Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs which ranks breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Some of the most adorable dogs are also the naughtiest, being more likely to steal food, chew on the furniture, dig up your flowerbeds, run away, or get up to some other hijinx.
Here are the 12 naughtiest breeds of dog.
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9. Dachshund
They are undeniably one of the cutest breeds of dog, but the Dachshund is known for being incredibly willful. Good luck getting this dog to do something it doesn't want to do. | AFP via Getty Images
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
In fairness to the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel they are a breed that often grow out of their naughtiness. Take your eye off a King Charles puppy though, and all bets are off. | AFP via Getty Images
11. Golden Retriever
What's true of a Labrador Retriever usually also holds true for Golden Retrievers - and that's certainly true when it comes to behaviour. They have a habit of chewing, sometimes well beyond puppyhood, and no unsecured food is safe in their presence. | AFP via Getty Images
12. Cocker Spaniel
Some dogs grow out of being naughty, but Cocker Spaniels are perpetual puppies who maintain a youthful exhuberance that sometimes gets them into trouble. | AFP via Getty Images