20 People Share Dog Breeds They Would Love To Own But Would Never Get
The number of dog lovers is much higher than the number of dog owners, and there is a simple reason for it.
Namely, many dog lovers out there simply can't own dogs because of limited space, limited income, limited time, etc. You know, all these "limited" things that prevent us from living our lives to the fullest.
Even dog owners sometimes don't get the breeds they want; again, it is all because of those "limiting" factors we've mentioned before. Everyone's idea of a hectic schedule is different.
Depending on who you ask, "very busy" could mean working overtime at the workplace, having four children and counting, continually freelancing, or volunteering on the weekends. Add a dog to the mix, and your plate is already overflowing.
But that doesn't prevent them from wishing. One Redditor asked: "What’s a dog breed you’d love to own but would never get?"
The Redditors were not skimpy with their answers—they listed the dog breeds and explanations about why they are staying clear of them. We have to say, there are so many responsible dog owners and dog lovers out there.
We couldn't be happier. Take a look at some of the most interesting answers:
One Redditor asked:
Husky and Doberman
The Belgian Malinois
Exploring the motivations behind why people express a desire for certain dog breeds they might never own reveals a fascinating intersection of personal values and lifestyle constraints. According to Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, "People often grapple with the gap between their desires and their realities, which can lead to a sense of cognitive dissonance." When individuals express a longing for a specific breed but acknowledge the barriers preventing ownership, they experience dissonance between their desires and reality.
Dr. Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist, notes, "This discomfort can prompt individuals to shift their preferences, often convincing themselves that a more suitable breed aligns better with their current circumstances." Recognizing this pattern can help dog lovers reflect on their choices and explore what aspects of dog ownership they value most, potentially leading to more fulfilling pet companionship.
Working dogs in general
Bernese Mountain Dog (No, it is not St. Bernard. Although it is similar in size)
Great Dane
The emotional connection many people feel towards dogs is deeply rooted in psychological principles related to attachment theory. Research by Dr. John Bowlby, a pioneer in attachment studies, indicates that the bonds formed in early life can influence relationships throughout adulthood. This attachment can manifest in the way individuals relate to pets, often viewing them as sources of unconditional love and companionship.
Moreover, a recent study published in the journal Animal Cognition highlighted how owning a dog can enhance feelings of social support, particularly in adults who may struggle with loneliness. Understanding these attachment dynamics can encourage individuals to consider adopting dogs that align with their emotional needs and living situations, thereby fostering healthier relationships with their pets.
They do have short lives
German Shorthaired Pointer
Samoyed
Societal perceptions of dog breeds often stem from stereotypes that can impact a person's decision to own or desire certain breeds. According to Dr. Michele Gelfand, a cultural psychologist, "Implicit biases can shape our preferences and decisions, often without our awareness." Certain breeds are frequently linked to specific traits, such as aggression or loyalty, which can significantly influence potential owners' feelings about them. Dr. Eli Finkel, a relationship researcher, notes, "These biases can lead to misconceptions about a dog's behavior based solely on breed." By fostering awareness around these biases, dog lovers can make more informed decisions that prioritize temperament and compatibility over stereotypes, ultimately leading to more satisfying pet ownership experiences.
Newfoundland
Be careful where it sleeps, though...
Bluetick coonhound
In the realm of decision-making, the concept of 'loss aversion' can significantly impact why people express interest in specific dog breeds but choose not to pursue them. Research by Dr. Daniel Kahneman and Dr. Amos Tversky highlights that people tend to prefer avoiding losses over acquiring equivalent gains, which can make the prospect of failure—such as not being able to care for a dog properly—feel daunting.
This fear of making the wrong choice can lead individuals to shy away from dog ownership altogether, despite their desire for a furry companion. To counteract this, potential dog owners can engage in thorough research and self-reflection to assess their readiness for the responsibilities involved, ultimately reducing the perceived risks associated with dog ownership.
St. Bernard
Irish Wolfhound
Pugs and French Bulldogs
For many, the choice of a dog breed is intertwined with self-identity and personal values, reflecting broader social and cultural trends. Research has shown that pet ownership can enhance one's social identity, as people often select breeds that align with their lifestyle and societal perceptions. As Dr. Michael Thompson, a child psychologist, states, "The pets we choose often mirror our values and aspirations, serving as a reflection of who we are." This makes it essential to consider how breed choices reflect personal and social identity.
To navigate this, individuals can engage in self-exploration to clarify their values and what they seek in a pet. This process can lead to more informed and fulfilling choices that resonate with their true selves rather than societal expectations.
Mastiff, Great Dane and Cane Corso
Afghan Hound and Standard Poodle
Dachshund
Understanding the barriers that prevent dog ownership can provide valuable insights into personal constraints and lifestyle choices. Many people cite time, financial resources, and space limitations as significant factors in their decision-making process. Research from the Humane Society indicates that potential pet owners who assess their capacity for care and commitment often report greater satisfaction in their decisions regarding pet ownership.
To navigate these constraints, individuals can explore alternative options such as volunteering at shelters or fostering animals temporarily. This approach allows them to connect with dogs and experience the joys of companionship without the long-term commitment, while also contributing positively to the welfare of animals in need.
They have serious back problems
Border Collie
Australian Shepherd Dog
The phenomenon of 'wishful thinking' can often play a role in the types of dog breeds people express a desire for but ultimately do not pursue. This cognitive bias leads individuals to believe that their ideal scenario will come to fruition, despite tangible obstacles. Research indicates that wishful thinking can cloud judgment and lead to unrealistic expectations about pet ownership.
To counter this tendency, a practical approach is to create a detailed pros and cons list when contemplating pet ownership. This exercise, endorsed by behavioral psychologists, helps clarify the realities of dog ownership and encourages a more balanced perspective on the joys and challenges involved.
Many studies have shown that owning a dog may considerably reduce stress levels, something that even those who aren't extremely busy can appreciate. However, you have to have time to spend with your dog.
If you are too busy, the inability to spend time with your pet will only make both of you more anxious. Also, let's not forget that caring for a pet doesn't require only time but also money.
Pets require good-quality food, regular vet visits, and vaccines. If you are short on cash, getting a dog that requires regular visits to the grooming salon is a bad idea.
If you don't have much free time, you shouldn't get a very active or social dog. Dogs are typically sociable creatures.
Since dogs developed to charm people for food and shelter, it was in their best interest to be domesticated thousands of years ago. Every dog has a different disposition, but some breeds are generally a little friendlier than others.
Take Labs, for instance. There is a good reason why the Labrador Retriever is the most well-liked dog in the United States.
The breed is easy to train, kind, and patient. It can perform a wide range of tasks, including hunting, dock diving, dock diving competitions, tracking, and obedience.
However, Labs require more quality time with their owners, and if you can't meet that condition, it is better to find a breed that isn't so emotional.
Psychological Analysis
It's interesting to see how people navigate their desires for specific dog breeds while facing practical limitations. This reflects a common psychological struggle known as cognitive dissonance, where individuals reconcile their aspirations with reality, often leading to a shift in preferences. By acknowledging these barriers—like time, money, and space—people can make more informed decisions about pet ownership that align with their lifestyles and emotional needs.
Analysis generated by AI
Research-Based Understanding
In summary, the psychological dynamics behind why people yearn for certain dog breeds they might never own are complex and varied, intertwining cognitive processes, social influences, and emotional needs. As highlighted in various studies, understanding these motivations can lead to more fulfilling experiences, whether through actual pet ownership or alternative forms of companionship. Recognizing cognitive biases, attachment styles, and societal perceptions can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their relationships with dogs. Ultimately, fostering awareness and self-reflection can help bridge the gap between desire and reality, allowing both dog lovers and potential owners to navigate their feelings and choices more effectively.
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