Some dogs are known for their intelligence, energy, and strong personalities, but these traits can sometimes come with a stubborn streak.
Certain breeds are naturally independent and may challenge their owners by selectively following commands or asserting their own will.
While these dogs can still be loyal and loving companions, their headstrong nature may require extra patience and consistent training.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Each dog is unique, and their behaviour can vary depending on training, socialisation, and environment.
1. Basenji
Originally from Central Africa, the Basenji earned its reputation as the “barkless dog” but compensates with remarkable stubbornness. These clever canines approach training sessions as optional suggestions rather than requirements.
Cat-like in their independence, Basenjis clean themselves meticulously and observe the world with calculating eyes. Their problem-solving abilities are impressive, especially when figuring out how to access forbidden treats or areas.
When a Basenji decides something isn’t worth doing, no amount of treats or coaxing will change their mind.
2. Chow Chow
Behind that adorable teddy bear face lies the soul of a dignified monarch. Chow Chows approach life with a serious demeanor, evaluating commands as if they’re reviewing royal decrees, most of which they reject.
Their history as palace guards in ancient China explains their reserved, judgmental nature. Unlike eager-to-please breeds, Chows require owners to earn their respect before cooperation becomes possible.
Many Chow owners joke that they don’t own the dog—they merely share living space with a furry, opinionated roommate who occasionally acknowledges their existence.
3. Borzoi
Graceful as ballet dancers but stubborn as mules, Borzois combine elegance with exasperating independence. These Russian sighthounds were bred to make split-second hunting decisions without human input, a trait that persists in modern companions.
Their selective hearing becomes remarkably acute when tracking interesting scents or movement. Recall commands often fall on deliberately deaf ears when something more fascinating catches their attention.
Borzoi owners quickly learn to secure their yards, as these determined dogs view fences as mere suggestions rather than actual boundaries.
4. Bulldog
Don’t let that adorably grumpy face fool you. Bulldogs possess an iron will wrapped in wrinkly packaging. These stocky characters approach training with the enthusiasm of teenagers asked to clean their rooms.
Their low energy levels aren’t laziness but calculated conservation, they’re saving strength for activities they actually want to do. Famous for their determination, Bulldogs invented the concept of selective hearing long before teenagers perfected it.
Many owners report their Bulldogs giving them the side-eye when asked to perform basic commands, as if questioning your authority to interrupt their important napping schedule.
5. Jack Russell Terrier
Packed with more energy and opinions than their small frames suggest, Jack Russells operate on their own frequency. These pocket-sized dynamos were bred to think independently while hunting, making them masters at ignoring commands that conflict with their current mission.
Their intelligence works against obedience. They’re smart enough to weigh options and choose the most entertaining path. Jack Russell owners often find themselves outsmarted by a dog who’s already three steps ahead in any battle of wills.
Training sessions quickly transform into negotiations with a tiny, furry lawyer who presents compelling arguments for why rules don’t apply.
6. Basset Hound
Those soulful eyes hide a surprisingly stubborn spirit. Basset Hounds follow their noses with single-minded determination, rendering your carefully issued commands irrelevant when competing with interesting scents.
Their slow, deliberate pace isn’t physical limitation but strategic decision-making. They’re simply considering whether your request aligns with their personal priorities. Basset owners learn to phrase commands as if the dog is doing them a favor rather than following an instruction.
These droopy-eared rebels have mastered looking simultaneously guilty and unapologetic when caught ignoring the rules they’ve decided don’t apply to them.
7. Pekingese
Former companions to Chinese emperors, Pekingese never forgot their royal heritage. These tiny aristocrats approach commands with the disdain of nobility being asked to perform common labor.
Their self-importance far exceeds their physical size, creating a comedic contrast when they refuse to follow simple instructions. Pekingese operate on the principle that they’re doing you a favor by allowing you to care for them, not the other way around.
Many owners report feeling oddly compelled to apologize when interrupting their Pekingese’s important schedule of cushion-warming and treat consumption.
8. Shiba Inu
Internet-famous for their fox-like appearance and dramatic reactions, Shibas bring ancient Japanese hunting independence to modern homes. Their confident self-sufficiency often manifests as outright refusal to comply with requests they deem beneath their dignity.
The infamous “Shiba scream” emerges during unwanted activities like bath time, creating a sound that neighbors might mistake for household emergencies. These clever dogs have mastered the art of malicious compliance, technically following commands while clearly communicating their disapproval.
Shiba owners often feel more like diplomatic negotiators than pet parents.
9. Greyhound
Behind that gentle demeanor lies a surprisingly independent spirit. Greyhounds were bred to chase prey using their own judgment, not constant human direction, a trait that persists in retired racers and show dogs alike.
Their selective hearing becomes remarkably pronounced when something triggers their prey drive. Recall commands mysteriously disappear from their vocabulary when a squirrel darts across their path.
Greyhound owners learn to respect their dog’s decision-making process rather than expecting blind obedience, creating partnerships instead of traditional owner-pet relationships.
10. Dachshund
Bred to hunt badgers underground without human guidance, Dachshunds maintain their independent thinking in domestic settings. Their long bodies house surprisingly stubborn spirits that evaluate each command for personal benefit before deciding whether to comply.
Many Dachshund owners report their dogs giving them a look that clearly communicates: “I heard you, I understood you, and I’ve decided against it.” Their tenacity becomes apparent when they’ve decided something is worth pursuing, no amount of calling will deter their mission.
These determined little dogs invented selective hearing long before teenagers perfected the skill.
11. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas pack the confidence and stubbornness of dogs ten times their size. These pocket-sized companions often develop the conviction that they’re in charge of the household, not the humans who supposedly own them.
Their selective hearing becomes remarkably pronounced when commands conflict with their personal agenda. Chihuahuas have mastered the art of standing perfectly still while making direct eye contact, silently communicating their refusal to comply.
Many owners report feeling strangely guilty when insisting their Chihuahua follow rules the dog clearly considers optional.
