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Breeds with High vs. Low Prey Drive

by | Albany Dog Trainer

Breeds with High vs. Low Prey Drive

One of the best ways to predict a dog’s behavior is to look at their breed history. Prey drive isn’t randomly distributed—it’s deeply tied to what dogs were originally bred to do. Whether you’re adopting or buying a puppy, understanding how prey drive varies by breed can help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

What Is Breed-Based Prey Drive?

Different breeds were developed for different purposes: some for hunting, some for herding, others for guarding or companionship. These purposes shaped how much “chase” and “catch” instinct each breed tends to have.

While there’s always variation between individual dogs, breed tendencies offer valuable insight into what to expect.

High Prey Drive Breeds

Dogs with high prey drive tend to be alert, quick to chase, and hyper-focused on movement. Many were bred to hunt, herd, or track.

Common high prey drive breeds:

  • Border Collies – Bred to herd sheep, they often stalk and chase.

  • Siberian Huskies – Love to run and chase small animals.

  • Terriers (Jack Russell, Rat Terrier) – Originally used to catch vermin; they’re tenacious and bold.

  • German Shepherds – Strong prey drive paired with guarding instincts.

  • Belgian Malinois – Intense and focused working dogs with high energy.

  • Greyhounds and Whippets – Sighthounds that chase by visual stimulus; very fast.

These breeds often need jobs, mental stimulation, and carefully managed environments—especially around cats or smaller pets.

Moderate Prey Drive Breeds

These dogs may enjoy a good chase but are generally easier to manage and less impulsive.

Examples:

  • Labrador Retriever – Bred to retrieve, not chase to kill.

  • Golden Retriever – Playful and responsive, though still energetic.

  • Australian Shepherd – Strong herding drive, but with good trainability.

  • Standard Poodle – Smart and active, but usually controllable.

With training and proper exercise, these dogs strike a good balance between instinct and obedience.

Low Prey Drive Breeds

Low prey drive dogs are more relaxed and less likely to chase or react to fast movement. These breeds tend to be great for households with small pets or a more laid-back lifestyle.

Examples:

  • Basset Hound – Slow-moving and unbothered by small animals.

  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Gentle and people-focused.

  • Great Dane – Surprisingly mellow despite their size.

  • French Bulldog – Sociable and not typically motivated to chase.

These dogs may still enjoy a game of fetch, but they’re unlikely to bolt after a squirrel.

How to Use This Info When Choosing a Dog

Ask yourself:

  • Do I have other pets like cats, rabbits, or birds?

  • Do I live near wildlife or open space where chasing might be risky?

  • Do I want a high-energy dog or a calm companion?

  • How much time can I dedicate to training and mental stimulation?

A high prey drive breed can be a joy if you’re ready for the challenge. But if you’re looking for an easier-going dog, a lower-drive breed might suit you better.

Don’t Forget: Individual Dogs Vary

Breed is a helpful guide, but each dog is unique. Some mixed breeds may surprise you with how much—or how little—prey drive they have. Always assess behavior in addition to breed history.

Conclusion

Understanding the typical prey drive levels in different breeds can help you choose a dog that fits your home, routine, and goals. Whether you want a fast-paced, agile dog or a chill companion, there’s a breed out there with the right balance of instincts for you.

Next up: how prey drive affects training and obedience—and what you can do to keep your dog focused when instincts kick in.