If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged ove the last couple of years.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Some canine attributes have been intentionally bred into breeds to make them particularly good at certain jobs – from being great guard dogs to excelling at search and rescue.
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And some dogs have digging holes in their DNA – some because they were bred to dig after animals during hunts, and some just because it’s something to do when they’re bored and have excess energy.
So, here are the 10 breeds most likely to dig up your garden.
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5. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier was originally bred to hunt rats down English coal mines. This means they feel at home at the bottom of a big hole, even if that means they have to dig their own. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Bassett Hound
The Basset Hound may have a reputation for being a bit dopey and lazy, but it has a built-in instinct to dig and burrow looking for prey that it sniffs out using its remarkably sensitive nose. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Border Collie
The Border Collie is one of the most active and energetic dog breeds. Digging is just one of the activities it'll get up to in order to show you that you're not giving it enough attention and exercise. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Alaskan Malamute
Like their Siberian Husky northern cousins, the Alaskan Malamutes dig holes in warm weather to stay cool. They also dig dens in cold weather to stay warm, so unless the temperature is completely to their liking, they're probably going to dig. Photo: Canva/Getty Images