Adopting a dog seemed like a dream, but for many, it turned into a nightmare.
Bringing a dog home should be a joyful experience, but for some owners, reality didn’t match their expectations. The adorable puppy they envisioned as a loyal companion quickly became a source of stress, regret, and unexpected challenges. Whether it was behavioral issues, financial strain, or an overwhelming lifestyle change, these regrets led to heartbreak and, in some cases, rehoming.
People who adopted dogs during the pandemic faced an even harsher reality. What seemed like a perfect solution to loneliness turned into a burden as life returned to normal. Here are the most common reasons people regretted adopting their dogs, straight from owners who learned the hard way.
1. Owning a dog can ruin your sleep schedule.
No one tells you how much sleep you’ll lose once you bring a dog home. Puppies cry at night, older rescues struggle with separation anxiety, and some breeds naturally wake up at the crack of dawn. Those peaceful Saturday mornings? Gone. You’ll be waking up to barking, whining, or a wet nose shoved into your face long before your alarm goes off.
As stated by Romper, many pandemic dog adopters quickly realized that their furry companions demanded 24/7 attention, disrupting sleep patterns and daily routines. Some dogs never adjust, and owners spend months—sometimes years—trying to correct bad habits. If you value your sleep, a dog might not be the best fit.
2. Some dogs destroy everything in their path.
You expect a puppy to chew a few shoes, but some dogs turn your entire home into their personal demolition site. Furniture, walls, carpets—nothing is safe. Even after months of training, some dogs never outgrow destructive behavior. Owners find themselves replacing household items over and over again, watching their hard-earned money disappear into shredded couch cushions.
According to Bogleheads, many first-time dog owners regret underestimating the destruction a bored or anxious dog can cause. Even with expensive chew toys and training, some dogs just love to destroy. The financial and emotional toll of constant repairs leaves many wishing they had adopted a fish instead.
3. The vet bills can be more expensive than you ever imagined.
Everyone knows pets require medical care, but few realize how quickly vet bills add up. Routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and flea treatments are just the beginning. If your dog has allergies, a chronic illness, or an accident, you could be looking at thousands of dollars in unexpected expenses.
As stated by Reader’s Digest, many regretful adopters underestimated the financial burden of pet ownership. Some owners have to take on second jobs or sacrifice vacations to afford their dog’s medical care. For those struggling financially, the guilt of not being able to provide proper healthcare is overwhelming.
4. Travel becomes nearly impossible once you have a dog.
Spontaneous weekend getaways and last-minute vacations become a thing of the past when you own a dog. Finding a trustworthy pet sitter can be a nightmare, and boarding costs add up quickly. Even if you bring your dog along, road trips and flights turn into stressful, unpredictable experiences.
According to Companion Life, nearly one in ten pet owners regret not considering how much a dog would limit their ability to travel. Some find themselves feeling trapped, unable to take a trip without worrying about their pet’s well-being. Over time, the frustration builds, leading many to question whether they made the right decision.
5. Some dogs never get along with other pets.
Introducing a new dog into a home with existing pets can be a disaster. Some dogs have strong prey drives, meaning smaller animals like cats, rabbits, and even small dogs are at risk. Other times, dominant personalities clash, leading to constant fighting and tension in the household.
Many regretful owners thought their dog would adjust, only to realize months later that things weren’t improving. They face the heartbreaking decision of either rehoming their new dog or living in a constant state of stress, keeping pets separated and refereeing fights. For multi-pet households, adoption can quickly turn into a regret.
6. The amount of training required is overwhelming.
First-time dog owners often underestimate just how much training goes into raising a well-behaved dog. Even the most intelligent breeds require months of consistent effort to master basic commands. Behavioral issues like separation anxiety, excessive barking, and leash pulling take even longer to fix.
Some dogs never fully train out of bad habits. Owners who expected a calm, obedient companion often find themselves dealing with a stubborn, unruly pet that constantly tests their patience. The mental exhaustion of training can leave people wondering if they made a huge mistake.
7. Not all dogs are good with children.
Many families adopt dogs thinking they’ll be perfect companions for their kids, only to realize too late that their new pet is anything but child-friendly. Some dogs have no tolerance for rough handling, sudden movements, or loud noises. Others may develop jealousy or even aggression towards younger family members.
In worst-case scenarios, families are forced to rehome their dog after a biting incident. Even if the dog isn’t aggressive, some breeds are simply too high-energy for young children, leading to constant chaos. What was meant to be a happy addition to the family can quickly turn into a safety concern. Some families try for years to make it work but eventually realize their home environment isn’t the right fit for their dog.
8. The responsibility never ends.
Owning a dog is a 24/7 commitment that never takes a break. Feeding, walking, grooming, training—it’s a never-ending cycle that lasts for years. Some owners go in thinking it’ll get easier over time, only to realize that the workload never really decreases.
The idea of coming home after a long day and still having to walk the dog, play with them, and clean up after them starts to feel exhausting. Even people who love their pets sometimes feel trapped by the responsibility. The guilt of not being able to give them enough time and attention only adds to the regret. Eventually, the weight of the constant care becomes overwhelming, making some question whether they were truly prepared.
9. Some dogs are incredibly high-maintenance.
Not all dogs are low-key companions that lounge around all day. High-energy breeds like Border Collies, Huskies, and Malinois require hours of mental and physical stimulation. Without it, they become anxious, destructive, and miserable.
Owners who weren’t prepared for the intense exercise needs of their dog often regret their decision. Some end up giving their pets away to homes that can provide a more active lifestyle. The guilt of not being able to meet their dog’s needs weighs heavily on them. Even hiring dog walkers or trainers isn’t always enough, leaving some owners feeling like they’re failing their pet.
10. Post-puppy blues are real.
Many new dog owners experience a period of regret and sadness after bringing a pet home. The sudden change in routine, loss of freedom, and overwhelming responsibility can trigger anxiety and depression. This phenomenon, often called “post-puppy blues,” is more common than people realize.
Some get through it with time, but others never fully adjust. The feeling of being stuck with a decision they regret can be crushing. Those who adopt on impulse are especially at risk of experiencing this emotional rollercoaster. For some, the regret fades, but for others, it lingers, leading to long-term frustration and resentment.
11. The dream of having a perfect dog doesn’t always come true.
Movies and social media paint a picture of dogs as loyal, loving companions who never cause trouble. Reality is often much messier. Some dogs are aloof, stubborn, or simply not as affectionate as their owners expected.
The emotional disappointment of not forming the bond they envisioned leaves some owners feeling resentful. They expected a best friend but ended up with a pet that barely acknowledges them. For those who had high expectations, the regret can be especially strong.
12. Rehoming a dog is heartbreaking.
For many, the worst part of regretful dog adoption is having to rehome their pet. The emotional toll of admitting they made a mistake, combined with the fear of judgment from others, makes the process incredibly difficult.
Even when it’s the right choice for both the dog and the owner, it leaves an emotional scar. Some owners never fully forgive themselves. The reality of dog adoption is not always what people expect, and sometimes, the best decision is also the hardest one to make.
Regretting a dog adoption is more common than people realize, but it’s not always the end of the story. Some owners push through the challenges, learning patience and training techniques to help their pet adjust. Others realize they are not the right fit and make the painful decision to rehome. While guilt often lingers, the experience teaches valuable lessons about responsibility, preparation, and understanding a dog’s needs. Adoption should never be impulsive, as the consequences can be heartbreaking. Taking the time to research, plan, and commit fully can prevent regret and ensure every dog finds the right home.