Some dogs are known for their intelligence. Others are known for their speed, strength, or working ability. Then there are the dogs that seem determined to keep everyone laughing.
These are the pups that trip over their own feet, get stuck in places they shouldn’t, make the funniest facial expressions, and turn ordinary moments into comedy shows. They may not always be the most graceful dogs in the park, but they more than make up for it with their loyalty, affection, and larger-than-life personalities.
If you’ve ever shared your home with a goofy dog, you know exactly what we’re talking about. Their silly habits, clumsy moments, and endless enthusiasm have a way of making even the toughest days a little brighter.
Here are 17 goofy dog breeds that are lovable, loyal, and just a little bit clumsy.
Basenji
Coren rated the basenji as just marginally less stupid than the Afghan hound; perhaps what makes the basenji seem less ridiculous than stupid is that it doesn’t seem to be much that interested in the kinds of relationships that obedience training usually calls for. The basenji is a calmer breed of dog that doesn’t bark to attract attention.
The basenji doesn’t require much care, which may be advantageous for certain people. Perhaps because of its meticulous grooming routine and independent nature, some people have called basenjis “catlike.” But as everyone knows, cats aren’t stupid—they just can’t be bothered to pick up new skills only to amuse people. Maybe the basenji should have the same latitude?
English bulldog
Many individuals have high hopes for bulldog breeds. And that includes the English bulldog, which, according to Coren’s research, is the third-least intelligent breed. One of Novack’s favorites is the English bulldog, renowned for its kind, calm nature. It is also among the breeds of dogs that bite the least frequently.
English bulldogs are known for their lethargy, which may explain their low score on Coren’s canine intelligence scale. And does it make a lazy dog dumb? Sure, they might not be as motivated to put in the effort needed to learn new instructions. English bulldog enthusiasts may disagree.
Chow chow
Although the Chow Chow dog has a lion-like appearance, it is not the king of the jungle or even the dog park. In a humorous statement, Coren listed the Chow as one of the stupidest dog breeds and said, “It’s likely that there is furniture out there that is easier to train than chows.”
However, Coren says that a dog’s aptitude for its innate abilities should be considered when evaluating its intelligence level. And chow chows are, it turns out, really good at that. Regretfully, nevertheless, in many nations, eating chow was one of the original purposes for which they were created.
Afghan hound
According to Coren’s research, the Afghan hound has the lowest IQ of all dog breeds. However, given that these hounds have a reputation for being strong-willed and independent, they may be too lazy to learn commands—after all, what’s in it for them?
Afghans would much like to be with their families, playing nicely with other puppies and dazzling the youngsters with glitzy hair flips. They are lively, playful, and gregarious. Surprisingly, Afghans don’t lose much hair, even though their smooth hair must be styled almost daily.
Borzoi
According to Coren’s criteria, the borzoi, one of the quickest canines in the world, is also regarded as one of the stupidest dog breeds. Swift borzois are lanky, shaggy dogs who require a lot of cerebral stimulation. Still, they are also notoriously difficult to train.
“In their quiet, catlike way, [borzois] can be stubborn, and training is best accomplished with patience, consistency, and good humour,” according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Therefore, even though they might not give up a paw when requested, these respectful puppies excel in the activity for which they were raised: hunting.
Bloodhound
The bloodhound, also known as the sleuth hound, is docile and loving toward its owners and is the best creature on earth at locating people who have gone missing. And yet, by Coren’s measures of dog intellect, the bloodhound is just somewhat less stupid than the borzoi.
The bloodhound and the borzoi are skilled hunters, which may be where the problem lies. Furthermore, being easily distracted is not conducive to learning commands. We’ll investigate whether it genuinely indicates that the bloodhound is stupid. In addition, there’s something about large-eared dogs that just makes us swoon.
Pekingese
Pekingese dogs tend to show their family a lot of love. Peeks get along nicely with kids, strangers, and other dogs and are very well-mannered. However, can a Pekingese consistently play fetch with you?
Unlikely, according to Coren’s criteria, this Chinese dog breed ranks among the world’s stupidest dog breeds. Being developed specifically to be lapdogs, Pekingese dogs excel in that role. And do we want this dog to be clever if it makes them selfish? Its attributes also rank it among the top dogs for older citizens.
Beagle
Lovers of floppy-eared dogs frequently gravitate toward the charming beagle. On the other hand, they are among the breeds of dogs most likely to be discovered at a shelter. One explanation is that beagles are easily distracted by odors, just like their relative, the bloodhound. There’s a significant chance of separation from its owners if permitted off-leash.
Because of their reputation for stubbornness, beagles can be difficult to teach. Furthermore, an untrained dog might be a challenging roommate. However, we don’t blame them for enjoying exploration. All this contented puppy wants is to see the world.
Mastiff
Although the mastiff is among the best security dogs, it doesn’t get there by accident. One of the largest domesticated dog breeds in the world is the submissive yet noble mastiff; as with all large dog breeds, training is essential. Paradoxically, mastiffs have trouble picking up new instructions.
Because of this, Coren’s research ranks mastiffs among the stupidest dog breeds. It also begs the question, How can I coexist peacefully with this adorable, drooling, enormous purported dope? Gentle training works best with mastiffs, so the sooner you begin, the better.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are another breed with a reputation for obstinacy. Although Dr. Coren’s list indicates that Bulldogs might be challenging to teach, are they dumb? The American Kennel Club considers Bulldogs to be quite trainable.
All it takes to show they can learn is to look at one of the well-known Bulldogs who enjoys skateboarding or surfing. Bulldogs are sometimes accused of being lethargic. However, some prefer active pursuits to lounging on the couch.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are similar to Pekingese in that they may be indolent. Their low, lengthy physiques and easygoing demeanors could contribute to this.
Like their scenthound cousins, Bloodhounds and Beagles, Bassets may be obstinate and find it difficult to focus on learning when surrounded by wonderful odors. A Basset Hound requires lifetime training if you want an obedient canine. But don’t consider this as a sign of low intelligence. They are intelligent, loving dogs.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus have fun, are devoted, and are affectionate. They are also gregarious and a little bit obstinate. They are popular pets due to this combination.
Still, many owners find training challenging because of their stubbornness and inclination to welcome and play with everyone, making training more challenging.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is one of the tiniest dog breeds, if not the smallest. However, the dog is unaware of this. It is courageous, will challenge canines of all shapes and sizes, and will not give up.
It barks as well—a great deal. Furthermore, Chihuahuas tend to pinch people. They appear foolish because of this combination, but it’s just that they want to have fun and don’t want to appear smaller than other dogs.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff and English Mastiff are comparable in breed and physical attributes. The breed is incredibly devoted to its humans and affectionate. However, this independent breed’s willpower is greater than its physical strength.
It will not do anything against its will. Persuading the Bullmastiff that any activity or behavior was suggested by the dog, not by you, is the key to successful training.
Lhasa Apso
Like many terrier breeds, the Lhasa Apso is often described as a dog with two personalities. At home, it is a relatively calm and relaxed dog.
However, the Lhasa Apso is also independent and obstinate, and it will not participate in any training program if it dislikes the concept.
Bull Terrier
Another terrier breed that embodies the reputation of being obstinate and unrelenting in the pursuit of its objective is the Bull Terrier. You should have good training outcomes if you are kind and attentive to your Bull Terrier and incorporate play into your training routine.
Bull Terrier breeds, for example, can learn orders, but it will take some time and work to ensure they do.
