Beagle. Photo: pexels
If you love taking care of your garden and are considering getting a new dog, it’s important to know that some dogs are bred to dig holes as part of their genetic codes.
So, before making your decision, check out the top 10 breeds most likely to dig up your garden:
1. Jack Russell Terrier
Now more popular as a family pet, the Jack Russell Terrier was originally used to hunt foxes, including digging them out of underground hideouts. It’s a habit they often do when they’re bored.
2. Dachshund
Whether long-haired or short-haired, Dachshund wiener dogs were bred to dig, with their shape and short legs perfect for burrowing into animal burrows like badgers.
3. Beagle
The Beagle is an expert at hunting rabbits and hares, chasing them and following them into burrows. Even if there’s no sign of a single rabbit in your garden, they’ll probably still try to dig it up just to be sure.
4. Siberian Husky
If your Siberian Husky is ravaging your lawn, it’s probably not because he’s after prey. Instead, these dogs tend to dig during hot weather to find cooler ground to lie on, or simply because they are bored.
5. Cairn Terrier
Another dog bred for hunting small animals in Scotland, the Cairn Terrier doesn’t need an excuse to dig. These pups are so full of energy that if you don’t keep them entertained, your garden will be the first to suffer the consequences.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Originally used by German farmers for a variety of purposes, the Miniature Schnauzer is known as a world-class ratter, adept at hunting vermin. Woe betide any rodent that runs into your garden, above or below ground, when one of these dogs is around.
7. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier was originally bred for ratting in English coal mines. That means they feel right at home at the bottom of a big hole, even if that means they have to dig their own.
8. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamute. Photo: Pexels
Like their northern cousins, the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamutes dig holes in hot weather to cool off. They also dig dens in cold weather to keep warm, so unless the temperature is just to their liking, they’ll probably dig.
9. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound may have a reputation for being a bit dopey and lazy, but they have an inbuilt instinct to dig and burrow in search of prey, using their remarkably sensitive nose.
10. Border Collie
The Border Collie is one of the most active and energetic dog breeds. Digging is just one of the activities it will do to show you’re not giving it enough attention and exercise.