If you’ve ever had a dog with a seemingly bottomless stomach, you’re not alone. Some breeds are more obsessed with food than others, making them masters of begging, counter surfing, and even the occasional trash bin-sniffing. These dogs are passionate about food and are smart about finding ways to get more of it. While their obsession can be funny, it also requires careful portion control and keeping an eye on their diet. Let’s take a look at the most food-obsessed dog breeds, counting down from mildly obsessed to outright food-obsessed.
11. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie,” may surprise some people to be on this list, but their obsession with food stems from their intelligence and eagerness to please. These herding dogs are known for their love of treats, making them extremely easy to train. However, their snack-loving nature can sometimes lead to weight gain if not monitored. Their small size means that even a small increase in treats can make a big difference. Shelties will happily perform tricks or commands all day just to get a bite of their favorite treat, making them one of the lesser-known food-obsessed breeds.
10. Dachshund
This charming and determined Dachshund is as passionate about food as it is about digging. Originally bred to hunt badgers, these small but sturdy dogs have developed a love of food that sometimes overshadows their small stature. Dachshunds are notorious for begging at tables and will make it their mission to sneakily eat any available plate. Their obsession with food can lead to obesity if not carefully managed, as their long bodies are prone to weight-related back problems. Owners must be diligent about portion control and provide regular exercise for this adorable breed.
9. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Corgis aren’t just internet celebrities with cute butts—they’re also foodies. Known for their boundless energy and strong work ethic, Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a big appetite to match their feisty nature. These herding dogs will eat anything put in front of them and have been known to beg for more. Their obsession with food can make training easy, but owners must closely monitor their diet to avoid overeating. Corgis are prone to weight gain, and their short legs make them particularly susceptible to joint problems if they become overweight.
8. Greyhound
Beagles are known for their incredible sense of smell, and it’s no surprise that they’re obsessed with food. Their love of sniffing out food makes them professional scavengers, often getting into trouble for skimming counters or rummaging through cupboards. Beagles are often used in food detection jobs because of their superior sense of smell. However, this skill means that Beagle owners have to be careful about where they keep their food. Beagles will happily eat anything they can find, leading to potential weight problems. While their obsession with food makes them easy to train, it also means strict portion control is required.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Don’t let their royal name fool you—Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are food-obsessed dogs. Known for their affectionate natures and tendency to lie on laps, these little dogs have appetites that often exceed their size. Cavaliers are notorious beggars and will stare at you hungrily with their large, soulful eyes until you give in to their hunger for food. Their love of treats and snacks can lead to overeating, which is a given given their small stature. Owners need to be mindful of portion sizes and resist the temptation to give in to their Cavaliers’ pleas for more.
6. Pug
Pugs are known for their energetic personalities, but they are also famous for their love of food. With their round bodies and expressive faces, Pugs have mastered the art of begging. They are experts at convincing their owners to give them more treats, which often leads to weight gain. Pugs will eat just about anything, and their insatiable appetites can lead to serious health problems if not properly managed. The breed is particularly prone to obesity, which can exacerbate respiratory problems due to their short noses. For Pug owners, finding a balance between pampering and exercise is key to keeping their dog healthy.
5. Labrador Retriever
Labradors are often considered a food-obsessed breed. Known for their insatiable appetites, Labs are always ready for a snack, whether it’s their own meal or something their owner hasn’t noticed. Labs are notorious for overeating, and without proper portion control, they can quickly become overweight. Their love of food makes them easy to train, but it also means they are prone to skipping meals and begging. Labradors are genetically predisposed to obesity, so managing their diet and ensuring they get regular exercise is important. Despite their love of food, Labs are one of the most lovable and trainable dog breeds.
4. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs may seem lazy, but they really love food. These muscular, stocky dogs are known for their large appetites and will happily devour just about anything. Bulldogs are not picky eaters, and their obsession with food often leads to overeating and obesity. Their love of food and sedentary lifestyle means that Bulldogs need careful portion control and regular exercise to prevent weight gain. Despite their laid-back demeanor, Bulldogs are wary of food, making them one of the most food-obsessed dog breeds.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are known for their gentle and loving nature, but they also have huge appetites. These dogs will eat just about anything and are often incessant beggars. Goldens are food-driven, which makes them easy to train, but it also means they can become overweight if not managed carefully. Their love of food can lead them to surf counters or rummage through trash cans if given the chance. Golden Retriever owners need to be mindful of portion sizes and make sure their dogs get plenty of exercise to balance out their food obsession.
2. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs may be small, but their appetites are not. These little dogs love to eat and will do anything to get a snack. French Bulldogs are known for their love of food and are often seen begging at tables or trying to sneak in treats. Their short, stocky bodies can easily gain weight, so it is important that owners manage their food portions and avoid overfeeding them. While their obsession with food can be adorable, careful attention is needed to prevent health problems related to obesity.
1. Basset Hound
Topping the list is the Basset Hound, a breed that lives and breathes food. Known for their floppy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds are experts at using their powerful sense of smell to sniff out any food nearby. Their low-to-the-ground stance makes it easy for them to pick up scents and they are relentless in their pursuit of snacks. Basset Hounds are notorious for overeating and will beg, skim over counters and even rummage through trash cans if given the chance. Their obsession with food can lead to obesity, so careful portion control and regular exercise are essential to keeping them healthy. Despite their love of food, Basset Hounds are affectionate, loyal companions who are always on the lookout for their next meal.
The Hungry Dogs Club
These dog breeds all share an undying love of food, and each brings its own charms and challenges—literally! Whether you’re looking for a food-loving companion to train or simply enjoy watching your dog’s clever attempts to get treats, these breeds will never disappoint when it comes to their passion for food. Just remember, while their love of treats may be adorable, keeping their diet in check is essential to ensuring a happy, healthy life filled with balanced meals and the occasional indulgence!
