11 Dog Breeds Who Think Fences Are Just Suggestions

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Some dogs see fences as barriers, while others see them as mere challenges to conquer. These clever escape artists have a knack for jumping, digging, or squeezing their way to freedom, leaving their owners wondering how they managed to pull off another great escape. If your dog has ever greeted you from the wrong side of the fence, you might have one of these expert escapees. Owning one means reinforcing every inch of your yard, double-checking gates, and staying one step ahead of your next adventure!

Siberian Husky

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Siberian Huskies are escape artists by nature. Originally bred as sled dogs, they have incredible endurance, strength, and a relentless drive to explore. If they’re not getting enough exercise, they’ll find a way to entertain themselves—often by digging under fences, leaping over barriers, or simply opening doors with their clever paws. Their stubborn independence and love of adventure make them notorious for slipping out of yards, even when their owners think they’ve created an impenetrable fortress.

Border Collie

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Border Collies are one of the smartest dog breeds, and they use that intelligence to outthink their humans at every turn. If a fence stands between them and something interesting, they will find a way to get through, over, or under it. Their high energy levels and problem-solving abilities mean they can quickly learn how to open gates, jump fences, or squeeze through small gaps. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, a Border Collie will invent their own escape plan.

Jack Russell Terrier

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Jack Russell Terriers are small but mighty when it comes to escaping. Their boundless energy and determination make them persistent diggers and skilled climbers. They are known for squeezing through tiny openings, jumping surprisingly high for size, and tunneling under fences like miniature escape artists. If they catch the scent of something interesting outside the yard, they’ll stop at nothing to investigate.

Belgian Malinois

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The Belgian Malinois is an incredibly intelligent and athletic breed often used in police and military work. They have an impressive ability to leap over fences, climb obstacles, and even open doors. If they are left alone without enough stimulation, they’ll find their own entertainment—which often involves breaking out of their enclosure. Their strong work ethic and curiosity make them natural problem-solvers, meaning a weak fence is no match for their determination.

Beagle

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Beagles have noses that lead them straight to adventure. These scent hounds are notorious for following their noses, often digging under fences or slipping through small gaps in pursuit of an interesting smell. Their stubborn nature and love for food mean that if they catch the scent of something tasty on the other side of the fence, they’ll do whatever it takes to reach it. Beagle owners often reinforce their fences to keep these little escape artists contained.

Australian Shepherd

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Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and full of energy, making them prime candidates for escape attempts. They are known for their ability to jump high fences, squeeze through small openings, and even figure out how to unlock gates. Their strong herding instincts and curiosity drive them to explore beyond their yards. They will look for ways to entertain themselves if they’re not given enough mental and physical stimulation, including planning elaborate jailbreaks.

Dachshund

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Despite their short legs, Dachshunds are surprisingly skilled escape artists. They were originally bred to dig into burrows, and they apply that same determination to tunneling under fences. Their small size allows them to squeeze through gaps that most owners wouldn’t even consider a problem. If a Dachshund wants to go on an adventure, they will find a way—often emerging triumphantly on the other side of a seemingly secure fence.

Great Pyrenees

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The Great Pyrenees might seem like a calm and gentle giant, but don’t let their relaxed demeanor fool you. These independent thinkers were bred to guard livestock, meaning they were used to roaming large areas. If they feel confined, they will find a way to escape—often by pushing through fences, jumping over them, or simply walking through weak barriers. Their size and strength make them surprisingly skilled at breaking out of enclosures.

Weimaraner

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Weimaraners are intelligent, high-energy dogs with a strong prey drive. They are known for their remarkable ability to scale fences, open gates, and escape enclosures. If they spot something interesting beyond the yard—like a squirrel or another dog—they will stop at nothing to chase it down. Weimaraners need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent them from getting bored and planning their next great escape.

Coonhound

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Coonhounds were bred for tracking and hunting, so it’s no surprise they have an unstoppable drive to follow scents. If they catch a whiff of something exciting on the other side of the fence, they won’t hesitate to dig, climb, or squeeze their way through to investigate. Their stubborn nature means they won’t give up easily, and their determination often leads them to some impressive escape attempts.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

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Staffordshire Bull Terriers are strong, determined, and surprisingly agile. Their muscular bodies and problem-solving abilities make them natural escape artists. They can jump high fences, dig under barriers, and even use their strength to push through weak spots in enclosures. If they see an opportunity to explore, they won’t think twice before making a break for it. Their playful nature and curiosity make them always eager to see what’s beyond their boundaries.

The Great Escape (Every Single Time)

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If you have one of these escape artist breeds, you already know that fences are minor obstacles in their endless quest for adventure. These determined dogs will dig under, jump over, or squeeze through any barrier that stands between them and freedom. Keeping them safe requires reinforced fencing, secure gates, and plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, you’ll find yourself constantly searching for your runaway pup. Owning one of these breeds means always staying one step ahead—because they’re always plotting their next great escape!

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