7 Clumsy Puppy Dog Breeds: Not Really Graceful

7 Clumsy Puppy Breeds: Not Really Graceful

Does your dog always slip on the hardwood floor every time he tries to come towards you? Well, you are not alone in enjoying a clumsy pet! There are so many dogs out there who are considered to be clumsy and are far from being decent and sophisticated. They don’t show grace, no matter what they do. This makes them adorable and hilarious at the same time.

Where some of them are small in size, others are big. You would expect the big lads to be graceful, but the thing is, their massive sizes make it tough for them to keep their bodies in control. Hence, you will often see a big dog having very unpredictable steps.

Let’s talk about seven dogs that are always knocking stuff over and slipping on the glossy floors.

Clumsy Puppy Dog Breeds

1. Basset Hound 

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a clumsy dog that would literally trip over anything.

It’s not just how they go about the daily activities, their awkward gait and low-slung bodies also give them an appearance of clumsiness.

Though these dogs are generally slow, which would make you think they should be graceful in every step they take, it’s not true.

Why Someone Might Prefer a Slower Dog-01

One reason why they are awkward in appearance is their overall body structure. Their long bodies and short legs don’t let them have a classy appearance or an elegant gait.

This structure not only contributes to their clumsiness but also makes them prone to joint and mobility issues quite early in their lives.

Owing to their clumsy charm, lovable nature, and gentle temperament, these dogs are quite favored to be family dogs.

2. Saint Bernard 

Saint Bernard

Just like the Basset Hound, the Saint Bernard is also considered to be a clumsy dog owing to their body structure!

If you have this dog breed as a pet in your home, you will often witness hilarious, clumsy moments.

Bernards have wide bodies and super-long legs, as PetMD mentions. This particular body structure tends to give them a signature lumbering gait. As these dogs grow up, their bodies expand. This is when their ungainly characteristic becomes apparent.

Don’t consider these dogs to be suitable for extensive games as they are not high-energy creatures. A little walk around the corner and indoor games are enough to wear their energy off.

These powerful dogs with super affectionate nature and wide bodies can accidentally knock over the furniture every time they are trying to cross the hallway.

Yet, they are adorable!

3. Great Dane 

Great Dane

There is always chaos where there is a Great Dane.

These big dogs with a serious expression are super clumsy and always getting their feet hit on some piece of furniture.

These are large dogs. As puppies, it’s easier for them to manage their bodies. However, as their sizes expand, they end up finding it tougher to control their massive build and stubby legs.

Great Danes need extensive training. The main aim of this training is to help them identify the ways through which they can gain control of their bodies.

Also, they like to run fast. While they try to catch a ball, they often trip over something and fall, which gives them a clumsy outlook.

The Reddit Threat talks about how clumsy these dogs are and what you can do to help them regain some control over their bodies.

4. Boxer

Boxer

Want your Boxer to walk in a straight line? Well, not possible for this giant dog.

These dogs are so big that they often find it tough to take control of their bodies.

While playing a game of fetch with you, it would often bump into corners, despite trying to regulate its legs.

A popular opinion about these dogs is that they are dumb! This is mainly owing to their appearance. Well, the reality is, they don’t have poor spatial awareness. Rather, they have a health condition called Degenerative Myelopathy. It affects the spinal cord of the dog, giving it a strange appearance.

It’s not about the clumsy nature of this dog, rather, it’s the body structure, sheer bulk, and possible health problems that make it appear awkward.

If you have a family with kids, get this gentle giant as a pet, and your children will love having it around!

5. Dachshund

Dachshund

Short legs supporting long bodies, Dachshund is a recipe for disaster!

AKC says these dogs are super clumsy, always tripping and falling over the most obvious objects.

One reason why this dog falls a lot is its agile and active nature. They are full of energy and are always looking for something to do. As it is an alert breed, it always finds its own feet after falling down!

As they have short legs, some areas may be difficult for them to navigate. For instance, stairs are a nightmare! It’s really tough for them to move up and down the stairs gracefully!

Also, these dogs are prone to back problems! A lot of times, it’s the rear side of these animals that gives them the classic clumsy appearance and behaviour.

6. English Bulldog 

English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is not only clumsy, but they are also super messy!

While eating something, they will slather the food all over their face. While drinking their favourite juice, they’ll often spill it everywhere!

They are so clumsy and disorganised that the pet parents are instructed to keep a check on their ears as well. Often, the owners find something weird stuck in the ears, which can be very dangerous if not checked on time.

These dogs with their signature squashed noses, wrinkled faces, and bulging eyes appear lazy and lethargic. Well, they act like that as well!

Signs of a Timid or Reserved Dog-01

Bulldogs can easily knock things over and enter small spaces. Finding them in hide-and-seek is often challenging.

Their delightful clumsiness, loving nature, and friendly disposition surely make them a dog worth having!

7. Pug

Pug

You will often see your lap dogs rolling off the couch like a bowling ball.

Yes, it’s true!

Pugs are affectionate and playful dogs with bulging eyes that give them a funny appearance. On top of that, they keep tripping over things that further make them hilarious.

This clown of the dog world surely gives you many moments of laughter throughout the day!
These little pups are endearing and adorable.

However, it is also true that they are prone to several health issues owing to their build. Hence, if they showcase occasional clumsiness in their senior age, it may be owing to a physical problem.

Conclusion

Dog breeds that are clumsy in appearance and behaviour are surely some of the most adorable pets you can have. They give you some moments of laughter. Every time they get up to walk, they always showcase an awkward gait. Some other dogs with a classic botched walk are Bernese Mountain Dogs and English Sheepdogs.

Full of affection and love, they are surely some great pets to have!

Mahvash Kazmi
Mahvash Kazmi holds an academic background in English Literature and Journalism, blending a love for language with a deep passion for animal welfare and conservation. With over a decade of experience as both a content creator and editor, she has spent years polishing and refining articles to ensure clarity and impact. An animal lover at heart, Mahvash finds comfort in the quiet company of her Persian cat, Gracie, and draws inspiration from nature’s quiet strength. Whether crafting stories or refining the work of others, her writing always aims to raise awareness and inspire compassion for the voiceless.