A professional dog trainer has revealed which three popular dog breeds have the most problematic behavior – and it might surprise you.
Dogs remain one of the most beloved animals in the world, with many people eager to invite them into their families. They are often described as “man’s best friend” for their devoted and affectionate temperament, and they adapt easily to a variety of lifestyles and family environments.
Choosing a breed can be challenging, with potential owners considering various characteristics – size, health, exercise needs, hair loss and other factors – to decide which is the best fit.
However, dog behaviourist Will Atherton has found that three extremely popular breeds currently exhibit "a lot of behavioural problems".
The specialist has built a large following on social media thanks to his regular videos, which offer detailed insights and professional guidance based on his experience with dogs.
In a recent TikTok video, Atherton said: “These are the most problematic breeds, but also the most popular – and I know this as a clinical dog behaviorist.”
He explained that he receives “a lot of requests for help” from owners, and his years of experience have allowed him to identify breeds that “come up again and again and again.” According to him, there are three in particular:
"Of the most popular breeds in the world, the number one I'm seeing right now is the dachshund, then the border collie and then the German shepherd."
@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, behavior problems show up fast. So what do you think? Is it popularity... Or are some breeds genuinely more prone to problem behavior? 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)
He added: "The question is: am I seeing these breeds with a lot of behavioral problems because they are popular and naturally, the more popular they are, the more requests a trainer gets? Or is it to do with the predisposition of these breeds to behavioral problems, or a combination of both?"
In the video's caption, Atherton added: "Is it a matter of popularity... or are some breeds truly more prone to behavioral problems?"
In the comments section, social media users shared their opinions. One person said: “I have a dachshund and I 100% agree. They are a hunting breed and are extremely intelligent – they can be great dogs if you work with them. Now that they are so popular, many people get them just because they are small and cute, expecting a calm dog – and they are not at all.”
Another commented: "It's a bit of both - many border collies are bored and not worked hard enough, while shepherds and dachshunds are poorly raised."
A third user said: “Dogs don’t have behavioral problems, they have bad owners.” A fourth agreed: “Breed requirements are not met. It’s always a human problem. Dogs are just dogs.”
Before getting a dog, it is essential to do thorough research and assess whether you can meet its needs. Training is often necessary, and not all dogs are suitable for first-time owners.
If you are thinking about getting a dog, consider adopting a dog or puppy from a local charity or shelter, rather than buying one from a breeder.
t7 live
