Some dogs are eager to please, while others have a mind of their own! If you’ve ever found yourself repeating commands or negotiating with a four-legged rebel, you might be dealing with an occasionally stubborn breed.
These dogs are intelligent, independent, and sometimes too clever for their own good. They may test boundaries, ignore instructions, or decide they have better things to do than obey—especially when distractions are around.
But don’t mistake their stubbornness for disobedience. Often, these breeds require a different training approach that focuses on patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. With guidance, even the most strong-willed pups can become well-mannered companions.
Occasionally Stubborn Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound defines elegance with a flowing coat and graceful stride. But beneath that beauty lies a fiercely independent spirit. This breed has a stubborn streak that makes training a challenge, especially for first-time owners.
Their personality is almost cat-like—they do what they want when they want. Afghan Hounds follow their instincts. They may listen one moment and ignore you the next. Their aloof nature doesn’t mean they’re not smart; they prefer making their own choices.
Bred for hunting, Afghan Hounds relied on instincts rather than direction. This independence is deeply ingrained. During training sessions, they are known for selective hearing. They’ll turn their head and walk away if they don’t see a reward in it.
Training requires patience and creativity. Harsh corrections don’t work. Instead, active families should focus on short, engaging training sessions with positive reinforcement. They enjoy challenges but get bored quickly, so keeping things fun is key.
Despite their stubbornness, Afghan Hounds are loyal to their families. While they may seem aloof, they form strong bonds with those they trust. They won’t follow commands to please their owner—you have to earn their cooperation.
The Afghan Hound is a fascinating choice if you appreciate an independent-minded dog. They make ideal family dogs, but their outgoing nature and unique personality make them truly rewarding companions for those who love a challenge. Just be prepared for a little sass and a lot of attitude!
2. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu may be small, but this breed stands tall among the most stubborn dog breeds regarding stubbornness. With their fox-like appearance and confident personality, Shibas are known for their strong-willed nature. Shibas often actively choose whether they want to listen or not.
Originally bred for hunting in Japan, Shiba Inus are highly intelligent and independent. They don’t rely on humans for guidance like many other dogs do. Instead, they prefer to make their own decisions, often ignoring commands if they don’t see a reason to comply.
Shibas have an independent streak and are not motivated by a strong desire to please. They can be selective listeners, responding only when it suits them. If a Shiba decides a task is boring or repetitive, they’ll walk away or pretend not to hear you. This trait makes them challenging for first-time dog owners who expect immediate obedience.
Shibas are excellent family pets when raised with proper training and socialization. They are loyal, clean, and incredibly fun to be around. However, they demand respect and don’t tolerate rough handling or excessive commands. Training a Shiba requires creativity—positive reinforcement, short sessions, and plenty of rewards will yield better results than strict discipline.
As Petplan states, one of the most unique things about Shibas is their “Shiba scream”—a dramatic, high-pitched sound when annoyed or unhappy. This adds to their stubborn charm – an impossible personality to ignore.
If you’re up for the challenge, a Shiba Inu will keep you entertained with their clever antics and independent mindset. Just be prepared for a dog that chooses when to obey and isn’t afraid to let you know when they disagree!
3. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is small but packed with personality. Known for their boundless energy and fearless attitude, these dogs are as independent as they come. They have a strong, self-driven nature, which can make them one of the more stubborn breeds.
Once they set their mind on something—chasing a squirrel or digging up the yard—it can be nearly impossible to distract them.
Originally bred for hunting, the Jack Russell is incredibly smart, intelligent, and highly determined. They will happily ignore their owner if they decide something is more interesting than listening to commands. This is why the right training is essential from an early age. Without consistent leadership, they will quickly take charge of the household.
Their high energy levels require both physical exercise and mental stimulation. If not properly engaged, they can become restless and stubborn, often finding ways to entertain themselves, which may not always be ideal for their owners. They thrive in an environment with job-agility training, fetch, or interactive games.
Jack Russells can be strong-willed and independent thinkers, often refusing to obey simply because they don’t feel like it. Training must be firm but positive, with plenty of variety to keep their attention. Repetitive commands only make them lose interest, so short, fun sessions work best.
Despite their headstrong nature, Jack Russells make great companions for active owners. They are affectionate, playful, and always ready for an adventure. However, they require patience and an owner who understands their independent mindset. Without proper training and exercise, their stubbornness can turn into mischievous behavior.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a great choice if you’re looking for a high-energy dog with a big personality. Just be prepared to match their enthusiasm and keep up with their clever antics—they’ll always try to outsmart you!
4. Akita
The Akita is a powerful breed with a mind of its own. Known for their independence, these dogs are among the most stubborn breeds. They were originally bred for hunting and protection, which gives them a strong-willed nature. While they are intelligent, they don’t always feel the need to obey commands, often choosing their own course of action instead.
Akitas prefer to make their own decisions. This independence can make training a challenge, especially for inexperienced owners. They require patience, consistency, and firm but respectful leadership. Harsh corrections won’t work—Akitas must feel they are working with you, not for you.
One of their unique traits is their reserved and aloof demeanor. They are highly loyal to their families but may be standoffish with strangers and other animals. Proper socialization from a young age is essential to help them become well-rounded dogs. They have a natural guarding instinct, making them protective but occasionally stubborn when they believe they know best.
Akitas have a strong prey drive, and they may not always get along with smaller pets and need supervision around children who don’t understand their boundaries. While they can be great pets in the right home, they are best suited for experienced owners who understand their independent temperament.
They will find a way if they decide to explore beyond their yard. Secure fencing and plenty of mental stimulation are necessary to keep them from becoming bored and looking for trouble. They thrive with active individuals who can provide them with exercise and engagement to prevent destructive behavior.
Despite their stubbornness, Akitas can be excellent companions for those who respect their independence. With the right training and socialization, they form deep bonds with their families and become fiercely loyal guardians. Their mix of strength, intelligence, and independence makes them a fascinating but challenging breed to own!
5. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is one of the most notoriously stubborn working dogs. Their strong-willed temperament makes training a constant challenge, as they prefer to think for themselves rather than follow orders. Huskies will often obey commands only when it suits them. If they see no benefit, they’ll ignore you and move on.
Among the hardest dogs to train, Huskies are experts at testing boundaries. They know exactly what is being asked of them, but will deliberately choose whether or not to comply.
Their intelligence works against their owners—they learn commands quickly and figure out how to get away with mischief just as quickly. Repetitive training bores them, and they stubbornly refuse to participate if it doesn’t seem exciting.
Britannica states that Huskies have an independent nature that makes them resistant to authority. They were bred to make their own decisions in harsh conditions, and this trait remains strong today. No amount of coaxing, treats, or commands will change their mind if they don’t feel like listening. They are masters of selective hearing.
This breed is also famous for its defiant and playful attitude. A Husky won’t just ignore a command—they might stare straight at you, acknowledge what you said, and then do the exact opposite. They enjoy pushing limits and will take any opportunity to outsmart their owners. They don’t respond to traditional training methods and need a creative, firm, and patient approach.
Huskies are notorious escape artists, refusing to be confined by fences, leashes, or even locked doors. If they decide they want out, they will find a way, no matter how stubbornly their owner tries to keep them in. Their relentless determination makes them one of the most independent-minded working dogs, always seeking adventure on their terms.
While their headstrong temperament can be frustrating, it’s also part of what makes them unique. Huskies don’t blindly follow owners’ commands; they challenge, test, and think for themselves.
Owning one means constantly staying one step ahead—but for those who can handle their defiance, the reward is an endlessly entertaining and fiercely loyal family member.
6. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is one of the most independent and strong-willed breeds. While most dogs eagerly seek approval, Chows prefer to do things on their terms. Their stubborn nature makes training challenging, as praise or repetition does not easily sway them. If they don’t see a reason to follow a command, they simply won’t.
Despite their aloof and sometimes defiant attitude, Chows are devoted companions to those they trust. They form deep bonds with their owners but remain selective about whom they show affection to.
Their independent mindset means they often ignore commands unless properly motivated. Training must be firm yet respectful, as they will not tolerate harsh corrections.
As AKC states, Chow Chows have dignified and sometimes standoffish personalities. They do not respond well to excessive cuddling or forced interactions, preferring to decide when and how they engage. This self-assured attitude makes them unique and one of the more stubborn breeds.
Chows tend to be reserved around strangers and often refuse to engage if they don’t feel like it. Early socialization is crucial to prevent them from becoming overly stubborn or unapproachable. Their loyalty is unmatched, but they demand respect in return.
They also have a territorial streak, making them naturally protective. While this can be a great trait for guard duties, it also adds to their independent mindset. They believe they know best, often choosing their judgment over their owner’s commands. This determination can make it difficult to train first-time dog owners.
Chow Chow carries itself with a calm but dominant presence. They move at their own pace, obey on their terms, and never do anything they don’t want to. However, for those who understand and respect their nature, Chows make devoted companions with unique and unforgettable personalities.
7. Dachshund
The Dachshund is as headstrong as they come. While they may be small, they have strong personalities and a fierce independent streak. Dachshunds prefer to make their own decisions. They are intelligent, but their intelligence often works against training—if they don’t see a reason to listen, they simply won’t.
One of their most unique personality traits is their determination. Originally bred to hunt badgers, they have a keen sense of smell and an instinct to dig, chase, and explore.
Once they set their mind on something, distractions mean nothing. This stubborn focus can frustrate training, as they actively ignore commands if something else catches their attention.
Dachshunds are also known for their resistance to repetitive training methods. They dislike being told what to do and will quickly lose interest in tasks they find boring. Positive reinforcement techniques are the only way to motivate them, as they respond best to rewards and variety. However, even with treats and encouragement, they sometimes refuse to cooperate just because they can.
Their boldness and confidence make them seem much larger than they are. Dachshunds are self-assured and will push boundaries whenever possible. They can be incredibly persistent, especially when trying to get their way. If an owner is inconsistent, a Dachshund will quickly take charge and make their own rules.
Despite their stubborn nature, Dachshunds have a strong sense of loyalty and attachment to their families. They form strong bonds but expect things to go their way. Their independence makes them both charming and challenging, as they are affectionate one moment and completely uncooperative the next.
Owning a Dachshund means embracing their stubborn personality while finding ways to outsmart them. They are clever, determined, and full of attitude. Those who can match their persistence make entertaining and devoted companions—but only on their terms!
Conclusion
Owning a stubborn dog breed can be both a challenge and a joy for its owner. Certain breeds, like the Australian Cattle Dog and Scottish Terrier, have a strong-willed nature due to their working backgrounds. Many herding breeds, including Border Collies and German Shepherds, display dog resistance when tasks don’t align with their instincts.
Similarly, independent dogs like the Basset Hound, Beagle, and Shar Pei may require patience and consistent training. Even medium-sized dogs, such as the Bull Terrier and English Bulldog, can occasionally be defiant despite being intelligent. However, these breeds can become well-behaved companions with an active lifestyle and proper guidance.
While some, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, are naturally more agreeable, many dogs exhibit occasional stubbornness. Understanding their unique traits helps owners train them effectively, ensuring a strong bond with even the most strong-willed companions.
