If you love a peaceful life, these naughtiest dog breeds might be too much to handle.
Chewing on furniture, stealing snacks when no one’s watching, digging up flower beds—these breeds are experts at giving their owners a hard time.
If you don’t think you can handle a mischievous dog, here are the top 10 naughty dog breeds to keep off your list.
1. Japanese Spitz
Are you wondering what is the most mischievous dog?
It may just be the Japanese Spitz!
A companion dog, the Japanese Spitz makes a wonderful playmate for other dogs or children. It is easygoing and up for whatever adventure you throw its way.
This breed loves entertaining its owners and thrives when its humans laugh. This means you should expect plenty of mischief from this tiny terror.
Here’s dog owner TGKvr’s experience with naughty dog breeds: “In the past, we’ve never allowed our dogs on the furniture. This dog, however, was quite persistent and finally just wore us down. I don’t regret it at all because it just maximizes our cuddle time.”
2. Beagle
Beagles are the most famous entrants in the naughtiest dog breeds list.
These medium-sized dogs are active, curious, and playful. They’re also the naughtiest puppy breeds that maintain their puppy-like behaviors well into adulthood. This is especially evident with the breed’s affinity for food: they’re famous for snatching up any morsel as soon as they see it.
Here’s a quote that seems perfect for Beagles: “A dog desires affection more than its dinner. Well – almost.” — Charlotte Gray
While there’s no harm in sharing food with your Beagle, make sure you’re not leaving out food that’s toxic to dogs. Do your research by looking up questions such as, “Can dogs eat plums, oranges, chocolates, and other treats?” before getting a dog.
3. Shichon
A mix between the Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu, the Shichon takes inspiration for mischief from its parents.
They’re very extroverted and well-behaved overall but prone to separation anxiety and stubbornness. This often results in mischievous behaviors such as chewing whatever’s in sight.
The Shichon’s sweet appearance means owners spoil them more often. These breeds are quite difficult to train as well.
4. American Pit Bull Terrier
If you’re wondering what are the 10 naughtiest dog breeds that are also athletic?
Here’s one for you.
American Pit Bull Terriers were originally bred for their gameness, strength, and athleticism. Most pet owners don’t consider this breed an ideal family dog due to its high energy levels, which easily translates to naughtiness when bored.
If you’re considering getting a Pit Bull, you must commit to its obedience training and socialization. You’ll also need to put up some good fencing to keep these dogs from using their strength in the wrong places.
5. Mudi
Bred for working on the farm, the Mudi is a loyal protector that’s also playful and full of energy. It’s an intelligent dog breed that’s said to be a cross between the German Spitz, Pumi, and Puli.
If it doesn’t get its fair share of exercise, the Mudi is known to put its open jaw on its owner’s body.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds seem like they wouldn’t be up to much, but they’re actually one of the mischievous breeds. They’re smart, vigilant, and stubborn, so owners may find it difficult to make them do something they don’t want.
They’re brilliant and pick up on owner behavior quickly. If you let loose once and give in to their demands, they’ll probably beg more often and expect to get their way.
7. Shih Tzu
Small dog breeds are super cute, but they’re also some of the most mischievous dog breeds. And a great example of this is the furry Shih Tzu.
These tiny dogs enjoy digging themselves a warm place to lie down, so your flower beds are always at risk. They also love hiding objects they find lying around the house.
Getting a Shih Tzu to give up on its digging behavior will require serious dedication and training by its owner.
8. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
If you’re indecisive and easy-going, the Welsh Pembroke Corgi is not for you.
Don’t let their tiny frame fool you—these strong-willed dogs dance to the beat of their own drummers. And they have seemingly endless energy to be mischievous for extended periods. So when you don’t take charge, expect the corgi to!
Here is dog owner Jacqueline Miller’s experience with her mischievous shoe-loving dog: “My dog loves shoes. She eats them. She carries them around with her. She licks and cuddles them like they’re her babies. Sometimes I wake up in the morning with a pile of shoes at the foot of my bed that she’s delivered to me overnight.”
9. Wirehaired Vizsla
The Wirehaired Vizsla is a surprise entrant to the 10 naughtiest dog breeds list.
This gentle and loyal dog breed is easy to train, playful, and easygoing. The Wirehaired Vizslas were originally bred for land and lake hunting —this is probably why they are so full of energy. They also need more mental stimulation than other breeds.
These dogs get quite naughty when they’re full of energy and get very creative with their mischief.
10. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers have been the most popular dog breed since 1991. It is no surprise, given how affectionate they are with their owners. They also get along with strangers, children, and other dogs.
But their affectionate ways also make it easy for owners to spoil them with love, which can result in some uncontrollable naughtiness. Left unchecked, they’ll eat your food, chase smaller animals in the park, or simply jump into the pool when told not to!
With naughty Labs, you’re in for 24/7 chaperone duty around the house and whenever you’re outside.
Wrapping Up
Quite often, the naughtiest dog breeds are simply bored because their owners won’t pay attention to them.
However, some owners might want a dog that matches their calm and laid-back temperaments. If you’re one such pet owner looking for your next dog, these naughty breeds will prove to be a handful!