Some dogs are naturally independent, preferring to follow their own instincts rather than constantly seeking attention or obeying every command.
These strong-willed breeds are often intelligent, confident, and self-reliant, which can make them both fascinating and challenging companions. While they may not always respond to prompts or show overt affection, they remain loyal in their own way.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Individual dogs may vary in temperament, and behaviour can be influenced by training, socialisation, and environment.
1. Chow Chow
With their lion-like mane and distinctive blue-black tongue, Chow Chows exude an aura of aloof dignity. These ancient Chinese dogs were bred to be palace guardians and hunters, not people-pleasers.
A Chow typically forms a deep bond with one person while maintaining polite distance from others. Their stoic expression rarely changes whether you’re offering treats or calling their name repeatedly. They’ll acknowledge you when they’re good and ready.
2. Shiba Inu
Made famous by internet memes, the fox-faced Shiba Inu embodies stubborn independence. These Japanese hunting dogs are notorious for the “Shiba scream”, a dramatic vocalization when they’re forced to do something against their will.
Shibas often respond to commands with what owners call the “Shiba side-eye”, a judgemental look that clearly communicates they understand perfectly but are choosing to ignore you. Their self-cleaning habits and independent problem-solving further cement their reputation as the cats of the dog world.
3. Akita
Popularized by the loyal Hachiko, Akitas might seem contradictory, fiercely devoted yet stubbornly independent. These powerful Japanese dogs were bred to hunt bears and guard nobility, developing a strong sense of self-direction.
An Akita makes its own decisions about what deserves attention. Your call might be met with a contemplative stare as they weigh whether your request merits interrupting their current activity. Their selective hearing isn’t defiance—it’s the confidence to prioritize based on their assessment of the situation.
4. Basenji
Known for their unique yodel-like sound instead of barking, Basenjis approach life with cat-like independence. These ancient African dogs groom themselves meticulously and often decide that your commands are merely suggestions.
A Basenji might be fully aware you’re calling but choose to continue sunbathing instead. Their self-sufficient nature developed from their history as independent hunters in the Congo, where they tracked game through dense forests without human direction.
5. Borzoi
Formerly known as Russian Wolfhounds, Borzois combine elegant appearance with stubborn independence. These sighthounds were bred to chase game across vast Russian plains, making decisions far from their handlers.
A Borzoi might acknowledge your call with a graceful turn of their long, narrow head before returning to their important dog business. Their quiet, reserved nature isn’t aloofness, it’s self-sufficiency. While affectionate with their people, they maintain an independent spirit that dates back to their days hunting for the Russian aristocracy.
6. Greyhound
Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-energy at home. These ancient sighthounds conserve energy with impressive lounging skills, often appearing deaf when comfortable on their favorite couch.
A Greyhound might glance at you when called, mentally calculate the effort required to respond, then return to napping. Their independent streak stems from their history as hunters who needed to make split-second decisions while chasing prey at 45 mph, human input would simply slow them down.
7. Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes might look like wolves, but their independence comes from their history as freight-hauling powerhouses. These Arctic working dogs were bred to pull heavy loads across vast distances with minimal guidance.
When a Malamute ignores your call, they’re channeling ancestors who needed to make their own decisions in life-threatening blizzards. Their selective hearing isn’t stubbornness. It’s the confidence to assess a situation independently. Expect a Malamute to consider your request, then decide whether it aligns with their own plans.
8. Scottish Terrier
With their distinctive bearded profile and dignified strut, Scotties approach life with unwavering confidence. These terriers were bred to hunt independently, digging after prey without human assistance.
A Scottie caught up in an interesting scent or digging project might completely tune out your calls. Their legendary stubbornness isn’t defiance. It’s single-minded focus on the task they’ve deemed important. Scottish Terriers form deep bonds with their people but maintain a distinctly independent approach to decision-making.
9. Dachshund
Dachshunds pack tremendous independence into those short legs. Originally bred to hunt badgers underground without human direction, these German dogs learned to think for themselves in tight tunnels.
A Dachshund on an interesting scent trail might completely ignore your increasingly desperate calls. Their selective hearing comes from generations of making independent hunting decisions. While affectionate with their people, they maintain a stubborn streak that says, “I heard you, I just have more important things to do right now.”
10. Whippet
Behind those sweet, sensitive eyes lies the mind of an independent thinker. Despite their reputation for being velcro dogs at home, Whippets transform when outdoors, especially if something fast and small catches their attention.
A Whippet might acknowledge your call with a brief glance before returning to their surveillance of local wildlife. Their independent streak comes from their sighthound heritage, once they spot potential prey, ancient hunting instincts override obedience training. Indoors they’re cuddle champions; outdoors they’re selective listeners.
11. Saluki
Among the world’s oldest dog breeds, Salukis carry themselves with the quiet dignity of their royal Egyptian heritage. These desert sighthounds were valued for their ability to chase gazelles across vast distances without handler input.
A Saluki called from their comfortable resting place might acknowledge you with a regal glance before returning to important dog meditation. Their seemingly aloof nature isn’t rudeness. It’s self-reliance developed over thousands of years. While devoted to their people, they maintain an independent spirit that dates back to the ancient world.
12. Shar-Pei
Behind those trademark wrinkles and tiny ears, Shar-Peis hide a fiercely independent spirit. These ancient Chinese guardians were bred to make their own security decisions without constant human direction.
A Shar-Pei might acknowledge your call with a characteristic scowl before returning to their self-appointed patrol duties. While protective of their families, they maintain a reserved dignity that says, “I’m my own dog, thank you very much.”
