1. Border Collie
Border Collie is highly driven and extremely energetic. A breed that thrives when they have a job to do and space to run, Border Collies requires much more exercise than a walk around the block or a quick romp in the yard. If first time pet owners don’t know how to keep their Border Collie sufficiently stimulated, occupied and exercised, the breed may develop behavioral issues.
2. Cane Corso
Trained as a property watchdog and wild boar hunter in Italy, Cane Corsos are large, strong dogs with a dominant nature and strong will. Cane Corsos form strong bonds with their owners and can be very protective over them. Loving with its owners and affectionate towards children, the Corso is alert and can be territorial.
3. Skye Terrier
A courageous, sensitive breed that likes to do its own thing, the Skye Terrier can be stubborn and very wary of people and dogs it does not know. Comfortable living indoors as a companion dog, the breed does require regular outdoor activity. With a double coat and hair that can grow over the breeds face and eyes, Skye Terriers require regular bathing and brushing to prevent mats, making its grooming needs a bit too much for first time owners.
4. Bloodhound
Though the Bloodhound is an extremely affectionate breed, their take-charge nature makes it essential for pet parents to be the undisputed boss in their home. With one of the strongest noses in the world, the Bloodhound will always want to follow its nose and may pull an unaware owner regularly on the leash to follow a new scent.
5. Treeing Walker Coonhound
Known for its extreme endurance, competitive spirit and desire to perform, the Treeing Walker Coonhound is a favorite of hunters but may not be ideal for first-time pet parents. Originally bred to track and tree wild raccoons, the Treeing Walker Coonhound has a competitive spirit and requires regular activity to stay in shape and is best suited for families that lead an active lifestyle.
6. Australian Cattle Dog
A loyal breed that loves to play and work, the Australian Cattle Dog fares best in the country with a job to do, like herding, obedience or agility. The breed can be as stubborn as the cows they were bred to work, and can become restless without a job to do. Intelligent and full of energy, Australian Cattle Dogs require plenty of daily exercise and can be wary of strangers.
7. Tibetan Mastiff
The breed is extremely independent and intelligent and may have its own agenda in the home. Due to its protective nature, the Tibetan Mastiff may act aggressive towards strangers, making it difficult to bring new people home. Though it is loyal and loving to its family, the breed will require proper obedience training and socialization from an early age on in order to live well with families and be around other animals.
8. Akita
Although they make wonderful guard dogs, the Akita likes to be the leader of the pack and requires a strong hand in training. The breeds temperament can range from calm to bounce and aggressive, so it should always be supervised around small children and other animals.