Some dogs aim to please—others seem born to question your authority. These dogs don’t follow commands so much as consider them, roll their eyes (mentally), and proceed with what they think is best. While they’re often brilliant, independent, and full of personality, certain breeds are known for their stubborn streaks. Whether pausing mid-command to negotiate or pretending “sit” is a vague suggestion, they’ll test your limits—and melt your heart. These breeds will feel familiar if you’ve ever publicly argued with your dog.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is beautiful, elegant, and aware of both facts. These silky-coated sighthounds were bred to hunt independently, which means they’re used to thinking for themselves—and ignoring you in the process. Commands are more like suggestions to an Afghan, and they’ll often pretend they didn’t hear you while dramatically trotting in the opposite direction. They’re not dumb—they don’t feel the need to prove anything. Training an Afghan requires finesse, patience, and occasionally a dramatic reading of Shakespeare to match their energy.
Basenji
Basenjis are often called the “barkless dogs,” but don’t let that fool you—they make up for it in sheer willpower. These clever little canines have a mind and a laundry list of things they’d rather do than obey basic commands. Bred to hunt without direction, they often look at you like, “I got this,” and then do something entirely different. They’re fast, curious, and oddly cat-like in their independence. You’ll need a combination of creativity, treats, and possibly a support group to train one successfully.
Bulldog
Bulldogs might not move fast, but their resistance is legendary. When a Bulldog decides it’s not walking another step, it becomes a 50-pound sack of stubborn cement. They are loyal and loving, but convincing them to follow a command can feel like trying to push a parked car uphill. Bulldogs know what they want, and it’s usually a nap, a snack, or a dramatic flop on the floor in protest. Patience isn’t just helpful with this breed—it’s survival.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are dignified, aloof, and frequently convinced they’re superior to most humans. These fluff-covered lions don’t just question your authority—they reject it outright if they’re not in the mood. Early socialization is a must, but even with it, Chows tend to be independent thinkers with strong opinions about everything from walks to weather. They bond closely with their humans, but don’t expect them to perform on command like a Labrador. They do things their way—or not at all.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are long on spine and short on legs. These sausage-shaped rebels were bred to chase badgers into tunnels, which means they’re brave, determined, and unlikely to back down—especially when it comes to ignoring your commands. They’re charming, affectionate, and hilarious, but also have a stubborn streak that could stretch for miles. Training one can feel like negotiating with a fuzzy dictator. With consistency and humor, though, they’ll eventually come around—on their schedule.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are small, but their opinions are enormous. These energetic dynamos have more personality than many humans and are fully convinced they’re in charge. While they’re smart enough to learn just about anything, they often choose not to—because why should they sit when there’s a squirrel somewhere needing to be chased? Training a Jack Russell means outsmarting a dog that already thinks it’s two steps ahead of you. It’s exhausting. It’s chaotic. It’s also wildly entertaining.
Shiba Inu
Shibas are infamous for their independence and, frankly, their sass. These fox-like dogs operate on their own internal agenda and often view training as an optional collaboration. They’re clean, clever, and quiet—until they’re not. Shibas can learn various commands, but their favorite response to anything they don’t like is the dramatic “Shiba scream.” If you want a dog that listens, a Shiba might not be it—but if you want one that keeps you humble, they’re a perfect match.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are born adventurers with the souls of comedians and the stubbornness of toddlers in a grocery store. These howling, high-energy dogs will ignore commands with the flair of a Broadway actor and often argue with you—literally. They’re intelligent, but their working dog roots mean they were bred to make decisions independently, not follow your every word. Training a Husky takes consistency, enthusiasm, and possibly a personal trainer to keep up with their antics. If nothing else, they’ll ensure your neighbors know when training sessions aren’t going well.
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, come with a side of attitude and a full plate of defiance. These little tanks on legs are brave, curious, and extremely self-assured. They’re not rude, they’re just convinced they know better. While they respond well to positive reinforcement, they also have selective hearing and conveniently forget commands if something more interesting happens. With a Scottie, you’re not the boss—you’re the co-manager, and you better have snacks.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos may be small and fluffy, but they’ve got the confidence of a dog five times their size. Originally bred to guard Tibetan temples, they take their job seriously—even if their current territory is the living room. They’re watchful, strong-willed, and very particular about who they listen to. Lhasas don’t give away trust easily, and they’re not big on doing things just because you said so. Training one feels less like instruction and more like diplomacy.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners are sleek, smart, and often too clever for their own good. They can learn complex tasks but often have zero interest in doing so unless properly motivated. These dogs are sensitive and dramatic, prone to protest if they feel misunderstood or bored. A bored Weimaraner is a stubborn Weimaraner—likely one who just ate your couch cushion. Training them involves patience, energy, and very convincing bribes.
Akita
Akitas are strong, silent, and intensely loyal—but they also have a mind and are not afraid to use it. These stoic dogs don’t rush into things and may ignore you completely if they’re not feeling the vibe. They require calm, assertive leadership and early, consistent training to bring out their best behavior. Akitas are not the type to perform tricks for praise—they’ll respond with a firm side-eye and walk away. They respect, and you’re talking to a brick wall if you don’t have it.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are adorable little rebels who use charm as a weapon. They’re smart, but often act like they didn’t hear your command, even though they very much did. Instead, they prefer to make their own decisions, especially when it involves naps, snacks, or any excuse to avoid movement. Training a Frenchie requires patience, treats, and the ability to laugh at how outrageously lazy and dramatic one dog can be. They’re not trying to frustrate you—they’re just busy being fabulous.
The Masters of Selective Hearing
These dogs aren’t stubborn just to be difficult—well, not only to be difficult. Beneath every ignored command and theatrical flop is a clever pup with a big heart and personality. Living with these strong-willed breeds takes patience, creativity, and a solid sense of humor. You might not win every argument (they’re very persuasive), but life with them is never dull. And when they finally choose to listen, it feels like a tiny, furry miracle—one that’s absolutely worth every bribe, eye roll, and heartfelt sigh.
The post 13 Stubborn Dog Breeds That Need Extra Patience appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.
via Whisker Therapy