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11 Dog Breeds That Always Seem To Be Up To Some Mischief

By: Ejay Camposano
A college graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ejay has a diverse background that combines technical expertise with a passion for pets and is now one of the content writers at IHD. Read more
| July 18, 2024

Dogs bring immense joy and companionship to our lives, but some breeds have a knack for getting into trouble that is both exasperating and endearing. These mischievous dogs often possess a combination of high energy, intelligence, and curiosity, leading them to engage in playful antics that keep their owners on their toes. Whether stealing socks, digging up the garden, or figuring out how to open cabinets, these breeds are always up to something. Their mischievous behavior can be challenging, but it also makes them incredibly entertaining and lovable. This article explores eleven dog breeds that always seem up to some mischief, detailing what makes each breed fit this topic and why they are cherished for their playful and sometimes naughty antics.

11. Beagle

Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs known for their excellent sense of smell and boundless curiosity. Originally bred for hunting, Beagles have a strong prey drive and an innate desire to explore their surroundings. This curiosity often leads them into trouble, whether following an interesting scent out of the yard or raiding the kitchen for food. Beagles are also known for their cleverness and can be quite determined when it comes to getting what they want. Their mischievous behavior is often accompanied by a playful and friendly demeanor, making them charming companions despite their tendency to get into trouble.

10. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small, energetic dogs with a big personality. Bred for hunting and working, they have a high energy level and a strong prey drive. Jack Russells are known for their intelligence and tenacity, which can sometimes translate into mischievous behavior. They are natural diggers and climbers, often finding creative ways to escape from the yard or enter forbidden areas. Their boundless energy and curiosity mean they are always looking for something to do, which can lead to them getting into trouble if they aren’t properly exercised and mentally stimulated. Despite their mischievous tendencies, Jack Russells are incredibly loyal and affectionate, making them beloved pets.

9. Dachshund

Dachshunds, also known as “wiener dogs,” have long bodies and short legs, which give them a unique and endearing appearance. These small dogs were originally bred to hunt badgers and retained their strong prey drive and fearless nature. Dachshunds are known for their curiosity and determination, often leading them into trouble as they explore their environment. They love to dig and burrow, resulting in dug-up gardens and escaped pets. Dachshunds are notorious for stealing food and toys and using their cleverness to outwit their owners. Despite their mischievous behavior, they are affectionate and loyal companions who bring great joy to their families.

8. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are known for their stunning appearance and boundless energy. Huskies have incredible stamina and a strong desire to run and explore and are bred to pull sleds over long distances. This adventurous spirit often leads them into trouble, as they are prone to escaping from yards and going on long excursions. Huskies are also known for their intelligence and independence, making them natural problem solvers who can figure out how to open doors and gates. Their mischievous behavior is often accompanied by a playful and affectionate nature, making them both a joy and a challenge to own.

7. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are also highly energetic and curious, which can lead to mischievous behavior. Labs are notorious for stealing food, whether it’s from the counter, the trash, or even their owner’s hand. They are also known for their love of water and often find the nearest puddle or pond to jump into, regardless of how much trouble it might cause. Labrador Retrievers are incredibly loyal and affectionate, and their playful antics are usually accompanied by a wagging tail and a joyful expression, making them beloved pets despite their tendency to get into trouble.

6. Border Collie

Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic dogs known for their herding abilities. These traits make them excellent working dogs, but they can also lead to mischievous behavior if they aren’t properly stimulated. Border Collies are natural problem solvers and can figure out how to open doors, gates, and even cabinets. Their high energy levels mean they need plenty of physical and mental exercise to stay happy and healthy. When they get bored, they are likely to engage in mischievous behavior, such as chewing on furniture or digging up the yard. Despite their tendency to get into trouble, Border Collies are incredibly loyal and affectionate companions who excel in various dog sports and activities.

5. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are small dogs with big personalities and a lot of energy. Their fluffy coats and bright, inquisitive eyes make them naturally adorable, but their bold and sometimes sassy behavior sets them apart. Pomeranians are known for their mischievous nature, often getting into trouble as they explore their surroundings. They love to steal small objects and hide them; their intelligence means they can figure out how to open drawers and cabinets. Despite their mischievous tendencies, Pomeranians are incredibly loyal and affectionate, and their playful antics are usually accompanied by a wagging tail and a joyful expression, making them beloved pets.

4. Boxer

Boxers are medium-sized dogs with a lot of energy and a playful nature. They are known for their boundless enthusiasm and tendency to get into trouble. Boxers are natural clowns and love to entertain their owners with their antics. They are also incredibly curious and often explore their environment with gusto, sometimes leading to broken items or messes. Boxers are also known for their love of chewing and can be quite destructive if they aren’t given enough mental and physical stimulation. Despite their mischievous behavior, Boxers are incredibly loyal and affectionate, and their playful nature makes them a joy to have around.

3. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small dogs with many personalities and a mischievous streak. They are known for their intelligence and curiosity, often getting into trouble as they explore their surroundings. Yorkies are notorious for stealing and hiding small objects; their determination means they won’t give up easily. They are also known for their love of adventure and will often try to escape from yards or go on solo excursions if given the chance. Despite their mischievous behavior, Yorkshire Terriers are incredibly loyal and affectionate, and their playful antics make them beloved pets.

2. Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are small to medium-sized dogs known for their independence and mischievous nature. Originally bred for hunting, Shibas have a strong prey drive and a natural curiosity that often leads them into trouble. They are known for their intelligence and can figure out how to open doors, gates, and even cabinets. Shiba Inus are notorious for their love of adventure and will often try to escape from yards or go on solo excursions if given the chance. Their mischievous behavior is often accompanied by a playful and affectionate nature, making them both a joy and a challenge to own.

1. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and energetic dogs known for their herding abilities. These traits make them excellent working dogs, but they can also lead to mischievous behavior if they aren’t properly stimulated. Australian Shepherds are natural problem solvers and can figure out how to open doors, gates, and even cabinets. Their high energy levels mean they need plenty of physical and mental exercise to stay happy and healthy. When they get bored, they are likely to engage in mischievous behavior, such as chewing on furniture or digging up the yard. Despite their tendency to get into trouble, Australian Shepherds are incredibly loyal and affectionate companions who excel in various dog sports and activities.

In conclusion, these eleven dog breeds are particularly well-suited for individuals and families seeking a canine companion with a mischievous streak. Each breed offers unique characteristics and traits that make them exceptional pets for those who enjoy a little extra entertainment. Their boundless curiosity, intelligence, and playful antics make them stand out as some of the most charming and entertaining dogs. Proper care, regular exercise, and a loving environment are essential to ensure these mischievous dogs thrive and continue to bring joy and laughter to their homes.