The 15 Dog Breeds That Gen Z Doesn’t Like (For Some Reason)
Dog breed preferences change with every generation, and Gen Z is no exception. While they’ve embraced some pups like French Bulldogs and Goldendoodles with open arms, others haven’t been so lucky.
Whether it’s due to social media memes, aesthetic preferences, or just a general vibe check, some breeds keep ending up on the “meh” list for reasons that are often unfair—and occasionally hilarious.
This list isn’t about which dogs are good or bad (they’re all good dogs, obviously), but more about the quirks and reputations that have made these 15 breeds fall out of Gen Z’s favor.
From high-maintenance fluff to big personalities that feel just a bit too much, here’s who didn’t quite pass the vibe check.
1. Chihuahua
Nobody warned these little guys that Gen Z thrives on chill energy. Chihuahuas, with their permanent “fight me” stance and shaky confidence, seem to channel the exact opposite. They’ve been memed to death as angry purse gremlins and come across more as drama queens than companions.
Despite their small size, they come with big attitudes, endless barking, and some serious trust issues. Gen Z, raised on mental health awareness and emotional support pets, often finds their constant anxiety a bit too triggering. These pint-sized fireballs have a loyal fanbase, but for many Zoomers, they’re just too chaotic to be cuddly.
2. Pekingese
Drama and royalty don’t mix well with modern minimalism. The Pekingese, with their lion-like manes and “I know I’m better than you” strut, seem more suited to a palace than a studio apartment. Gen Z often labels them as high-maintenance relics of a bygone era.
There’s something about their flattened faces and slow, pompous walks that doesn’t align with today’s more practical, down-to-earth pet vibe. They’re loyal and surprisingly brave, but their grooming needs and aloof energy aren’t ideal for people who value laid-back companionship. Gen Z wants pets that match their lifestyle—and this breed just feels like it’s stuck in the 1800s.
3. Lhasa Apso
A fancy coat and diva attitude aren’t winning many fans on TikTok. Lhasa Apsos, once temple guardians, now often come across as snobby and overly fussy to younger dog lovers. Their independence is respectable, but they don’t crave constant cuddles or emotional validation.
That’s a problem for a generation that wants emotionally available pets. Add in the endless grooming requirements, and it becomes clear why Gen Z isn’t rushing to adopt them. They’re loyal and intelligent—but they also tend to treat affection like a reward you have to earn. If you’re looking for an instant best friend, the Lhasa Apso will make you work for it.
4. Shih Tzu
For a breed often mistaken for a mop, the Shih Tzu has an oddly posh reputation. They’ve been adored by royalty and Instagram grandmas alike, but Gen Z isn’t buying the hype. Between the constant grooming, tear stains, and air of entitlement, many find them too high-maintenance for too little payoff.
They’re not known for being sporty, outdoorsy, or particularly tuned into your emotions—things Gen Z increasingly values in a companion. Shih Tzus do bring a touch of elegance and charm, but that’s not enough to save them from being overlooked. They’re lap dogs through and through, but in an age of hiking adventures and café outings, they just don’t vibe with the scene.
5. Afghan Hound
Looking like they walked out of a hair commercial, Afghan Hounds are as stunning as they are standoffish. Gen Z, with its preference for down-to-earth, emotionally available pets, finds it hard to connect with these aloof beauties. Their flowing locks are iconic—but keeping that look takes serious work.
They’re fast, elegant, and oddly mysterious, but they aren’t fans of affection or direction. Afghan Hounds prefer to do their own thing, and that independence can feel more like detachment than confidence. In a world where people want dogs that snuggle through Netflix marathons, this high-fashion diva just doesn’t bring the cozy energy younger generations are after.
6. English Bulldog
Despite their popularity in older generations, English Bulldogs just don’t hit the mark with Gen Z. Their health issues, including chronic breathing problems and joint pain, raise red flags for a generation that’s big on wellness—for pets and people alike.
Then there’s the vibe. Bulldogs often look perpetually annoyed, drooling on your couch while refusing to move an inch. While some find it charming, others see it as laziness wrapped in wrinkles. Gen Z loves a dog that’s both aesthetic and active—and the Bulldog’s snore-heavy lifestyle just doesn’t fit into that vision. They’re loyal, sure, but it’s hard to bond over mutual apathy.
7. Dachshund
That long body might be adorable, but it also comes with a lifetime subscription to back problems. Gen Z tends to see Dachshunds as fragile and overly stubborn—two qualities that don’t blend well with first-time pet ownership. They’re bold, yes, but also surprisingly demanding.
Social media has poked fun at their Napoleon complex, and Zoomers seem to have taken the jokes seriously. These dogs aren’t fans of strangers, can be tough to train, and often bark like they’ve uncovered a deep conspiracy. While some adore their spunk, others think they’re a little too extra for everyday life.
8. Shar Pei
With their deeply wrinkled skin and reserved nature, Shar Peis give off an oddly judgmental aura. Gen Z often misreads their quiet confidence as disinterest—or worse, passive aggression. They’re protective and loyal, but don’t expect constant affection or big goofy energy.
Their intense expression and low sociability don’t play well on apps filled with smiling Golden Retrievers and cuddly mixes. To top it off, they’re prone to skin conditions that require constant care, something many Gen Zers—already juggling student loans and side hustles—don’t want to deal with. They’re unique, but maybe just a little too high-maintenance and low-reward.
9. Miniature Pinscher
Often mistaken for a tiny Doberman with main-character energy, the Miniature Pinscher comes across as intense in all the wrong ways. They’re spirited and confident, but their over-the-top reactions to everyday life can wear thin fast. Gen Z, fans of emotional stability, find them a bit much.
These little dynamos bark, pace, and throw shade like they’ve had three espresso shots too many. While they’re smart and trainable, they also tend to ignore you when it suits them—especially when it comes to barking at anything that moves. The chaos isn’t endearing to everyone, especially when chill vibes are the goal.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Elegant and soft-eyed, these royal pups look like the ultimate cuddle companion—but Gen Z isn’t entirely sold. Maybe it’s the aristocratic name, maybe it’s the subtle high-maintenance aura, but they often get passed over for quirkier, more expressive breeds.
While affectionate and sweet, Cavaliers come with a laundry list of potential health problems that’s hard to ignore. Their delicate nature also means they’re not well-suited for active lifestyles, backpacking trips, or long park hangs. To Gen Z, they’re a little too proper, a little too breakable, and a little too Instagram-perfect in a world craving real connection.
11. Basset Hound
Their droopy eyes and slow pace make them look like they’ve seen things—things they’ll never unsee. Basset Hounds are sweet and mellow, but Gen Z often sees them as the canine equivalent of a sluggish Monday. That persistent sad expression doesn’t exactly scream emotional support.
They’re not very energetic, need a lot of cleanup thanks to all that drool, and have a stubborn streak that makes training a chore. In an era where many want dogs that can hit the trails or star in cute TikToks, the Basset’s low-energy, low-engagement style just doesn’t spark much joy.
12. Maltese
Looking like a cloud with an attitude, the Maltese has long been the pet of choice for the glam squad. But Gen Z is more about authenticity than accessories, and this breed sometimes feels more like an accessory than a companion. They’re dainty, picky, and a bit too precious.
They require frequent grooming, can be clingy in inconvenient ways, and tend to be vocal about everything. In short, they’re not the easiest to live with unless you’re really committed to the upkeep. Gen Z isn’t against small dogs, but they’d rather have one with a little more adventure and a little less fluff drama.
13. Great Dane
It’s not that they aren’t lovable—they totally are—but Great Danes bring an overwhelming amount of… everything. Gen Z often lives in apartments, works remotely, and wants pets that can adapt to small spaces. A couch-crushing, food-devouring giant doesn’t exactly fit the bill.
They eat like linebackers, take up more space than most roommates, and are prone to serious health issues. While their calm, gentle personalities are a win, the logistics of owning one make them a hard sell. Zoomers appreciate the chill—just not when it comes in a seven-foot-tall package with an appetite to match.
14. Chinese Crested
A hairless dog with patchy fur tufts and unpredictable skin needs? That’s a bold lifestyle choice. While unique in appearance, the Chinese Crested is often met with confusion or even discomfort by younger dog lovers who value aesthetic harmony and Instagram potential.
Their look is definitely not for everyone, and even those who find them endearing can be turned off by the constant skincare routine they require. Gen Z loves individuality, sure—but not when it involves SPF and sweaters for a dog who’s still shivering inside. Their quirky charm is undeniable, but it’s often lost on a generation craving cozy over couture.
15. Cocker Spaniel
Once a classic favorite, the Cocker Spaniel has fallen out of fashion with younger generations. They’re prone to ear infections, can be stubborn, and sometimes exhibit snippy behavior when overwhelmed. For Gen Z, that’s a tricky combo in a world filled with friendlier, more adaptable breeds.
Their feathery coats also demand regular grooming, and their moodiness doesn’t always align with the constant affection today’s pet parents are looking for. While undeniably beautiful and loyal, they come with an old-school vibe that just doesn’t resonate with many Zoomers. They’re the dog your grandparents loved—but not necessarily one you’d swipe right on today.
