The Dog Breeds Aussies Are Now Avoiding — And Why Pet Owners Are Changing Their Minds

Australians are famously passionate about pets, with dogs being the most popular companions in nearly half of all households. But amid evolving lifestyles, shifting living conditions and emerging breed trends, many Aussies are now steering clear of certain dog breeds — sometimes for surprising reasons.

A recent lifestyle feature revealed that while some canine companions remain beloved nationwide, others are being avoided by prospective pet owners in 2025. Breed popularity data shows that Cavoodles continue to top the charts as the most popular dog in Australia, but several traditional favourites are falling out of favour as owners rethink what suits their lives.

Why Breed Popularity Matters

Breed preference isn’t just about looks. It often reflects broader lifestyle trends — from urban living and apartment constraints to concerns about health, temperament, and long‑term care. As more Australians move to cities with limited space or juggle busy work lives, breeds that require less maintenance or adapt well to indoor living tend to be favoured.

Despite overall high levels of pet ownership nationwide — with dogs present in almost half of all households — many Australians admit they don’t walk their dogs daily, and some take them out for exercise only sporadically. This reflects the challenges many face in balancing busy schedules with regular pet care.

Breeds Being Avoided — And Possible Reasons

While the data from the news.com.au image gallery didn’t list specific breeds Aussies are avoiding, it notes surprising omissions compared with previous years. For example, breeds like the Maltese and other small purebreds appear less often in popularity lists, even though they once ranked well among urban dog owners.

Historically, Australian preference has shifted away from some working breeds and larger dogs — especially among city dwellers — due to space limitations, exercise needs, and behavioural traits. Dogs requiring extensive outdoor activity or specialised training are often reconsidered by those living in apartments or smaller homes.

Additionally, veterinarians and trainers sometimes highlight breeds they personally wouldn’t choose due to health or temperament concerns. Outside Australia, professionals have cited breeds like Italian Greyhounds, West Highland White Terriers, German Shepherds, and Bernese Mountain Dogs as challenging options for some owners due to fragility, predisposition to health problems, or strong protective instincts.

The Influence of Modern Lifestyle and Living Spaces

Urbanisation changes how Australians interact with pets. Many metropolitan residents live in townhouses or apartments without large backyards. Even access to public parks varies by suburb, meaning daily walks and outdoor play may not be as easy as in the past. These practical constraints are leading many to rethink breeds that thrive on high energy and space — and instead favour those that adjust easily to indoor living or smaller exercise areas.

Breeds that historically excelled in open environments — such as working dogs or high‑energy herding breeds — may see less interest among inner‑city buyers who prioritise adaptability, calm demeanour, and ease of care. Smaller breeds with lower exercise needs often outperform others in apartment contexts.

Health, Behaviour and Owner Awareness

Perhaps more than ever before, prospective dog owners are considering breed‑specific health issues and behaviour profiles before committing. With veterinary care costs rising, some owners are hesitant to adopt breeds prone to complex genetic health problems like hip dysplasia or heart conditions. These long‑term concerns can influence decisions as much as lifestyle compatibility.

Behaviour also plays a role. Some breeds — whether due to temperament traits or high energy levels — require extensive training and socialisation. For owners without the time or experience to commit to behaviour work, such breeds can be daunting. This is another factor that nudges owners away from certain breeds and toward more manageable companions.

Finding the Right Pet for Your Life

Choosing a dog isn’t just a matter of personal preference — it’s about matching a breed’s needs with your home, lifestyle, and energy level. Researching breed characteristics and spending time with dogs of that breed (through fosters or breed meet‑ups) can offer insight into day‑to‑day life with a pet. Visual galleries like the surprise dog breeds Aussies are avoiding feature help spark awareness and encourage thoughtful decisions before welcoming a dog into the family.

Supporting Responsible Ownership

As preferences evolve, responsible ownership remains essential. Regardless of breed, every dog deserves adequate exercise, training, mental stimulation and veterinary care. For those with limited space, investing in interactive toys, scheduled play sessions, and obedience classes can help even high‑energy breeds thrive in smaller homes — although owners should be realistic about the time and effort involved.

Pet‑Friendly Living in Melbourne and Beyond

For dog owners and travellers alike, choosing pet‑friendly spaces is increasingly important — especially in major cities like Melbourne, where apartments are common. A growing number of accommodation options now cater to furry guests, making it easier for Australians to travel without leaving pets behind. For example, Corporate Keys offers fully furnished apartments that are pet‑friendly, providing flexible and comfortable solutions for professionals or families visiting or relocating to Melbourne with pets. These stays give dogs space and continuity of routine, which can be especially beneficial for breeds sensitive to change or confinement.

Whether adopting a new dog or deciding where to stay while visiting with your pet, the landscape of dog ownership in Australia is shifting — and today’s Aussies are choosing companions and spaces that fit modern life, health needs, and personal preferences.