From burying prized possessions to compulsive tail-chasing, dogs exhibit a fascinating array of quirky behaviors. But some breeds take “weird” to a whole new level. Prepare to be amused and maybe a little bewildered as we explore seven dog breeds known for their unusual habits. These aren’t your typical head tilts and paw raises – we’re talking truly bizarre tendencies ingrained in their very DNA. Get ready to discover the canine world’s oddest characters and the strange rituals that make them so unique.
Dogs are full of personality, and their quirky behaviors are part of what makes them so lovable. While all dogs have some funny or odd habits, certain breeds stand out for their truly unique and sometimes surprising behaviors. In this post, we’re going to explore some of the best dog breeds with the weirdest habits. These breeds display some of the most unusual quirks in the canine world, and while these behaviors might seem odd at first, they often come from the breed’s history, instincts, or distinct personality traits.
For those who love a dog with a bit of an eccentric streak, these breeds offer plenty of character and charm. Their unusual habits are more than just amusing—they can deepen the bond between you and your dog as you learn to appreciate their unique traits. Embracing these quirks makes the experience of owning one of these special breeds even more fulfilling.
Here, we’ve rounded up seven dog breeds that are known for their strange yet fascinating habits, highlighting a mix of familiar and lesser-known breeds that bring a lot of personality to the table.
Dog Breeds With The Weirdest Habits
1. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a confident, alert, and loyal dog that forms strong bonds with its owners. However, they are also quite independent and can be territorial, with a strong hunting instinct. Shibas are energetic and very smart, which means they need plenty of mental stimulation and physical exercise to stay happy.
If they don’t get enough of either, they can become anxious and might display some odd behaviors, like the famous “Shiba scream”—a loud, high-pitched noise that can be unsettling to hear and may even irritate neighbors. They also like to “talk,” bark, and yip, making them quite vocal dogs.
Orvis points out that Shiba Inus can be a bit possessive when it comes to their food or toys, and they may try to dominate other animals if not properly socialized. But with the right training, exercise, and socialization, they can be wonderful companions.
While they have lots of energy, Shibas also know how to relax and enjoy downtime. One unique trait is their love for cleanliness, which makes them relatively easy to housetrain.
2. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful breed known for being protective and strong-willed, but they also have some quirky habits that can catch even seasoned dog owners off guard. One of their strangest behaviors is “head-butting” their owners. Despite their size, Bullmastiffs often do this to get attention or show affection, which can be surprising but is usually done with love.
They are great cuddle companions, but Bullmastiffs are also known to drool a lot, so a bib might come in handy! According to Hill’s Pet, their short snouts and loose jowls cause them to snore loudly and make all kinds of funny noises. Another charming habit is their tendency to “shadow” their owners, following them from room to room because they love staying close to their humans.
However, due to their shorter faces, Bullmastiffs are prone to breathing problems, a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which can sometimes make it harder for them to breathe properly.
3. Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers are energetic and affectionate dogs that thrive on companionship and love having plenty of things to do. They enjoy being outdoors and make great companions for owners who want constant company. Known for their sweet nature and unique, lamb-like appearance, these dogs have a charm that sets them apart. Despite being less “Terrier-like” in temperament, they still have a strong hunting instinct when it comes to small animals but remain calm and make excellent pets.
While they are soft and quiet in appearance, Bedlington Terriers won’t back down if they feel threatened and can stand their ground with other dogs. They are fearless, determined, and sometimes quite stubborn, but they also form strong bonds with their owners and love to please—when they’re in the mood!
Omlet states that although they need a good amount of exercise, they can be quite lazy and would much rather curl up on the sofa for a nap. Training them can be tricky, especially when they catch a scent, as their recall isn’t always reliable. However, with patience and love, they make loyal and cuddly companions.
4. Bull Terrier
While Bull Terriers may not be the most popular dog breed in the U.S., they are instantly recognizable thanks to their unique egg-shaped heads, triangular eyes, and muscular builds. Known for their playful, clownish nature, Bull Terriers are full of energy and love to be active. They are affectionate and loving dogs, but they don’t reserve their affection just for their families.
PetMD notes that if someone else offers a treat and a cuddle, they’ll happily hop onto their lap—unless they’re feeling independent at that moment, in which case they might suddenly decide to keep their distance. These dogs can easily switch between playful, loving, and independent moods, sometimes all within just a few minutes!
Bull Terriers thrive on human companionship and need regular exercise to keep their lively spirits in check. Without enough attention or stimulation, they can quickly become destructive, finding their way into mischief by chewing on a couch cushion or anything else they can sink their teeth into. If left alone for too long, they may even develop compulsive behaviors like tail-chasing. To keep a Bull Terrier happy, they need plenty of interaction, exercise, and mental stimulation.
5. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds, with their iconic long ears, droopy eyes, and short legs, are easily recognizable and beloved for their gentle, laid-back nature. Originally bred in France for hunting, they relied on their extraordinary sense of smell to track small game.
Due to their history as scent hounds, Basset Hounds have a habit of following their noses wherever they go, often leading to persistent sniffing on walks, which can make sticking to a route challenging. When they pick up an interesting scent, they are known to let out deep, melodious howls and bays, which can be endearing but also loud. Another quirk tied to their hunting past is digging—whether it’s in a yard or a garden, Basset Hounds love to unearth things as if they were following a scent trail underground.
Owners of Basset Hounds should also be prepared for their notorious drooling. Their loose lips cause them to slobber, especially after drinking or smelling something tasty, which can be a bit messy. Despite their short stature, these clever dogs are surprisingly good at “counter surfing,” using their determination and strong food motivation to reach for food on tables or countertops.
6. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested, with its unique and unconventional appearance, easily captures attention and hearts alike. Despite their small size and low exercise needs, these dogs often surprise people by excelling in agility competitions. Known for their cat-like behavior, Chinese Cresteds enjoy sitting in high places, such as the arm of a chair or the back of a couch, giving them a quirky and endearing personality.
These dogs are incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, often becoming very attached to their people. While their affection is heartwarming, they can become overly clingy, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. Chinese Cresteds thrive on human companionship and don’t do well when left alone for long periods, often resorting to howling or other signs of distress.
Another adorable habit they have is burrowing under blankets or pillows, likely due to their lack of fur and their need to stay warm. This affectionate, people-centric breed loves being close and will always find a way to snuggle in with their favorite person.
7. Greyhound
Despite their sleek, athletic build and incredible speed, Greyhounds are famously laid-back and often referred to as some of the biggest couch potatoes in the dog world. Their sprinter instincts mean they prefer short bursts of intense activity over long, drawn-out exercise sessions. When Greyhounds get excited, they display their silly side with zoomies—running in circles, leaping with long legs, and kicking up their heels at full speed. These bursts of energy are always brief but incredibly fun to watch.
Greyhounds also have some unique quirks that set them apart. One of these is teeth chattering, a behavior usually seen when they are excited or anticipating something they enjoy, like a meal or treat. Many compare this chattering to a cat’s purring, as it seems to show their contentment.
Another endearing habit is “nitting,” where they gently nibble on their owners, as well as “roaching,” which is when they sleep on their backs with their legs sticking up in the air. Finally, Greyhounds sometimes engage in “rooing,” which is their version of howling—an amusing vocalization that adds to their charming personalities.
Conclusion
In the canine world, some dog breeds stand out not only for their unique looks but also for their weirdest habits. From the Bullmastiff’s affectionate “head-butting” to the Greyhound’s quirky teeth chattering, each breed brings its own set of amusing and sometimes puzzling behaviors. While some of these dogs, like the Bullmastiff, are known for their strong protective instinct and make excellent guard dog breeds, others may exhibit a weird habit that is more entertaining than protective.
For example, the Shiba Inu’s infamous “Shiba scream” or the Chinese Crested’s burrowing under blankets show how each breed has its own way of expressing its personality.
Despite their weird habits, these dogs often have high energy levels and can be very loyal companions with the right care and attention. Many breeds with a protective nature, like the Basset Hound and Bull Terrier, may also require special attention to their grooming and barking habits, ensuring they remain happy and healthy. Whether it’s playful zoomies, intense barking, or unique grooming needs, each breed adds its own charm and challenges to pet ownership, making the world of dogs endlessly fascinating.
From burying beloved toys to spinning in joyful circles, the canine world is full of quirky behaviors. While the seven breeds highlighted exhibit some of the most unusual habits, every dog has its own unique personality and eccentricities. Understanding these breed-specific tendencies not only adds to our appreciation of their individuality but also helps us better meet their specific needs. Whether it’s a whirling dervish of a Finnish Spitz or a treasure-burying Shiba Inu, embracing these quirks strengthens the bond between humans and their beloved canine companions. After all, it’s these oddities that often make our dogs so endearing.