Some dogs treat your yard like a treasure map—others won’t lift a paw.
If you’ve ever stepped outside to find your garden transformed into a cratered moonscape, you’re not alone. Digging isn’t just mischief—it’s instinct. And for some breeds, it’s practically a full-time job.
Terriers? Digging machines. Huskies? Dirt-flinging champions. But don’t panic—plenty of pups couldn’t care less about your flower beds. Some breeds would rather nap in the sun than tunnel to the earth’s core.
Knowing who’s likely to dig (and who isn’t) can save your sanity—and your landscaping.
So before you bring home a furry companion, find out if you’re getting a backyard excavator or a lazy sunbather.
Let’s meet the 12 breeds who love to dig up yards… and 12 that just don’t bother.
Dachshund
With a name that means “badger dog” in German, Dachshunds were originally bred to dig out badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals. Their long bodies and big paws are perfect for this task. They’re known for their bold and lively nature.
These dogs often love the thrill of the chase, even if it’s just a toy. If you’re looking for a pet with enthusiasm for digging, this breed fits the bill.
However, if you prefer a spotless garden, consider dedicating a special area just for their digging pleasure.
Beagle
Beagles have a nose that knows, and that often leads them right into your flower beds. Their strong sense of smell and hunting instinct make them avid diggers. They trace scents with determination, sometimes leading to unexpected excavation projects.
These merry little hounds are curious by nature, always ready for an adventure. Their energy and zeal for discovery can turn any yard into a treasure map.
Be prepared for a bit of landscaping if you welcome a Beagle into your home, as their enthusiasm is hard to contain.
Labrador Retriever
The ever-enthusiastic Labrador Retriever is known not only for its love of water but also for its penchant for digging. This breed often digs to bury treasures or simply for the joy of it.
Labs are highly intelligent and curious, which sometimes translates into a desire to explore the earth beneath their paws. If not provided with enough stimulation, they might channel this energy into creating craters in your yard.
It’s important to provide them with ample toys and playtime to keep their minds occupied and their digging habits in check.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are born to run and dig. Originally from Siberia, these dogs have a strong desire to explore and a love for snow. Their thick coats and energetic nature make them excellent winter diggers.
Although they thrive in cold climates, this doesn’t stop them from digging in warmer weather too. Their independent spirit often drives them to escape, sometimes digging under fences.
If you own a Husky, secure your yard and provide ample exercise to keep their roaming instincts satisfied.
Basset Hound
With their soulful eyes and droopy ears, Basset Hounds are gentle diggers. Their primary motivation for digging is their keen sense of smell, inherited from their bloodhound ancestors.
These dogs are often on the hunt for interesting scents, leading to mild digging. While they may not dig as intensely as other breeds, they’re persistent in their pursuit.
Bassets are generally relaxed, making them ideal for families who appreciate a calm yet curious companion, but be ready for the occasional hole in the ground.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are renowned for their energy and intelligence. These small dogs pack a big punch when it comes to digging. Initially bred for fox hunting, they have a natural inclination to dig and explore.
Their spirited and agile nature keeps them constantly on the move, often leading to uprooted plants. Providing them with a designated area to dig might save your garden from their vigorous efforts.
Owning a Jack Russell means embracing their lively antics and providing ample mental and physical stimulation.
Border Collie
Border Collies are known for their intelligence and work ethic. While not primarily diggers, their curiosity can lead them to dig, especially if they’re bored. These dogs excel at problem-solving and need plenty of mental stimulation.
A bored Border Collie might take to digging as a form of entertainment. Their sharp minds and agile bodies require activities that challenge their skills.
To prevent unwanted digging, engage them in games and tasks that utilize their incredible intelligence and drive.
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes share a heritage with Huskies, thriving in cold environments. These powerful dogs have a strong drive to dig, often seeking cooler ground in warm weather.
Malamutes are friendly giants, but their strength can lead to significant garden renovations. They are hardworking and enjoy tasks that involve pulling and digging.
Owning a Malamute requires space and understanding of their natural behaviors, including their love for creating dens and digging in snow or dirt.
Fox Terrier
Fox Terriers are playful and spirited, with a strong instinct to dig. Bred for hunting foxes, these dogs are determined excavators. They enjoy the thrill of the chase, even if it’s just a game.
Their lively and independent nature makes them both fun and challenging. Providing outlets for their energy is essential to prevent unwanted digging.
Engage them with interactive games and puzzles to keep their minds and paws occupied. A Fox Terrier will keep you entertained with their antics and zest for life.
Chihuahua
Though small in stature, Chihuahuas have a big personality. While not known for extensive digging, their curiosity sometimes leads them to explore the earth.
These little dogs are alert and lively, often enjoying short bouts of digging. Their small size means they don’t cause much damage, making them suitable for homes with limited outdoor space.
Chihuahuas thrive on attention and engagement, so provide them with toys and activities to satisfy their inquisitive nature.
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, affectionately known as Scotties, are tenacious diggers. Bred for hunting vermin, they have a natural inclination to dig and explore. Their independent spirit and loyal nature make them beloved companions.
Scotties enjoy having a purpose, and digging fulfills their instinctual needs. They can be stubborn, often following their nose into the ground.
Providing a designated digging area and engaging them in activities can help channel their energy positively, preserving your garden’s beauty.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and spirited nature. Originally bred as farm dogs, they have a strong drive to dig, often searching for rodents.
These small but mighty dogs are energetic and alert, always ready for an adventure. Digging is a favorite pastime, fueled by their inquisitive nature.
To keep their digging in check, provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They thrive on companionship and activity, making them excellent pets for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.
Great Dane
Despite their size, Great Danes are gentle giants who prefer resting over digging. Known for their calm demeanor, these dogs enjoy lounging in the sun.
Their laid-back nature means they rarely disturb gardens, making them ideal for those who cherish their flowerbeds. Great Danes appreciate comfort and closeness to their human companions.
While they may not dig, they require ample space and love. Their presence is often enough to deter any critters that might want to cause garden mischief.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are charming clowns who prefer play over digging. With their bat-like ears and affectionate nature, they bring joy without the garden upheaval.
These compact dogs are sociable and enjoy being part of the family, often preferring to relax by your side instead of digging. Their playful antics keep them entertained.
Ideal for those with limited outdoor space, French Bulldogs are content with short walks and plenty of cuddles, ensuring your garden remains pristine.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are regal companions known for their luxurious coats and gentle nature. They prefer to admire gardens rather than dig them up. These dogs enjoy the finer things in life, including a well-kept yard.
Their calm demeanor makes them excellent indoor pets, suitable for homes where garden aesthetics are valued. While they may not dig, they require regular grooming to maintain their elegant appearance.
Shih Tzus thrive on companionship and love, making them perfect lapdogs for those who appreciate serenity and beauty.
Pug
Pugs are lovable companions with a penchant for relaxation. Their wrinkled faces and curly tails make them instantly endearing. Known for their easygoing nature, Pugs rarely dig.
They prefer to spend their time lounging in the sun or following their humans around the house. Pugs are perfect for those who value a tidy garden, as they don’t have a strong digging instinct.
Their sociable nature makes them ideal family pets, enjoying playtime and cuddles without disturbing the garden’s tranquility.
Maltese
Maltese are elegant dogs known for their pure white coats. They exude grace and charm, often preferring to observe rather than disturb their surroundings.
These dogs are not inclined to dig, making them perfect for maintaining a pristine garden. Their playful yet gentle nature suits families who appreciate beauty and tranquility.
Though small, Maltese are full of personality and require attention and grooming. Their delightful presence adds to the ambience of a well-tended garden without causing any damage.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With their soulful eyes and silky ears, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are gentle companions. They prefer relaxation over digging, enjoying the serenity of a beautiful garden.
These dogs are affectionate and sociable, often content to lie by their owner’s side. Their easygoing nature means they’re unlikely to disturb the flowerbeds.
Ideal for families who value both companionship and garden aesthetics, these spaniels are perfect lapdogs who bring joy without the mess.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are known for their calm demeanor and stocky build. They prefer a leisurely lifestyle, often content to relax in a garden without digging.
These sturdy dogs enjoy short walks and plenty of rest, making them ideal for those who appreciate a tidy yard. Bulldogs are loyal and loving, providing companionship without garden destruction.
Their laid-back attitude means they thrive in households that enjoy a peaceful environment, blending seamlessly into family life.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are lively and intelligent, with a luxurious coat that adds to their charm. They prefer to prance around rather than dig, often enjoying the beauty of a well-maintained garden.
Despite their small size, Pomeranians have a big personality, always ready to entertain. Their inquisitive nature is satisfied with exploration rather than excavation.
Ideal for those who appreciate a neat garden, these dogs bring joy without the mess, thriving on attention and companionship.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are dignified dogs with an aloof demeanor. Known for their lion-like appearance, they are more interested in surveying their territory than digging it up.
These dogs are independent and reserved, enjoying their own company. Their lack of interest in digging makes them suitable for those who value garden aesthetics.
Chow Chows require regular grooming and socialization, thriving in environments where their unique qualities are appreciated without encouraging destructive behavior.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful companions with a penchant for play. Their fluffy coats and friendly demeanor make them endearing pets. These dogs are not known for digging, preferring to play and explore.
Their playful antics bring joy without the mess of a dug-up garden. Bichons thrive on companionship and love, making them perfect for families who enjoy an active yet tidy lifestyle.
Regular grooming is needed to keep their coats pristine, enhancing their delightful presence in a beautiful garden.
Havanese
Havanese are known for their affectionate nature and silky coats. They prefer companionship over digging, enjoying leisurely strolls in a well-kept garden.
These dogs thrive on interaction and are not inclined to disturb their surroundings. Their playful yet gentle demeanor makes them ideal for families who appreciate both beauty and tranquility.
Havanese require regular grooming and thrive in environments where their social nature is nurtured, adding a touch of elegance to any garden setting.
Newfoundland
With a heart as big as its paws, the Newfoundland is every child’s gentle guardian. Known for their calm and docile nature, Newfoundlands prefer lounging in the shade rather than digging up the yard. Their love for water far exceeds any interest in garden escapades.
Historically, these dogs have been used as working dogs for fishermen, showcasing their strong swimming skills. Even on land, their primary concern is companionship, not chaos in the garden. Newfoundlands are gentle giants who bring a sense of tranquility wherever they roam.
Their serene disposition makes them perfect for families seeking a low-maintenance yard.