A veterinarian in Texas has shared the five dog breeds she would not own herself, including one that can have "serious behavioural issues". Dr Rachel Siu, who posts as Dr Rachel on social media, named the breeds in a video for her more than 250,000 YouTube subscribers.
Huskies: working dogs that need a job
Dr Rachel highlighted huskies as the first breed, noting they are "beautiful", "intelligent" and "fun to be around", but as working dogs they "need a job to do". She said she would not be able to give a husky the level of attention it deserves.
Huskies originated in the harsh Arctic climate of Siberia and have an insulated double coat, making them well-suited to the cold but poorly equipped for hot, humid places like Texas. They are also big shedders, and Dr Rachel cautioned that it is important to select a breed that suits both lifestyle and location.
Dachshunds: prone to spinal issues
Dachshunds are "really cute, and really unique" but vulnerable to a number of serious health issues. Their long backs make them "really prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)", the most common spinal condition in dogs. Owners are warned to be careful with them and prevent them from leaping down from high surfaces.
The risk of serious spinal issues is so great that Dr Rachel recommends anyone who gets a dachshund to put money aside in case they need back surgery, which is not cheap.
Great Danes: short lifespans
Dr Rachel's third pick is the Great Dane, one of the biggest dog breeds in the world. She described them as loving goofballs but said they have comparatively short lifespans. The breed, which can grow almost 90cm tall at the shoulder and weigh up to around 90kg, grow quickly and "develop health issues really early on in life", so owners need to be ready for that.
Doodles: shedding and behaviour issues
The vet also said she could not own a doodle, a term for a Poodle crossed with another breed. Although doodles are perceived to be hypoallergenic, not big shedders, and low maintenance, Dr Rachel said in her experience it "couldn't be further from the truth". They are often mixed with shedding dogs, so they do shed, and a lot of grooming is required to prevent painful matting.
She recommends people wanting a high-maintenance dog with a similar look to get a poodle and have it cut in a doodle style. She also noted that while some doodles have nice temperaments, others have "serious behavioural issues".
Bulldogs: breathing problems
Her last pick is bulldogs, or any brachycephalic breed. Dr Rachel said they "struggle to breathe with their elongated soft palette, and shmooshed faces". If she ever rescued one, she would ensure they get airway surgery to improve their breathing and quality of life. Like dachshunds, they are at risk of IVDD and prone to allergic reactions, and she said they are "just not a healthy breed".
Dr Rachel encouraged prospective owners to explore alternative breeds if possible.
