Training a dog can be a rewarding experience, but not every breed learns commands or routines at the same speed. Some dogs are highly independent, stubborn, or easily distracted, making the process more challenging for even experienced owners.
We reviewed several breed profiles on the AKC website and compiled a list of dogs that can be more challenging to train, whether due to independence, aloofness, natural stubbornness, or other traits. Understanding these traits can help you approach training with patience, consistency, and realistic expectations.
This article is for general information only. Individual dogs may vary in temperament and trainability. Always consult a certified trainer or veterinarian for guidance specific to your dog.
1. Siberian Husky
Born to run and think independently, Siberian Huskies approach training sessions with a “what’s in it for me?” attitude. Their wolf-like independence stems from their history as sled dogs who needed to make decisions without human input.
Huskies often test boundaries by selectively listening to commands and creating their own entertainment if bored. Their escape artist tendencies and strong prey drive further complicate training efforts.
Despite their challenges, these stunning Arctic dogs respond well to consistent leadership, engaging activities, and positive reinforcement techniques that appeal to their intelligent but stubborn minds.
2. Afghan Hound
Regal and aloof, Afghan Hounds operate with an aristocratic indifference to pleasing their owners. These ancient sighthounds possess a dignified independence that makes basic commands seem beneath their consideration.
Their hunting heritage triggers a powerful chase instinct, once they spot potential prey, your calls become background noise. Training requires extraordinary patience as Afghans process commands at their own leisurely pace.
Many trainers joke that Afghans understand perfectly well what you want; they simply evaluate whether your request deserves their attention. Their intelligence is matched only by their selective hearing and elegant stubbornness.
3. Basenji
Known as the “barkless dog,” Basenjis communicate their training resistance through expressive yodels and mischievous behavior instead. These cat-like canines groom themselves, climb furniture, and approach commands with a decidedly feline selectivity.
Africa’s ancient hunting companions, Basenjis possess sharp intelligence but zero interest in repetitive obedience drills. Their independent problem-solving skills, perfect for surviving in the wild, translate to creative household mischief when bored.
Training success depends on keeping sessions unpredictable and reward-based. Basenjis need to believe that following directions was their brilliant idea all along.
4. Chow Chow
Behind that adorable teddy bear face lurks one of the most strong-willed canine personalities. Chow Chows, ancient Chinese guardians, approach training with a stubborn dignity that borders on outright refusal.
Their aloof, cat-like independence makes basic obedience a negotiation rather than a given. Chows remember every interaction, both positive and negative, holding grudges against trainers who use harsh methods.
Socialization presents another hurdle, as their naturally suspicious nature toward strangers requires early, consistent exposure to different people. Patient owners who respect the Chow’s dignity while firmly establishing leadership can eventually earn their cooperation.
5. Beagle
Those soulful eyes and floppy ears hide a nose-driven determination that frequently overrides training efforts. Beagles follow scent trails with single-minded purpose, completely tuning out commands, treats, and desperate pleas from their owners.
Housetraining proves particularly challenging, as Beagles get easily distracted mid-potty break by fascinating smells. Their howling chorus, triggered by sirens, other dogs, or simple boredom, tests neighbors’ patience. Harsh training methods don’t tend to work, so it is recommended to follow “softer” advice from training professionals.
Food motivation helps training, but creates new challenges when counter-surfing becomes their favorite sport. Despite these hurdles, Beagles’ friendly, merry temperament makes the training struggle worthwhile for devoted owners.
6. Jack Russell Terrier
Pocket-sized dynamos with outsized personalities, Jack Russells pack more energy and determination into their small frames than seems physically possible. Originally bred to hunt foxes, they approach life with tireless enthusiasm and selective hearing.
Their legendary stubbornness combines with lightning-quick reflexes and problem-solving intelligence. Boredom is your enemy, an under-stimulated Jack Russell transforms into a destructive tornado of furniture-chewing, hole-digging chaos.
These terriers require consistent boundaries delivered with respect for their working heritage. Mental challenges prove as important as physical exercise in preventing the notorious Jack Russell rebellion against basic commands.
7. Shiba Inu
The internet’s favorite dog brings ancient Japanese hunting instincts and a fox-like independence to training sessions. Shibas approach commands as optional suggestions, evaluating each request against their personal priority list. In other words, they tend to be on the more challenging side.
Their famous “Shiba scream” erupts during nail trimmings or bath time, while their escape artist tendencies keep owners constantly vigilant. Primitive pack instincts make socialization critical yet challenging.
Behind their adorable smile lurks a calculating mind that weighs every training reward against the effort required. Despite these challenges, Shibas form deep bonds with owners who respect their dignity while maintaining consistent leadership through positive reinforcement.
8. Dalmatian
Beyond their iconic spots lies a high-energy, sensitive breed with historical roots as carriage dogs. Dalmatians’ endurance, bred for trotting alongside horse-drawn carriages for miles, translates to some training challenges when their exercise needs go unmet.
Their sensitive nature makes them responsive to training but equally reactive to harsh corrections. Without proper guidance, their intelligence becomes problematic as they invent their own entertainment.
Dalmatians form strong opinions about people and situations, sometimes becoming stubborn when pushed. Early socialization proves crucial, as does consistent positive reinforcement that channels their athletic abilities and sharp minds into productive activities.
9. Weimaraner
The “Gray Ghost” earns its nickname through both color and an uncanny ability to shadow owners everywhere, including bathrooms. This breed tends to be eager to please, however, a different training challenge plagues them: separation. Separation anxiety makes basic training secondary to addressing their intense attachment issues.
Originally bred as versatile hunting companions for German nobility, Weimaraners possess intelligence that quickly turns destructive without proper outlets. Their energy reserves seem limitless, and their problem-solving abilities enable impressive feats of escape or counter-surfing.
Training success depends on channeling their working heritage into appropriate activities while addressing their aforementioned emotional needs. Without sufficient mental and physical challenges, even basic commands fall victim to their boredom-induced rebellion.
10. Akita
Ancient Japanese guardians with a dignified presence, Akitas approach training with a judge’s discerning eye. They evaluate commands based on their assessment of your leadership worthiness, not simply to please.
Their natural protective instincts create socialization challenges, particularly with other dogs and strangers. Silent observers by nature, Akitas communicate through subtle body language that inexperienced owners often miss.
Training success requires earning their respect through consistent, fair leadership rather than domination tactics. Despite their independence, Akitas form profound bonds with respected owners, making the training journey challenging but deeply rewarding for those who understand their noble nature.
