'I've trained 3k dogs - these are the 3 breeds to avoid'

A dog psychologist and behaviour modification specialist who's trained more than 3,000 dogs has shared the three types of dogs he would never suggest for first-time owners. The trainer is part of the @cherryhogs account on TikTok - which has built a following of over 224,000.

in a new video with just under a million views, he broke down exactly why some breeds - despite being wonderful animals - can be overwhelming for beginners. Here's his list of the three categories he recommends avoiding if you're new to owning dogs.

1. Bullies

The trainer starts with what might surprise many people: bullies (which include breeds like English Bulldogs and Frenchies).

"The first breed I'm gonna mention... is my favourite breed," he says. "Bullies? Yes. English, Frenchies... They're a powerful animal."

While he clearly adores them - "This is the best dog I've seen this year so far", he says, pointing to a furry companion he shares the screen with - he stresses that their strength and breeding history make them difficult for a novice.

"What were they bred to do? Take down f***ing bulls. They don't take s***," he explains. "If you don't stimulate that dog, they snap into aggression real quickly."

He says bullies can be fantastic companions, but they're not the ideal choice for someone who just wants an "easy introduction to life" with their first dog.

2. Hounds

Next on his list isn't a single breed, but an entire group: hounds.

"Number two ain't the breed, it's the category. Hound. Avoid them at all f***ing costs," he warns. The reason is simple: their exercise requirements.

"You, as a domesticated individual living in a house, living in an apartment, have no right in owning a hound," he says bluntly. "Do you understand the exercise requirement for that thing? Clearly you don't, 'cause you wouldn't have f***ing got one otherwise."

Hounds are bred to run, track, and hunt over long distances. Without that outlet, they can become restless, destructive, or stressed - a poor match for most beginner owners who may not be able to provide the hours of activity these dogs crave.

3. Herding Breeds

Finally, he turns to herding breeds, which include collies, shepherds, and cattle dogs.

"Typically herding breeds are great family dogs. They've got a lovely personality, lovely characteristics, very loyal," he acknowledges. "However... if you don't exercise that dog enough..."

To illustrate his point, he shares a personal experience: "I just got a puncture on my leg from a herding breed today. Biting my f***ing leg 'cause he tried to get the ball."

This behaviour isn't aggression - it's instinct. Herding dogs are "literally bred to herd things," he explains, so it's no surprise when they try to round up kids, nip at heels, or fixate on chasing balls.