10 Extreme Dog Breeds For Experienced Owners Only

#1 – Komondor

Not typically recommended as a family dog, the Komondor needs a seasoned owner who understands the complexities of the breed. These rule-followers falter when no boundaries are set. When a Komondor falters, she may turn aggressive. This breed requires a strong pack leader who won’t waver.

#2 – Akita

Confident and loving to its pack, the Akita needs a seasoned owner who can set boundaries and stick to the rules. Training and proper socialization must begin from puppyhood. Originally bred as guardians, the Akita needs proper socialization to appreciate people outside of their pack.

#3 – Chow Chow

This breed is loyal to their pack, as long as the humans remain in the Alpha role. If an inexperienced owner slides on the rules, a Chow may become downright unruly and challenge for pack leadership. Proper socialization in their early years will teach a Chow to be respectful and friendly.

#4 – Australian Shepherd

Bundles of energy and one of the most intelligent breeds, an owner with an Australian Shepherd must remember this is a working breed. They need daily tasks to keep their overly active minds whirring in the right direction. In the absence of daily physical and mental activity, an Australian Shepherd may become destructive.

#5 – Weimaraner

Considered affectionate and loving, the Weimaraner is a highly intelligent and physically active breed. Proper training should begin early with an experienced handler who appreciates the breed. Training should be a lifelong endeavor, pushing the dog mentally and physically to keep the dog affectionate and loving.

#6 – Airedale

Airedales are loving, playful dogs who need to understand that all humans are “top dog” in the pack. If there is one alpha human and one submissive human, this breed may challenge the submissive human for second in command.  Ensure proper training and socialization early, Airedales need an owner who will deliver a firm but gentle hand.

#7 – Siberian Husky

These high energy dogs are happy, loving and goofy. With an experienced owner who appreciates and knows the breed, the Husky will thrive and continue to be happy and goofy. Without a physical and mental outlet (plenty of exercise, daily tasks) this breed will turn destructive in an attempt to find their own amusement.

#8 – Saint Bernard

Gentle, loving and extremely patient with little ones, the Saint Bernard can be a gentle giant if socialized and trained well. An experienced owner will know to begin training while still in puppyhood when the dog is at a controllable size. These dogs are very intelligent, but also may have a stubborn streak, owners need to maintain the alpha position with respect and a positive attitude.

#9 – German Shepherd Dog

Another working breed, the German Shepherd is highly sought after as puppies because they are little balls of fluff and fur. An experienced owner will understand to begin training early and retain a firm, positive hand. This breed is also a highly sought after working dog, they need constant mental and physical stimulation to remain happy, healthy and playful.

#10 – Rottweiler

These devoted family dogs are great with kids if socialized early. An experienced owner will understand that these dogs are also powerful. Established leadership begins early in the relationship and needs to be maintained throughout the life of the dog. Rottweilers aren’t content to lie around the backyard alone, they need constant physical, mental and social stimulation.