A dog trainer keeps seeing 3 popular breeds displaying behaviour problems (stock image) (Image: Helen Harding via Getty Images)
A professional dog trainer has revealed which three breeds, among the most popular pet choices, actually have the poorest behaviour, and it might surprise some owners. Dogs remain one of the world’s most cherished animals, with countless people keen to invite them into their family.
They’re often described as “man’s best friend” owing to their devoted and affectionate temperaments, and seamlessly integrate into a range of lifestyles and family settings. Deciding which breed to get can be quite the challenge, with potential owners considering a variety of characteristics – including their size, their health, exercise requirements, whether they shed their fur and many more factors – before determining which suits them best.
However, canine behaviourist Will Atherton revealed there are three exceptionally popular breeds currently displaying “tonnes of behaviour problems”.
The specialist has accumulated a substantial following on social media thanks to his regular videos, which provide detailed knowledge and professional guidance based on his years of working with dogs.
In a recent video shared on TikTok, the expert said: “These are the worst behaved, most popular, dog breeds – and I know that as a clinical canine behaviourist.”
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Will explained he receives “huge amounts of requests for help” from owners and his years of experience working with dogs has enabled him to identify which breeds “keep popping up over and over again”.
According to the pro, there’s three in particular.
He continued: “Of the most popular breeds in the world, the number one that I’m seeing right now is the dachshund, followed by the border collie, followed by the German shepherd.
“Now, the question is, am I seeing those dog breeds with tonnes of behaviour problems because they’re popular and, naturally, just because they’re more popular you’re gonna get more requests?
“Or, is it anything to do with those breeds specifically being more prone to behaviour problems, or a combination of the two?”
In the caption accompanying his video, Will added: “Is it popularity… Or are some breeds genuinely more prone to problem behaviour?”
Meanwhile in the comments section, social media users were eager to share their opinions. One person said: “I have a dachshund and 100000% agree. This is essentially a hunting breed and they’re incredibly smart and can be great dogs, IF you put the work in.
@iamwillatherton Which popular dog breeds are the worst behaved? This might surprise you. The three breeds I get asked for help with the most are: Dachshunds. Border Collies. German Shepherds. Now here’s the real question… Is that because they’re badly behaved? Or is it because they’re extremely popular – so there are simply more of them? Dachshunds are bold, stubborn little hunters. Border Collies are intense, driven working dogs. German Shepherds are powerful, intelligent and highly responsive to their environment. All three are brilliant breeds. But they’re also breeds that need structure, clarity and leadership. Without that, behaviour problems show up fast. So what do you think? Is it popularity… Or are some breeds genuinely more prone to problem behaviour? Let me know in the comments and I’ll answer properly in a future video. #dogtraining #dogtrainer #dogtrainingtips #leadershipislove #dogbreeds ♬ original sound – Will Atherton (MSc)
“[Because] they’re now so popular, a lot of people get them because they’re cute and small, expecting an easygoing dog and they are far from that.”
Another commented: “It’s a bit of both – but there’s a lot of underworked collies who are just bored, and badly bred shepherds and dashes!”
A third said: “Dogs don’t have behavioural problems, they have bad owners.” A fourth concurred: “Their breed requirements aren’t being met. It’s ALWAYS a people problem. Dogs are just being dogs.”
Before getting a dog, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and evaluate whether you can fulfil a dog’s needs. Training is often a necessity, and it’s worth considering that not all dogs are suitable for first-time owners.
If you’re contemplating bringing a dog into your home, look into the advantages of adopting a puppy or dog from a charity or local shelter rather than purchasing from a breeder.
