The most difficult dog breeds to train

Delilah the bulldog is slightly taller than a blacksmith’s anvil, and about the same density. Halfway through her usual neighborhood walk, she decides to call forth the vast powers of gravity.

She plops herself down, leash taut at the harness. Her front legs are stretched wide, her backside is on the cement, and she is grinning widely — there will be no more walking for the time being.

The immovable object shall sunbathe.

When we think of dogs, we think of loyal, loving and obedient companions. And for many of our four-legged friends, those descriptions are 100% accurate. For some, however, that last part (“obedient”) comes with varying degrees of success.

Bless their lovable hearts … they do what they want.

For example, the adoring best friend who is all yips and wiggles when you come home is suddenly immobile when it comes time to give up their spot on the couch. Or they “argue” when it’s time to go out in the cold.

And it’s true — dogs have their own individual personalities. It’s also true that some breeds are more independent than others. This independence — some may say stubbornness — is often a result of their breeding. For hundreds of years, dog breeds were meticulously hardwired for a specific job or task.

And sometimes, that job called for them to not be easily swayed by human (or treat) intervention. So if your pup isn’t quite listening or obeying the way you’d like, remember that it may be their breed’s tendencies and not disobedience.

So … without further ado, here are some of the more difficult to train dog breeds out there.

Small dog breeds

Dachshund

Wiener dogs, of course, make the list. Vivacious, friendly and ever-alert, dachshunds were bred to be an independent hunter of dangerous prey. Along with their iconic sausage look, their independence is a hallmark of the breed.

Pekingese

Regal and dignified, Pekingese are especially loyal dogs. Created for the ruling class of China, they’re used to having the rule of the palace. This can mean that they’re charming, confident and “serenely independent.”

Shiba Inu

The American Kennel Club has said the Shiba is, in many ways, “more like a cat than a dog.” These small, good-natured dogs are fiercely independent and notoriously difficult to train.

Medium dog breeds

Bassett Hound

A favorite of dog owners, these low-key, heavy-boned hounds are known as much for their endearing personality as their elephant-like ears. Bassetts are usually agreeable but, like many hounds, they can have a stubborn streak if they choose.

English Bulldog

There’s no mistaking an English Bulldog. With its squat, heavily-muscled body and square-jawed head, they cut quite the imposing figure. While friendly and generally eager to please, they can be quite resolute if the mood pleases them.

Chow Chow

In looks and temperament, Chows are unique among dogs. Along with their trademark blue tongue, teddy bear appearance and scowl, Chows are also known for their aloofness and independence. Put simply, they’re “less eager to please than many other dog breeds.”

Large dog breeds

Afghan Hound

With its long, flowing coat, elegant limbs and regal beauty, the Afghan Hound is a striking animal. They’re highly intelligent, sensitive and (like many hounds) fiercely independent. AKC advises they’re a special breed for special people.

Rottweiler

Given their loyalty and great strength, Rotties can be wonderful companions. They’re also self-confident and a protector of their inner circle. That means that if there isn’t a calm, stable, and firm ‘pack leader,’ they will assume that role.

Greyhound

Smooth and aerodynamic, these graceful hounds are also sensitive, reserved, independent and gentle spirits. Often, when they’re feeling anxious, they freeze up … which can be mistaken for defiance. With patience and reassurance, greyhounds, like other dogs, can come around.

How to be a good owner to these wonderful, lovable dogs

Have one of these dogs, or thinking about getting one? Fear not! Remember … almost all dogs can be trained. (Yes, even Delilah, the one who sunbathes.)

Some breeds may need more patience and persistence than others. But keep in mind that even some of the most trainable dogs can be disobedient if not trained properly.

Most of all, learn to celebrate and appreciate what makes your dog special — and what training methods help them learn best. And if you want help on how to choose a good dog trainer, check out this article on the AKC web site.