This list could be positive or negative, depending on what you're looking for in a four-legged friend. If you want a furry companion with a healthy dose of attitude that'll stand its ground at the park, these are the dogs for you. But if you're looking for a more low-maintenance pet, they might be a little too much work. Either way, Registered veterinary nurse Jade (@jade.the.vet.nurs) recently took to TikTok to share the top five sassiest dog breeds.
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5. Boston Terrier
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Coming in fifth is the Boston Terrier, a breed the American Kennel Club (AKC) describes as “a bright dog with a natural gift for comedy.”
What makes them sassy, though? Their need for attention.
“Bella, my Boston, will literally look at me at whine when I watch t.v. Because she wants me to pay attention to her,” shared Donnie Gardner, founder of the Boston Terrier Society.
He says they're also big beggars and “notoriously gassy.”
4. Chow Chow
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Chow Chows tend to get a bad reputation, with many people categorizing them as mean dogs and “aloof.” However, this is just their sassy side coming out towards new people.
“Chow Chows can be a bit aloof, but they’re fiercely loyal to their loved ones,” shares the AKC. “They are eager to please their owners and make excellent, devoted companions.”
3. Miniature Pinscher
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Next up is the Miniature Pinscher, a small dog with a “self-possessed, ‘big dog' personality,” according to the AKC.
But it's their stubbornness that really makes them sassy. “Miniature Pinschers may try to test their owners' limits, so patience and consistency are key when training this proud and fearless breed,” notes the AKC.
“My chow would take offence and give you a stern talking to,” quipped one TikToker in response to the video.
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2. Pomeranian
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Commenters on Jade's video were in agreement with this breed coming in at number two.
“I have a pomsky she's definitely sassy,” said one dog owner, while another added, “The bombastic side-eye from my pom confirms this.”
The AKC says the Pomeranian is another small dog breed with “commanding big-dog demeanor.”
Just take their big bark: “They are somewhat defensive of their territory and may bark when they hear any outside noises,” Alexandra Bassett, CPDT-KA, lead trainer and behavior specialist at Dog Savvy Los Angeles, previously told Best Life.
“Adopting a Pomeranian is more like having a large, active breed, guard dog in a small dog body than getting a comfort-seeking lap dog,” she added.
1. Chihuahua
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Jude says the absolute sassiest breed is the Chihuahua, another tiny dog with a big bark. But perhaps what lands them on this list is how they work their attitude.
“Chihuahuas seem well aware of how cute they are and learn how to get their way,” explains the AKC. “From the very beginning you must enforce the fact that you are in charge. Never allow your Chihuahua puppy to do anything that will be unacceptable in an adult.”
But Chihuahua owners seem to revel in their dogs' sassy nature.
“I’ve got 2 and they are the sassiest dogs I’ve ever met,” commented one TikToker.
“I can confirm chihuahua belong at no.1,” said another, “mine is a diva!”
“As someone who’s owned by a chihuahua I can confirm he’s a law unto himself,” joked yet another dog owner.
