9 Dog Breeds Often Returned To Shelters

Choosing the right dog breed is a big decision, but many people adopt without fully understanding a breed’s behavior, needs, or energy level. This often leads to heartbreak—for both the owner and the pet—when dogs are returned to shelters. Some breeds are more commonly surrendered due to traits that don’t align with the adopter’s lifestyle. Whether it’s due to high energy, training challenges, or unexpected behaviors, these dogs often end up back in the system.

In this blog, we’ll explore 9 dog breeds often returned to shelters, and explain why they can be a tough fit for certain homes. Knowing this information can help you make a responsible and lasting decision when adopting a furry friend. If you’re considering adoption, being informed about a breed’s requirements and challenges is key to providing a forever home. Let’s take a closer look at which breeds are most often returned—and why.

1. Pit Bull Terrier

Pit Bull Terriers are among the most frequently returned dog breeds to shelters, largely due to public misconceptions and strict breed-specific legislation in some areas. Despite their loyal and affectionate nature, many people adopt Pit Bulls without understanding the breed’s needs, energy level, or strength. These dogs are very intelligent and require consistent training and mental stimulation. If not properly exercised, they can become destructive or develop behavioral issues, which leads to them being surrendered.

Another major issue is the stigma associated with Pit Bulls; many landlords and insurance policies do not allow them, forcing owners to give them up. Additionally, inexperienced dog owners may struggle to handle their strong-willed personality, especially if the dog has had a troubled past. In reality, Pit Bulls can be gentle, loving pets when raised in a caring, structured environment. However, due to the challenges they pose for first-time owners, they often end up in shelters.

2. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are highly intelligent, protective, and hardworking dogs, but these very traits often make them overwhelming for the average pet owner. Many people adopt German Shepherds expecting a loyal family dog, only to discover that the breed needs extensive training, socialization, and daily physical and mental exercise. Without these, German Shepherds can become bored, anxious, or even aggressive.

They are also known for their protective nature, which can manifest as territorial behavior if not properly managed. In addition, they tend to shed heavily and may suffer from health issues such as hip dysplasia, which can result in high veterinary bills. Families unprepared for the time and financial commitment often return these dogs to shelters. Furthermore, German Shepherds can be wary of strangers and may not do well in busy households with lots of unfamiliar visitors, making them a challenging choice for inexperienced owners.

3. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are often seen as the ideal family dog, but they are also one of the most commonly returned breeds. This is largely because potential owners underestimate their high energy levels and need for constant attention and exercise. Labradors are very social and can become destructive when left alone for long periods, leading to complaints about chewing, barking, or digging. They also have a strong prey drive and may chase smaller animals or run off if not well-trained.

Labs are also prone to obesity if not given a proper diet and regular exercise, leading to additional health concerns. New owners may also struggle with their exuberant nature, especially during the puppy and adolescent stages, when they are especially boisterous. While Labs are extremely loving and loyal, they thrive best in active households that can meet their physical and emotional needs consistently.

4. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are often returned to shelters because their small size can mislead people into thinking they are easy, low-maintenance pets. In reality, Chihuahuas have big personalities and can be stubborn, loud, and even aggressive if not properly socialized. They often bond strongly with one person and may not tolerate strangers or other pets well, leading to biting or nipping behavior. Additionally, they are fragile dogs that require careful handling, especially in households with young children.

Many Chihuahuas also suffer from separation anxiety and may become vocal or destructive when left alone. Their small bladders can make house-training a challenge, and they may require more patience than people expect. Because of their long lifespan, they are a long-term commitment, which some owners may not fully consider. While they can be loyal and loving companions, Chihuahuas need an experienced owner who understands their specific behavioral and health needs.

5. Husky (Siberian Husky/Alaskan Malamute)

Huskies are beautiful, energetic dogs that attract many adopters based on their wolf-like appearance, but they are frequently returned due to their demanding nature. Bred to pull sleds over long distances, Huskies have incredible stamina and require extensive exercise to stay healthy and happy. Without it, they often become destructive or try to escape, as they are notorious escape artists. Huskies also have a strong prey drive and may not do well with smaller pets.

They are very vocal, known for howling rather than barking, which can be problematic in close living quarters. In addition, Huskies are independent and stubborn, which can make training a challenge. Many people underestimate their grooming needs, especially during shedding season. Because of all these factors, families often find themselves overwhelmed, especially if they are not experienced with high-energy working breeds. As a result, many Huskies are surrendered after the novelty of ownership wears off.

6. Dalmatian

Dalmatians gained popularity due to movies like 101 Dalmatians, but many people adopt them without understanding their temperament and needs. These dogs are energetic, intelligent, and can be quite stubborn. They require daily physical activity and mental stimulation to avoid behavioral issues such as destructiveness or hyperactivity. Dalmatians are also prone to deafness and urinary issues, which may result in unexpected vet bills that some owners are not prepared for.

Their strong protective instincts can lead to aggression if they are not properly socialized from a young age. While they can be loyal and affectionate pets, they need experienced owners who can provide consistent training and structure. Additionally, their short coats shed heavily, which surprises many first-time owners. Dalmatians are not the best fit for small apartments or homes without a fenced yard. When the reality of owning such a high-maintenance breed sets in, many are returned to shelters.

7. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small but mighty dogs that often end up in shelters because of their boundless energy and strong-willed personalities. Originally bred for hunting, these terriers have a high prey drive and require lots of mental and physical exercise. Without a job or consistent stimulation, they quickly become bored and may display destructive behaviors like digging, barking, and chewing. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but it also means they can outsmart inattentive owners.

Jack Russells also tend to be assertive and may not get along well with other pets or small children, especially if they were not socialized early. Due to their high activity levels, they need a structured environment with clear boundaries. People often adopt them because of their cute appearance but become overwhelmed by the amount of work they require. This mismatch between expectation and reality often leads to them being returned to shelters.

8. Beagle

Beagles are friendly, curious dogs with a strong sense of smell and a love for exploration. However, this same curiosity can make them difficult to contain, as they are known escape artists who follow their noses wherever it leads them. Beagles are scent hounds, which means they’re easily distracted by smells and may not respond well to recall commands. They are also prone to barking and howling, which can cause issues with neighbors, especially in apartments.

While Beagles are generally good with children and other pets, their stubbornness can make training a challenge. They are food-motivated and can become overweight if not exercised regularly. Additionally, their tendency to chew and dig can be destructive without proper guidance. Many new dog owners are unprepared for the breed’s unique traits and energy level, leading to frustration. Because of this, Beagles are often surrendered when their owners can’t meet their needs.

9. Border Collie

Border Collies are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds, but their brilliance often becomes a burden for unprepared owners. Bred to herd sheep, these dogs have incredibly high energy levels and need daily mental and physical stimulation to stay balanced. A bored Border Collie can become anxious, destructive, or even neurotic, displaying behaviors like chasing shadows or excessive barking. They also require advanced training, as their intelligence makes them quick to pick up both good and bad habits. Families that adopt Border Collies without a clear plan for exercise and engagement often find themselves overwhelmed.

This breed is not well-suited for sedentary lifestyles or small living spaces, yet many people adopt them based on looks or reputation alone. If their needs aren’t met, Border Collies can become too much to handle, leading to their return to shelters. With the right owner, however, they can thrive and excel in many roles.

Bottom Line

Adopting a dog should be a lifelong commitment, but mismatched expectations often lead to returns—especially with breeds that require more care, training, or space than expected. The 9 breeds discussed in this blog are not bad dogs—they simply need the right environment and experienced owners to thrive.

By understanding each breed’s needs, potential adopters can make informed decisions and avoid contributing to shelter overcrowding. Always research thoroughly and assess your lifestyle before bringing a new dog home. When the right match is made, both dogs and their owners enjoy a much happier, lasting bond.