12 dog breeds first-time owners should think twice about

I loved my first dog more than anything. We did basic obedience and little else, and he turned out to be an amazingly sweet and laid-back dog that never got into trouble. In retrospect, I realize how lucky we were. Yes, he was a golden retriever, but new dog owners make a host of mistakes that can turn even the sweetest dogs sour. When inexperience is combined with certain dog breeds, pee stains on your carpet will be the least of your worries.

Not all dog breeds are for everyone. If you are new to dogs, it is easy to fall in love with the idea of a breed without fully understanding the commitments involved with dog ownership. As you search for your first dog, take the time to do a lot of research. Keep in mind that many “dangerous” dogs are the result of improper training and socialization, which is easy to screw up as a new dog owner.

We have rounded up 12 dog breeds that are beautiful, excellent at what they were bred to do and often make the perfect pet. But these dog breeds should only be brought into the home of a seasoned dog owner. As amazing as they are, these breeds require the skills and knowledge of someone who has extensive dog-training experience to ensure they do not turn into a potentially dangerous pet.

1. Caucasian Ovcharka

The Caucasian Ovcharka is a rare breed of dog in the U.S. This massive guard dog breed originated in the Caucasus Mountain region, where it helped shepherds protect their flocks. It was later used in Russia to guard government buildings, including prisons, and its massive size (up to 220 pounds), combined with its strong protective instincts and independent nature, make it an intimidating and dangerous dog for novice owners.

Next:More dog breeds that first time pet owners should never get