Picking a dog breed that fits your lifestyle is important, especially if you’re busy. All dogs require love and care, but some breeds are particularly energetic, crave attention, or are more sensitive, which can make them a bit tricky for those with busy schedules. Choosing a breed that matches your available time and energy will create a happy and balanced environment for you and your pet. Let’s take a look at 15 dog breeds that might not be ideal for owners who have limited time to dedicate to them.

1. Border Collie

Border Collies are known for being smart and great at herding, but these qualities can make them a challenge for owners with a hectic lifestyle. Border Collies were initially bred for herding livestock, meaning they thrive when they have tasks to complete and plenty of space to run around. If they don’t get enough mental stimulation, they can easily get bored, which may result in destructive behaviors like chewing or digging. Additionally, Border Collies form close connections with their owners, making it difficult for them to be left alone. If you have a busy schedule, keeping up with a Border Collie’s need for exercise and companionship might be challenging.

2. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are lively dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Bred originally to work, they have a natural need to stay active. Without enough time and activity to keep them occupied, they can become restless or anxious. They need more than just a simple walk; they flourish with agility exercises, training sessions, and activities that mimic herding tasks. Additionally, they are very loyal and build strong bonds with their families, meaning they thrive with regular interaction. Owners with packed schedules might struggle to meet this breed’s energetic nature and desire for companionship.

3. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are energetic and independent dogs, famous for their adventurous spirit and strength. Initially developed for sledding, these dogs need a lot of exercise and space to move around. Huskies are known for their ability to escape, so it’s important to have secure fences and keep an eye on them to stop them from wandering off. Furthermore, they have a strong instinct to chase, which means they might not be friendly with smaller pets. For busy owners, managing a Husky can be challenging, as they require both plenty of exercise and social time to avoid behaviors like digging or howling.

4. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs with big energy and vibrant personalities. Despite their size, they’re bred for hunting and digging, meaning they need lots of exercise and mental engagement. If these needs aren’t met, they might resort to chasing, barking, or digging. Jack Russells also have a strong instinct to chase, so they may not be the best fit for homes with small pets. For busy owners, a Jack Russell’s boundless energy can be overwhelming, as these dogs require plenty of attention and playtime to stay happy and well-behaved.

5. Dalmatian

Dalmatians are famous for their unique spots and energetic nature, but they need more than just a casual stroll to keep them happy. Originally bred as carriage dogs, they would run alongside horses, which means they have a lot of energy and require regular exercise. Dalmatians also form strong connections with their owners and can feel anxious or act out if left alone for extended periods. Additionally, they enjoy social interaction, which makes them challenging pets for those often away. Their unique energy and attention needs mean they may not fit well with a hectic lifestyle.

6. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are little dogs that require a lot of attention and companionship. Known for their loyalty, Chihuahuas often form strong bonds with their owners, sometimes becoming overly attached. Being left alone can be tough for them, and it might cause separation anxiety, leading to excessive barking or other behaviors. Additionally, they can be sensitive to changes in routine or loud environments, making them better suited to quiet, stable households. Busy owners might struggle to meet a Chihuahua’s emotional needs, as these dogs thrive on stability and companionship.

7. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are elegant, active dogs known for their loyalty and regular exercise needs. Originally developed for hunting, they’re energetic and need physical activity and mental stimulation to stay well-rounded. When lacking regular companionship and stimulation, they may feel anxious and behave destructively. Weimaraners form strong bonds with their families and can develop separation anxiety if left alone too often. If you have a busy schedule, meeting a Weimaraner’s needs can be challenging, as they truly enjoy interaction and benefit from consistent routines.

8. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are friendly and affectionate dogs that thrive on companionship but struggle when left alone. These loving dogs can feel anxious or withdrawn without regular interaction and exercise. Additionally, their long, silky coats require regular grooming, which can take extra time. Cocker Spaniels do best in homes where they’re included in everyday activities and receive ample attention. Without these essentials, they might develop separation anxiety or behavioral issues, making them challenging for owners with busy schedules.

9. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are known for their calm demeanor and are often seen as low-maintenance due to their relaxed attitude. However, they still need regular attention and moderate exercise to stay happy. If left alone for too long, they may feel anxious or become stubborn. Additionally, their long ears and droopy skin need regular grooming to avoid health issues. Basset Hounds also tend to overeat, so keeping them active and managing their diet is essential. Busy owners may find it hard to meet these needs, as Basset Hounds are social dogs that enjoy company.

10. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are loving, devoted lap dogs that thrive on companionship. They struggle with alone time and can experience separation anxiety if left by themselves frequently. Additionally, Shih Tzus require regular grooming to keep their long, silky coats in top shape, which can be time-consuming. Owners with busy schedules may find it challenging to meet a Shih Tzu’s grooming and companionship needs, as these dogs flourish in settings where they receive consistent love and attention. A Shih Tzu does best in calm, nurturing environments.

11. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are known for their intelligence and loyalty, which makes them excellent working dogs. They need plenty of mental and physical exercise to stay balanced and healthy. German Shepherds thrive in active environments where they can have responsibilities or daily tasks, which can be tough for owners with packed schedules. Without enough stimulation, they may become bored or even destructive. Additionally, German Shepherds form close bonds with their families, making them ill-suited to long periods alone.

12. Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are smart and energetic, requiring daily activities to stay happy. These dogs excel at training and agility, needing mental and physical engagement to stay entertained. Additionally, their curly coats require regular grooming to keep looking neat, adding extra time commitments. Busy owners may find it hard to meet a Poodle’s grooming and exercise needs, as they thrive in environments with consistent attention. Without it, they may feel anxious or act out, making them a better match for owners with more flexible schedules.

13. Beagle

Beagles are playful dogs with a keen sense of smell and a natural curiosity for exploration. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they instinctively follow scents, so they need exercise and supervision. Beagles can get frustrated and vocal if left alone for long stretches, as they’re social and crave interaction. Additionally, they tend to overeat, so keeping a healthy weight requires daily exercise. For a busy owner, meeting a Beagle’s needs can be challenging, as they thrive on both attention and activity.

14. Akita

Akitas are known for their loyalty and protective nature, but they require ample socialization and regular exercise to stay balanced. This breed can be wary of strangers and does best with a strong, consistent relationship with its owner. Akitas can experience separation anxiety when left alone, leading to behaviors like chewing or barking. Additionally, they require routine training to stay well-mannered, which can be time-consuming. Owners with busy schedules might struggle to provide the attention and structure that an Akita needs to flourish.

15. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, energetic dogs that love companionship, making them one of the most popular breeds. They need regular exercise, engagement, and a structured routine to avoid boredom or weight gain. Labradors can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone often, leading to behaviors like chewing. Furthermore, they have a good appetite and require daily exercise to stay fit. For busy owners, keeping up with a Labrador’s needs can be challenging, making them better suited for active households.