A dog trainer has sparked debate online after naming three breeds he believes are unsuitable for first-time dog owners.
According to recent data from the American Pet Products Association (APPA), around 68 million U.S. households share their home with at least one dog—making dogs the nation’s most popular pet. But as trainer Charlie explains, “there’s no one-size-fits-all” when it comes to choosing the right breed.
Charlie, a 27-year-old Londoner now living in Minneapolis, attracted 2.8 million views on Instagram (@cherry.hoggs) after outlining the breeds he personally wouldn’t recommend for beginners. His list surprised many viewers.
Bully Breeds
Speaking from a van filled with dogs—including an English Bulldog, a French Bulldog, and two other bully types—Charlie described these breeds as “powerful” and not ideal for people seeking an easy introduction to dog ownership.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), bully breeds were historically used in medieval Europe for bull-baiting, which is how they earned the “bully” name. While their past includes fighting, today these dogs are typically affectionate, sensitive, intelligent, and loyal. They often thrive on interactive play, especially tug-of-war.
“If you don’t stimulate a bully breed, it will snap into aggression real quick,” Charlie said in the video.
Last year, the U.K. introduced a law banning the breeding, selling, advertising, gifting, exchanging, abandoning or unrestricted roaming of XL Bully dogs after a series of serious—and in some cases fatal—attacks.
Online, viewers were divided.
One user wrote: “I had an English bulldog for 16 years and he was the sweetest, least aggressive dog I’ve ever owned. But my daughter had an Old English Bulldog that was extremely aggressive and would growl and snap as a puppy for no reason.”
Another person shared: “I am a first-time owner, and I’ve got an English bulldog. Zeca! Quite a handful—he’s 4. He spends his energy at daycare and chasing his ball. Best choice I’ve ever made!”
Hounds
The AKC describes hounds as historical hunting companions—some follow scent trails with incredible precision, while others rely on endurance to pursue prey over long distances. The group includes breeds such as the Pharaoh Hound, Norwegian Elkhound, Afghan Hound, and Beagle. Many also produce a loud, distinctive “baying” sound, which potential owners should hear before deciding on the breed.
People who lead normal lives shouldn’t own a hound, Charlie warned. “Do you understand the exercise requirement?”
“What about greyHOUNDS,” asked one user. “I have had [three] and they are gentle kind and loyal, don’t need a massive amount of walks and are very affectionate!”
“I got a hound as [my] first dog… we had to walk 4 miles before work and 4-6 after, just to keep him calm,” said one user, adding that the dog required a lot of time and effort to train. “If you’re not willing to put that work in.. don’t get one.. they will walk all over you.”
Herding Breeds
Herding breeds, once classified under the Working Group, share a natural instinct to control livestock. The AKC notes that breeds like the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd are now commonly used in police and protection work due to their intelligence and trainability. This herding instinct can also extend to their human families.
Charlie called them “great family pets,” but emphasized that they need extensive exercise and mental stimulation. He recalled a session where a herding dog nipped his leg in an attempt to get a ball—an example of how these instincts can surface. Without proper engagement, he said, these dogs may even try to “herd little kids.”
“First time owner of a collie and she’s my best friend. You need to do the work though and most don’t have the desire to do the work,” shared one owner and another user said: “I’d add there is no easy dog breed. Dogs are a bigger responsibility than people think, and most people can’t give them the care they need to thrive.”
In another video, Charlie recommended breeds he believes are better suited for beginners, including the English Golden Retriever, English Labrador, and smaller toy breeds like the Chihuahua.
Newsweek is waiting for Charlie to provide an exclusive comment.