Dogs are known as man’s best friend for a reason—they’re loyal, loving, and often a great source of joy. But as wonderful as they can be, owning a dog isn’t all cuddles and wagging tails. The reality of dog ownership comes with responsibilities, challenges, and sometimes downright frustrating moments.

If you’re considering bringing a dog into your life, it’s important to know the downsides as well as the benefits. Here are the ten worst things about owning a dog that every potential owner should be prepared for.

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1. Dogs Are Expensive

dog on scales — Source: Canva by RossHelen

Owning a dog isn’t cheap. From the initial cost of adoption or purchasing a dog to ongoing expenses like food, vet visits, grooming, and training, the costs add up quickly. Some of the biggest expenses include:

Veterinary bills (vaccinations, checkups, emergency visits, medications)
High-quality food
Grooming (especially for long-haired breeds)
Dog-sitting or boarding when you travel
Toys, leashes, and other accessories

Unexpected medical issues can be particularly costly, with surgeries or treatments running into the thousands. If you’re not financially prepared, a dog can quickly become a burden rather than a joy.

2. They Need Constant Attention

cute dog up close — PC: Lesli Whitecotton Unsplash

Dogs require a lot of time and attention. They aren’t independent like cats—they thrive on human interaction and can become anxious, depressed, or even destructive if left alone for too long.

Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety, meaning that if you work long hours or travel frequently, your dog may struggle with stress. Certain breeds, like Border Collies or German Shepherds, require near-constant stimulation and exercise, making them a poor fit for busy owners.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet, a dog probably isn’t the best choice.

Read Next: Smells Dogs Really Hate

3. They Can Be Destructive

Two dogs looking guilty after destroying pillow — Source: Canva by smrm1977 from Getty Images

Chewed-up shoes, shredded furniture, and holes in the backyard—dogs, especially puppies, can be incredibly destructive. This often happens because:

They’re teething and need something to chew on.
They’re bored and not getting enough exercise.
They suffer from anxiety when left alone.

Without proper training and supervision, your dog might turn your home into a disaster zone. Investing in chew toys and training is essential, but even then, accidents are bound to happen.

4. Constant Cleaning and Shedding

dog lying on rug unwell — Source: Canva by Aleksandr Potashev from Getty Images

Unless you get a hypoallergenic breed, be prepared for dog hair everywhere—on your clothes, furniture, and even in your food. Some breeds, like Huskies or Labradors, shed excessively year-round, requiring daily brushing and constant vacuuming.

Beyond shedding, dogs also track in dirt, mud, and who-knows-what from outside. Their paws leave prints, they drool on floors, and some even have that signature “dog smell” that requires regular bathing. If you’re a clean freak, a dog might test your patience.

5. They Need Daily Exercise (Even When You Don’t Want To)

white dog with lead in mouth — Source: Canva by chalabalaphotos

Dogs require daily walks, rain or shine. Whether it’s freezing cold, blisteringly hot, or you’re just feeling lazy, your dog still needs to go outside.

Some high-energy breeds require multiple long walks per day, plus additional playtime. If you’re not an active person or simply don’t have the time, this can quickly become exhausting.

Neglecting a dog’s exercise needs can lead to:

Behavioral problems (chewing, excessive barking, digging)
Weight gain and health issues
Frustration for both you and the dog

If you’re not ready for a commitment that forces you to be active every single day, think twice before getting a dog.

6. Training Takes Time and Patience

man playing with dog — PC: Joel Moysuh on Unpslash

A well-behaved dog doesn’t happen overnight. Training requires patience, consistency, and sometimes professional help. Puppies, in particular, require housebreaking, socialization, and obedience training.

Even adult dogs may develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, leash pulling, or aggression that need to be addressed. Some breeds are more stubborn than others, meaning training can be an ongoing challenge.

Without proper training, a dog can become a nightmare to live with—jumping on guests, barking constantly, or refusing to listen to commands. If you don’t have the time or patience to train a dog properly, it can make ownership very stressful.

7. They Can Be Aggressive or Unpredictable

dog mouth up close — Image by Free.gr from Pixabay

Even the sweetest dog can have moments of aggression, especially when they feel threatened or scared. Dogs that aren’t properly trained or socialized can become territorial, reactive to strangers, or aggressive toward other animals.

This can be particularly concerning if:

You have young children.
You live in an apartment with close neighbors.
You frequently have visitors in your home.

Some breeds are more prone to aggression than others, and dogs that have experienced trauma (such as rescues) may have unpredictable triggers. Understanding dog behavior is crucial, but even then, surprises can happen.

Read Next: Best Behaved Dog Breeds

8. Vet Bills and Health Issues

Haircut of a Maltipoo dog from a grooming salon — Source: Canva by kall1st0 from Getty Images

Dogs, like humans, get sick and injured. Even with regular checkups, they can develop:

Allergies
Skin conditions
Hip dysplasia
Ear infections
Cancer and other serious diseases

Emergency vet visits can be incredibly expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. Pet insurance can help, but it’s still an ongoing expense.

Older dogs require even more care, including medications, special diets, and frequent checkups. Owning a dog means being emotionally and financially prepared for their health issues over time.

9. Travel Becomes More Complicated

dog 6680642 1280 — Image by Eddie K from Pixabay

Spontaneous weekend getaways become a thing of the past when you have a dog. Unless you’re lucky enough to have a pet-friendly travel plan, you’ll need to figure out:

Pet-friendly accommodations
A trustworthy dog sitter or boarding facility
Transportation options (not all airlines or trains allow dogs)

Even if you find a solution, boarding fees and pet-friendly hotels add up quickly. For some people, the inability to travel freely is one of the biggest downsides of dog ownership.

10. Dogs Have Shorter Lifespans

Senior man and dog having eye contact — Source: Canva by pixelshot

Perhaps the most heartbreaking part of owning a dog is knowing that their time with you is limited. Most dogs live between 10-15 years, though some breeds have shorter lifespans.

Losing a beloved pet is devastating, and watching them age comes with emotional challenges. Senior dogs may require special care, including medications, mobility aids, and frequent vet visits.

Despite the joy they bring, saying goodbye to a dog is one of the hardest experiences for any pet owner. If you’re not emotionally prepared for this, it’s something to seriously consider before getting a dog.

The 10 Worst Things About Owning a Dog