If you’ve ever shouted “sit” at your dog only to watch them blink at you like you’re speaking Martian, you’re not alone. Some puppies treat obeying commands as a suggestion—one they have zero plans of following.
Training certain breeds can feel like negotiating with a tiny, furry dictator. They know what you want, but with their independent streak and adventurous spirit, they’d rather chase a leaf, nap on your couch, or get easily distracted mid-session.
These dogs have the intelligence to understand commands, yet an independent mindset that keeps you guessing. You’ll swear they’re smirking while doing the exact opposite.
Before you give up and crown your dog ruler of the household, remember: patience, humor, agility training, and a lot of treats are your best weapons. Start at an early age and tap into their boundless energy for success.
Ready to meet the stubborn yet fiercely loyal breeds—sometimes mistaken for guard dogs or even future guide dogs—who balance charm with protective instincts? Let’s dive into the nine dog breeds that treat obedience like a practical joke.
Dog Breeds That Ignore Owner Commands
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is basically the supermodel of the dog world—stunning to look at, but don’t expect it to follow your every command. Obedience? That’s optional in their book.
Britannica claims that this breed was designed to hunt independently, so listening to humans feels… beneath them. Training sessions often become a test of your patience, not theirs.
Exercise is non-negotiable—without it, an Afghan will invent its own activities, usually involving your couch. Positive reinforcement techniques and Socialization help, but stubborn streaks remain.
Owners who crave control should beware: Afghans resist authority like it’s a fashion faux pas.
Think of them less as “obedient dog” and more as “fabulous roommate with zero interest in chores.”
2. Basenji
Meet the Basenji, the “barkless dog” that won’t raise its voice but will raise your blood pressure. Commands bounce right off this independent thinker.
This breed was bred for hunting in Africa, where self-reliance was a survival tool. Translation: your training cues are optional background noise.
Basenjis thrive when mentally stimulated—think puzzle toys, not sit-and-stay drills. Without enough activity, they turn into furry escape artists.
Their stubbornness is legendary; some owners joke that Basenjis train them. Obedience training schools often call it “a challenge.”
The Basenji isn’t disobedient—it’s just convinced it knows better than you. Spoiler: it usually thinks it’s right.
3. Bulldog
Bulldogs aren’t as defiant as they are… selectively deaf. If sitting down takes more energy than they’d like, expect a polite “no thanks.”
Originally bred for bull-baiting, today’s Bulldog has traded toughness for an enviable level of laziness. Commands requiring effort often meet with glazed stares.
Training a Bulldog requires humor, persistence, and plenty of treats—preferably handed over quickly. Patience is your new best friend.
Exercise? Limited. Bulldogs overheat and tire easily, so walks are more about waddling than obedience practice.
Hillspet notes that their stubborn charm makes them beloved, but their strong-willed temperament means that when a Bulldog digs in, you’re the one who caves.
4. Shiba Inu
Ah, the Shiba Inu—Japan’s gift to stubborn dog breeds. These fox-like fluffballs are masters of ignoring owner commands while giving you that smug “I know better” stare. Obedience? Optional.
Independent to the core, Shibas were bred as hunters, which explains their selective hearing. Their instincts often override any training effort.
PetMD explains that training a Shiba Inu requires patience, creativity, and a sense of humor. They’ll make you earn every sit and stay.
Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and structured playtime keep their minds from plotting escape plans. Yes, they’re that sneaky.
If you crave loyalty wrapped in sass, the Shiba Inu is the ultimate challenge—and reward.
5. Dachshund
The Dachshund may look like a hot dog on legs, but don’t be fooled—this breed is as stubborn as they come. Commands are often met with blank stares or dramatic yawns.
Bred to hunt badgers, their determination is unmatched. That same drive makes them bold, fearless, and occasionally impossible to manage.
Training a Dachshund? Think persistence meets bribery. Treats help, but even then, they might just do things on their own timeline.
Without enough exercise, these sausage-shaped rebels get mischievous—hello, shredded slippers. Consistency is key.
Love their quirks, and you’ll discover a small dog with a big personality and a bigger stubborn streak.
6. Jack Russell Terrier
Meet the Jack Russell Terrier—a pint-sized bundle of energy with the obedience level of a teenager who just discovered TikTok. Listening to commands? Only when it suits them.
AKC claims that originally bred for fox hunting, and their intelligence is off the charts. Unfortunately, so is their willpower to resist your authority.
Training these terriers means combining firm rules with endless patience. Boredom equals chaos, and they excel at creating it.
Daily exercise and mental challenges are non-negotiable. Otherwise, your home becomes their personal obstacle course.
For active owners who appreciate sass with speed, the Jack Russell Terrier is a thrill ride you’ll never forget.
7. Beagle
The Beagle is adorable, merry, and friendly—but also one of the hardest dogs to train, unlike other dogs. Commands often get lost in translation, thanks to their nose.
Originally bred as scent hounds, Beagles follow smells with religious devotion. Unfortunately, “sit” can’t compete with the aroma of a squirrel.
Training requires patience, positive reinforcement, consistency, and irresistible rewards. Even then, don’t expect instant results. Beagles thrive on food-based motivation.
Exercise and structured playtime are essential; without them, they’ll dig, howl, and test your sanity.
Loving but stubborn, Beagles prove obedience isn’t about loyalty—it’s about whether your snack game is strong enough.
8. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler may look like the ultimate tough guy, but when it comes to following owner commands, they sometimes take the “I’ll think about it” approach. Independent streak? Absolutely.
Bred as drovers and guard dogs, their confidence can tip into stubbornness if training isn’t firm and consistent. They know their strength—and aren’t shy about testing boundaries.
Training a Rottweiler isn’t for the faint of heart. They respond best to early socialization, clear leadership, and positive reinforcement (with a side of patience).
Purina warns that skipping exercise, and you’ll unleash a powerhouse of pent-up energy—your furniture won’t thank you.
When guided properly, though, the Rottweiler transforms from willful rebel into a loyal, dependable protector who finally admits you’re the boss.
9. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are masters of the slow life—stubborn, droopy, and dedicated to ignoring commands when it suits them. Speedy obedience isn’t in their vocabulary.
Their powerful sense of smell often overrides training efforts. Once on a scent trail, they might as well be wearing noise-canceling headphones.
Consistency and patience are crucial. Training sessions should be short and tasty—yes, Bassets respond best to food motivation.
Exercise is needed to prevent weight gain, but don’t expect long runs. They prefer leisurely sniffing strolls.
Bassets may look laid-back due to their laid-back nature, but their stubborn streak is legendary. Obedience takes time, treats, and a sense of humor.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between obedient dog breeds and those with a stubborn streak is vital for dog owners. Even the least obedient dog breed can improve with consistent training and the right approach.
Highly intelligent dogs like Border Collies, German Shepherds, may master new commands with ease, while Scottish Terriers, Siberian Huskies, or bull terriers show an independent temperament and strong-willed nature, unlike many working dogs. They’re not impossible to train—they just need more patience.
With early socialization, leash training, and clear communication, even strong-willed pets can learn to follow commands. Start building good habits today, and you’ll soon enjoy a loyal, well-behaved companion who responds with love—and maybe a little mischief. Ready to transform your dog’s stubborn nature? Begin training now!
