These Breeds Face Serious Challenges Due to Breeding and Changing Lifestyles
Dogs have been human companions for thousands of years, but modern breeding practices and changing environments have left some breeds struggling. While they were once bred for hunting, herding, or companionship, today’s world presents unique challenges that their ancestors never faced. From severe health issues to behavioral struggles, many dogs are now suffering due to human-driven selective breeding and urban lifestyles.
Some breeds battle chronic illnesses because their exaggerated features make basic functions like breathing or walking difficult. Others have instincts that clash with modern expectations, leading to anxiety and behavioral problems. As much as we love them, some of the most popular breeds are also the ones struggling the most. Here are 10 dog breeds facing major difficulties in today’s world.
1. Bulldogs Can Barely Breathe and Struggle to Stay Cool
Bulldogs, both English and French, are among the most beloved breeds, but they pay a high price for their adorable squished faces. Selective breeding has given them extreme brachycephalic features, which severely impact their ability to breathe. They suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, making exercise and even sleep difficult.
According to PBS, these breathing issues also cause overheating, skin infections, and joint pain. Their short noses make it nearly impossible for them to regulate body temperature, making them prone to heatstroke. On top of that, their compact build results in birthing complications, often requiring C-sections. While they may be cute, their health struggles make them one of the most physically compromised breeds.
2. German Shepherds Are Breaking Down Due to Bad Breeding
Known for their intelligence and loyalty, German Shepherds are widely used as police and service dogs. However, decades of poor breeding practices have left them vulnerable to hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and chronic digestive issues like bloat.
As stated by WebMD, these health concerns often lead to mobility issues, requiring surgery or lifelong medication. Beyond their physical struggles, improper breeding has also resulted in many German Shepherds developing anxiety and fear-based reactivity. Without proper socialization, they can become highly reactive toward people and other dogs, making them difficult for inexperienced owners.
3. Great Danes Have Heartbreaking Short Lifespans
While their towering size is awe-inspiring, it also contributes to serious health issues. Great Danes are highly prone to orthopedic problems, hip dysplasia, and osteosarcoma (bone cancer), significantly shortening their lifespan.
According to The Independent, their average lifespan is just 6–8 years, far shorter than most other breeds. Their massive size makes them poorly suited for urban environments, as they need ample space to move comfortably. Heat intolerance is another challenge, as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature, making summers especially dangerous.
4. Dalmatians Suffer From Genetic Defects That Make Life Difficult
Dalmatians may have gained fame from movies, but their reality is far less glamorous. Nearly 30% of all Dalmatians are born with hereditary deafness due to a genetic mutation linked to their coat pattern.
According to Good Dog, they also suffer from urinary tract issues because of their unique metabolism, which makes them prone to kidney stones. Their boundless energy and high prey drive make them difficult to manage in sedentary households. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, they can become destructive, leading many owners to surrender them to shelters.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Have Severe Brain and Heart Problems
These small, affectionate dogs are adored for their sweet nature, but their health issues are severe. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to syringomyelia, a condition where their skulls are too small for their brains, causing extreme pain and neurological damage.
Many Cavaliers also suffer from mitral valve disease, leading to early heart failure. Their overbreeding to maintain their signature “toy” look has worsened these conditions, shortening their lifespan and causing unnecessary suffering. While they are excellent companions, their health struggles highlight the dangers of breeding purely for aesthetics.
6. Pugs Experience Constant Discomfort Due to Their Facial Structure
Pugs are another brachycephalic breed suffering from severe respiratory issues. Their short noses cause brachycephalic airway syndrome, making it difficult for them to breathe, especially in warm weather. Many also develop eye problems, including painful ulcers due to their protruding eyes.
These dogs also suffer from Pug Dog Encephalitis, a fatal brain inflammation that has no cure. Compulsive behaviors like excessive tail-chasing and noise sensitivity further add to their struggles. While their squishy faces are popular on social media, their day-to-day lives are often filled with discomfort.
7. Boxers Are Prone to Heart Disease and High Cancer Rates
Energetic and affectionate, Boxers are fantastic companions, but they have significant health risks. They are highly prone to arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that can lead to sudden death.
Boxers also have one of the highest cancer rates among dog breeds. Despite their athleticism, they often suffer from breathing difficulties due to their shortened snouts. Their high energy levels make them a challenge for urban living, as they require large spaces and regular exercise to avoid stress-related behavioral problems.
8. Dobermans Face High Risks of Sudden Cardiac Death
Dobermans are known for their loyalty and intelligence, but their health concerns are alarming. Nearly 50% of Dobermans diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy will experience sudden cardiac death.
This breed is also prone to cervical vertebral instability, which can lead to paralysis. Their strong protective instincts can cause anxiety in city environments where they are constantly exposed to strangers and loud noises. Without proper training and socialization, their territorial nature can become a liability.
9. Saint Bernards Struggle With Their Own Size
Their massive size, combined with their thick coat, makes Saint Bernards poorly suited for warm climates. They are prone to hip dysplasia and gastric torsion, both of which require expensive medical treatment.
Saint Bernards often struggle with joint issues as they age, making it difficult for them to move around. Their sheer size also limits housing options, as many apartments and small homes cannot accommodate them comfortably.
10. Pitbulls Suffer More From Societal Stigma Than Genetics
Unlike many breeds on this list, Pitbull-type dogs don’t struggle due to health problems but rather due to societal perceptions. Many regions have enacted breed-specific legislation banning them, despite studies showing that their behavior is shaped more by environment than genetics.
Irresponsible breeding has led to joint disorders and skin conditions in some lines, but the bigger issue is the unfair stigma surrounding them. With proper training and responsible ownership, Pitbulls can be some of the most loving and well-adjusted family dogs.
Modern breeding and lifestyle changes have left many dogs struggling in ways they never had to before. While we love these breeds, it’s important to acknowledge their challenges and advocate for responsible breeding practices. Without intervention, many of these beloved breeds will continue to suffer from avoidable health and behavioral issues.