Dogs are lovable companions, but they can sometimes exhibit less-than-ideal habits, especially when it comes to eating. Some breeds are particularly notorious for messy eating habits, whether due to their enthusiasm, physical characteristics, or simply their love of food. Whether it’s splashing water everywhere, dropping food all over the floor, or making a mess at mealtime, these breeds require extra patience and cleanup. This article explores the seven messiest dog breeds, detailing why each breed fits the bill and what makes their mealtime behavior so messy.
7. Boxer
Boxers are known for their playful and energetic nature, which also affects their eating habits. They often approach mealtimes with the same enthusiasm they have for play, causing food and water to be scattered everywhere. Boxers tend to drool excessively, especially in anticipation of food, which makes for an even messier meal. Their short muzzles and wide mouths also contribute to their messy eating style, as they often spill food and water everywhere. Boxer owners should be prepared to do a little extra cleaning around feeding areas.
6. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants with a tendency to drool a lot, especially at mealtimes. Their large jaws and mouths mean that food and water can end up on the floor, walls, and even ceilings if they shake their heads. Saint Bernards often drink so vigorously that they leave puddles behind, and their eating style tends to be equally messy. Their enormous size and the amount of food they consume add to the mess they make. Regular cleaning and placing a rug under their eating area can help to keep the chaos down, but owners should still be prepared for a bit of a mess.
5. Bulldog
Bulldogs, with their characteristic wrinkled faces and short muzzles, are notorious for their messy eating habits. Their unique facial structure makes it difficult to eat cleanly. Bulldogs tend to drool excessively, and their loose skin and jaws can trap food, which gets thrown around as they eat. They also tend to gulp their food, causing them to spill more than they eat. Bulldog owners should be prepared to clean around their feeding area regularly and may need to wipe their dog’s face after each meal to keep things clean.
4. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are large dogs that love to eat and drink, and can turn mealtime into a wild, wet feast. Their large size means they can eat a lot at once, and their loose lips and lower jaw make it difficult to hold food and water. Newfoundlands are also prone to drooling, which makes things even messier. They often approach their water bowls so enthusiastically that they create splashes and puddles, and their food can be scattered all over their eating area. Owners should spend more time cleaning up after their Newfoundland’s meals.
3. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds, with their long ears and sleepy faces, are charming but messy eaters. Their low-set ears can drag over food and water bowls, spreading food everywhere. Basset Hounds are also prone to drooling, especially in anticipation of a meal, which adds to the mess. Their slow, deliberate eating style often results in food being thrown all over bowls and floors. Basset Hound owners should be prepared to do a little extra cleaning and may consider using elevated feeding stations to keep their ears away from food and water.
2. Pug
Pugs are small but enthusiastic eaters who tend to make a mess despite their large size. Their short muzzles and wrinkled faces make it difficult for them to keep a clean diet. Pugs tend to gulp their food, which can cause food to be scattered all over their eating area. They also tend to snort and snot while eating, sending food flying in all directions. Pugs’ love of food means they tend to approach mealtimes with great gusto, making an extra mess. Owners should be prepared to do some extra cleaning and may want to use a mat under their feeding station to contain any food mess.
1. Great Dane
Great Danes are majestic giants, but their size and eating habits make mealtimes messy. Their large mouths and loose lower jaws mean that food and water can easily spill out, and they tend to drool excessively, especially when hungry. Great Danes often consume large amounts of food and water, which can lead to considerable spillage and splashing. Their enthusiastic approach to eating can create a mess that extends beyond their eating area. Great Dane owners should be prepared for frequent cleaning and may want to use elevated feeding stations to help manage the mess.
In summary, these seven dog breeds are particularly notorious for messy eating habits, whether due to their enthusiasm, physical characteristics, or love of food. Each breed has its own challenges when it comes to keeping their eating areas clean, requiring owners to put in extra effort and patience. By understanding the specific tendencies of these breeds, owners can take steps to minimize messes and ensure a more enjoyable mealtime experience for both themselves and their furry friends.
