Some dogs just can’t resist the urge to carry something in their mouths, whether it’s a squeaky toy, their own leash, or even your socks.
This adorable behavior often stems from their breeding history and natural instincts, making it both entertaining and endearing to watch.
If you’ve ever wondered which breeds are most likely to trot around with treasures in their jaws, you’re in for a treat.
While these breeds commonly exhibit carrying behaviors, individual dogs may vary based on personality, training, and environment.
Always supervise your dog with toys and household items to ensure safety.
1. Golden Retriever
With a mouth so gentle it could carry an egg without breaking it, Golden Retrievers turn everyday objects into prized possessions.
Their retriever heritage means they’re hardwired to fetch and hold items, making toys, sticks, and even bones constant companions.
You’ll often find them carrying their favorite plush friend to bed, creating a heartwarming bedtime ritual.
This breed treats their toys like security blankets, showcasing loyalty beyond just their human family members.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labs share the same retriever DNA that makes carrying objects feel like second nature to them.
Whether it’s a tennis ball, a stick from the yard, or their favorite rope toy, these dogs parade their treasures with pride.
Their carrying habit isn’t just play; it’s part of their identity and comfort zone.
Many Labs develop such strong attachments to specific toys that they’ll search the house until they find them.
3. Border Collie
Border Collies approach carrying toys like a job that needs doing, not just playtime fun.
Their brilliant minds and tireless energy mean they treat objects as projects requiring management and transport.
You might catch them moving toys from room to room, organizing their collection in ways only they understand.
This behaviour satisfies both their mental sharpness and physical drive, keeping their herding instincts happily occupied indoors.
4. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds need constant stimulation for both brain and mouth, making toys essential companions.
They’ll grab one toy, carry it while walking, drop it suddenly, then switch to another in a rotating toy parade.
This quirky habit gives them focus beyond their natural urge to chase and herd everything that moves.
Their toy rotation system might seem random, but it’s their way of staying mentally engaged throughout the day.
5. Jack Russell Terrier
Don’t let their size fool you; Jack Russells guard their toys like priceless treasures worth showing off.
Their hunting background gives them the instinct to chase, capture, and proudly parade their conquests around the house.
These tiny bundles of enthusiasm often treat each toy like a trophy from a successful hunt.
Watch them prance with a squeaky toy, and you’ll see centuries of terrier determination on full display.
6. Beagle
Beagles bond with their toys the same way they bond with their favourite people, creating lasting friendships.
Their curious, scent driven nature means they’ll carry a toy while wandering around, sniffing every corner of the house.
That stuffed animal in their mouth becomes a familiar friend during exploration sessions and rest periods alike.
This companionable breed rarely goes anywhere without something soft to hold onto.
7. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels treat their plush toys like cuddly companions, not just playthings to toss around.
Many prefer soft, squeaky toys they can hold gently while relaxing on the couch or being petted by their humans.
Their affectionate temperament extends to their toy collection, creating tender moments throughout the day.
You’ll often find them snuggled up with a favourite stuffed friend, mouth closed softly around it.
8. Dachshund
Dachshunds possess personalities far bigger than their compact bodies, and their toy choices prove it.
They’ll drag or prance around with toys that seem comically oversized for their short legs and long bodies.
Their strong willed nature means they’re not backing down from carrying whatever they’ve claimed as theirs.
Watch one haul a stuffed animal twice its size, and you’ll understand true determination looks adorable.
9. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus turn carrying toys into daily rituals, making it part of their comfortable routine.
These companion breed experts often transport favorite stuffed animals or squeaky toys from couch to bed throughout the day.
They might even greet visitors at the door with a toy in their mouth, like offering a welcoming gift.
Their predictable habits create charming patterns that become part of your household’s everyday rhythm.
