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Dogs have an instinctual drive to dig, whether it’s to bury a prized possession, create a comfortable resting spot, or satisfy their natural curiosity. Some breeds, however, are more enthusiastic about digging, driven by their history, genetics, or simple love for getting dirty. These dogs will happily transform your backyard into a digging paradise if given the opportunity. On the other hand, some breeds avoid dirt at all costs, preferring to keep their paws pristine whether you’re looking for an avid digger or a dirt-averse pup.
Jack Russell Terrier
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Jack Russell Terriers are small but mighty diggers. Bred for hunting foxes and other small game, their instinct to dig is deeply ingrained. These feisty little dogs have boundless energy and love to dig, whether they’re chasing after imaginary prey or just burning off energy. Their strong prey drive makes them relentless when they sense something underground, so they won’t hesitate to dig through your yard in search of critters. If you’re planning to bring a Jack Russell into your home, be prepared to see your backyard transformed into their personal excavation site.
Dachshund
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With their long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds were bred for one thing: hunting badgers. Their name literally means “badger dog” in German, and their love for digging reflects their heritage. Dachshunds are natural burrowers, using their paws to dig into the ground and their strong noses to sniff out prey. While they may not be hunting badgers in your backyard, their instinct to dig is still alive and well. Dachshunds love creating tunnels and burrowing them into soft dirt, making them one of the top digging breeds. Their persistence and determination mean they can spend hours digging to their heart’s content.
Siberian Husky
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Siberian Huskies are known for their love of digging, a behavior rooted in their Arctic origins. In cold climates, they would dig into the snow to create insulated shelters. While most Huskies today don’t need to dig for warmth, the instinct remains strong. These energetic dogs love to dig, especially if they’re bored or not getting enough physical exercise. Huskies are intelligent and independent, so if they sense something beneath the surface—whether it’s a critter or just a cool spot to rest—they’ll dig until they’re satisfied. Their digging behavior is often a way to release pent-up energy, so providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help curb their enthusiasm for yard excavation.
Beagle
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Beagles were bred as scent hounds, used for tracking small game like rabbits and hares. Their incredible sense of smell drives them to dig, especially when they catch the scent of something underground. Beagles are curious and determined, which means once they pick up an interesting smell, they’ll dig until they find the source. While their love for digging may stem from their hunting instincts, Beagles are also playful and enjoy digging just for fun. If you own a Beagle, don’t be surprised to find them enthusiastically digging in your yard, following their nose to uncover hidden treasures.
Border Terrier
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Border Terriers are natural diggers, originally bred to hunt and burrow after small game-like foxes. These little dogs are highly energetic and love having a job to do, and digging often becomes one of their favorite pastimes. Their determination and strong prey drive mean that they’ll dig at the first hint of an animal underground, and they’re not ones to give up easily. Border Terriers are tough and tenacious, and they’ll happily dig through your garden if given the chance. While they make loyal and loving companions, their love for digging means owners should be prepared to give them plenty of opportunities to channel their energy.
West Highland White Terrier
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West Highland White Terriers, or “Westies,” are small dogs with a big love for digging. Originally bred to hunt vermin in Scotland, Westies have a strong prey drive and a natural instinct to dig into burrows to catch their prey. While they may not be chasing after small animals in your backyard, Westies will still dig if they sense something interesting underground. Their determination and high energy levels make them enthusiastic diggers, and they’ll happily spend time digging holes in soft dirt. Westies are also known for their intelligence and independence, which means they can be quite stubborn when they decide they want to dig.
Alaskan Malamute
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Like their cousin, the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamutes love to dig. These large, powerful dogs were bred for pulling sleds in harsh environments, and digging was a natural way for them to create shelters in the snow. While they may not be digging for warmth today, their instinct remains strong. Malamutes love to dig, especially when they’re bored or looking for a cool spot to lie down. These dogs are independent and highly energetic, so if they’re not getting enough physical activity, they’ll find ways to entertain themselves—including digging up your yard. Providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce their desire to dig, but their instinct will always be there.
Miniature Schnauzer
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Miniature Schnauzers are small dogs with a big digging instinct. Bred as ratters, these dogs have a natural drive to dig into burrows and tunnels in search of prey. Their strong prey drive means they’ll dig at the first sign of a critter underground, and they’re determined enough to keep going until they find something. Schnauzers are also highly intelligent and curious, which means they’ll dig just for the fun of it. If you own a Miniature Schnauzer, be prepared for plenty of digging—whether it’s in your garden or a cozy spot inside the house.
Cairn Terrier
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Cairn Terriers are one of the oldest terrier breeds, originally bred to hunt small animals like foxes and rats in the Scottish Highlands. Their instinct to dig is still strong today, and they’ll happily dig through your yard in search of anything interesting. Cairn Terriers are curious, energetic, and tenacious, making them natural diggers. These dogs love to burrow and create tunnels, and their strong prey drive means they won’t hesitate to dig at the first sign of something underground. While they may be small, Cairn Terriers are determined diggers, and they’ll turn your backyard into their personal digging playground if given the opportunity.
Airedale Terrier
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As one of the larger terrier breeds, the Airedale Terrier is known for its energy and love of digging. Bred as versatile working dogs, Airedales were used for hunting, guarding, and even digging out prey. Their strong prey drive and boundless energy mean that they love to dig, whether they’re chasing after a scent or simply burning off energy. Airedales are intelligent and independent, which makes them determined diggers. They’ll happily dig through your yard if they catch the scent of something interesting, and their size and strength mean they can do some serious excavation work.
Australian Terrier
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Australian Terriers are small but fierce when it comes to digging. Bred to hunt small game and vermin, these dogs have a natural instinct to dig and burrow. Australian Terriers are energetic and curious, which means they’ll dig at the first sign of something interesting underground. Their determination and strong prey drive make them enthusiastic diggers, and they won’t hesitate to turn your garden into their personal digging spot. While they make loyal and loving companions, Australian Terriers need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them from digging out of boredom.
Parson Russell Terrier
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Parson Russell Terriers are another terrier breed with a natural love for digging. Bred for fox hunting, these dogs have an instinct to burrow and dig into the ground in search of prey. Parson Russells are energetic and determined, and they’ll dig for hours if they sense something underground. These dogs are highly intelligent and independent, which means they can be quite stubborn when it comes to digging. If you own a Parson Russell Terrier, be prepared for plenty of digging, especially if they catch the scent of something interesting in the yard.
Australian Shepherd
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Australian Shepherds are energetic, intelligent, and love to keep themselves busy. Digging is one of their favorite pastimes, often spurred by their need to burn off energy or engage in mentally stimulating activities. Their herding instincts can drive them to dig while chasing after small critters or investigating interesting scents. With a strong work ethic and high energy levels, Aussies may dig as a form of entertainment when they get bored. To prevent unwanted digging, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, making training and enrichment activities essential for these clever canines.
Fox Terrier
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Fox Terriers, with their hunting and digging background, are natural burrowers. Originally bred to flush out foxes and small prey from underground dens, these dogs have a strong drive to dig. Their sharp instincts and high energy levels make them prone to digging as a way to channel their natural behaviors. Fox Terriers love to explore their environment, often sticking their noses into interesting holes and starting excavation projects. To curb their digging tendencies, they need plenty of exercise and activities that tap into their natural instincts, such as puzzle toys or agility training.
Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retrievers may not be the first breed that comes to mind when you think of digging, but they can surprise you with their love for getting their paws dirty. Labs are playful, curious, and enjoy exploring their surroundings. They often dig to unearth interesting scents, cool off in the dirt, or just burn off excess energy. Labs can develop digging habits when they’re bored, so keeping them well-exercised and mentally stimulated is key. Their strong noses lead them to sniff out hidden treasures underground, making them avid diggers when the mood strikes..
American Pit Bull Terrier
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American Pit Bull Terriers are powerful, energetic dogs with a surprising love for digging. They enjoy physical activities and often dig out of curiosity or to create a cool resting spot in the dirt. While Pit Bulls are known for their strong muscles and playful nature, they also have an inquisitive side that can lead them to excavate in the yard. Digging is a great way for them to burn off energy, but it’s essential to give them plenty of exercise and interactive play to prevent boredom and excessive digging behavior.
Bedlington Terrier
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Despite their lamb-like appearance, Bedlington Terriers have a strong digging instinct inherited from their past as vermin hunters. These agile dogs are known for their speed and sharp senses, which drive them to explore and dig. Bedlingtons enjoy rooting around in the dirt, especially if they detect small creatures underground. They’re energetic and clever, so providing them with stimulating activities can help keep their digging tendencies in check. While they may look dainty, their digging skills are impressive, and they’ll happily dig away when given the opportunity.
Belgian Malinois
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The Belgian Malinois is a highly intelligent and energetic breed known for its work in law enforcement. Still, they also tend to dig when they’re not mentally stimulated enough. Bred for working and herding, they need constant physical and mental challenges. If they’re bored or under-exercised, they might take up digging as a way to entertain themselves. Belgian Malinois are known for their problem-solving abilities, and digging often becomes one of their go-to activities. Keeping these dogs active with training, games, and exercise is key to preventing unwanted digging.
Scottish Terrier
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The Scottish Terrier, or “Scottie,” has a natural inclination for digging thanks to its history as a vermin hunter. These small but sturdy dogs have strong instincts to dig, especially when they sense something burrowing underground. Scotties are known for their tenacity and determination, which often extends to their love for digging. Whether it’s in pursuit of a scent or just for fun, they’ll dig with enthusiasm. Scotties need mental and physical stimulation to keep them engaged, or else they’ll dig as a way to alleviate boredom.
Cocker Spaniel
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Cocker Spaniels, with their keen sense of smell, often find digging to be an irresistible hobby. Originally bred as hunting dogs, their instincts to track and flush out game can lead them to dig when they catch a whiff of something interesting beneath the surface. Cocker Spaniels enjoy exploring their surroundings, and digging is often part of their natural curiosity. While they’re not as notorious for digging as terriers, they can still take up the activity when they’re bored or intrigued. Providing them with plenty of playtime and mental challenges can help minimize unwanted digging.
Finnish Spitz
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The Finnish Spitz is a lively, energetic breed known for its love of exploring and, naturally, digging. Bred as a hunting dog in Finland, this breed has strong instincts to chase and dig for small prey, making it a skilled digger. Finnish Spitz dogs enjoy being outdoors and are always on the lookout for something interesting beneath the ground. Their curious and independent nature often leads them to dig, especially if they catch the scent of a small animal or notice movement in the dirt. Regular exercise and mental stimulation can help reduce excessive digging, but their love for burrowing runs deep!
Now For The Dogs That Prefer Clean Paws
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Not every dog enjoys digging or getting dirty. Some breeds would much rather keep their paws clean and avoid the mud altogether. These dogs are more likely to enjoy lounging indoors than digging in the dirt.
Greyhound
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Greyhounds are known for their speed and elegance, but they’re not fans of getting dirty. These sleek, clean dogs prefer to relax indoors or go for a run rather than dig in the dirt. Greyhounds have short coats and tend to avoid messy activities, making them one of the least likely breeds to enjoy digging.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate lap dogs that prefer comfort over getting dirty. These dogs love being close to their owners and aren’t particularly interested in outdoor activities like digging. Cavaliers are more likely to curl up on the couch than dig up the backyard, making them perfect for owners who prefer clean, tidy dogs.
Pomeranian
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Pomeranians are small, fluffy dogs that take pride in their appearance. These dogs love being pampered and are not fans of getting dirty. Pomeranians are more likely to enjoy lounging in their owner’s lap than digging in the dirt. Their love for staying clean makes them one of the breeds least likely to enjoy outdoor digging.
Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus are another breed that prefers clean paws over digging in the dirt. Bred as companion dogs for royalty, Shih Tzus are more inclined to relax indoors and avoid messy activities. These dogs love being groomed and pampered, and they’re not likely to enjoy digging or getting their paws dirty.
Bichon Frise
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Bichon Frises are known for their fluffy white coats, and they prefer to keep them that way. These dogs are not fans of getting dirty and would much rather stay indoors or enjoy a clean walk in the park. Bichons are more likely to be found lounging or playing indoors than digging in the dirt.
Maltese
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The Maltese, with its elegant, silky coat, is another breed that tends to avoid dirt and digging. These small, glamorous dogs were bred to be companions, and their preference for staying clean reflects that. Maltese dogs enjoy indoor comfort and are rarely seen digging or getting dirty outside. Their beautiful coat, which requires regular care, makes them less inclined to partake in messy activities like burrowing or rolling in the mud. For owners who want a dog that steers clear of dirt and keeps the yard pristine, the Maltese is an excellent choice.
Papillon
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The Papillon, with its butterfly-like ears and elegant appearance, is not a fan of digging or getting dirty. These small, graceful dogs prefer to stay clean and are more likely to be found enjoying a lap or a gentle walk rather than digging holes in the yard. Papillons are known for their agility and intelligence, but their love for cleanliness means they steer clear of muddy or messy activities. They thrive on human companionship and prefer playtime that keeps them looking neat, making them ideal for owners who want a tidy, dirt-free pup.
The Dirty Dozen vs. The Clean Paws Club
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Whether you’re dealing with a digging dynamo or a dog that avoids dirt like the plague, each breed brings its own unique personality to the table. For some, digging is an instinct they simply can’t resist, while others prefer the cleaner, cozier side of life. Whether your dog is all about getting down and dirty or keeping their paws pristine, the best companion is the one that fits your lifestyle—just be prepared for the possibility of either a beautifully dug garden or a perfectly tidy living room!
Toledo, United States.
