulldogs can be hard to resist. However, the breed suffers from health conditions including breathing difficulties, joint and back issues and chronic skin problems, says Ballantyne.
“Pet parents should think twice before purchasing one, due to common and serious health conditions,” she adds. “Healthcare costs can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars for one of these dogs throughout his or her lifetime.”
Tips for Selecting a Dog Breed
Before adding a new dog to your family, consider the breed’s activity level, grooming needs, full-grown size and common health conditions, advises Ballantyne.
If the dog of your dreams isn’t a good fit for you at this point in time, don’t despair. “There are many wonderful breeds with varying temperaments, exercise requirements, grooming needs and sizes, so anyone looking for a dog can find one that suits their life,” says DiNardo.
Once you’ve narrowed down the breed, consider adopting from a rescue. If purchasing a dog, it’s important to find a reputable breeder. “Ideally you will want to meet both parents of the puppies, as these will be the best indicators of your future puppy's temperament as well as his or her adult size and health,” says Ballantyne.
A responsible breeder should be eager to show you where the puppy was raised, as well as provide a veterinary history and client recommendations, she says. “Most reputable breeders are also very aware of the importance of early handling, training and socialization, so be sure to inquire about what experiences the puppies will have before heading to their new homes.”