Dogs are our best companions. They are friendly, loyal, playful, and easy to get along with. While one of the joys of having canines as housepets is being able to train them to sit, roll over, and fetch, there’s a catch. Some dog breeds are stubborn and are a nightmare to train. The silver lining is that these are not untrainable. You can make them do your bidding with lots of patience and effort. Well, almost! Read on if you are up for the challenge.
Scottish Terrier: The Tenacious Highlander
Scottish Terriers possess a bold spirit, a dignified demeanor, and an independent nature. It takes time to train them, so be consistent and persistent when you set out to do basic obedience training. Stack up on those positive reinforcements, too. If you want to raise a well-adjusted adult Scottie, early socialization with people and other animals is the key. Embrace their tenacity, and you’ll find a faithful and loving companion, proud to stand by your side.
Chihuahua: The Dynamic Dynamo
The diminutive Chihuahua holds a gigantic presence but is also an audacious pup in a compact package. Brimming with confidence that belies its size, this tiny titan from Mexico can be as bullheaded as they come, which makes training a nerve-wracking test of wills. However, coaching them is crucial to harness their energy and curb any tendency towards territorial behavior or excessive barking. Chihuahuas crave involvement in family activities and thrive on attention and affection.
Shiba Inu: The Spirited Sovereign
An exceptional breed, Shiba Inus is mainly used for guarding and training. Being the epitome of independence and confidence makes the latter a negotiation of wills. Their intelligence and agility mean they can learn quickly but on their own terms. Training a Shiba Inu is about mutual respect and understanding, a journey that strengthens the bond between you and your spirited buddy. Occupying their interest with varied, interactive sessions can turn it into a game they’re eager to win.
Basset Hound: The Melancholic Minstrel
Initially bred for hunting, Basset Hounds are short-legged dogs with an enviable sense of smell. One look at their soulful eyes and leisurely pace is enough to check your resolve to train them. Preferring sniff trails over commands, they may seem indifferent to your efforts, but their gentleness and tolerance make them endearing partners. Training a Basset Hound requires leveraging their love for treats and scent-based pursuits, making learning exciting and rewarding.
Barzoi – An Elegant Aristocrat
The Borzoi, known for its grace and aristocratic manner, was bred for the swift hunt of wolves across Russia’s open plains. This breed has a fabulous hunting instinct, making them determined athletes. They would much rather chase than obediently follow your commands. The trick to training them lies in respecting their sensitivity and engaging their intellect. Despite their size, Borzois are adaptable to various living situations if they have enough space to roam.
Irish Setter: The Joyful Explorer
Are you as mesmerized by the Irish Setter’s radiant red coat and boundless enthusiasm as we are? Striking in appearance, their playful determination can be as daunting as endearing. Even though they are quick learners and relatively competent, they require regular positive training methods. The breed’s constant desire for activity can only be quelled by appealing to their natural instincts. They thrive on companionship, so leaving them alone for long periods can bring out their rowdiness.
Fox Terrier: An Alert Adventurer
Vivacious with an insatiable curiosity, Fox Terriers are born adventurers. Their alertness and vigor transform them into fast learners when appropriately engaged. Training them can be tricky, so it is advisable to include games and tasks that stimulate their minds. Keep the methods as lively and varied as their personalities. They are always ready for a dare; you should be, too, if you want a responsive buddy. Their stubbornness is an inspiration for you to stretch your mind.
Basenji: The Silent Hunter
The Basenji, Africa’s “barkless dog,” is as enigmatic as it is ancient. It is prized for its silent hunt and unique vocalizations. This sleek, poised breed is known for its independence and cat-like bearing, often choosing inquisitiveness over orders. Training a Basenji is an exercise in ingenuity and fortitude, as they possess an obstinate streak and a clever mind that does not readily yield to traditional obedience. Ensure that you do not resort to repetition or force.
Beagle: The Merry Scent-Hound
Blessed with a nose forever on the trail of something intriguing, Beagles have a cheerful disposition that makes them irresistible. It also means they’re often more invested in smells than in training. Turning their training spells into a game of fragrances can captivate their interest and make learning a fun adventure. You’ll need a treasure trove of treats to guide your Beagle to balance their investigative instincts with obedient behavior during this precious ride.
Akita: The Loyal Guardian
The Akita is a Japanese breed of majestic bearing and profound allegiance. While deeply affectionate to its family, this robust and powerful mutt possesses a strong-willed personality that can pose an obstacle in training. They respond well to consistent, firm mentoring from an experienced handler who can establish leadership without harshness. So, you must be willing to strike a balance between discipline and affinity before taking this task on.
Bulldog: The Comical Canine
With their charmingly gruff faces and laid-back attitude, the Bulldogs may always be in the mood for a nap rather than a training session. But don’t let their stoic appearance deceive you; these dogs are brimming with fondness and devotion. They respond well to food rewards and short, engaging training sessions to keep their attention. A well-trained Bulldog is a source of endless laughter, proving that even the most headstrong canines can be molded into perfect allies.
Chow Chow: The Regal Recluse
Sturdily built with broad skulls and small, erect ears, Chow Chows hold a dignified presence, making them seem aloof to training. Yet, beneath their lion-like demeanor lies a capable trainee if you can successfully reign in their obstinacy. Success with Chows comes from earning their respect through firm and assertive leadership. Understanding their reserved nature is a huge plus that unlocks their willingness to learn. Be equipped with an arsenal of skills to train them.
Chinese Shar-Pei: The Reticent Sage
Shar-Peis, with their wrinkled brows and ‘sand skin,’ approach life with a philosophical calm that extends to their training, often on their own terms. They are tremendous guard dogs and can be lovable pals if you have the time and the willingness to work hard to train them properly from a young age. Acknowledge their protective instinct and need for freedom while building a structured coaching module. You will benefit from their deep-seated allegiance.
Dachshund: The Courageous Charmer
With their distinctive silhouettes and brave hearts, Dachshunds are little dogs with big personas. Their willfulness is as pronounced as their charm, making training a lively contest of resolutions. If you want to put your smarts against their prey drive and inherent nosiness, you will have to come up with vigorous routines that can turn the challenges into opportunities for bonding. Accept their unique characteristics, and you’ll have a devoted friend for life.
Siberian Husky: The Independent Sprinter
Dogs of the Siberian Husky breed are a testament to freedom and free will. They are intelligent, agile, and have an insatiable zest for life, making them a daunting task to train. However, fear not! You can gain their cooperation with a steady and creative approach, channeling their energy into structured activities. Remember, a Husky might never be a docile follower, but with patience and effort, you’ll enjoy the drive as much as the destination.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are known for their strong-willed nature, often displaying a stubborn streak when it comes to training or changing their established routines. This breed’s independent mindset can sometimes make them resistant to commands, requiring consistent and patient guidance from their owners. Despite their stubbornness, Mastiffs’ loyalty and protective instincts make them devoted companions once they respect their human’s leadership.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are intelligent and powerful dogs that carry a reputation for being confident and sometimes headstrong, which can be perceived as stubbornness. They require firm, consistent training from an early age to channel their strong will in a positive direction. With the right guidance and socialization, Rottweilers can be obedient and well-behaved pets, dedicated to their families.
