Choosing the right dog breed for your lifestyle is no small task. There are over 220 recognised breeds worldwide. You may be after a gentle family companion, a low-shedding friend, or an energetic adventure pal. All dogs have a playful streak – but some breeds push the envelope a little further.
In this post, we highlight the top 10 mischievous dog breeds, explain why they earn that label, and provide helpful tips for UK pet owners to manage their antics. Plus, we’ll show how PetAir can help when relocating your pet, no-matter how mischievous they are.
Why “mischievous” doesn’t mean “untrainable”
Before we dive into the list, let’s clarify what we mean by “mischievous”. It’s not about aggression or naughty with ill-intent. It’s about high energy, strong instincts, and a tendency to get into scrapes when their needs aren’t met. Many of the breeds we’ll mention are intelligent, curious, sociable, and extremely human-focused. With the right training and environment, they can be wonderful companions.
The top 10 mischievous dog breeds
Here’s our list of breeds that commonly show mischievous traits (but remember, individual dogs vary hugely). We give you a breed-snapshot plus quick tips for helping them flourish.
1 – Beagle
Originally a scent-hound used for hunting, Beagles have phenomenal noses and an instinct to explore. That sniffing drive can lead them into mischief (for example, escaping to follow a scent).
Tip: Secure your garden, provide lots of scent-games, and set firm boundaries. In the context of pet relocation, ensure your Beagle is well acclimatised, has plenty of mental stimulation pre-travel, and is introduced to the carrier environment early.
2 – Labrador Retriever
The UK’s favourite breed year after year, Labradors are known for fun-loving, high-energy behaviour. They can chew, dig and bounce if under-stimulated.
Tip: Two main things… exercise and brain work. Daily walks, swimming if possible, and puzzle toys. When flying with a Labrador, their size and energy mean carriers should allow space for standing and turning – at PetAir we provide bespoke travel crates. Taking this worry off of you.
3 – Welsh Pembroke Corgi
Once cattle-herders, Corgis are intelligent but surprisingly stubborn. Their low centre of gravity suits them to many lives. Their intelligence level means they should be kept busy.
Tip: Keep them engaged with training sessions, interactive games and clear boundaries.
If you’re relocating overseas with a Corgi, check your destination’s garden size and local laws on herding-instinct dogs. ‘Livestock worrying’ can be a criminal offence.
4 – Shiba Inu
These striking dogs are independent and can be aloof if left alone for too long. Their cleverness and strong personality can veer into destructiveness unless redirected.
Tip: Early socialisation, safe chew-toys and a routine are essential. When relocating, due to their independent temperament, pre-flight familiarisation with a travel carrier helps reduce stress.
5 – Border Collie
Widely acknowledged as one of the most intelligent breeds, Border Collies also get bored easily. Without mental and physical outlets they may “create their own fun” – which can mean your sofa becomes a target.
Tip: Use agility, training sessions and hide-and-seek games. When relocating: check that your destination environment allows for high-activity dogs – space, walks, and stimulating terrain make a difference.
6 – Cocker Spaniel
Playful, affectionate and curious – Cocker Spaniels may act like puppies for longer than other breeds. Their energy and lack of impulse control can lead to naughty episodes.
Tip: Use positive training methods, give them consistent rules, and lots of affection. If you are worried about flying your high-energy Cocker Spaniel, we offer behaviour consultations through 24/7 vet access with select PetAir packages.
7 – Dachshund
Small in stature but big in attitude. Dachshunds can be stubborn, have a strong prey drive (their historic badger-hunting role), and may carry on with life-size ambitions.
Tip: Use low-impact exercise (they’re prone to back problems) and teach boundaries clearly.
8 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Known for their loving nature, Cavaliers can still show mischievous puppy-behaviour – especially when young. They may get away with it because they’re adorable, but the habits need guiding from the start.
Tip: Early training, socialisation and routine will help avoid unwanted behaviours as they mature. When relocation: ensure fluid routines during and after travel – Cavaliers thrive with predictability.
9 – Jack Russell Terrier
Energetic, bold and always ready for action. If cooped up, a Jack Russell will find ways to entertain itself (and you may not approve of the methods).
Tip: Plan rigorous daily activity, interactive play and a secure garden space.
10 – Golden Retriever
Friendly, affectionate and full of life. But that life often includes digging, chewing and enthusiastic “helping” that you don’t always want. Their large size and friendly inertia can hide their mischievous side.
Tip: Chew-proof toys, structured off-lead sessions, and firm but positive boundaries.
For relocation: plan for their size and temperament: larger carriers (which we provide through PetAir), more downtime post-travel, and 24/7 vet behaviour support if they seem unsettled.
How to work with the “mischief” trait
Regardless of breed, the following apply to all dogs – especially those with higher-mischief potential:
- Routine matters: Regular exercise, training and downtime.
- Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, scent-work, scent-walks, hide-and-seek.
- Training early and often: Positive reinforcement is key.
- Secure the environment: Fence, garden check, chew-proofing, safe spaces.
- Know your breed’s background: Hunting, herding, working origins inform their drive.
- Consider relocation impacts: Travel can be stressful. Even the most adaptable dog benefits from preparation, familiarisation with carriers, and behavioural support.
Why choose PetAir?
When you’re relocating your lively dog with PetAir, you benefit not only from decades of experience (33,000+ pets relocated to over 300 global destinations) but also from specialist behavioural-support services:
- 24/7 vet access – so you can speak to a qualified vet at any time about travel-related behaviour concerns.
- Tailored travel carriers and stress-reduction plans for high-energy, mischievous breeds who thrive when well-managed.
- Advice on acclimatisation to new environments, which is especially important for dogs with high energy.
- Learn more about why you should fly your pet with PetAir
Next Steps for Your ‘Mischievous’ Dog…
Mischievous doesn’t mean “problem dog”. It means energetic, clever and needing the right structure. If you understand the breed’s instincts and provide the outlets they need, your dog can be a joy. And if you’re relocating overseas, choosing a provider who understands high-energy breeds and offers behavioural support – like PetAir – makes all the difference.
Ready to discuss relocating your dog? Get a quick, free quote online.
Or learn more about our 24/7 Vet Access here.