Some dogs live to please. Others live to ignore your commands with the grace of a royal who’s “too busy.”
The least obedient dog breeds that refuse to follow commands are a group of independent, free-spirited pups who simply aren’t wired to sit, stay, or heel on cue. But they are not bad dogs. Many of these breeds are smart, loyal, and deeply affectionate. They don’t believe obedience is part of their job description.
According to experts in dog behavior and obedience intelligence, these breeds often have high levels of independent thinking, which historically made them excellent hunting dogs, sled dogs, or guard dogs. Unfortunately, certain breed traits can lead to frustration during your training sessions.
Least Obedient Dog Breeds That Refuse To Follow Commands
If you are a fan of clever dogs that challenge you or just want to know what breeds might test your patience (but steal your heart), we have compiled a list of the top least obedient dog breeds you should know based on working and obedience intelligence.
1. Afghan Hound
With flowing locks and the attitude of a fashion model, the Afghan Hound is one of the most beautiful dogs on the planet… and one of the least likely to follow your commands.
This breed was originally bred for hunting in the mountains of Afghanistan, and it gave them a stubborn temperament and a highly independent nature. They are not the type to fetch a ball just because you ask nicely. In fact, they might raise an eyebrow and sashay away.
Despite their aloof behavior, as mentioned by PetMD, Afghan Hounds are affectionate companions at heart. They just need positive reinforcement, tons of mental stimulation, and an owner who appreciates their “don’t tell me what to do” vibe.
Key Traits:
Least obedient breeds with a majestic presence
Bite-sized attention span
Needs patient and consistent training methods
2. Borzoi
Another regal, independent breed, the Borzoi (also known as the Russian Wolfhound), is elegant, quiet… and profoundly uninterested in your obedience commands.
Originally bred for hunting wolves in the Russian aristocracy, these dogs have a strong prey drive and a low desire to please. They are not fans of strict routines and repetitive training commands.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they can have a stubborn streak, so training may be challenging. They were born to chase, so a small movement can trigger a marathon. Keep them on leash in public.
If you are into obedient breeds, the Borzoi will be rebellious for you. But if you are patient and use positive reinforcement techniques, you will find them having a sensitive and loyal nature beneath the aloof exterior.
Key Traits:
Very independent and hard to train
Graceful, quiet, and cat-like
Needs early and patient obedience training
3. Basenji
Also known as the “Barkless Dog”, the Basenji is famous for its silence and its refusal to listen.
Basenjis were originally developed as hunting dogs in Central Africa. Their breed characteristics include independence, curiosity, and a total disinterest in human commands. They are the scent-trackers, so you can use some strong-smelling training treats to keep them attentive, as noted by PetMD.
Despite being one of the least obedient dogs, Basenjis are clever and energetic. But they need exercise and training from an experienced owner who can keep up with their antics.
Key Traits:
Independent dogs that ignore commands
Needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation
Training sessions should be short and fun
4. Beagle
Cute? Yes. Stubborn? Absolutely.
The Beagle is one of the most beloved dog breeds, but they are also one of the least obedient dog breeds that refuse to follow commands… mainly because they are always sniffing something more interesting.
Beagles are scent hounds, originally bred for tracking game. Their powerful scent-tracking abilities mean they often tune out commands in favor of whatever smell tickles their fancy.
They can be trained with positive reinforcement, but it takes time, patience, and a lot of treats. Beagles also have a playful and affectionate side, which makes all the effort worth it.
Key Traits:
Distracted by smells 24/7
Friendly, affectionate, and great with families
Needs structured dog training from an early age
5. Bloodhound
Like Beagles, the Bloodhounds are a world-class sniffer, with one big flaw!! It is nearly impossible to get them to focus when they are tracking a scent.
These hound dogs are intelligent dogs and affectionate pets, known for their legendary noses, but obedience? That is another story. Dog training a bloodhound requires enormous patience, as they will often ignore commands if they catch a whiff of something better.
Still, with proper training and extensive socialization, Bloodhounds can become loyal companions, though probably not the most well-behaved companions on the block.
Key Traits:
Deeply stubborn but sweet-natured
Prone to “selective hearing”
Best trained with patience and persistence
6. Bulldog
Bulldogs are couch potatoes with a heart of gold, and a stubborn streak a mile long.
French Bulldog or the classic English version, the bulldogs are notoriously less obedient breeds. They are slow to respond and often resist obedience training unless you make it super fun (and snack-filled).
Despite their low drive to please, they are among the most loyal and affectionate companions around. Their protective and loyal nature makes them great pets, even if they pretend they don’t hear you say “sit”.
Key Traits:
Lazy doggos but incredibly charming
Prefers cuddles over commands
Needs daily exercise and motivating training sessions
7. Chow Chow
A walking teddy bear with the heart of a lion, the Chow Chow is one of the most fiercely independent dog breeds you will ever meet.
Originally bred in China as guard dogs and working dogs, Chows have strong opinions and little interest in being told what to do. They are dignified and loyal to their owners, but don’t expect them to act like an obedient dog during your training sessions.
With early socialization and positive reinforcement techniques, they can learn the basics if they feel like it.
Key Traits:
Fiercely loyal but not eager to please
Can be aloof and territorial towards other dogs, as noted by Britannica
Needs a strong and experienced pet owner
8. Mastiff
Massively fluffy, drooly, and surprisingly lazy, the Mastiff is a gentle giant… who might pretend he didn’t hear your command until you say it a third time.
Despite their huge size, Mastiffs are mellow and sweet, but their independent nature and sheer stubbornness make them one of the least obedient dog breeds. This breed needs early obedience training, not just to improve behavior but to ensure they are manageable.
After all, if a 200-pound dog won’t listen, you are the one being walked. And yes, AKC mentions they can reach even 230 pounds in weight.
Key Traits:
Calm but very stubborn
Needs firm and consistent training from puppyhood
Great companions when well-trained
9. Pekingese
Last but not least, the Pekingese is a tiny royalty with a “don’t bother me” attitude. Bred to be companions to Chinese emperors, they act like they still own the palace.
These small dogs are intelligent but resist obedience because they don’t like being bossed around. This dog’s intelligence stems from pride and independence.
They can be sweet, but they demand respect and will only follow commands if it suits them. However, PetMD suggests that positive reinforcement can help with gentle handling, and they will reward your patience with loyalty and love.
Key Traits:
Regal attitude with modest exercise needs
Want respect and gentle training
Affectionate but fiercely independent
Conclusion
These least obedient dog breeds might make obedience training a real challenge, but they also bring charm, character, and unconditional love to the table. While obedient dog breeds like Bull Terriers, Shih Tzu, Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds might ace the agility course, less obedient breeds remind us that a dog’s personality matters just as much as performance.
So, if your dog won’t listen, don’t take it personally. You might just be raising one of the world’s most independent thinkers… with fur.
