Dogs have long been celebrated for their loyalty and eagerness to please, but not every breed is wired to follow commands with unquestioning devotion. While many dogs thrive on structure and training, others march to the beat of their own drum—often leaving their owners exasperated.
It’s no wonder some strong-willed breeds still prefer doing things their own way. Obedience is influenced by more than just effort; genetics, temperament, and a breed’s original purpose all play huge roles.
Breeds developed to work independently—like hunters or guard dogs—were never meant to wait for human approval, which can make them seem stubborn today. In this article, we’ll explore the least obedient dog breeds—those known for resisting commands despite their intelligence.
Drawing on Stanley Coren’s renowned canine intelligence research, we’ll uncover why these dogs push boundaries and what potential owners should know before bringing one home.
Least Obedient Dog Breeds That Refuse to Follow Commands
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound, also known simply as the “Afghan,” is a striking sighthound famous for its long, silky coat and aristocratic bearing. Originating from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, they were bred for hunting large game, which honed their speed, sharp vision, and independent decision-making skills.
Hills Pet states that the Afghan Hound is considered a high-maintenance dog due to several factors, including its extensive grooming requirements and significant exercise needs.
This independent nature makes them notoriously resistant to traditional obedience training. Their aloof temperament means they often prefer making their own choices over following human commands, which can frustrate novice owners expecting quick compliance.
Positive reinforcement and patience are crucial when working with this breed. Afghan Hounds also have strong prey drives inherited from their hunting ancestry, which can easily distract them during training sessions.
Instead of focusing on commands, they may chase after moving objects or small animals, showing their instinctive side over obedience.
Despite their reputation for stubbornness, Afghan Hounds are highly intelligent and sensitive. Their apparent disobedience stems more from self-reliance than lack of ability.
2. Basenji
The Basenji, often called the “barkless dog,” hails from Central Africa and is known for its sleek build, tightly curled tail, and upright ears. Unlike many breeds, it expresses itself with unique yodel-like sounds rather than typical barking, adding to its distinctive personality.
AKC says Basenjis are beautiful when standing still, but even more impressive at a fast trot, showing long, smooth strides like a miniature racehorse.
This breed’s legendary independence makes it notoriously difficult to train, as Basenjis prefer thinking for themselves instead of following repetitive commands.
They often view instructions as suggestions, testing their owners’ patience during obedience sessions. Their sharp minds allow them to learn quickly, but only when they see a benefit in doing so.
Basenjis are also famous for their mischievous streak, often outsmarting inexperienced owners with clever antics. Their determination to do things their way can come across as stubbornness, but it’s rooted in their instinct to act autonomously—once essential for survival in their native environment.
Interestingly, Basenjis ranked near the bottom of obedience tests, reportedly needing 80 to 100 repetitions to learn new commands and obeying the first command only about 25% of the time.
3. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow, also called the Songshi Quan or “puffy-lion dog,” is a striking breed known for its lion-like mane, deep-set eyes, and distinctive blue-black tongue. This ancient Chinese breed has a reputation for independence and self-assurance, often preferring to observe rather than engage.
PetMD says a Chow Chow’s temperament can be aloof and cautious with new people and other pets, but with early socialization, they can become more welcoming.
Their aloof nature contributes heavily to their stubborn streak, making them one of the least obedient dog breeds. Chow Chows tend to think for themselves, which can frustrate owners expecting quick compliance.
Training them requires patience, persistence, and very positive reinforcement to counter their reluctance to follow commands.
Because they don’t have a strong drive to please, these dogs can resist repetitive training sessions. Their compact build and dense double coat also make them less tolerant of prolonged physical exertion, which can further complicate proper training efforts for inexperienced handlers.
Despite their headstrong nature, Chow Chows form powerful bonds with their chosen humans. Once trust is earned, they are deeply loyal companions—though they will still happily march to the beat of their own drum.
4. Bulldog
The Bulldog, also known as the English Bulldog, is a stocky, medium-sized breed recognizable by its loose skin, distinctive pushed-in nose, and endearingly wrinkled face. Originally bred in England for bull-baiting, today’s Bulldogs are much gentler and prized as affectionate companions.
While they are known for their loyalty and calm demeanor, Bulldogs often rank among the least obedient breeds due to their independent nature.
Bulldogs can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, often needing 80 to 100 repetitions to learn new commands, and they tend to follow the first command only about a quarter of the time.
Their stubborn streak makes training a challenge, especially for first-time dog owners. Consistent positive reinforcement and early socialization are crucial to keep them engaged, as traditional harsh training methods can backfire with this sensitive breed.
Bulldogs are constant chewers and enjoy tug-of-war games, so channeling their energy into structured play can improve focus during training sessions.
Fun fact: Despite their low obedience ranking, Bulldogs are known for their unwavering devotion to their families, proving that loyalty doesn’t always come with compliance.
5. Borzoi
The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a tall and graceful sighthound famed for its aristocratic looks and flowing, silky coat. Originally bred by Russian nobility for coursing wolves, this breed carries an air of elegance and independence that makes it stand out among other dogs.
Their strong-willed personality often shows when asked to follow commands, as Borzois are naturally inclined to think for themselves rather than seek approval. They can seem aloof during training, preferring to act on their own instincts, which makes consistent obedience challenging.
Though quiet and gentle in the home, their stubborn streak surfaces when they decide a task is not worth their effort. This selective listening is common in Borzois, who may require numerous repetitions before grasping a new command.
Despite this disobedient reputation, Borzois are affectionate with their families and enjoy calm companionship.
Fun fact: They were once reserved solely for Russian aristocrats, symbolizing wealth and status.
6. Dachshund
The Dachshund, also fondly called the “wiener dog” or “sausage dog,” hails from Germany and is instantly recognizable for its long body and short legs.
Originally bred to hunt badgers, they possess a bold and curious temperament that makes them both endearing and challenging for owners. Their compact frame requires careful management to avoid weight gain, which can stress their backs.
Because of their independent hunting heritage, Dachshunds can display a stubborn streak that makes training tricky. They often prioritize following intriguing scents over listening to commands, testing the patience of even experienced dog owners.
Handling their defiance demands consistency, calm authority, and positive reinforcement methods. Dachshunds also have a tendency to dig and explore relentlessly, which can be seen as disobedience in a household setting.
Owners must offer structured boundaries while allowing safe outlets for their energetic curiosity, ensuring their spirited nature is guided rather than suppressed.
Interestingly, coat type influences their personality—long-haired Dachshunds are known to be calmer, while wire-haired ones are often more outgoing and playful due to their terrier lineage. Despite their stubbornness, they remain loyal companions who bond deeply with patient and understanding owners.
7. Pekingese
The Pekingese, often affectionately called “Pekes,” are toy-sized dogs originally bred as companions for Chinese royalty. Their distinctive lion-like mane, flat face, and bold expression give them a regal appearance. While small, they carry themselves with a confident, almost aristocratic air.
These dogs are intelligent but extremely independent, which makes them less inclined to obey commands promptly.
Their stubborn streak means they often prefer doing things their way, testing the patience of even experienced trainers. This independent nature is a major reason they are considered one of the least obedient breeds.
Training a Pekingese requires patience, consistency, and a gentle approach. Harsh methods or excessive pressure can cause them to shut down, while positive reinforcement and tasty treats can motivate them. Keeping sessions short and engaging helps hold their attention.
Although they might resist structured obedience, Pekingese are capable of learning when their owners respect their individuality. Interestingly, despite their small stature, they were historically bred to sit on the laps of emperors and symbolize protection and dignity within the royal palace.
Conclusion
When it comes to training the least obedient dog breeds, patience truly becomes your greatest ally. Many of the pups, from scent hounds like Beagles and Basset Hounds to spirited sled dogs, march to the beat of their own drum.
While they’re undeniably intelligent dogs, their independent thinking often overrides commands, making successfully training them a slower, more deliberate journey.
Despite their stubborn streak, these breeds are often incredibly clever dogs who can shine when approached with positive reinforcement techniques rather than harsh discipline.
Even notoriously willful breeds like the Bull Terrier or exceptionally bright Border Collies can transform into well-behaved companions once their unique motivations are understood.
The canine world is full of personalities, and disobedience doesn’t mean these dogs are unloving or unworthy—it simply means they require a different training approach and a little extra patience. With time and consistency, even the most headstrong breeds can become devoted family members.
