Naughty by Nature: The Dog Breeds Most Likely to Cause Puppy Mayhem
Every puppy has its mischievous moments — chewed shoes, stolen sandwiches, surprise puddles on the carpet — but according to a recent study by Tractor Supply Co., some breeds are far more likely to stir up trouble than others during their first year of life.
The survey, which gathered insights from pet parents across the U.S., aimed to uncover which dog breeds are the “naughtiest” as puppies. The results? A mix of high-energy, intelligent, and emotionally sensitive breeds that keep their owners on their toes — and often laughing through the chaos.
The Top Eight Trouble-Makers
Here are the eight breeds that topped the naughty list:
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Labrador Retriever
- Poodle (tied)
- Dachshund (tied)
- German Shepherd
- Australian Shepherd
- Beagle
- Golden Retriever
It’s no coincidence that many of these breeds are also among America’s most popular. With more of them in homes, their antics are more widely reported. But popularity alone doesn’t explain their puppy mischief. Each of these breeds brings a unique blend of energy, curiosity, and independence that can make early training a challenge.
Why These Breeds Act Out
Let’s break down what makes these pups so prone to mischief:
- High Intelligence: Breeds like Poodles, German Shepherds, and Australian Shepherds are incredibly smart — which means they get bored easily. Without mental stimulation, they’ll invent their own fun, often at your expense.
- Strong Instincts: Beagles and Dachshunds are scent hounds. Their noses lead them into trouble, whether it’s digging through the rubbish or chasing smells across the garden.
- Emotional Sensitivity: Golden Retrievers and Labs are deeply bonded to their humans. When left alone, they may act out due to separation anxiety — chewing, barking, or even escaping.
- Small but Feisty: Yorkshire Terriers may be tiny, but they have big personalities. Their boldness and independence can make them stubborn and prone to testing boundaries.
Common First-Year Challenges
Beyond breed-specific quirks, the study highlighted universal struggles that nearly all puppy owners face:
- Potty Training: Accidents are inevitable, but some breeds take longer to learn than others.
- Chewing: Teething puppies will gnaw on anything — furniture, shoes, even walls.
- Separation Anxiety: Puppies crave companionship. Leaving them alone too soon or too often can lead to destructive behaviour.
- Unexpected Vet Bills: Illnesses, injuries, and vaccinations add up quickly, especially in the first year.
These hurdles can feel overwhelming, but they’re also part of the bonding process. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, even the naughtiest pup can grow into a well-behaved companion.
Notably Absent: The French Bulldog
One surprise from the study was the absence of the French Bulldog, currently America’s most popular breed. Despite their stubborn streak, Frenchies didn’t rank among the naughtiest puppies. Their laid-back nature and low exercise needs may make them easier to manage in early puppyhood — though they’re not without their quirks.
Naughty but Lovable
It’s important to remember that “naughty” doesn’t mean “bad.” Most puppy mischief stems from natural curiosity, developmental stages, or unmet needs. In fact, many of the breeds on this list are also known for their loyalty, affection, and trainability.
So if your Labrador just shredded your favourite socks, or your Beagle dug up the flower bed — take a breath. You’re not alone. Puppyhood is messy, unpredictable, and occasionally maddening — but it’s also one of the most joyful chapters in a dog owner’s life.
And who knows? That naughty little furball might just grow up to be your best friend.
