Moving objects can instantly capture a dog’s attention. All dogs have a natural urge to follow them, but some pooches are born with a much stronger chasing instinct, often linked to the jobs their breeds were developed for.
For instance, hunting dogs and herding breeds are more likely than companion dogs to chase a squirrel or a passing vehicle. This chase instinct is tied directly to prey drive, which also comes with some positive traits.
Dogs with a strong prey drive tend to be smart and intensely focused, which helps them assess a situation and act on it. To keep that drive in check, they need regular training sessions and plenty of daily stimulation.
Here are the top 10 dog breeds with the strongest chase instincts.
Dog Breeds with the Strongest Chase Instincts
1. Greyhound
Having streamlined and muscular bodies, Greyhounds are built for speed. They are one of the fastest dog breeds in the world. Greyhounds were originally bred as hunting dogs. As with all sight hounds, Greyhounds have a natural desire to chase, according to Hill’s Pet.
Due to their high prey drive, they may not be suitable for homes with small pets such as rabbits. Greyhounds are highly affectionate towards their family members and get along nicely with kids. They make loving and laid-back companions for many homes.
Despite being fast-moving animals, they do not have much endurance. Once done with daily exercise, Greyhounds enjoy spending their day snoozing on a comfy couch. They are not excessive barkers, so they make a good choice for owners looking for a quiet dog breed.
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, versatile, and very high-energy dogs. They form strong bonds with their humans and do not like being left alone. Otherwise, they may develop separation anxiety.
Originally bred as herding dogs, German Shepherds have a natural instinct to protect their loved ones. They tend to be wary of strangers and have a territorial nature. Thanks to these traits, GSDs make excellent guard dogs.
German Shepherds are also known for having a strong prey drive. If not controlled properly, they may end up chasing cats or other small animals. PetPlan mentions that these eager-to-please dogs respond best to positive reinforcement-based training methods.
3. Siberian Husky
Originally bred as sled dogs, Siberian Huskies are known for their exceptional endurance and talkative personalities. These highly energetic canines enjoy hikes, long walks, and runs with their humans and need plenty of daily physical activity and mental stimulation.
Siberian Huskies are very high prey drive dogs. They have a strong instinct to chase, which makes them unsuitable around small animals. Proper training and early socialization are important to manage their high prey drive.
Thanks to their thick double coats, they can survive freezing temperatures. Their beautiful weather-resistant coats not only give them a striking wolf-like appearance, but also protect them from harsh conditions. Unlike many other breeds, Huskies have minimal doggy odor and are known for self-grooming.
4. Plott Hound
Plott Hounds were primarily bred to hunt bears and wild boars. Their rich history as hunting dogs is responsible for a strong prey drive. Their superior hunting skills have led to a natural desire to chase moving objects.
Well-trained and properly socialized Plott Hounds are highly affectionate to their humans and get along nicely with children. They are loving without being super clingy. These extremely intelligent and deeply devoted dogs have an independent streak.
Plott Hounds are energetic dogs who require an ample amount of daily exercise for physical and mental enrichment. They are built for stamina and are better suited for active families. Plott Hounds enjoy activities like long runs, walks, and hikes with their humans.
5. Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hounds are very graceful and athletic dogs who love to run after scents. They are active and independent dogs with high prey drive. Pharaoh Hounds will end up chasing everything they see or smell. A squirrel, rabbit, or blowing leaf can suddenly become the most interesting thing for them.
Purina mentions that they are loyal to family and close friends. Like other hunting breeds, Pharaoh Hounds should also be supervised around cats, other furry friends, and livestock. Though they can be quite vocal at times, Pharaoh Hounds are quite sociable.
Pharaoh Hounds enjoy sprinting, long-distance running, and are capable of jumping reasonable heights. They have a short coat which sheds very little and need only minimal grooming to keep looking good.
Do You Know? Pharoah Hounds can blush when excited, which is why they have earned the title of ‘Blushing Dog of Malta.’
6. Saluki
Salukis are sophisticated, sensitive, and sweet-natured canines who love long runs as well as loafing on the couch. Their temperament is a sweet mix of affection and independence. These endurance runners need an opportunity to stretch their legs.
As sight hounds, Salukis were bred to hunt using sight and speed. This historical background is reflected in their desire to chase every moving object. These smart dogs are quick learners if motivated properly. They need regular exercise for physical and mental enrichment.
Lack of adequate exercise can lead to destructive behaviors like excessive barking or chewing. Salukis may not bounce into every lap like some other breeds, but are deeply loyal to their humans. Their gentle and patient personalities make them well suited as family pets.
7. Airedale Terrier
Bold, brainy, and energetic, Airedale Terriers are known for their distinctive looks and a rich history. Being the largest breed in the terrier family, they are often dubbed the ‘King of Terriers.’ Airedales make reliable protectors and versatile working dogs.
The terrier instincts run deep in their DNA. They have a prey drive strong enough to keep the population of squirrels in your backyard on high alert. Impulse control training and early socialization are important to channel their prey drive in a positive direction.
Games of fetch and scent work can play a significant role in controlling their high drive. Airedale Terriers are generally friendly with other dogs if raised together. However, cats, rabbits, and pocket pets may not be a good fit.
8. American Foxhound
Originally bred to hunt foxes, American Foxhounds are easygoing and sweet-tempered canines. These good-natured and low-maintenance dogs get on well with kids, dogs, and even cats. American Foxhounds are sleek and rangy hunters, known for their endurance and work ethic.
These versatile dogs have keen noses and a very strong prey drive. American Foxhounds have a lot of stamina, which allows them to track and chase prey for several hours without getting tired. Their loud bawling is melodious to hunters, but may bother their neighbors.
American Foxhounds require lots of daily exercise for physical and mental enrichment. Otherwise, they can become destructive. An hour or two of daily activity is a must. Proper training and early socialization help turn them into well-behaved family pets.
9. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are small yet confident and headstrong pooches. Having a playful personality and strong hunting instincts, they thrive in active households where they get lots of exercise and mental enrichment.
At least an hour of daily activity is a must. Due to their high prey drive, they may struggle to hold back from chasing wildlife they spot during daily walks. You can re-channel their chasing instincts into a game of fetch.
Jack Russell Terriers have a history of killing small animals like chickens, cats, and other dogs. They are loving and affectionate dogs who make popular family pets. Early training and socialization are important to turn them into well-mannered family dogs.
10. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks, often nicknamed African Lion Hounds, were primarily developed to hunt lions in Africa. Their rich historical background is responsible for their high prey drive. They require consistent training and proper socialization for managing prey drive.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are loyal and affectionate to their humans and bond closely with them. However, they are naturally suspicious of strangers and make excellent guard dogs. Ridgebacks are quiet dogs who do not bark excessively.
They require moderate daily exercise for physical and mental enrichment. At least an hour of daily exercise is a must. Brisk walks, jogs, and hikes are a great way to channel their energy in a positive direction.
Conclusion
Some dog breeds are known for having strong chasing instincts. Usually, herding breeds and hunting dogs have a natural desire to follow moving objects, which contributes to their high prey drive. Prey drive needs to be managed in a proper way.
This can be done through consistent training, proper socialization, and regular exercise. Activities like hiking, biking, running, jogging, and canine sports are a good way to channel their high drive in a positive direction.
