Dogs are known for being adorable, loyal, and sometimes… well, downright strange. If you’ve ever caught your pup staring at the wall for minutes on end, spinning in endless circles, or hiding your socks like buried treasure, you’re not alone. Some dog breeds just have a quirky streak—and we love them all the more for it.
From bizarre bedtime rituals to howling at the microwave, these dogs bring a whole new level of entertainment to your household. While some behaviors have scientific explanations, others remain endearing mysteries that only add to their charm. These eccentric traits can make life with your four-legged friend both hilarious and heartwarming.
Today, we’re exploring dog breeds known for their weird (but wonderful) habits. You’ll learn about the peculiar tendencies of certain pups and why they do what they do—because behind every quirky dog is a story that makes them uniquely lovable.
Get ready to meet the canine world’s biggest goofballs—you might even recognize some of your own pup’s antics here!
Dog Breeds With The Weirdest Habits
1. Basenji
Originating from Central Africa, Basenjis are ancient hunting dogs, prized for their speed, agility, and unique “barkless” vocalizations. Instead of barking, they produce a quirky yodel-like sound called a “barroo.” This breed’s regal, alert posture and keen hunting instincts made them invaluable to tribes for tracking game in dense jungle terrain.
The Basenji is a small, elegant dog with a sleek, muscular build and a tightly curled tail that gives it a distinct silhouette. Its short coat comes in shades like chestnut red, black, or brindle, often with crisp white markings that look like it’s dressed for a safari.
These little ninjas are full of personality and curiosity. You may not hear them coming, but you’ll definitely notice when they rearrange your laundry or scale a counter for snacks.
Weirdest Habits of the Basenji
✅ They don’t bark, but they do “talk” in other weird ways. Expect yodels, growls, and sighs that make you question if they’re part alien.
✅ Basenjis groom themselves like cats—licking their paws and cleaning their coats. They’re basically the neat freaks of the dog world, says Purina.
✅ Got a backyard? Better have a fortress. These dogs are Olympic-level escape artists, especially if they spot a squirrel.
✅ Don’t let their small size fool you—they’ve got endless energy. A bored Basenji is basically a four-legged tornado with a PhD in mischief.
✅ Just because they don’t bark doesn’t mean they don’t notice. They’re hyper-aware of their surroundings and will alert you with their signature sounds (and maybe an intense stare).
Why We Love Their Weirdness
Sure, they might act like they’re smarter than everyone in the room (and they usually are), but Basenjis bring a unique blend of ancient elegance and modern-day sass. They’re sleek, stylish, independent, and just quirky enough to keep life interesting.
2. Bull Terrier
With their iconic egg-shaped head and eyes that seem to say, “What chaos shall I create today?”, Bull Terriers are the definition of delightful weirdos. Equal parts goofy, stubborn, and affectionate, these dogs bring a whole lot of personality—and a few head-scratching habits—into your home. They’re like toddlers in dog form: energetic, curious, and totally unbothered by logic.
Bull Terriers were originally bred in 19th-century England for bull-baiting and later as fighting dogs, but their modern-day persona is much softer, though still filled with boundless energy and playful stubbornness. Their distinctive appearance and spirited nature have made them a beloved breed with a unique personality that matches their bold look.
Weirdest Habits of the Bull Terrier
✅ These pups have mastered the ancient art of spinning in circles for no apparent reason. Whether it’s chasing their tail, the light reflecting off your phone, or their own shadow, once the whirl begins, there’s no stopping the tornado.
✅ Got a flashlight? You’ve got entertainment. Bull Terriers are known for obsessively chasing lights and shadows, often turning your living room into their personal rave.
✅ From shoes to sofa arms, nothing is safe. Bull Terriers chew like it’s their job. Teething pups? Sure. But even adults will treat your remote like a snack if left unattended.
✅ They’re usually quiet—until they’re not. Sudden bursts of barking often come with zoomies, toy time, or simply because they’re happy you looked at them. It’s spontaneous, loud, and kind of adorable.
✅ Their short, stocky legs somehow turn into springs during their wild zoomie sessions. Expect tight indoor laps and the occasional leap onto the couch mid-sprint.
Why We Love Their Weirdness
Bull Terriers might be oddballs, but they’re oddballs with heart. They love hard, play harder, and keep you laughing with their quirky antics and endless energy. They might destroy a slipper or two, but you’ll forgive them in a heartbeat when they snuggle up with their silly grin.
3. Shiba Inu
This breed traces back thousands of years as one of Japan’s oldest native dogs, originally used for hunting small game in mountainous regions.
Shiba Inus are basically the rock stars of the dog world—independent, dramatic, and impossibly photogenic. Their most famous quirk? The legendary Shiba scream—a high-pitched, ear-piercing yell that can happen when they’re either super excited or completely fed up. There’s really no in-between.
The Shiba Inu is a compact, agile dog with a fox-like face, curled tail, and a thick double coat that usually comes in vibrant red, sesame, black, or tan. Their sharp eyes and alert ears give them an expression of curiosity and intelligence.
Weirdest Habits of the Shiba Inu
✅ Forget a simple bark or whine—Shibas yell with the passion of a rock concert crowd. Whether they’re mad, thrilled, or just feeling dramatic, this scream will make sure you definitely know how they feel.
✅ They clean themselves obsessively, licking their paws and fur like a tiny feline. This fastidiousness makes them surprisingly easy to house-train (because no one wants a dirty house, right?).
✅ Fences? Collars? No problem. Shibas are masters of escape and will test every boundary with the precision of a cat burglar. If you’ve got a Shiba, you’re basically running a mini escape room every day.
✅ They love their humans but on their own terms. Sometimes, they’re clingy and affectionate. Other times, they’re off doing their own thing—often somewhere you can’t find them.
Why We Love Their Weirdness
The Shiba Inu’s blend of diva-like vocal performances, obsessive cleanliness, and Houdini-level escapes makes them endlessly entertaining. They’re fiercely independent yet deeply loyal, and their dramatic flair keeps life anything but boring.
They’re clean freaks who spend as much time grooming themselves as a cat would. And don’t be surprised if you find them sneaking out of the yard like little Houdinis—this breed’s curiosity and ninja-level escape skills keep owners on their toes.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If there’s a dog breed that invented the art of being adorable and clingy, it’s the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These little fluff balls have a knack for melting hearts—and chewing on your softest blankets like it’s a comfort ritual passed down through generations.
Small and elegantly built, Cavaliers boast silky, flowing coats with rich color patterns like Blenheim (chestnut and white), tricolor, ruby, and black & tan. Their large, expressive eyes and feathered ears make them look like the epitome of sweetness.
This breed is a descendant of toy spaniels that were popular among British royalty in the 16th and 17th centuries, named after King Charles II, who adored them. PetMD notes that they were bred to be loving companions, and they’re still the ultimate lapdog, carrying centuries of royal charm in their every wag.
Weirdest Habits of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
✅ From puppyhood to adulthood, Cavaliers often chew or suck on soft objects. It’s their way of feeling safe and cozy—like carrying a tiny teddy bear around, but with more fur and slobber.
✅ Forget privacy—these dogs want to be where you are, at all times. Bathroom breaks, cooking, napping… if you move, they follow. If you sit, expect a fluffy cuddle pile.
✅ This playful habit is usually a puppy thing, but it can pop up anytime they’re feeling frisky or bored. The result? An endless loop of chasing and spinning that’s as entertaining as it is adorable.
✅ Despite their goofy quirks, Cavaliers are known for being incredibly loving and gentle, perfect for families or anyone who needs a constant cuddle buddy.
Why We Love Their Weirdness
With their fluffy fur, velcro personality, and adorable habits, Cavaliers bring warmth and joy wherever they go. Their playful tail-chasing and soft-object obsession only add to their charm, making every day a little brighter (and fluffier).
They’re professional followers, sticking to you like glue and trailing from room to room like your personal shadow. Plus, they sometimes chase their own tails for fun—a silly little quirk that’s just too cute to resist.
5. Greyhound
Greyhounds might be famous for their incredible speed on the racetrack, but at home? They’re basically professional nap champions.
One of the oldest dog breeds, dating back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Greyhounds were bred for hunting and coursing game at lightning speeds. Despite their athletic past and imposing size, today’s Greyhounds are known for their surprisingly gentle and calm demeanor, perfectly suited for a cushy life as a beloved pet after retiring from the racetrack.
Greyhounds are all about streamlined elegance—long legs, narrow bodies, and deep chests built for explosive speed. Their short coat comes in a dazzling variety of colors and patterns, from solid black to brindle to spotted.
Weirdest Habits of the Greyhound
✅ These dogs are sprinting machines… but only for a few seconds at a time. After their “zoomies,” they flop down and become the ultimate couch potatoes. It’s like they sprinted to the fridge and back—and now they’re done for the day.
✅ PetPlan states Greyhounds can be a bit shy and sensitive, sometimes startled by sudden noises or quick movements. They’re basically the dog equivalent of that friend who jumps at loud fireworks but still wants to party.
✅ Despite their long legs and slim build, many Greyhounds believe they’re lap dogs. They’ll try to squeeze into the tiniest spot on your sofa, often with hilarious results.
✅ They’ll contort their lean bodies into the strangest positions while sleeping, sometimes looking like a pretzel or a stretched-out noodle. It’s weird, but hey, it works for them.
Why We Love Their Weirdness
Greyhounds blend the elegance of a racehorse with the chill vibes of a couch potato and the goofy antics of a sitcom character. Their sprint-and-snooze routine and sweet, sensitive nature make them charmingly unique.
Don’t let that sleek, aerodynamic body fool you—they’re just as happy zooming around for five minutes as they are snoozing for five hours. They have a surprisingly goofy side that makes them endearing companions, even if their weird habits sometimes leave you scratching your head.
6. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are classic all-around sweethearts with a playful spirit and a heart full of love. Their pack mentality means they thrive on companionship—whether with humans or other pets, which is why they can sometimes follow you around like a shadow.
This breed has its roots in hunting and retrieving game birds in England, with “cocker” referring to their expertise in hunting woodcock. Their friendly temperament and boundless energy made them popular not only in the field but also as affectionate family pets, prized for their loyal and social nature.
Cocker Spaniels have a medium build with soft, rounded features, long floppy ears, and large, soulful eyes. Their silky coats—often golden, black, or parti-colored—require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.
Weirdest Habits of the Cocker Spaniel
✅ Cocker Spaniels are social butterflies who hate being alone. They’ll stick close to their “pack,” whether that’s family members, other dogs, or even their favorite plush toy.
✅ Out of nowhere, these usually calm dogs can get the sudden urge to run wild, spinning and sprinting around the house with pure joy. It’s like their inner puppy comes alive—and it’s hilarious to watch.
✅ Yep, sometimes they snooze with their eyes partly open. This “nocturnal lagophthalmos” might freak out first-timers, but it’s totally harmless and just one of those odd quirks that make them memorable.
✅ They wag their tails so much it’s basically a built-in happiness meter. If their tail is moving, you know they’re loving life (and probably ready for some cuddles).
Why We Love Their Weirdness
Cocker Spaniels combine boundless affection with playful bursts of energy and a few quirky habits that keep life interesting. Their social nature and surprisingly few eccentricities make them the perfect loving companion for anyone.
But don’t let their generally calm demeanor fool you; these pups can switch gears in an instant and zoom around like little whirlwinds. And they have some pretty unusual habits that only add to their charm.
7. Great Dane
Originating from Germany, Great Danes were originally bred as boar hunters and later became elegant estate guardians. Despite their intimidating size, they’re famously gentle and affectionate, earning the nickname “gentle giants.” Their stately appearance combined with their goofy, lovable personality makes them unforgettable companions.
Great Danes are massive guard dogs, towering over most breeds with broad chests, long legs, and a noble, rectangular head. Their coats are short and come in various striking colors, including fawn, brindle, and harlequin (white with black patches).
Despite their majestic size and noble appearance, Great Danes are some of the weirdest (and most lovable) goofballs in the dog world. They come in like royalty but act like clowns—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Weirdest Habits of the Great Dane
✅ Yep, they really think they’re the size of a teacup poodle. Great Danes have a hilarious habit of climbing into your lap, completely ignoring the fact that their body weight is equal to a teenager on a growth spurt.
✅ They don’t just stand beside you—they lean on you. Hard. As in “please call a chiropractor” kind of leaning. It’s their version of a hug… a very heavy one.
✅ Despite having the length of a dining table, they will squeeze into the smallest couch corner like it’s a perfectly sized dog bed. One leg will dangle, their head will hang off upside down, and somehow, they’re comfy.
✅ Can protect you from burglars, but runs from… balloons. Or vacuum cleaners. Or empty cereal boxes. Their courage has a toggle switch, and it’s random.
✅ You thought Grandpa snored loudly? Wait till a Great Dane falls asleep in the room. They snore with their whole soul.
✅ Don’t even try going to the bathroom alone. These dogs are needy, clingy, and absolutely convinced your existence depends on constant physical contact.
Why We Love Their Weirdness
Their habits might be weird, but they’re weird in the best way possible. A Great Dane is like that one friend who’s a little awkward, super tall, and always doing something goofy—but somehow manages to be the most lovable one in the room.
If you ever wanted a dog with the heart of a teddy bear, the body of a horse, and the personality of a sitcom character, the Great Dane’s your guy.
Conclusion
Many dog breeds can exhibit some of the weirdest habits like eating poop, tail chasing, or carrying odd objects. These behaviors are common behaviors that often start at a young age and can be influenced by anxiety, fear, or lack of early socialization. Many dogs, such as Chinese Crested, Great Dane, Greyhound, and Cavalier, use these actions to communicate or cope, but sometimes owners mistake them for just bad habits.
Pet parents need to understand these signs, as frequent sniffing or eating poop can indicate health issues or stress. Training and regular walks help pups learn better habits, while visits to the vet ensure they stay healthy. With patience and care, many owners can better manage these quirks and build trust with their pups, even when they seem a little scared or anxious around strangers or new situations.
