When it comes to choosing a dog, many people consider factors like size, temperament, and energy levels. However, the maintenance requirements of certain breeds often come as a surprise to new pet owners.

Some dogs demand more time, attention, and resources than others, leading to potential challenges in daily care.

Here are ten dog breeds that are surprisingly high maintenance, requiring dedicated owners who can commit to their specific needs.

1. Border Collie

Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence and energy, but this also makes them high maintenance. They require extensive mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. Daily exercise, challenging activities, and training sessions are essential for keeping them happy and well-adjusted.

2. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu may be small, but they require a lot of grooming. Their long, luxurious coats need daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Additionally, regular visits to the groomer are necessary to maintain their appearance. Their eyes can also be prone to tear staining, adding to the maintenance required.

3. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are beautiful, but their high energy levels demand a lot of activity. They require regular exercise, including long walks and playtime, to stay healthy and happy. Their thick double coats also shed heavily, necessitating frequent grooming to keep fur under control, especially during seasonal changes.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate and eager to please, but they come with a list of health concerns. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential due to their predisposition to heart issues. Their long, silky coats also require consistent grooming, adding to the time and effort needed for care.

5. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is known for its cheerful demeanor, but maintaining their fluffy coat can be quite demanding. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and keep their fur looking pristine. Additionally, they can be prone to dental issues, requiring diligent oral care to maintain their health.

6. Great Dane

Despite their large size, Great Danes are gentle giants that need special attention. Their size means they have unique dietary and exercise needs, and they can be prone to health issues like bloat. Regular vet visits and a structured exercise routine are essential to ensure their well-being.

7. English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are lovable but come with specific maintenance needs. Their wrinkled skin requires regular cleaning to prevent infections. They also face a variety of health issues, including respiratory problems, necessitating frequent vet check-ups and a careful eye on their weight and activity levels.

8. Poodle

Poodles, whether standard, miniature, or toy, require significant grooming to maintain their curly coats. They need regular haircuts and brushing to prevent mats. Poodles are also highly intelligent and require mental stimulation through training and interactive play to keep them engaged and content.

9. Dalmatian

Dalmatians are active and playful but can be surprisingly high maintenance due to their exercise needs. They require daily vigorous activity to prevent behavioral issues. Additionally, they are prone to certain health problems, including urinary stones, requiring regular vet check-ups and a careful diet.

10. Chow Chow

Chow Chows are strikingly beautiful but can be challenging to care for. Their thick double coats require regular grooming to prevent matting. They can also be stubborn and require consistent training and socialization to ensure they are well-behaved. Their unique health concerns further add to their maintenance requirements.