The 24 Most Annoying Dog Breeds (Surprising)!
The 24 Most Annoying Dog Breeds (Surprising)!
By: Sarah Hodgson
December 12, 2023
- Posted in Dogs
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It's hard to imagine any dog ever being annoying. However, if you've ever owned or spent time with certain dog breeds, you may have experienced some less-than-pleasant behaviors. Though not "annoying" they are unpleasant sometimes.
In this article, we will explore the 24 most annoying dog breeds, diving into exactly what makes them considered annoying. Keep in mind no dog breed is annoying!
Let's dive in!
Most Annoying Dog Breeds
1. Chihuahua: Barking Nightmare
First on the list, we have the Chihuahua. Chihuahuas, those tiny bundles of energy, have a reputation for being vocal. Their high-pitched barks can be quite piercing, especially when they feel threatened or want attention. While some people find their barking endearing, it can become annoying in certain situations, such as late at night or in quiet environments. Proper training and socialization can help curb their excessive barking tendencies, but it's important to remember that barking is often a part of their nature (They also tend to jump a lot!).
2. Dachshund: Sausage-shaped Sassiness
Dachshunds, or wiener dogs, are known for their elongated bodies and spirited personalities. While their adorable appearance may be deceiving, they can be quite mischievous and stubborn. One of the most common annoyances of owning a Dachshund is their sassy attitude which can be both entertaining and annoying. Dachshunds often have a mind of their own and may challenge their owners' authority. It's crucial to establish clear boundaries and consistent training from an early age to prevent them from becoming overly dominant. While their stubbornness can be frustrating, their playful and affectionate nature makes them a beloved breed for many.
3. Jack Russell Terrier: Energetic Dynamo
Jack Russell Terriers are a bundle of energy packed into a small-sized body. Their boundless enthusiasm and athleticism can be both impressive and exhausting for their owners. One of the most significant challenges of owning a Jack Russell Terrier is keeping up with their exercise needs. Failure to provide them with adequate physical and mental stimulation can lead to destructive behavior or excessive barking. Regular exercise, such as long walks or engaging playtime, is crucial to keeping these energetic dynamos happy and well-behaved.
4. Shih Tzu: Fluffy Diva
Shih Tzus, with their luxurious coats and regal demeanor, are often considered high-maintenance dogs. Their diva-like temperament can also be a source of annoyance for some owners. Shih Tzus are known to have a strong will and can be quite stubborn during training sessions. Patience and consistency are key when it comes to training these independent-minded dogs. They may also be prone to excessive barking, especially if not properly socialized or when left alone for extended periods.
5. Bulldog: Super Drool Machine
Bulldogs, with their adorable wrinkled faces and stocky build, are beloved by many. However, their endearing appearance comes with some less desirable traits. One of the most notorious annoyances of owning a Bulldog is their propensity to drool. Their loose jowls and short snouts contribute to excessive drooling, which can become quite messy and require regular cleaning. Keeping a towel handy and regularly wiping their faces can help manage the drooling.
6. Beagle: Nose on the Go
Beagles, with their soulful eyes and expressive faces, are undeniably charming. However, their incredible sense of smell can be a double-edged sword. Beagles are notorious scent hounds, and once they catch a whiff of an interesting scent, their instinct to follow it can be overpowering. This can result in them wandering off or even ignoring their owner's commands. It's important to keep them on a leash or within a securely fenced area to prevent any escapades.
7. Pomeranian: Fluffy Vocalist
Pomeranians may be small in size, but their vocal abilities are anything but. These fluffy little dogs have a tendency to bark at just about anything that catches their attention. Whether it's the mailman, a passing car, or even a gust of wind, Pomeranians will make sure you know about it. Their high-pitched barks can be quite ear-piercing, especially if you live in an apartment building or have close neighbors. This constant barking can quickly become annoying, not only for you but for those around you as well.
8. Basenji: The Aloof Explorer
The Basenji is a unique breed known for its lack of barking. While this may seem like a positive trait, their silence can be deceiving. Basenjis are incredibly independent and self-reliant, which can lead to behavior that some may find annoying. These dogs have a strong prey drive and are natural explorers. They are known to roam and wander, often ignoring commands to come back. This can be frustrating for owners who are used to more obedient breeds.
9. Siberian Husky: Energetic Snow Explorer
Siberian Huskies are known for their stunning appearance and striking blue eyes, but behind that beauty lies a bundle of energy that can be exhausting to deal with. These dogs were bred to pull sleds through snow for long distances, so it's no surprise that they have a seemingly endless supply of energy. Siberian Huskies require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and prevent destructive behavior.
10. Boxer: Bouncy Boxer Buddy
Boxers are known for their playful and energetic nature, which can be both endearing and exhausting for owners. These dogs have a tendency to jump up on people, especially when they are excited or want attention. While this behavior may be seen as playful, it can quickly become annoying, especially if your Boxer is large and has a lot of strength behind their jumps.
Check out why boxers are the worst dogs.
11. Basset Hound: Lowrider Sniffer
Basset Hounds have a unique appearance with their droopy eyes, long ears, and low-to-the-ground stature. While their appearance may be adorable, their behavior can sometimes be less than desirable. Basset Hounds are notorious for their strong sense of smell and their need to follow their nose wherever it leads them. This can make walks and outdoor activities a slow and frustrating experience, as Basset Hounds will often stop to sniff every blade of grass or investigate every interesting scent they come across.
12. Cairn Terrier: Terrier Tenacity
Cairn Terriers may be small in size, but they have a big personality that can sometimes be overwhelming for owners. These terriers are known for their tenacity and determination, which can lead to behaviors that some may find annoying. Cairn Terriers have a strong prey drive and are natural diggers, which means they may dig up your yard or garden in search of small critters. This can be frustrating and time-consuming to deal with.
13. Shiba Inu: Fox-like Zen
The Shiba Inu may be small in size, but it compensates for it with its big personality. Known for their independent nature, Shiba Inus can be incredibly stubborn, making them one of the most challenging breeds to train. They have a mind of their own and are not afraid to show it. Additionally, Shiba Inus are notorious escape artists and can find a way out of any enclosed space. Their mischievous behavior and tendency to roam can quickly become a source of frustration for their owners.
14. Chow Chow: Fluffy Guardian
The Chow Chow's fluffy appearance may deceive you into thinking that they are gentle and docile dogs. However, these lovable furballs have a strong protective instinct that can sometimes be taken to the extreme. Chow Chows are known for their aggressive behavior towards strangers and other animals, which can make them difficult to socialize. Their territorial nature can lead to aggressive outbursts, and their stubbornness makes training them a challenge.
15. Maltese: Tiny Bark Machine
Don't let their small size fool you. Maltese dogs have a big bark that can quickly become annoying. Maltese are known for their high-pitched, incessant barking, especially when they are bored or anxious. This can be a significant problem if you live in an apartment or have close neighbors. Their vocal nature, paired with their stubbornness, can make training a Maltese a frustrating experience.
16. Pekingese: Imperial Watchdog
The Pekingese has a rich history as a companion to Chinese royalty, but their regal demeanor can sometimes be a source of annoyance for their owners. Pekingese dogs are known for their stubbornness and can be challenging to train. They have a strong independent streak and are not always eager to please their owners. This can make obedience training a frustrating endeavor.
17. Afghan Hound: Regal Hunter
The Afghan Hound may be a sight to behold, but their regal nature can make them quite challenging to live with. Afghan Hounds are known for their independent and aloof personality. They have a strong prey drive and can be easily distracted by anything that moves, making them difficult to train and control off-leash. Their independent nature can make them aloof and uninterested in obedience training.
18. Brussels Griffon: Small, Stubborn Aristocrat
The Brussels Griffon may be small in size, but they have a larger-than-life personality. These little dogs are known for their stubbornness and can be quite challenging to train. They have a mind of their own and are not always eager to please their owners. This, combined with their high energy levels, makes them a breed that requires a lot of patience and consistency in training.
19. English Bulldog: Snoring Couch Potato
While English Bulldogs may have cute and wrinkly faces, this breed is notorious for its snoring habits. If you're a light sleeper, sharing a bedroom with an English Bulldog might not be the best idea. Additionally, these dogs are known for their laziness and lack of motivation. They prefer lounging on the couch rather than going for long walks or engaging in energetic play. This can be frustrating for owners who are looking for an active companion.
20. Italian Greyhound: Graceful Sprinter
Coming in at number 20 is the Italian Greyhound, a breed known for its grace and elegance. However, their graceful appearance can be deceiving when it comes to their behavior. Italian Greyhounds are notorious for their high energy levels and their need for constant exercise. Without sufficient physical activity, they can become restless and destructive.
21. English Mastiff: Gentle Giant Drooler
If you're looking for a big, cuddly companion, the English Mastiff might be the breed for you. However, be prepared for some slobbery challenges. English Mastiffs are notorious droolers. Whether it's a quick shake of their head or a drink of water, you'll need to keep a towel handy and be prepared for some slobber splatters.
22. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Royal Lap Warmer
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a breed that has stolen the hearts of many dog lovers with its adorable appearance and affectionate nature. However, their need for constant attention can be quite demanding. Cavaliers are known for their desire to be close to their humans at all times, often wanting to be on your lap or by your side. This can be frustrating if you're looking for a more independent breed.
23. Great Pyrenees: Grooming Giant
The Great Pyrenees is a majestic and beautiful breed known for its thick, fluffy coat. However, that luxurious coat requires a lot of maintenance. Great Pyrenees are heavy shedders and require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and free from mats. This can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if you're not comfortable with grooming your dog yourself.
24. Schnauzer: Bearded Charmer
Last but not least, we have the Schnauzer, a breed known for its distinctive beard and charming personality. While Schnauzers are generally intelligent and trainable, they can be quite vocal. They have a tendency to bark excessively, especially when they are bored or feel neglected. This can be a problem if you live in an apartment or have close neighbors.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it, while these dog breeds may have some annoying traits, it's important to remember that every dog is unique and none are truly "annoying".
The behaviors mentioned in this article are generalizations and may not apply to every individual dog. Proper training, socialization, and understanding of their breed-specific needs can help minimize any annoyances and foster a great relationship between you and your dog.
Embrace their uniqueness and enjoy the journey of being a dog owner!
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