30 Times Dogs Turned Out To Be A Different Breed Than The Owners Anticipated

Dogs, often dubbed as man’s best friend, are a cherished part of many families across the world. But sometimes, things aren’t as they seem. People often adopt dogs based on looks or pedigree, but what happens when the dog you bring home turns out to be a completely different breed than you expected? This has led to hilarious, confusing, and even heartwarming moments that have captured the attention of dog lovers everywhere. In this article, we’ll explore 30 instances where dogs turned out to be a different breed than their owners anticipated, highlighting the funny and surprising stories behind them.

1. The “Golden Retriever” Who Wasn’t

Imagine adopting a puppy that looks like a Golden Retriever all the right fur, ears, and body shape. But as the dog grows, you start to notice some differences. It turns out, the dog is part Australian Shepherd, and the herding instinct kicks in! One family learned this the hard way when their “Golden Retriever” kept trying to herd their other dogs, even though they had never trained it for such behavior. The dog’s high-energy nature and intense eye contact made them suspect something was off, and after a DNA test, they found out the truth.

2. The “Chihuahua” That Grew Into a German Shepherd

When Sarah adopted what she thought was a tiny Chihuahua from the shelter, she had no idea that she was bringing home a future giant. While the dog’s tiny, scrappy face and ears screamed Chihuahua, it started growing at an alarming rate. By the time her dog was a year old, it looked more like a German Shepherd than a lapdog. A DNA test revealed that it was a mix of various breeds, including the Shepherd, which explained the sudden growth spurt and the much larger-than-expected paws!

3. The Mystery of the “Basset Hound” Mix

Mark and Lisa adopted a dog that was described as a Basset Hound mix. With its droopy ears, short legs, and long body, it seemed like a perfect fit for the description. However, as the dog aged, it started exhibiting behaviors typical of a completely different breed. The dog, which had always been very active, eventually showed signs of agility and enthusiasm that were more common in Border Collies. A DNA test revealed the dog was not a Basset Hound at all, but a mix of Collie, Poodle, and several other breeds. What started as a loveable Basset Hound turned out to be an energetic herding dog in disguise!

4. The “Labrador” Who Was Actually a Pit Bull Mix

Sometimes, even the most common breeds can lead to confusion. Jim and Emily thought they were adopting a Labrador Retriever from a rescue center. The dog had the trademark yellow coat and a calm demeanor, making it the perfect addition to their family. However, as it got older, they began to notice some behavioral quirks that were unusual for a Lab. It was a little too aggressive and had a lot more muscle mass. After sending in a DNA test, they discovered their “Labrador” was actually a Pit Bull mix, explaining the unexpected behavioral traits.

5. The “Cocker Spaniel” Who Was Half Shih Tzu

Rachel’s new puppy looked just like a Cocker Spaniel, with its silky ears and wavy coat. But as the dog grew, it didn’t maintain the Cocker Spaniel’s long, flowing hair. Instead, it became clear that the dog was sporting a coat that looked more like a Shih Tzu’s. When Rachel took the dog for its first vet visit, the vet suspected there was a mix at play. A quick DNA test confirmed that her dog was half Shih Tzu, which explained its much fluffier, curlier coat and laid-back personality.

6. The “Boxer” Who Was Actually Part Bulldog

Dogs with strong, muscular bodies like the Boxer are often sought after for their loyalty and protective instincts. So, when Paul adopted a Boxer from the shelter, he was excited about having a dog that fit that description. However, as the dog aged, it started showing signs of a different temperament. The dog was more laid-back than a typical Boxer, less inclined to exercise, and loved lounging around. After a DNA test, it turned out that the dog was not a pure Boxer, but a mix that included Bulldog, which explained the calm demeanor and more compact body.

7. The “Poodle” Who Was Actually a Schnauzer Mix

When Chloe adopted what she thought was a Poodle from a local breeder, she was looking forward to the hypoallergenic coat and the dog’s energetic personality. However, after a few months, the dog’s coat became a bit wiry and less curly than expected. It also developed a distinctive beard and eyebrows, characteristics often associated with Schnauzers. Chloe was puzzled and decided to run a DNA test. The results were shocking her dog was a Schnauzer mix, not a Poodle at all!

8. The “French Bulldog” Who Turned Out to Be a Boston Terrier

Lisa thought she was adopting a French Bulldog when she came across an adorable little puppy at the local pet shop. The dog’s short snout and compact body screamed French Bulldog. However, as the dog grew older, it started exhibiting behaviors that were quite different. It had more energy, loved to jump around, and had a slightly different build. After some research and a DNA test, it turned out that Lisa’s dog was actually a Boston Terrier. The mix-up had been a case of mistaken breed identification due to the dog’s similar appearance as a puppy!

9. The “Shiba Inu” Who Was Actually a Corgi Mix

Shiba Inus are famous for their fox-like appearance and independent attitude, so when Max adopted a “Shiba Inu” from a local animal shelter, he was expecting to see a lot of that signature aloofness. However, as Max spent more time with the dog, he noticed it wasn’t quite as independent as a true Shiba Inu. The dog loved to cuddle and follow him around, which wasn’t typical for a Shiba. A DNA test revealed the dog was actually a mix of Shiba Inu and Corgi, which explained its short legs and affectionate behavior.

10. The “Dachshund” Who Was Really a Miniature Schnauzer

Maria and Carlos adopted a puppy that they were told was a Dachshund. The dog had a long body and short legs, and the couple couldn’t wait to see it grow into a cute little sausage dog. But as it aged, the dog started showing signs of a different breed altogether. It was more energetic and had a much sturdier build than a typical Dachshund. When they finally had the dog’s DNA tested, the results showed that it was actually a Miniature Schnauzer. The realization left them laughing at how the shelter had made a mistake in identifying their little pup.

Conclusion

It’s clear that the world of dog breeds is filled with surprises. Whether it’s through adoption from shelters, breeders, or rescue centers, dogs often turn out to be much different than expected. Sometimes it’s a case of mistaken breed identification due to physical similarities, and other times it’s simply because of mixed breeds. In the end, what truly matters is the love and care that pet owners provide to their dogs, regardless of their breed or mix. These 30 stories are just a few of the many funny, surprising, and heartwarming moments that make dog ownership so incredibly special.

Additional Experiences: The Surprises of Dog Breeds

Many dog owners share their funny and surprising stories about discovering that their dogs are different breeds than expected. Some find joy in the unexpected mix of personalities, while others laugh at the oddities their pets display that contradict their original breed. It’s these moments of surprise and joy that make pet ownership so delightful. Whether your dog turns out to be a mix or a purebred with a twist, the bond you share is what truly counts. Some owners may have initially been shocked by their dog’s unexpected breed, but they quickly grew to love them even more, recognizing that their dog’s unique characteristics only made them more lovable.

For many, adopting a dog is about the journey of companionship rather than the specifics of breed or pedigree. And these surprising breed revelations just add another layer of fun to the adventure of having a dog. So, if you ever find yourself surprised by your dog’s true identity, remember that what truly matters is the connection you share regardless of whether they’re a “Golden Retriever” or a “Shiba Inu mix”!

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