Dogs are known for their unique and endearing habits, from chasing their tail to barking at the postman. However, some dog breeds exhibit behaviors that go beyond adorable and into downright bizarre. These unique habits can range from amusing to shocking to their human companions, often leaving us wondering what’s going on in the minds of our furry friends. Whether it’s a passion for digging, an unusual way of sleeping, or strange eating habits, these behaviors make each breed unique. Understanding these strange habits can provide information about the breed’s history, genetics, and even their health needs. This article explores the top 7 dog breeds with the strangest habits, and highlights the quirks that make them stand out in the dog world. From the ridiculously weird to the surprisingly practical, here are the breeds that take eccentricity to a whole new level.
1. Greyhound
Greyhounds are renowned for their incredible speed and grace, but they also have a strange habit of “roaching” – lying on their backs with their legs in the air. This strange sleeping position is considered a symbol of complete satisfaction and trust in their environment. Additionally, despite their athletic build, Greyhounds are often called “45 mph couch potatoes” because they like to lie around and sleep most of the day. The combination of high-speed racing and lazy napping makes their lifestyle habits most interesting.
2. Basenji
The Basenji, often called the “barkless dog”, has a unique way of speaking that sounds more like a yodel than a traditional bark, known as a “baru”. This strange sound is caused by the shape of their larynx, and is one of the many unique traits of this breed. In addition to their unusual vocalizations, Basenjis are also known for their cat-like grooming habits, often cleaning themselves meticulously. These habits, combined with their independent nature, make the Basenji a charming breed with some strange habits.
3. Dachshund
With their distinctive long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds are notorious for their digging obsession. Originally bred to hunt badgers, their strong digging instincts often lead them to create holes all over the yard. Another unique habit is their fondness for burrowing in piles of blankets, bedding or laundry, which mimics the burrowing behavior required during their hunting days. This combination of digging and burrowing makes the Dachshund’s habits a curious aspect of their personality.
4. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu, Japan’s beloved dog breed, is known for its “Shiba scream” – a high-pitched scream that they emit when they are either very happy or protesting about something. This startling vocal performance is complemented by their independent and often aloof nature. Shiba Inus also have a strange habit of cleaning themselves and their sleeping area meticulously, just like cats. These behaviors, along with their dramatic reactions to everyday situations, make their habits some of the strangest and most amusing.
5. Bulldog
Bulldogs have several strange habits, most notably their propensity for skateboards. This unusual hobby is not only entertaining to watch, but also reflects the Bulldog’s unique physique, which makes regular exercise challenging. Their low center of gravity and strong build make them surprisingly adept at skateboarding. Additionally, Bulldogs are known for their loud snoring, which is a result of their brachycephalic facial structure, which adds another layer to their quirky habits.
6. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds have one of the most acute senses of smell among dog breeds, leading to some unusual habits related to their tracking abilities. They have been known to follow scent trails for miles, often completely oblivious to their surroundings. This single-minded pursuit can lead them into some awkward situations, which reflects their extraordinary olfactory-driven behavior. Bloodhounds can also be quite vocal, letting out a deep, plaintive howl that is as beautiful as it is frightening.
7. Poodle
Poodles are highly intelligent and easily trained, which perhaps explains their penchant for performing unusual tricks. From walking on their hind legs to jumping through hoops, Poodles enjoy engaging in behaviors that showcase their agility and smarts. Additionally, their habit of standing and peering over windows or fences is both cute and humorous. Poodles combine their intelligence with a playful spirit to develop some of the most interesting and strange habits seen in the dog world.
These seven breeds exemplify the diversity and uniqueness found in the dog world. Their strange habits not only provide endless entertainment but also enrich our understanding and appreciation of each breed’s unique characteristics. Whether it’s the athletic lounging of the Greyhound or the meticulous grooming of the Basenji, these quirky behaviors make each breed even more lovable and charming.