20 Dog Breeds That Don’t Listen to Commands: Independent Canines Challenging Obedience Training
Dogs are beloved companions known for their loyalty and trainability.
However, some breeds can be more challenging to train and may not always listen to commands as readily as others.
Understanding which breeds tend to be more independent or stubborn can help potential dog owners make informed decisions.
This article explores 20 dog breeds that often have difficulty following instructions, examining their unique traits and behaviors.
By learning about these breeds, readers can gain insights into canine temperaments and training approaches.
1. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are known for their independent nature and selective hearing when it comes to commands. These elegant sighthounds possess a strong-willed personality that often clashes with obedience training.
Their ancient lineage as desert hunters has instilled a deep-rooted sense of autonomy. Afghan Hounds tend to make their own decisions rather than following human instructions.
Training an Afghan Hound requires patience and persistence. They may choose to ignore commands if they find something more interesting to pursue. Their high prey drive can make them easily distracted during training sessions.
While intelligent, Afghan Hounds often lack the desire to please their owners that many other breeds possess. This trait can make them challenging to train and less responsive to traditional obedience methods.
Consistency and positive reinforcement are key when working with Afghan Hounds. However, even with proper training, they may still exhibit selective listening behaviors throughout their lives.
2. Basenji
Basenjis are known for their independent nature and unique vocalizations. These small, athletic dogs originate from Central Africa and are often called “barkless” dogs due to their distinctive yodel-like sound.
Basenjis possess a strong prey drive and can be easily distracted by small animals or interesting scents. This tendency can make them challenging to train and less responsive to commands.
Their intelligence and curiosity often lead them to pursue their own interests rather than following instructions. Basenjis may understand commands but choose to ignore them if they find something more engaging.
Training a Basenji requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to help manage their stubborn tendencies.
Despite their reputation for being difficult to train, Basenjis can form strong bonds with their owners. They excel in activities that engage their minds and allow them to use their natural hunting instincts.
3. Bulldog
Bulldogs are known for their stubborn nature and independent streak. These muscular, wrinkly-faced dogs often have a mind of their own when it comes to following commands.
Their laid-back temperament can make training a challenge. Bulldogs may choose to ignore instructions, especially if they don’t see an immediate benefit for themselves.
Patience is key when working with this breed. Bulldogs respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and short training sessions. Consistency and repetition are essential to overcome their reluctance to obey.
While intelligent, Bulldogs can be selective listeners. They may understand commands but decide not to follow them if they’re not in the mood or find something more interesting.
4. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their independent nature and strong-willed personalities. These fluffy dogs often display a stubborn streak when it comes to following commands.
Their intelligence can work against them in training, as they may decide to ignore instructions they deem unnecessary. Chow Chows tend to be aloof and can appear disinterested in pleasing their owners.
Early socialization and consistent training are crucial for Chow Chows. Even with proper training, they may still choose to disregard commands at times.
These dogs have a history as guard dogs, which contributes to their independent thinking. They often prefer to make their own decisions rather than following orders.
Patience and persistence are key when working with Chow Chows. While they can learn commands, their compliance is not guaranteed, making them challenging for inexperienced dog owners.
5. Borzoi
Borzois are known for their independent nature and tendency to ignore commands. These elegant sighthounds have a strong prey drive and can become easily distracted by moving objects.
Borzois were originally bred for hunting, which contributes to their stubborn streak. They often prioritize their own interests over following instructions from their owners.
Training a Borzoi requires patience and consistency. These dogs may understand commands but choose not to obey them, especially if they find something more interesting.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best with Borzois, as they respond poorly to harsh corrections. Their sensitive nature means they may shut down if treated too sternly.
While Borzois can learn basic obedience, they may never become fully reliable off-leash. Their strong chase instinct can override any training when they spot potential prey.
6. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are known for their independent and strong-willed nature. These small but sturdy dogs often have a mind of their own when it comes to following commands.
Their stubborn streak can make training challenging, as they may choose to ignore instructions if they don’t see the benefit. Scottish Terriers tend to be selective listeners, responding when it suits them rather than out of obedience.
While intelligent, these dogs require consistent and patient training methods. They may test boundaries and assert their independence, making basic obedience tasks more difficult than with other breeds.
Scottish Terriers excel in activities that engage their problem-solving skills and natural instincts. However, their tendency to pursue their own interests can lead to selective hearing when called or given commands.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are known for their adorable appearance and friendly personalities. These small dogs often struggle with obedience training due to their independent nature.
Shih Tzus can be stubborn when it comes to following commands. They may choose to ignore their owners’ instructions if they don’t feel motivated to comply.
Training a Shih Tzu requires patience and consistency. These dogs respond best to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise.
Shih Tzus were originally bred as companion animals for Chinese royalty. This history has contributed to their sometimes willful behavior and tendency to prioritize their own desires.
While Shih Tzus can learn basic commands, they may not always execute them reliably. Their selective listening can be frustrating for owners seeking a highly obedient pet.
8. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are known for their independent nature and strong-willed personality. These large, fluffy dogs were originally bred to guard livestock without human supervision.
Their autonomous mindset can make them challenging to train and less responsive to commands. Great Pyrenees often prefer to make their own decisions rather than following instructions.
These dogs have a tendency to wander and may ignore recall commands, especially if they perceive a potential threat. Their protective instincts can override obedience training in certain situations.
While intelligent, Great Pyrenees can be stubborn and may not see the need to comply with human directives. They often require patient, consistent training and early socialization to improve their responsiveness to commands.
9. Dachshund
Dachshunds are known for their stubborn nature and independent streak. These long-bodied dogs were originally bred for hunting, which required them to think and act on their own.
This breed’s strong-willed personality can make them challenging to train. Dachshunds often prioritize their own desires over following commands, leading to selective hearing.
Their intelligence can work against obedience training. Dachshunds quickly learn which commands they can ignore without consequences, making consistency crucial for owners.
Positive reinforcement techniques work best with Dachshunds. Treats and praise can motivate them to listen, but they may still choose to follow their own agenda at times.
Patience is key when training a Dachshund. Their stubbornness requires persistent effort and a calm approach to achieve reliable obedience.
10. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their laid-back nature and strong-willed personality. These dogs often march to the beat of their own drum, making them challenging to train.
Their independent streak can lead to selective hearing when it comes to commands. Basset Hounds may appear to ignore their owners’ instructions, especially if they’ve caught an interesting scent.
The breed’s stubbornness is rooted in their history as hunting dogs. They were bred to follow scents relentlessly, sometimes at the expense of obeying their handlers.
Positive reinforcement and patience are key when training Basset Hounds. Their food-motivated nature can be leveraged to encourage responsiveness to commands.
Consistency is crucial in establishing routines and expectations for Basset Hounds. Without firm guidance, they may continue to exhibit selective listening behaviors.
11. Beagle
Beagles are known for their independent nature and strong-willed personality. These scent hounds were originally bred for hunting, which has instilled a stubborn streak in their character.
Beagles often follow their noses, making them prone to distraction and less likely to respond to commands. Their keen sense of smell can lead them astray, especially when they pick up an interesting scent.
Training a Beagle requires patience and consistency. They may not always come when called, particularly if they’re engrossed in following a scent trail. Beagles tend to be food-motivated, which can be helpful in training sessions.
While intelligent, Beagles can be challenging to train due to their independent nature. They may choose to ignore commands if they find something more interesting to pursue. Owners need to be persistent and use positive reinforcement techniques to achieve the best results with this breed.
12. Mastiff
Mastiffs are known for their large size and gentle nature. These massive dogs can weigh up to 230 pounds and stand 30 inches tall at the shoulder.
Despite their imposing appearance, Mastiffs often struggle with obedience training. Their independent streak and occasional stubbornness can make them challenging to command.
Mastiffs have a tendency to become easily distracted, especially when faced with new sights, sounds, or smells. This can lead to difficulty in maintaining focus during training sessions.
Their laid-back temperament sometimes translates to a lack of motivation to follow instructions. Mastiffs may simply choose to ignore commands if they don’t see an immediate benefit.
Patience and consistency are key when working with Mastiffs. Positive reinforcement techniques and shorter training sessions can help improve their responsiveness to commands over time.
13. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are known for their independent nature and stubborn personality. These small, lion-like canines often display a reluctance to follow commands, especially from unfamiliar individuals.
Their strong-willed temperament can make training a challenge. Pekingese tend to have their own agenda and may choose to ignore instructions that don’t align with their desires.
Historically bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, Pekingese have retained a sense of self-importance. This trait can manifest as a resistance to obedience training and a tendency to disregard commands.
While intelligent, Pekingese may not see the need to comply with human directives. Their selective hearing and occasional indifference to commands can frustrate owners seeking a more obedient pet.
Consistent, patient training methods are essential when working with Pekingese. Positive reinforcement and early socialization can help mitigate their stubborn tendencies, though their independent streak often persists.
14. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are known for their independent nature and stubborn streak. These small Tibetan dogs often display a selective hearing when it comes to commands.
Their intelligence can work against obedience training, as they prefer to make their own decisions. Lhasa Apsos may choose to ignore commands if they don’t see the benefit for themselves.
Early socialization and consistent training are crucial for Lhasa Apsos. Without proper guidance, they can become willful and challenging to manage.
These dogs have a strong protective instinct, which can lead to selective listening when they perceive potential threats. Their loyalty to family members may override obedience to commands from strangers.
Patience and positive reinforcement techniques are essential when working with Lhasa Apsos. Trainers and owners should be prepared for a slower learning process compared to more eager-to-please breeds.
15. Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their incredible speed and sleek appearance. Despite their athletic prowess, these dogs can be challenging to train and may not always respond to commands.
Greyhounds have an independent streak that can make them less inclined to obey instructions. Their prey drive is strong, which can lead to distraction during training sessions.
These dogs often have a laid-back personality and may simply choose to ignore commands they find uninteresting. Their selective hearing can frustrate owners attempting to teach basic obedience.
Greyhounds require patience and consistent training methods. Positive reinforcement techniques tend to work best with this breed, as they respond well to rewards and praise.
While not impossible to train, Greyhounds may require more time and effort to become obedient compared to some other breeds. Their unique temperament and instincts contribute to their reputation as dogs that don’t always listen to commands.
16. Saluki
Salukis are ancient sighthounds known for their independent nature and strong prey drive. These elegant dogs often struggle with obedience training due to their selective hearing and tendency to follow their own instincts.
Salukis have a reputation for being aloof and somewhat stubborn when it comes to commands. Their hunting background makes them easily distracted by moving objects, which can override any training they’ve received.
While intelligent, Salukis may not see the point in repeating commands or performing tricks. They typically prefer to make their own decisions rather than blindly follow orders.
Training a Saluki requires patience and consistency. Positive reinforcement methods work best, but owners should be prepared for a challenge. These dogs may never achieve the same level of obedience as more eager-to-please breeds.
17. Whippet
Whippets are known for their independent nature and selective hearing when it comes to commands. These sleek, graceful dogs possess a strong prey drive that can easily override their obedience training.
Whippets often become fixated on moving objects, making it challenging to regain their attention once they’re focused on something else. Their sighthound instincts can lead them to chase after small animals or even fast-moving toys, ignoring their owner’s calls.
While intelligent, Whippets can be stubborn and may choose to follow their own agenda rather than comply with commands. They require patient, consistent training and positive reinforcement to improve their responsiveness.
Owners should be prepared for occasional moments of willful disobedience, especially in environments with many distractions. Secure, fenced areas are essential for off-leash activities to prevent these swift runners from taking off after potential prey.
18. Chinese Shar-Pei
Chinese Shar-Peis are known for their distinctive wrinkled skin and independent nature. These dogs often have a stubborn streak that can make them challenging to train.
Shar-Peis tend to be aloof and may not respond eagerly to commands. Their strong-willed personality can lead to selective hearing when given instructions.
Training a Shar-Pei requires patience and consistency. They may lose interest quickly in repetitive tasks, making obedience work more difficult.
Early socialization is crucial for Shar-Peis to develop good behavior. Without proper training, they can become territorial and less responsive to commands.
While intelligent, Shar-Peis often prefer to make their own decisions. This independence can result in them ignoring commands they deem unnecessary.
19. Manchester Terrier
Manchester Terriers are known for their intelligence and independent nature. These sleek, black and tan dogs possess a strong-willed personality that can make them challenging to train.
While they are quick learners, Manchester Terriers often choose when to obey commands. Their stubborn streak can lead to selective hearing, especially if they find something more interesting than their owner’s instructions.
These terriers have a high prey drive, which can override their training. When they spot small animals, they may ignore calls to return and pursue their target instead.
Consistency and patience are key when working with Manchester Terriers. Positive reinforcement techniques tend to yield better results than harsh methods, as these dogs respond poorly to forceful training approaches.
Despite their occasional disobedience, Manchester Terriers can form strong bonds with their owners. With persistent training and engaging activities, they can become more responsive to commands over time.
20. Old English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdogs are known for their distinctive shaggy coats and friendly personalities. Despite their intelligence, these dogs can be challenging to train and may not always listen to commands.
Their independent nature and tendency to think for themselves can make them stubborn at times. Old English Sheepdogs often prefer to do things their own way rather than follow instructions.
These dogs have a strong herding instinct, which can sometimes override their desire to obey commands. They may become distracted by moving objects or animals, ignoring their owner’s directions.
Training an Old English Sheepdog requires patience and consistency. Positive reinforcement techniques work best, as these dogs respond well to praise and treats.
Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for Old English Sheepdogs. Without proper guidance, they may develop selective hearing or ignore commands altogether.
Understanding Canine Behavior
Dog breeds exhibit varying levels of obedience due to genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Certain breeds may be more challenging to train, requiring specific approaches tailored to their unique characteristics.
The Science Behind Training Challenges
Canine behavior is influenced by a complex interplay of genetics, early socialization, and individual temperament. Some breeds have been selectively bred for independent thinking, making them less inclined to follow commands.
Brain structure and neurotransmitter levels play crucial roles in a dog’s trainability. Studies have shown that breeds with larger prefrontal cortices tend to be more responsive to training.
Instinctual drives can override learned behaviors in certain situations. For example, hounds bred for hunting may struggle to resist following scent trails despite training.
Environmental factors, such as past experiences and current living conditions, also impact a dog’s ability to learn and follow commands. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key elements in successful training across all breeds.
Common Misconceptions About Stubborn Breeds
Many people mistakenly believe that certain breeds are inherently untrainable. In reality, all dogs can learn, but some require different training methods or more patience.
The label “stubborn” often masks underlying issues:
- Lack of proper motivation
- Insufficient mental stimulation
- Inconsistent training techniques
- Health problems affecting behavior
Some breeds classified as “stubborn” are actually highly intelligent and may become bored with repetitive training. These dogs often benefit from varied, engaging training sessions that challenge their problem-solving abilities.
It’s crucial to recognize that breed tendencies are generalizations. Individual dogs within a breed can vary significantly in their trainability and responsiveness to commands.
Effective Training Techniques
Training stubborn dog breeds requires specialized approaches that focus on motivation and consistency. These methods can help even the most independent-minded dogs learn to follow commands.
Positive Reinforcement Strategies
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for training dogs that don’t readily listen. This approach rewards desired behaviors, encouraging dogs to repeat them. Treats, praise, and toys can serve as effective rewards.
Clicker training is a popular positive reinforcement method. The trainer uses a small device that makes a clicking sound to mark the exact moment a dog performs the desired action. This precise timing helps dogs understand which behavior earned the reward.
Another strategy is using a favorite toy as a lure. This can guide the dog into the desired position or action. Once the dog complies, they receive the toy as a reward.
Consistency and Patience
Consistency is crucial when training stubborn dog breeds. All family members should use the same commands and reward systems to avoid confusion. Setting a regular training schedule helps establish a routine.
Short, frequent training sessions are often more effective than long ones. This approach prevents dogs from becoming bored or overwhelmed. Aim for 5-10 minute sessions several times a day.
Patience is key. Some breeds may take longer to learn commands. Celebrate small victories and gradually increase difficulty. If a dog struggles with a particular command, break it down into smaller steps.
Avoid punishment-based methods, as they can damage the bond between dog and owner. Instead, redirect unwanted behaviors to more appropriate activities. This positive approach maintains trust and encourages cooperation.
Factors Influencing Trainability
Several key elements impact a dog’s ability to learn and follow commands. These factors can make training more challenging for certain breeds.
Genetic Predisposition
Some dog breeds have genetic traits that affect their trainability. Breeds originally developed for independent work, like hunting or herding, may be less inclined to follow commands.
Working breeds often display high intelligence but can be stubborn when it comes to obedience. This stems from their history of making decisions autonomously in the field.
Scent hounds, bred to follow their noses, may become easily distracted during training sessions. Their powerful sense of smell can override verbal cues from handlers.
Certain toy breeds, while affectionate, can be difficult to housebreak due to their small bladders and frequent need for bathroom breaks.
Early Socialization
The experiences a puppy has in its first few months of life significantly impact its future trainability. Proper socialization helps dogs become more adaptable and responsive to training.
Puppies exposed to various people, animals, and environments tend to be more confident and less fearful as adults. This confidence translates to better focus during training sessions.
Dogs that lack early socialization may develop anxiety or aggression, making them less receptive to commands. These behavioral issues can interfere with the training process.
Consistent positive reinforcement from an early age helps establish a strong bond between dog and owner. This bond forms the foundation for effective communication and obedience training.