These Breeds Are Filling Shelters Faster Than They Can Be Adopted
Shelters across the country are overwhelmed, and certain dog breeds are being returned at an alarming rate. Whether due to high energy, training challenges, or unexpected care requirements, many dogs find themselves back in shelters after owners give up on learning how to be proper pet parents.
Potential adopters often choose dogs based on appearance or popularity without fully understanding their needs. The result? Shelters bursting at the seams, struggling to accommodate dogs that simply weren’t the right fit for their original homes. If you’re considering adoption, it’s crucial to understand which breeds are most frequently returned and why. Here are the 15 dog breeds most commonly surrendered back to shelters.
1. Huskies Are Adopted For Their Looks And Returned For Their Energy
There’s no denying that Huskies are strikingly beautiful, but their high energy levels and need for constant activity make them a challenge for many households. They require significant daily exercise, and without it, they can develop destructive habits or attempt to escape.
Huskies also have a strong independent streak, making them less eager to please than other breeds. According to Chewy, this stubbornness, combined with their need for stimulation, leads to frequent returns. Many adopters underestimate the level of commitment needed to raise a happy, well-adjusted Husky.
2. American Pit Bull Terriers Face The Harshest Stigma
Pit Bulls are affectionate, loyal, and great with kids when raised in the right environment. Unfortunately, their reputation often precedes them. Many landlords and insurance policies have breed restrictions that force owners to surrender their beloved pets.
Beyond that, these dogs require strong leadership and consistent training. Without it, they can develop behavioral issues, leading to yet another return to the shelter. As stated by IHeartDogs, Pit Bulls make up a significant portion of shelter populations. Many never get the second chance they deserve.
3. Labrador Retrievers Get Over-adopted And Overwhelmed
America’s most popular dog is also one of the most commonly surrendered. Their friendly nature makes them an attractive choice, but few realize just how much energy these dogs bring to the table. Labs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy.
Without an outlet, their boredom can turn into destructive behavior, leading overwhelmed owners to give up on them. According to Pedigree, overbreeding has also contributed to temperament inconsistencies, making some Labradors more challenging than expected.
4. Chihuahuas Prove That Small Doesn’t Mean Low-Maintenance
Many assume that because they’re tiny, Chihuahuas require less effort than larger breeds. That couldn’t be further from the truth. These little dogs have big personalities and often develop nervous, snappy behaviors without proper training and socialization.
Additionally, they can be difficult for families with young children, as rough handling can make them fearful or reactive. As noted by Chewy, their high return rate is often due to unrealistic expectations from first-time owners.
4. German Shepherds Are A Handful Without Proper Training
Highly intelligent and deeply loyal, German Shepherds thrive in structured environments. However, their intelligence comes with a need for extensive training, socialization, and mental engagement. Without it, they can develop anxiety-driven behaviors or become destructive.
Their protective instincts can also make them challenging in homes that don’t provide consistent leadership. According to Rocky Kanaka, many families surrender them when they realize the time commitment required to raise a well-balanced Shepherd.
6. Boxers Can Be Too Much Dog For The Wrong Home
Boxers are high-energy, strong, and excitable. While their playful nature makes them wonderful companions, they require significant training and exercise. Many owners find themselves unprepared for the sheer enthusiasm these dogs bring into their homes.
If they don’t get the attention they crave, Boxers may develop hyperactive or destructive behaviors. Their tendency to jump and play roughly can also be overwhelming for small children. This combination often results in them being surrendered when owners feel they’ve taken on more than they can handle.
7. Beagles Have A Howl That Some Neighbors Don’t Appreciate
Beagles may be small, but their hunting instincts come with a loud, baying bark that can be difficult for some homes to tolerate. These scent-driven dogs are always on the hunt for adventure, and their need to explore can make them prone to escaping.
When Beagles don’t get enough stimulation, they can become noisy, anxious, and even destructive. Many owners surrender them because they weren’t prepared for the breed’s natural tendencies, leading to a high number of Beagles filling shelter kennels.
8. Australian Cattle Dogs Are Built For Work, Not Apartment Life
Herding breeds like Australian Cattle Dogs are incredibly intelligent, but their instincts make them a tough fit for many homes. These dogs need constant physical and mental stimulation, and when they don’t get it, they often turn to destructive behaviors.
Their natural herding tendencies can also lead them to nip at children or chase other pets, which can create issues in family environments. Without a job to do or space to run, many Australian Cattle Dogs are returned to shelters because they were simply too much to handle.
9. Border Collies Need A Full-Time Job To Stay Happy
Border Collies are among the most intelligent dog breeds, but their intelligence comes with high energy levels that demand near-constant mental and physical engagement. If they don’t have a job to do, they can become destructive or develop anxiety-related behaviors.
Many Border Collies end up in shelters because owners underestimate just how much stimulation they need. Without daily exercise and problem-solving activities, they can become frustrated and difficult to manage. This breed thrives in active homes with experienced dog handlers who understand their work-driven mentality.
10. Dachshunds Can Be Stubborn And Difficult To Train
Dachshunds may be small, but they have enormous personalities. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have a strong prey drive and a mind of their own. Their stubborn nature makes training a challenge, and they often refuse to follow commands unless properly motivated.
Many owners surrender Dachshunds because they underestimate their willfulness. Housebreaking can also be difficult, and without patient, consistent training, they may develop undesirable behaviors like excessive barking or resource guarding. They need an owner who is firm yet loving to bring out their best qualities.
11. Rottweilers Need Strong Leadership From The Start
Rottweilers are powerful, intelligent, and protective dogs that require early and consistent training. Without proper leadership, they can become territorial or overly dominant, which makes them difficult for inexperienced owners to handle.
This breed needs socialization from a young age to ensure they grow into well-mannered companions. Many Rottweilers are surrendered when owners realize they are not equipped to manage such a strong-willed breed. With the right training and structure, Rottweilers are incredibly loyal and affectionate pets.
12. Jack Russell Terriers Are Small But Incredibly High-Energy
Jack Russell Terriers are tiny powerhouses that require far more exercise than their size suggests. They were originally bred for hunting, and that instinct still drives them today. If they don’t get enough stimulation, they can become destructive and develop behavioral problems like excessive barking or digging.
Their intelligence and independence can also make training a challenge, leading to frustration for unprepared owners. Many Jack Russells are surrendered because people assume they’re low-maintenance due to their small size, when in reality, they need an active lifestyle to stay happy.
13. Australian Shepherds Are Gorgeous But Require Constant Activity
Australian Shepherds are not just beautiful—they are highly intelligent and energetic working dogs. Without a daily job, they can become anxious and engage in destructive behaviors like chewing or excessive barking. Their need for mental and physical exercise is often underestimated by adopters.
Many Australian Shepherds end up in shelters when families realize they cannot meet the breed’s demanding exercise requirements. They thrive in homes where they can participate in agility training, herding activities, or other high-energy dog sports. An Aussie in a sedentary household is a recipe for frustration—for both the dog and the owner.
14. Shih Tzus Are Often Returned Due To Underestimated Grooming Needs
Shih Tzus are known for their adorable looks and affectionate nature, but their long, flowing coats require regular grooming. Many owners fail to anticipate the commitment needed to keep their fur tangle-free and healthy. Neglecting grooming can lead to painful matting and skin issues.
Beyond their grooming needs, Shih Tzus can also be stubborn when it comes to house training. If not properly trained, they may develop bad habits that lead to frustration for owners. These dogs require patience, consistency, and a commitment to grooming to ensure they remain happy and healthy companions.
15. Bulldogs Have More Health Issues Than Some Owners Can Handle
Bulldogs are lovable and laid-back, but they come with a long list of potential health concerns. Their short snouts make breathing difficult, especially in hot or humid weather. Many Bulldogs require expensive veterinary care for respiratory issues, skin conditions, and joint problems.
Many owners are unprepared for the financial burden that comes with caring for a Bulldog. Without proper medical attention, their health can decline rapidly. While they make wonderful, affectionate companions, adopters should be aware of the breed’s unique needs before bringing one home.
Shelters across the country are struggling with overcrowding, and the cycle of adoption and return continues to fuel the problem. Many of these breeds are surrendered due to misunderstandings about their energy levels, training needs, and overall care requirements. While these dogs can make amazing pets in the right homes, they require owners who are fully prepared for their unique characteristics. Before adopting, research is crucial. Understanding what a breed needs can prevent heartbreak for both the dog and the owner. Responsible adoption decisions can help reduce shelter overcrowding and ensure that more dogs find homes where they can truly thrive.