From walking buddies to snuggling buddies, dogs make the best partners. However, if you have fallen in love with a high maintenance dog breed, you will get more than you bargained for.

While certain dogs are labeled high maintenance because they require some grooming, others are considered high maintenance because they need a lot of exercise, are exceptionally intelligent, get bored quite easily, or are prone to experiencing health problems.

There’s no surprise that every dog breed has its upside since dogs are extremely lovable creatures. However, you must be aware of what you are signing up for when buying one of these high-maintenance dog breeds. Here are some of the most popular high-maintenance dog breeds in the world.

1. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are an amazing but high-maintenance dog breed. These dogs are extremely intelligent and active, which is why if they don’t receive ample amounts of physical and mental stimulation, they become quite destructive. Australian Shepherds were originally bred to herd sheep, making them extremely protective of anything, such as cars, children, pets, etc. Additionally, many Australian Shepherds also tend to suffer from a certain degree of noise phobia.

2. Border Collie

Border Collies are quite similar to the Australian Shepherd. Not only are they are intelligent, but they are also bred to run around all day long. Considered as one of the smartest dog breeds, it can be difficult to keep a Border Collie constantly entertained and exercised. This can be especially hard for a dog owner who isn’t equally active. This dog requires a lot of physical stimulation, such as engagement in various sports like flyball, to keep them focused and exercised.

3. Akita

Originating from the mountainous regions of Japan, this dog breed includes large-sized dogs that are known as the protectors of the family. However, as courageous and loyal as they may be, these large dogs are often quite aggressive towards strangers or other dogs unless they are well-socialized.

Akitas are also prone to killing small animals and less likely to tolerate tantrums and teasing from children. In order to ensure that your pet behaves properly, you need to be assertive towards his needs and make sure that he receives proper training, exercise and socializes with others.

4.Boxer

Originating from Germany, Boxers are a playful and upbeat breed. However, they tend to suffer from a lot of health problems. This canine breed is one of the most likely breeds to get cancer. Boxers may also experience other health conditions, such as heart problems, thyroid, hip dysplasia, eye problems, intestinal issues, allergies, and epilepsy. Even though these dogs make fantastic family pets, as its owner, you will need to prepare yourself for the extensive vet bills.

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Another companion dog that was bred exclusively to give a person company all day long is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. As great as it is to have a canine friend to rely on, these dogs can end up developing separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel needs an owner that is at home most of the time. Also, their fur requires regular brushing and maintenance in order to prevent the formation of painful mats.

6. Brussels Griffon

Belonging to Brussels, Belgium, the Brussels Griffon is a distinctive and unusual dog breed. Although these dogs can be difficult to potty train, they are the ideal Velcro dog. So, if you’re looking for a pooch that follows you around everywhere all the time, then Brussels Griffon is the best option for you! However, pet owners who spend most of their time outside their home find this breed to be a little high-maintenance, especially because Brussels are prone to separation anxiety.

7. Chow Chow

Chow Chows have originated from Northern China and are considered to be one of the cutest dog breeds. Even though these dogs are strong-willed and independent, they can be pretty stubborn and difficult to train. Chow Chows require proper training and socialization to keep them from becoming aggressive. Moreover, their gorgeous, thick coat also needs considerable amounts of regular maintenance, such as daily brushing, preferably from a groomer to avoid uncomfortable patted melt.

8. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are one of the most beloved dog breeds, but as beautiful as they are, they have intensive grooming requirements. This dog breed has thick hair that requires brushing and trimming from a professional groomer every 4 to 6 weeks.

Cockers Spaniels have floppy and fuzzy ears that make them prone to ear infections and other health problems, such as blindness, hip dysplasia and cancer. Moreover, this dog breed can get quite attached to its owner, often resulting in the development of separation anxiety.

9. Are English Bulldogs High Maintenance

English Bulldogs are the most adorable canines out there. This dog breed is special due to its laid-back and super-loving personality. Unfortunately, English Bulldogs are at risk of experiencing a number of health problems. These dogs have chances of developing hip dysplasia more than any other dog breed. Moreover, they are highly likely to experiencing allergies, respiratory, and eyesight problems. So, if you do plan on adopting an English Bulldog, make sure that you set aside money to foot its vet bills.

10. English Springer Spaniel

As adorable as this medium-sized dog appears to be, it has quite the rage problem. English Springer Spaniels are prone to a condition known as the ‘Springer rage.’ In this condition, Springers forget who and where they are and end up attacking anything that even comes slightly close to them. Additionally, these dogs also require considerable amounts of exercise and frequent grooming.

11. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. These fierce-looking creatures often fall prey to a variety of health problems, such as immuno- and pancreatic deficiencies, perianal fistulas, degenerative myelopathy, bacterial skin infections, and many more diseases. German Shepherds can also become quite territorial and overly protective of their owners, causing them to become very aggressive.

12. Irish Setters

Even though Irish Setters are full of energy, you should not get them running until they are at least 18 months old because that is how long it takes for them to develop their joints. They remain puppies throughout their life which can be fun, but can also make training difficult.

13. Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois breed is often involved in search-and-rescue operations, police work, and obedience training, all of which speaks volumes about their smartness and dedication. However, if they do not get a sufficient chance to use their energy, they can become stressed, bored, reactive, overexcited, and mouthy. This canine’s work ethic and energy requires dog sports that demand a great deal of physical and mental exertion.

14. Labrador Retriever

Even the favorite American dog breed of the past three decades, is a high maintenance one. Without sufficient mental and physical stimulation, Labradors can become bored and indulge in destructive behavior and get into trouble. This breed is also vulnerable to various health issues, including allergies and hip dysplasia.

15. Greyhound

A Greyhound is extremely easygoing, and can make quite an affectionate companion. However, if you are going to adopt a Greyhound, you must be well aware of (and prepared for) the breed’s tremendous prey drive. Greyhounds love chasing wildlife, which means that you need to be extra careful during walks.

Also, if you have any smaller pets in your house, a Greyhound might be a real threat to their lives. You will need to put in a lot of recall training effort, and even then, you will have to keep your Greyhound on a leash except for when you are in extremely secure locations. 

16. Poodle

One of the most popular dog breeds, Poodles are extremely intelligent, full of energy, and have high grooming needs – the ultimate high maintenance dog. A Poodle will need plenty of mental and physical stimulation, as well as regular brushing. Without frequent grooming, the breed’s curly coat can easily turn into an uncomfortable and painful mat. 

17. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are used to cooler temperatures, which means that their bodies tend to overheat even in moderately warm areas. Also, Huskies shed a lot, particularly upon the changing of the seasons. Another thing to remember about the Siberian Husky is that it is an incredible escape artist, which means that you need to keep your wits about you at all times.

18. German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is one of the most popular and renowned dog breeds. Unfortunately, they are prone to a wide range of health problems, including skin infections, pancreatic- and immune-deficiencies, perianal fistula, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and pannus. In addition, German Shepherds are often territorial and can become overprotective when it comes to their owners.

19. Dalmatian

Do not be fooled by the ‘101 Dalmatians’ movie – while the flick did get the spotty appearance right, this is where the similarities pretty much end. As far as personalities go, Dalmatians are as aggressive and stubborn as they come, and you will need regular and rigorous training to instill the right manners. Since a lot of Dalmatian dogs are congenitally deaf, training success can be hard to achieve. Also, since Dalmatians are not short of energy, they will also require daily physical activity to keep them calm.

20. Puli

Puli stands out due to its distinctive double-coat that turns into strands, making it seem like the breed is donning dreadlocks.  As you can imagine, this also makes a Puli’s grooming regimen considerably challenging. Unless you are ready to commit a lot of time and effort to separating and maintaining the cords, it is best to not consider this breed as your next pet. It is also extremely hard to bath a Puli, as you would need to make sure that the cords are fully dried (wet cords are excellent breeding grounds for mildew). 

21. Jack Russell Terrier

Do not judge a book by its cover, and NEVER judge a Jack Russell Terrier by its size – this breed is a real pocket dynamite, and can run tirelessly for hours. This little pooch is the perfect companion for anyone with an active lifestyle.

However, if your idea of enjoyment is curling up in a blanket and watching your favorite Netflix show, then you should probably move on from the idea of adopting a Jack Russell Terrier. These pups require a gentle but firm hand that can show them how to channel their limitless energy in the right way.

22. Beagle

A Beagle is quite vocal, as it was bred to use its unique baying howl for alerting their human companions about a potential quarry. Even today, most Beagles just love to make noise, which means that they often do not need a reason to go off on a barking, howling, yelping, or whining fit. Mental and physical stimulation is the key to keeping a Beagle calm. Also, make sure that you reward good and quiet behavior.

Final Word

To sum up, high maintenance dogs are, well, high maintenance – and if you want to get one, you must make sure that you will be able to fulfill their needs and requirements.