Dr Rachel Siu, a veterinarian based in Texas, has revealed the five dog breeds she would not own herself, including one breed that is "beautiful" and "intelligent" but hard work. In a video shared with her more than 250,000 YouTube subscribers in 2022, the animal expert named five types of pooch she would avoid and identified issues prospective owners should consider.
1. Husky: High Energy and Shedding
Dr Rachel warned that huskies, though "beautiful", "intelligent", and "fun to be around", need a lot of attention. As working dogs, they "need a job to do", and she acknowledged she could not give one the level of attention it requires. Originating from the harsh Arctic climate of Siberia, huskies have an insulated double coat that suits cold weather but makes them poorly suited to hot, humid environments like Texas. They are also big shedders, and Dr Rachel cautioned that it is important to select a breed that fits both your lifestyle and location.
2. Dachshund: Prone to Back Problems
Dachshunds are "really cute, and really unique", but their long backs make them "really prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)", the most common spinal condition in dogs. Owners must be careful to prevent them from leaping off high surfaces and sustaining serious injuries. Dr Rachel recommends setting aside money for potential back surgery, which is expensive.
3. Great Dane: Short Lifespan and Health Issues
Great Danes are loving goofballs, but they do not live very long. The breed can grow almost 90cm tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 90kg, growing quickly and developing health issues "really early on in life". Dr Rachel said owners need to be prepared for that sad reality.
4. Doodle: Misconceptions About Hypoallergenic Nature
Dr Rachel dispelled myths about doodles—Poodle crosses. They are often perceived as hypoallergenic, non-shedding, and low maintenance, but she said in her experience, it "couldn't be further from the truth". Doodles are "often mixed with shedding dogs, so they do shed" and require a lot of grooming to prevent painful matting. She suggested getting a poodle with a doodle-style cut instead. Additionally, while some have nice temperaments, she has encountered others with "serious behavioural issues".
5. Bulldog: Brachycephalic Health Problems
Bulldogs and other brachycephalic (short-headed) breeds suffer from various health problems. The most obvious issue is that they "struggle to breathe with their elongated soft palette, and shmooshed faces". Dr Rachel said if she ever rescued one, she would ensure it gets airway surgery to improve breathing and quality of life. Like dachshunds, they are at risk of IVDD and prone to allergic reactions, ultimately being "just not a healthy breed". She encouraged prospective owners to explore alternative breeds.
