If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Royal Kennel Club (that’s the new name for the UK Kennel Club) figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels over recent years.
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.
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
One thing to take into consideration is that some dog breeds can have a destructive streak that can see them chew everything from socks to furniture.
Sometimes it’s just because they’re young, sometimes because they are bored, sometimes it’s because they’ve not had enough exercise, and sometimes it’s simply because they want to.
There’s every chance that your pet will grow out of a chewing phase, but if you are keen to avoid tooth marks on your personal possessions, then there are certain dogs that are best avoided.
Comparison website MoneySuperMarket carried out a survey to discover which pet dogs caused the most damage per year according to owners’ insurance claims
Here are the 10 dog breeds that they found to be most destructive.
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1. Weimaraner
Perhaps because of their huge stature, Weimaraner dogs are rated as one of the most destructive dog breeds that you can own, with an average damage cost of £265 per year - much higher than the average of £164 per dog. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Labradoodle
The immensely popular Labradoodle breed is second on the list for damage, with an average cost of £240 per year for unlucky owners. | Getty Images
3. Cavachon
Though they may look cute, these small lively dogs can also be highly destructive, with an average cost of £233 per year for owners. | Getty Images
4. Boxer
Boxers, which require lots of exercise, can be destructive to owners’ homes, with an average damage cost of £222 per year. Carpets often bear the brunt of dog damage, with 20 per cent of owners surveyed reporting damage to theirs. | Canva/Getty Images