Goofy Dogs: 11 Breeds That Are Super Silly
Social media is filled with videos of dogs chasing their tails, diving into pools, riding skateboards, or engaged in other goofball behaviors – as well as those just showing off their silly smiles and offbeat appearances.
All dogs have the potential to entertain with their wacky personality or their kooky character, but these 11 goofy dog breeds definitely have it nailed.
11 Goofy Dog Breeds
Boxer
These large-breed dogs are big goofballs. With playful and outgoing temperaments, Boxers consider everyone they meet their next BFF and will happily trot out their favorite tricks in exchange for some attention.
Marissa Sunny, dog behavior specialist for Best Friends Animal Society, believes one of the Boxer’s most endearing traits is jumping in circles when they get excited. “The Boxer is an incredibly goofy breed,” she says, adding that they “…have a sense of adventure that leads them to running, jumping and playing all around.”
That being said, the breed has a serious side too. Boxers are often used as police dogs, guide dogs, and watch dogs.
Brussels Griffon
When it comes to looks, the Brussels Griffon – with its wiry beard, big eyes, pouty lips and pronounced underbite – always elicits an “awwwww.” Sunny calls it “a cute, scruffy appearance.”
Weighing in at less than 10 pounds, Brussels Griffons were once used as rat dogs but later earned the affections of Marie Henriette Anne, Queen of the Belgians, and became popular among the upper classes as lap dogs.
In addition to their eccentric looks, Brussels Griffons have been described as a “comically self-important” breed that prefers constant companionship.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are natural entertainers, appearing on the big screen in movies like Legally Blonde and Beverly Hills Chihuahua. And who can forget about those famous Taco Bell commercials? Although Chihuahuas are lap dogs, the breed is known for its big bark and willingness to play pint-sized guard dog.
Despite their small size, Sunny notes, “Chihuahuas can have quite a bit of energy, especially in their younger years, so they enjoy playing, brain games, and other activities.”
However, Chihuahuas don’t entertain just anyone. Sunny calls them “particular dogs” who often bond more closely with a single person and tend to be wary of strangers.
French Bulldog
This breed, called “Bouledouge Francais” in their native country of France, are known for being playful and smart in equal measure.
Frenchies have sweet, easygoing personalities that make them great with people and other pets, but AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo believes it’s not just their temperaments that make them stand out.
Frenchies are easily identified by their unique appearances, like their thick bodies and large, square heads with deep wrinkles – as well as another feature that captures attention. “Frenchies have large, bat-like ears which makes their physical appearance one of a kind,” DiNardo says.
Golden Retrievers
Sunny describes Golden Retrievers as “silly, goofy balls of love.”
In the 1800s, Golden Retrievers were bred as working dogs, but their gorgeous golden locks and sweet temperaments allowed them to become popular companions.
The longhaired lovebugs are affectionate with their families and great with kids, and they get along well with other pets, earning them a reputation for being loyal, gentle and patient. The breed is also highly trainable: Golden Retrievers can learn to dribble balls, twirl hula hoops, and walk tightropes.
Their exuberant personalities and zest for all tasks, from fetching and swimming to romping at the dog park, make Golden Retrievers a joy to watch.
Miniature Bull Terrier
Bull Terriers were bred in England in the 1830s, but it took much longer to develop the Miniature Bull Terrier, a more diminutive version of the muscular breed. Minis quickly became popular companions known for their comical behavior and big energy.
“Miniature Bull Terriers are silly by nature,” DiNardo says. “They have square bodies and egg-shaped heads, and their personality can be described as upbeat, mischievous, and comical, like a class clown.”
The goofy dog breed is also fearless yet loving. Miniature Bull Terriers make excellent watchdogs but are affectionate and social with their families.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgis might have been regal enough to reside in Buckingham Palace, but they have a silly side too. “They are very intelligent, which can lead to fun games and training,” says Sunny
Pembroke Welsh Corgis don’t just have quirky personalities; their appearances also attract attention.
The “long and low” breed has short, muscular legs and stout bodies, and are fast on their feet. In fact, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are among the most popular herding dogs in the world – and nothing elicits a laugh like watching a goofy little dog command a herd of sheep.
Pomeranian
Poms are small dogs with big personalities. Weighing less than seven pounds, the breed is affectionate and protective in equal measure. It’s not uncommon to see Pomeranians as social media stars, delighting followers with their offbeat antics, from wearing costumes to pretending to play dead to avoid walks.
Pomeranians were prized for their regal appearances and even captured the attention of Queen Victoria, who owned many. Those fancy, fluffy coats do require regular grooming, though. “Pomeranians need consistent brushing as well as regular grooming appointments for hair trims and blowouts,” Sunny says. “Their thick double coats can be blown out with a blow dryer to give them a fluffy ‘just left the salon’ look and feel.”
Poodle
Poodles aren’t just one of the most intelligent dog breeds; they’re also one of the most entertaining. “Poodles are active and very smart dogs with an exceptional learning ability,” says DiNardo. “The Poodle’s personality lends itself to making them natural entertainers.”
Their supreme smarts have helped Poodles earn lead roles in movies like Best in Show and Look Who’s Talking Now, score a place in the spotlight on fashion runways (often with their hair dyed bright colors), and take top honors in national dog shows.
Pug
The Pug’s history dates back to the 1500s when it became the mascot of the Royal House of Orange in Holland, and it’s not hard to imagine the Prince of Orange LOLing while looking at the goofy-looking dog’s stout frame, black face mask, wrinkled brow, and bulging eyes.
Their personalities are as entertaining as their looks, according to DiNardo. “A pug has a loving and mischievous personality,” she says. “Pugs live to love and be loved and have a full range of expressions like surprise, happiness, and curiosity because of their wrinkled brow.”
Puli
Few breeds stand out in a crowd (or herd!) like the Puli (pronounced “poo-lee”). These dogs have long, corded coats that look like dreadlocks; the cords are dense and weatherproof and often reach six inches long.
“Once a Puli’s coat has distinct cords, all you need to do in terms of grooming is bathe the dog when necessary and separate the cords,” says DiNardo.
The medium-sized breed once herded sheep for nomadic tribes, and those herding instincts remain strong, as Pulis need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Pups come in all different shapes, sizes, and personalities, but goofy dogs never disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a dog with a unique, attention-getting appearance or one that will keep you laughing with their antics, these 11 breeds definitely fit the bill.
