Some dogs live to make you happy. Others? They’d rather follow their own rules. Stubborn pups aren’t “bad dogs” — they’re just more independent and often much smarter than we give them credit for.
A study revealed that between 12% and 15% display high levels of impulsivity, while as many as 20% grapple with significant inattention; traits that can make training more of a challenge than a delight.
Owning one of these strong-willed pups can be both infuriating and incredibly rewarding. It takes heaps of patience, consistency, and creative motivation to guide them—and when you finally crack through, the connection you form can be truly extraordinary.
These dogs may test your resolve, but they’ll also astonish you with their loyalty, cleverness, and unforgettable presence. With the right blend of structure, fun, and empathy, even the most headstrong companion can flourish in your home.
Think of stubbornness not as defiance, but as determination wrapped in fur. And once you lean into that spirit, you’ll uncover a friend like no other. In this blog, we’ll explore the most stubborn dog breeds and what makes them so challenging.
Extremely Stubborn Dog Breeds
1. Bulldog
The Bulldog may look calm and lazy, but don’t let that fool you. This muscular, medium-sized dog is famous for its stubborn streak. Originally bred for bull-baiting, today’s Bulldog is far more gentle, loving, and loyal. Their sweet and laid-back nature makes them wonderful family companions, especially for homes that enjoy a slower pace.
Still, Bulldogs are difficult to train. They are willfully slow to follow commands and often prefer doing things on their own time. Despite this, Bulldogs are sensitive and truly want to please their owners.
With treats, positive reinforcement, and consistent training sessions, they can be trained successfully. Patience is the key, as these dogs will quickly notice any weakness or inconsistency in training and take advantage of it.
Bulldogs love comfort, and that means they may resist long walks or energetic play. Their courage and determination show up when they set their mind on something, making them tenacious yet endearing.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Easily distracted and often ignores commands unless highly motivated.
Tenacious spirit means they push back when asked to do something they don’t want.
Sensitive nature requires firm yet gentle handling, as harsh methods backfire.
2. Dachshund
The short, long-bodied Dachshund is famous for its bold personality and stubborn streak. Originally bred for hunting badgers, this small dog is both courageous and independent.
Their lively nature, intelligence, and strong prey drive make them fearless despite their size. With low maintenance needs, they fit well into smaller homes and can be loyal companions for dedicated owners.
Dachshunds love to do things their own way. You might find them digging holes, chewing on shoes, or chasing other pets just to satisfy their hunting instincts.
While they are clever and quick learners, their determination often gets in the way of obedience. Training takes patience, consistency, and plenty of praise to show them that listening pays off.
Though training can be tough, Dachshunds thrive when they feel engaged and respected. They respond best when their owners stay firm, fair, and persistent. With enough patience, they transform from stubborn little diggers into affectionate, loyal family members who bring joy and energy into the home.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Naturally strong prey drive makes them chase and dig constantly.
Independent thinkers who resist commands unless rewarded.
Can be manipulative and test limits if not trained early.
3. Akita
The Akita descends from an ancient Japanese lineage and is admired for its powerful build and striking appearance. According to the AKC, the breed was once close to extinction and was carefully restored by dedicated breeders in the Akitainu Hozonkai (Akita Dog Preservation Society; AKIHO).
Akitas are known for their courage, natural curiosity, and independent nature. These dogs are famously stubborn, often walking away during training sessions.
Their protective instincts make them excellent natural guardians, but they need early socialization and steady guidance from a professional trainer. Gaining their trust takes time, but once earned, they can be fiercely loyal.
Because of their size and strong-willed nature, Akitas can be a challenge for first-time dog owners. They thrive best with experienced handlers who can provide firm yet respectful training. With patience and structure, this headstrong breed becomes a deeply faithful family protector and companion.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Strong guarding instincts require early and consistent socialization.
Known to ignore commands or walk away during training.
Their size and strength can overwhelm inexperienced owners.
4. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are powerful working dogs with a muscular build, self-sufficient nature, and a strong-willed temperament. Originally used for herding and guarding, they have also been trusted to haul carts and protect property.
Rottweilers are known for their loyalty and intelligence, but their stubborn side shows when they don’t see a reason to obey.
Their natural protective instinct, combined with their strength, makes them one of the most challenging breeds to train. They thrive with firm, consistent guidance and early socialization to help them respect their owner’s leadership.
When trained well, Rottweilers are dependable and affectionate companions who stay by your side. Their stubbornness is a reflection of their confidence and independence. They need owners who can provide a stable environment and are willing to channel their energy into positive outlets like obedience or agility work.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Account for around 10% of fatal dog attacks annually due to size and strength.
Naturally dominant and may challenge authority without consistent training.
Protective instincts can turn into aggression if not properly socialized.
5. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small but fearless dog with a big personality. This breed was developed in England in the 19th century for hunting foxes both above and below the ground, as per Britannica. Their intelligence and independence often shine through, making them both fun and challenging companions.
These little dogs are clever, active, and love to explore. Their stubborn and independent personality shows when they choose to ignore commands or act on their own instincts.
Mischievous and confident, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay balanced. Without structure, this stubborn breed can quickly turn its energy into digging, chasing, or other unwanted behaviors.
With patience and consistency, Jack Russells can become wonderful companions. They thrive when their curiosity and energy are channeled into positive outlets. Training from a young age, paired with professional help, helps keep this breed happy, cooperative, and fun to live with.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Endless energy makes them hard to manage without daily exercise.
Natural hunting drive causes them to chase small animals and dig.
Confidence and an independent streak often lead to selective listening.
6. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a small but spirited Japanese breed known for its bold personality and fox-like looks. Originally bred for hunting in the mountains, the name “Shiba” translates to “brushwood dog,” highlighting their role in flushing out game.
Today, they are admired worldwide for their loyalty, independence, and decision-making skills.
Shibas are intelligent yet famously headstrong. They often choose to follow their own instincts rather than listen to commands.
Their cat-like demeanor makes training difficult, and they are quick to lose interest if not properly engaged. Despite this, they form strong bonds with their families and show deep loyalty once trust is earned.
With consistent training and patient handling, Shiba Inus can thrive as companions. They require an owner who respects their independence but still provides firm guidance. For those who can balance structure with their emotional needs, the Shiba Inu is both a stubborn challenge and a rewarding friend.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Naturally independent and often refuses commands.
Quick to lose focus during training sessions.
Strong-willed nature requires experienced, confident handling.
7. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is one of the most striking breeds, with a wolf-like face and thick double coat. Originally bred to pull sleds in the frozen wilderness, Huskies are athletic, hardy, and full of energy. They are friendly and playful dogs, often great with kids and other pets when socialized early.
Huskies are intelligent but very independent. Their stubborn nature shows in training, where they may ignore commands or test boundaries.
They love to run and explore, which can make recall training difficult, especially when off-leash. A tired Husky is always easier to manage than one brimming with pent-up energy.
For owners who can meet their high exercise and mental needs, Huskies make loyal and affectionate companions. These big dogs thrive when given jobs or challenges that keep them focused. With patience, firm guidance, and plenty of activity, their stubbornness can be channeled into positive behaviors.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Constant urge to escape or roam makes them hard to contain.
Extremely high energy leads to destructive habits when bored.
Short attention spans make training sessions difficult to maintain.
8. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is one of the most elegant and dignified dog breeds. With its long flowing coat and proud stance, it has been admired for centuries.
PetMD states that the Afghan Hound is a sight hound with sharp eyesight and quick feet, which makes these dogs excellent at hunting small game and well-suited for modern dog sports like lure coursing.
Afghan Hounds are intelligent and independent thinkers. Their aloof nature often shows during training, as they prefer to assess situations on their own before responding. This self-reliant trait comes from their history as hunters who needed to make quick decisions without human direction.
They are not easily impressed by commands, which can make them seem distant or even uninterested during training. Though they can be stubborn, Afghan Hounds are also loving and loyal to those they trust.
They do best with positive reinforcement and gentle consistency. Patience and steady guidance are essential to connect with them, as harsh methods will only push them away.
Why This Breed Can Be Challenging
Easily distracted by movement due to strong prey drive.
Their independent nature and big attitude make them slow to follow commands.
An aloof personality requires patient, reward-based training methods.
Conclusion
Living with a stubborn dog can feel overwhelming at times, but it also reveals a lot about a dog’s behavior. These breeds are not being difficult just for the sake of it—dog stubborn traits often come from intelligence, independence, and a rich history of working alongside humans in unique ways.
In fact, several factors shape why some dogs prefer making their own decisions, from being bred to work alone in challenging terrain to having a strong instinct to think for themselves.
Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are some other dogs as well that are known for their stubbornness. These include the Golden Retriever, Scottish Terrier, Chow Chows, Beagles, and Basset Hounds.
With patience and understanding, even the most willful breeds can thrive in a loving home. By offering positive reinforcement, staying consistent, and respecting that certain level of independence, you can build a bond based on trust.
A stubborn dog may test your limits, but with the right approach, they’ll reward you with loyalty, character, and companionship unlike any other.
