Welcoming a dog into your home is a deeply rewarding experience, but choosing the right breed is critical, especially if you’re considering one that demands extra attention and care. Some dogs thrive on routine grooming, specialized diets, or regular exercise, requiring a committed owner ready to invest both time and effort. In this exploration of the ten most high-maintenance dog breeds, we highlight the unique needs and characteristics that make these canines stand out. Whether driven by their luxurious coats, energetic personalities, or health considerations, these breeds demand dedication but promise unparalleled companionship for those up to the challenge.
Owning a dog is a rewarding experience, but some breeds require significantly more care than others. High-maintenance dogs demand extra attention in grooming, training, exercise, and health care. While their beauty and intelligence make them appealing, potential owners should be prepared for the time, effort, and costs of keeping them happy and healthy.
From long, flowing coats requiring frequent grooming to high-energy dogs requiring extensive exercise, these breeds are best suited for dedicated pet owners. If you’re considering one of these breeds, be sure you’re ready for the required commitment!
High Maintenance Dog Breeds
1. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a toy breed that originated in Tibet and was later refined in China, where it became a cherished companion of royalty. Bred as a lap dog, this affectionate and friendly breed thrives on human companionship and enjoys being pampered. Despite its small size, the Shih Tzu has a bold personality and requires attentive care to stay happy and healthy.
Shih Tzus are high-maintenance due to their grooming, health concerns, and strong need for companionship. They do not tolerate being left alone for long periods and thrive in homes where they receive constant love and care.
One of the most distinctive features of the Shih Tzu is its long, luxurious double coat. This flowing fur gives the breed its signature regal look but also makes grooming a time-consuming task. Their coat can easily become matted and tangled without proper care, leading to discomfort and skin issues.
Grooming a Shih Tzu requires daily brushing to prevent knots and frequent baths to keep their coat clean. Professional grooming is often necessary every few weeks to maintain their appearance. Regular eye and facial cleaning are also essential due to their prominent eyes and short muzzle.
Beyond grooming, Shih Tzus need careful attention to their health and well-being. Their flat face makes them prone to breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather, requiring owners to monitor their activity levels. They also need regular dental care, as small breeds are more susceptible to dental issues.
For dedicated pet owners, the effort is rewarded with a loyal and affectionate companion.
2. Akita
The Akita is a large, powerful dog breed that originated in Japan and was bred for hunting and guarding. Known for its strength, loyalty, and dignified demeanor, the Akita is a highly intelligent and independent dog. While they are incredibly devoted to their families, they require experienced handling and consistent training.
Akitas are naturally strong-willed and require firm, consistent training from an early age. Their independent nature can make them stubborn, so training must be handled with patience and positive reinforcement. Without proper socialization, they can become territorial and aggressive towards other animals.
One of the biggest challenges of owning an Akita is their thick double coat, which sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing is essential to control shedding and maintain coat health. They also require frequent bathing to keep their fur clean, as they are prone to skin issues if not properly groomed.
Exercise is another crucial factor in maintaining an Akita’s well-being. While they don’t have extreme energy levels, they still need daily physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Long walks, structured play, and obedience training are necessary to keep them engaged.
Due to their size, grooming needs, strong temperament, and need for firm training, the Akita is considered a high-maintenance breed. They thrive in homes with experienced owners who understand their unique traits and can provide the required time, structure, and care.
3. Bulldog
The Bulldog, also known as the English Bulldog, is a muscular, medium-sized breed known for its loose skin, wrinkled face, and distinctive pushed-in nose. Originally bred for bull-baiting in England, Bulldogs have since become affectionate and loyal companions. Their laid-back demeanor makes them great family pets, but they come with significant maintenance needs.
Despite their easygoing nature, Bulldogs are a high-maintenance breed due to their breathing problems, skin care needs, and health concerns. They require attentive owners who can provide specialized care and ensure their well-being. With proper maintenance, Bulldogs make loving and affectionate companions.
One of the biggest challenges of owning a Bulldog is their breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure. They are prone to overheating, struggle with strenuous exercise, and require careful monitoring in hot weather. Owners must provide a cool, well-ventilated environment to prevent heatstroke.
Their wrinkled skin requires frequent cleaning to prevent infections and irritation. Moisture and dirt can accumulate in their facial folds, leading to bacterial growth. Regular wiping and drying of their wrinkles are essential to keep their skin healthy and odor-free.
As noted by PDSA, bulldogs are also prone to multiple health issues, including hip dysplasia, joint problems, and digestive sensitivities. Their stocky build makes them susceptible to obesity, so a controlled diet and moderate exercise are crucial to maintaining their health. Vet visits and preventive care are a must.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small but fearless breed that originated in England in the 19th century. Bred by Reverend John Russell for fox hunting, this breed is known for its boundless energy, intelligence, and tenacious spirit. Despite its compact size, the Jack Russell Terrier is a working dog, requiring an active and engaged lifestyle.
Their intelligence and strong-willed nature also demand consistent training and firm leadership. Jack Russells can be stubborn and independent, making obedience training essential from an early age. Their high prey drive means they are prone to chasing small animals, requiring a securely fenced yard and careful supervision.
Jack Russells come in three coat types—smooth, rough, and broken—all of which are dense and weather-resistant. While their grooming needs are relatively low, regular brushing is necessary to manage shedding and keep their coat healthy. Rough and broken-coated varieties may require occasional hand-stripping to maintain their texture.
The Jack Russell Terrier’s unmatched energy level and need for constant stimulation make it high-maintenance. This breed requires hours of daily exercise, including long walks, agility training, and interactive play. Without sufficient activity, they can become restless and develop destructive behaviors.
Due to their intensity, high exercise demands, and strong personality, Jack Russells are best suited for experienced owners who can provide structure, training, and plenty of activity. While affectionate and fun-loving, they require dedication and effort to thrive as happy, well-behaved companions.
5. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, often called the Sheltie, is one of the most loyal dogs and a highly intelligent herding breed that originated in the Shetland Islands. These energetic dogs were bred to herd livestock, making them one of the most active dogs among popular breeds.
Their intelligence and affectionate nature make them an ideal breed for families, but they require extra effort to stay healthy and well-behaved.
Shelties have a dense double coat requiring extensive grooming to maintain beauty. They need thorough brushing, regular grooming, and bathing multiple times a week to prevent tangles and mats.
Shelties need regular exercise and mental stimulation as they are very active dogs. They demand time for dog agility training, obedience work, and playtime. Without extra training and activity, shelties can develop behavioral problems such as excessive barking or destructive habits.
Shelties are social dogs but need early socialization to get along with other dogs. They are highly trainable but require expert training from a young age to manage their herding instincts. Additionally, their floppy ears can make them prone to ear infections, leading to higher bills.
Though Shelties are affectionate, they can suffer from separation anxiety, making them a poor choice for busy families who are often away. The Sheltie is a fantastic choice if you are looking for a high-energy, intelligent, and devoted companion.
6. Border Collies
Border Collies are one of the most intelligent and energetic dog breeds, originally bred for herding livestock in the border regions of England and Scotland. Their keen instincts and remarkable agility have made them a favorite among working dogs and dog sports enthusiasts.
Known for their incredible problem-solving abilities, these dogs thrive in environments where they have tasks to complete and space to run.
One of the standout features of a Border Collie is its luxurious double coat, which can be either rough or smooth. This thick fur protects against harsh weather conditions but also requires frequent grooming to prevent matting and excessive shedding.
Regular brushing, at least two to three times a week, is essential to keep their coat healthy and debris-free. Additionally, they may need professional grooming occasionally to maintain their appearance and prevent skin issues.
Border Collies are considered a high-maintenance breed primarily due to their boundless energy and mental stimulation needs. They require rigorous daily exercise, including long walks, agility training, and interactive play, to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Without proper mental and physical engagement, they can develop anxiety or behavioral issues. Their intelligence demands consistent training and challenges, making them best suited as family guard dogs for highly active owners who can dedicate time to their care.
7. Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a highly intelligent and energetic breed, well-known for its exceptional working abilities. Originally bred in Belgium as a herding dog, this breed quickly gained recognition for its versatility, excelling in roles such as police, military, and search-and-rescue work.
Belgian Malinois thrives on mental and physical challenges, making it an ideal choice for experienced handlers who can provide structured training and stimulation.
With a short, dense coat, the Belgian Malinois may seem like a low-maintenance breed at first glance. However, they shed consistently throughout the year, requiring regular brushing to manage loose hair. Their grooming routine is simpler, but they still need frequent nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care to stay in top condition.
What makes the Belgian Malinois truly high-maintenance is its relentless energy and need for constant mental stimulation. This breed requires extensive daily exercise, including long walks, obedience training, and engaging activities such as agility or scent work.
Without proper outlets for their intelligence and energy, they can develop behavioral issues, including excessive barking and destructive tendencies. Their demanding nature means they are not suited for first-time dog owners. The Belgian Malinois is best for active, experienced owners who can devote time and effort to meeting its physical and mental needs.
8. Siberian Huskies
Siberian Huskies are a striking and resilient breed originally bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia for pulling sleds across icy terrains. Known for their wolf-like appearance, Siberian Huskies have a thick double coat, erect triangular ears, and vibrant blue or multi-colored eyes that make them stand out.
The Siberian Husky’s dense double coat requires diligent care. Their fur sheds heavily, particularly during seasonal changes (spring and fall), so regular brushing is necessary to manage shedding and avoid mats.
Typically, they need grooming two to three times a week during the shedding seasons and once a week at other times to maintain a healthy coat. They are known to “blow” their coat, meaning they shed large amounts of hair at once, so frequent cleaning of the house and grooming of the dog is essential.
Siberian Huskies are considered a high-maintenance breed due to their energy levels and exercise needs. These dogs are extremely active and need daily physical and mental stimulation, including long runs, hikes, and interactive play.
Without enough exercise, Huskies may become destructive, escape artists, or develop behavioral problems.
Britannica states that Huskies tend to be independent and strong-willed, so consistent training keeps them well-behaved. Because of their history as sled dogs, they are best suited for owners with the time and energy to devote to their exercise and grooming needs.
9. Chow Chows
Chow Chows are a unique and ancient breed originally from China, where they were used for hunting, guarding, and pulling carts. With their lion-like mane, thick double coat, and signature “blue-black” tongue, Chow Chows have an unmistakable appearance that sets them apart from other breeds.
The Chow Chow’s luxurious, dense, plush coat requires significant grooming to maintain its health and appearance. This breed sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes, so regular brushing, at least two to three times a week, is essential to prevent mats and tangles.
They also benefit from occasional baths and consistent ear cleaning to avoid infections. Grooming can be quite time-consuming, especially given the thick undercoat, and neglecting this can lead to skin problems and discomfort for the dog.
As a high-maintenance breed, Chow Chows require more than just grooming attention. Their independent nature means they can be challenging to train, as they are not always eager to please. They are also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems, which may require regular vet check-ups.
Petplan states that Chow Chows are best suited for dog owners who provide consistent training, grooming, and attention. While they are often calm and reserved, they still need daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and well-behaved.
10. Puli
The Puli is a distinctive and energetic breed originating from Hungary, known for its beautiful, corded coat that gives it a striking appearance. This breed was traditionally used for herding livestock, and its agility, intelligence, and strong work ethic make it a fantastic companion for active families.
The Puli’s unique coat requires dedicated care and grooming to maintain its beauty, with regular brushing and occasional bathing to prevent mats from forming in its cords.
Pulis are particularly suited for a young family who enjoys an active lifestyle. They thrive in environments where they can engage in rough-and-tumble play, such as running or hiking. With high energy levels, these dogs require daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent interaction.
It’s important to start training early, as they are intelligent and eager to please but can also be independent. Establishing good habits early on is essential for a well-behaved Puli, as their playful nature can sometimes lead to stubbornness if not properly guided.
The Puli’s curled tail adds to its distinctive look, and their beautiful coats are a significant part of their charm, but it also means they need a higher level of care. Regular grooming, including checking for matting, is crucial to keeping their coats in top shape.
In addition to grooming, it’s also important to maintain a balanced diet, which supports their active lifestyle and overall health. Routine check-ups with a veterinarian will ensure that the Puli stays healthy, especially as they grow and mature.
Conclusion
Owning a high-maintenance dog breed is a rewarding yet demanding experience that requires time, dedication, and an understanding of the breed’s unique needs. While certain breeds, like the Afghan Hound with its flowing locks, require extensive grooming, others, such as working breeds, need intense exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
Unlike small dogs such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog, or Cocker Spaniels, which may have lower maintenance needs, high-energy and high-maintenance breeds demand consistent training, structured activities, and regular care.
Before bringing home a dog, assessing whether you can meet its grooming, exercise, and training requirements is essential. Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle ensures a harmonious relationship where the owner and pet can thrive together.
Concluding, the 10 most high-maintenance dog breeds demand significant commitment and care from their owners, including time, financial resources, and attention. These breeds often require specialized grooming, strict dietary needs, extensive exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups to maintain optimal health. While they can be challenging, the rewards of owning such breeds are immense, as they often form deep bonds with their owners and enrich households with their distinct personalities and loyalty. Prospective owners should carefully consider their lifestyle and resources before choosing one of these demanding yet incredibly rewarding companions.