Dog Breed Personalities: Myth vs Reality

Over many years, we humans have created some pretty interesting dog breed personalities. There are the regal Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. The loveable Poodles. The cat-like Shiba Inus. In other words, we’ve created just about every personality type in dogs imaginable.

But, are all the stereotypes about these breeds really true? As it turns out, there are quite a few misconceptions we have about some dog breed personalities. Here at Mad Paws, we want to set the record straight.

Whether you’re thinking about how to choose the right dog for you or just want to know how true your doggo is to the breed standard, we’re excited to share these common myths and realities about dog breed personalities.

Myth Vs Reality: Dobermann Pinschers are aggressive

Dobermann Pinschers may have been bred to be big, scary guard dogs, but they’ve come a long way in the last 100 years! Dobermanns are some of the most affectionate and gentle doggos that you can find, partly because breeders have actively made this breed more friendly and trusting.

Just like all dogs, Dobermanns need socialisation and training in order to get along well with other doggos and strangers. But in the right home, they’re some of the cuddliest puppers you’ll ever meet.

So the idea that Doberman Pinschers are aggressive is all myth.

Myth vs Reality: Siberian Huskies are aloof

Siberian Huskies are beautiful, smart, and as the popular belief goes, aloof. We have to say, there is some truth to this statement. Huskies are independent dogs who were bred to have a mind of their own. It made them ideal working dogs in harsh, cold climates, and their decision-making ability helped them in life-and-death situations.

Does that mean that a Siberian Husky can’t connect with their Owners or dedicated Pet Sitters? Absolutely not! This doggo may not be in your lap all the time, but they have plenty of love and loyalty for their beloved Owners.

This myth, then, is partly true. Siberian Huskies aren’t aloof. But they will love you in their own special way.

Myth vs Reality: Great Danes need huge houses

As some of the largest dogs in the world, you would assume these horse-like puppers need a lot of space. And sure, they don’t mind getting out daily for a relaxed gallop around the block or a nice leisurely stroll in a large backyard.

But Great Danes are actually quite happy in smaller homes like apartments. After all, what they really want is to be curled up, legs sticking out every which way, right on their beloved Owner’s lap.

So, if you’re thinking that you can’t own a Great Dane in a small apartment, we’ve got good news! This one is a myth.

Myth vs Reality: Scottish Terriers are the most stubborn of dog breed personalities

A small dog with a regal demeanor, the Scottish Terrier has gained a reputation for stubbornness. Want to train them to do fancy tricks like some people-pleasing Golden Retriever? They stick their nose in the air at the thought.

To be frank, this one is more reality than fiction. Scottish Terriers are wilful and free-thinking. They would rather follow their own path in life than follow the rules. That doesn’t mean that they can’t be trained, but it does take a bit of extra work.

Scotties are loving and affection, but yes, there is some truth to their reputation for stubbornness, too.

Myth vs Reality: Dachshunds have small dog energy

These are little doggos. But don’t let those adorable tiny legs fool you. This is a big dog in a little body.

Dachshunds are not the lapdog that many small dogs were bred to be. Instead, this brave canine was born to dive head first into battle with badgers and other foes. That means they’ve got lots of energy, an independent streak, and a big enough bark to boss around the big dogs.

Compared to other small dog breeds, Dachshunds also have higher exercise needs. Most Owners rely on calling in a trusted Dog Walker to make sure their pup gets the chance to burn off their energy daily.

Is the Dachshund a small dog? Yes. But does it embody the typical small dog breed personalities? Absolutely not. This myth is false.

Myth vs Reality: French Bulldogs can’t swim

French Bulldogs are bold, brave little pooches who love to be around water. There are even videos of them learning how to surf, skim board and accompany their paddle boarding Owners. But can they swim? Unfortunately, the answer is usually no.

The problem is that these doggos have unusually large and heavy heads that are disproportionate to their legs and body. And, because they are brachycephalic (short-snouted), they are not the most efficient breathers. The combination makes swimming pretty much impossible for most Frenchies.

But that doesn’t mean that these doggos should be kept away from their favourite water sports! With a dog life vest, Frenchies are ready to hop in. In fact, Frenchies frequently make a splash at surfing competitions like the annual Vetshop Dog Surfing Championships in Noosa.

Myth vs Reality: Labradors aren’t smart

Somewhere along the way, Labradors started to be labeled as an adorably dopey breed. Not the smartest, but loveable all the same. How true is this? Are Labradors really that far behind their smart cousins like the Poodle or the German Shepherd?

The truth is, it depends on what you consider intelligence.

Most of the research that has focused on the so-called smartest breeds asked the question, “how quickly can this dog learn a new trick?” As a result, we often mistake intelligence for trainability.

Let’s remember that the Labrador was bred to be a working dog on fishing boats. Their specific set of skills include sustained focus, independent thinking, self-control, and precision. And if they weren’t smart enough to pay attention and listen to instructions? Well, then they wouldn’t last very long on the rough and rugged ocean.

Labradors may not look like the smartest dog in the pack, but don’t underestimate this breed. There’s a lot more going on inside that head of theirs than you might think!

What myths do you know about dog breed personalities?

We covered a few common misconceptions about dog breed personalities but we know there are more out there! If you’ve got a doggo that challenges a myth, let us know!

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