12 Dog Breeds Most Likely to Run Away

Some dogs are natural homebodies, happy to lounge around and stay close to their humans. Others? Not so much. Certain breeds are more prone to wandering because of their high energy levels, strong instincts, or sheer curiosity.

If you’re a pet parent to one of these escape artists, you’ll need to take extra precautions to keep them safe. Here are 12 dog breeds most likely to run away – and what makes them so eager to bolt.

1. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are famous for their love of adventure. Bred to pull sleds across vast, snowy landscapes, they have an incredible drive to run. These dogs are strong, agile, and clever enough to climb fences, open gates, or dig under barriers. If they’re not getting enough exercise, their natural instinct to roam kicks in.

2. Beagle

Beagles have an incredible sense of smell. Originally bred for hunting, they naturally follow scents without thinking twice. Once they catch an interesting smell, they chase it without stopping, no matter where it takes them. Because of their small size, Beagles can also squeeze through surprisingly tight spaces.

3. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are tiny powerhouses of energy and intelligence. Bred for hunting, they love chasing small animals and are quick to escape if given the chance. These little escape artists can jump high, dig deep, and find creative ways to squeeze through fences.

4. Labrador Retriever

Labradors are friendly, playful, and full of curiosity. Their high energy levels and love for adventure mean they might take off if they see something exciting, whether it’s a squirrel, another dog, or an interesting smell. They’re also strong enough to push open weak gates or slip out of loose collars.

5. Border Collie

As one of the smartest dog breeds, Border Collies tend to get bored easily. If they aren’t given enough mental and physical stimulation, they’ll start looking for ways to entertain themselves. Sometimes, that means escaping the yard and finding their own adventure. Their speed and agility make them expert escape artists.

6. Coonhound

Coonhounds are another scent-driven breed with a strong hunting instinct. Once they catch a whiff of something interesting, they’ll follow it for miles, completely ignoring calls to come back. They have excellent endurance and a deep-rooted determination to track down prey, whether it’s real or imagined.

7. Dachshund

Don’t let their small size fool you. Dachshunds are natural-born diggers. Originally bred to hunt burrowing animals like badgers, they love to tunnel under fences in search of adventure. Their long, low bodies make it easy for them to slip through small openings, and their curiosity keeps them exploring.

8. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are smart, strong, and independent. While they tend to be loyal to their families, they also have a natural drive to patrol their territory. If they see something unfamiliar outside the yard, they may try to chase it away or investigate up close. Their sharp minds make them fast learners, allowing them to discover ways to unlock doors, unfasten gates, or scale fences.

9. Greyhound

Built for speed, Greyhounds can hit 45 mph in just a few strides. If something catches their eye, whether it’s a squirrel, a bird, or even just a rustling leaf, they might take off without a second thought. Their slim bodies also make it easy for them to slip through gaps in fences or dart through open doors before you even realize it.

10. Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are independent and stubborn. They don’t always listen to commands, especially if they’ve decided they want to explore. These little foxlike dogs are agile and can jump, climb, or squeeze through surprisingly small spaces. Unlike some other breeds, they’re not necessarily running toward something – they just enjoy the thrill of escaping.

11. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are elegant, athletic, and incredibly fast. Like Greyhounds, they have a strong prey drive and are quick to chase after moving objects. Their aloof nature means they may not always come when called, making them even more prone to running away.

12. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are natural herders with boundless energy. They need a job to do, and if they’re left without enough exercise or mental stimulation, they’ll create their own fun, sometimes by running away. They’re smart enough to figure out how to escape and fast enough to make catching them a challenge.

How Can You Keep Your Escape-Prone Dog Safe?

If your dog belongs to one of these breeds, it’s important to take extra steps to prevent them from running away. Here’s how to keep your furry friend from wandering off:

• Secure your fencing. Reinforce fences by making them taller, burying the bottom to prevent digging, and checking for gaps or loose boards. For climbers, consider adding a curved or coyote-proof top.
• Ensure they stay mentally and physically active. Energetic breeds require plenty of exercise and mental challenges. Activities like long walks, agility courses, interactive toys, and games such as fetch or scent tracking can help meet their natural urges.
• Use a GPS tracker. If your dog does escape, a GPS collar can help you locate them quickly. Many trackers offer real-time updates, so you can follow their movements and bring them home safely.
• Train strong recall skills. Practice recall commands regularly, using treats and praise to reinforce good behavior. Teaching a reliable “come” or “stay” can prevent your dog from running off in the first place.
• Avoid off-leash situations in unsafe areas. Some breeds, especially scent hounds and sighthounds, may never be fully reliable off-leash. Keep them secured in open areas unless you’re in a safely fenced-in space.
• Microchip your dog. If they do get lost, a microchip with up-to-date information improves the chances of a safe return.