15 Dog Breeds That Are Hard To Train

Training a dog can be a wonderful experience, but some breeds are notorious for being more challenging than others. Due to their independent nature, strong will, or intelligence, these breeds require extra patience, consistency, and creativity from their owners. So, let’s look at the world of the 15 most stubborn dog breeds.

Siberian Husky

Recognized for their intelligence and independence, Huskies have a strong prey drive and a penchant for wandering. Training requires patience, firmness, and plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

Basset Hound

Basset Hounds can be challenging to train with their laid-back demeanor and stubborn streak. Their keen sense of smell often leads them to follow their noses rather than obey commands, requiring creative training techniques.

Beagle

Beagles are lively dogs that require a lot of physical and mental stimulation. They can become bored without proper exercise and find it more difficult to train. Their high energy levels can also cause restlessness during training sessions.

Dachshund

Despite their small size, Dachshunds possess a bold and independent personality. They can be willful and stubborn, making consistent training essential from an early age to prevent behavior problems.

Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds were initially bred for hunting in rugged terrain, which required them to be autonomous and capable of making decisions alone. This independence can translate into a certain aloofness or stubbornness in training, as they may not see the need to follow commands.

Bulldog

They may have a relaxed attitude, but they can also be strong-willed. Bulldogs need extra motivation during training sessions to stay focused and respond best to treats.

Shiba Inu

Independent and aloof, Shiba Inus has a strong sense of self and can be challenging to train. They are brilliant but may choose to ignore commands if they don’t see the point, requiring consistent training and mental stimulation.

Basenji

Although Basenjis are known as “barkless dogs,” they are not silent. They make various sounds, including yodels, howls, and growls. Their unique vocalizations can sometimes be a sign of their independent nature and can also serve as a distraction during instruction.

Borzoi

They tend to mature more slowly than some other breeds. This extended puppyhood can mean they remain playful and easily distracted for longer, making early training more difficult.

Bloodhound

With their exceptional scenting ability and strong-willed nature, Bloodhounds can be challenging to train. They respond best to positive augmentation techniques and may require extra motivation to stay focused during training sessions.

Chow Chow

Proper socialization is crucial for Chow Chows to ensure they are well-adjusted and less prone to aggression. However, their natural aloofness and wariness can make socialization more complex, and a lack of proper socialization can further exacerbate training challenges.

Akita

They are known for being territorial and protective of their home and family. While this trait is beneficial for guarding, it can also make them suspicious of strangers and other animals, leading to difficulties in socialization and obedience training.

Tibetan Mastiff

Originating from the Himalayas, this breed was traditionally used for guarding livestock, requiring them to make decisions without human direction. This historical role has ingrained a significant degree of independence and stubbornness in the breed.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

They need consistent, firm, patient training methods emphasizing positive reinforcement. Without proper socialization and training from an early age, their natural dominance and protective instincts can become problematic, making it essential for owners to establish clear leadership and provide ongoing training and socialization.

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are a delicate breed with fragile bones, so traditional training methods that rely on physical corrections or rough handling can be harmful to them. This limits the training techniques that can be safely used with them.