Have you ever tried to convince a dog to do something it just doesn’t want to do? If you have, you know that stubbornness in dogs can be both hilarious and, let’s be honest, a little maddening. Some breeds take “independent thinking” to new heights, marching to the beat of their own drum no matter how many treats you wave in their face. If you’ve ever wondered why your pup looks at you with that “You’re not the boss of me” expression, you might just be living with one of the most stubborn dog breeds around. Let’s meet the canine champions of stubbornness—dogs who could outwit Houdini and outlast a toddler’s tantrum.
Bulldog: The Lovable Brick Wall
Bulldogs have faces that melt hearts, but don’t let that sweet expression fool you. These pups are basically four-legged tanks when it comes to stubbornness. Ask a Bulldog to fetch or go outside, and you might get a polite yawn in response. What’s going on in their big round heads? Often, it’s a firm “No, thank you.” Bulldogs have a reputation for being calm and affectionate, but they’re also famously set in their ways. If a Bulldog decides he’s done walking, good luck convincing him otherwise—he’ll plant himself like a sack of potatoes. Training a Bulldog takes patience, humor, and a willingness to compromise. It’s not that they’re not smart; they just have their own ideas about how things should go.
Shiba Inu: The Foxy Escape Artist
Shiba Inus are small, fox-like dogs with an attitude that’s way bigger than their size. Known for their independence, they often seem to believe they know better than you do. Try telling a Shiba Inu to sit when he’s got other plans, and you’ll be met with a look that says, “Are you serious?” This breed is notorious for ignoring commands if they don’t see the point. Shibas are clever, agile, and masters at escaping from fenced yards and harnesses. Their stubborn streak means that even experienced dog owners can find themselves in a battle of wills. But for those who love a challenge, a Shiba’s personality is endlessly entertaining.
Dachshund: The Determined Digger
Don’t be fooled by their short legs—Dachshunds have enough stubbornness to fill a room. Bred to hunt badgers, these little dogs had to think for themselves underground, and that independent spirit is alive and well today. If a Dachshund wants to chase a scent, there’s not much you can do to stop them. Training sessions with these dogs often turn into negotiations, and they’re not above pretending not to hear you. Dachshunds will dig, bark, and do as they please, often with a mischievous sparkle in their eyes. Living with one is like living with a determined toddler who always wants the last word.
Basenji: The Barkless Rebel
Basenjis are famous for not barking, but they make up for it with a stubborn, mischievous streak a mile wide. These dogs are smart and curious, but they’re also notoriously difficult to train. Basenjis are known for their “what’s in it for me?” attitude. If they don’t see a good reason to follow a command, they simply won’t. They’ll often look at you as if you’re speaking another language. This breed is agile and energetic, and if left to their own devices, they’ll find ways to entertain themselves—often at your expense. Basenjis have a sly sense of humor, and their stubbornness is legendary among dog lovers.
Jack Russell Terrier: The Relentless Go-Getter
There’s no quit in a Jack Russell Terrier. These pint-sized dynamos are bursting with energy and opinions. Originally bred for fox hunting, Jack Russells had to make quick decisions on their own, and that independence is still very much part of their personality. When a Jack Russell sets its mind to something—like chasing a squirrel or refusing a bath—there’s almost nothing you can do to change it. Training one requires creativity and boundless patience. They’re smart enough to learn quickly, but only if they’re interested. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself outsmarted by a dog half the size of a loaf of bread.
Afghan Hound: The Elegant Diva
With their flowing coats and regal bearing, Afghan Hounds look like they belong on a runway. But behind that glamorous exterior is a dog with a mind of its own. Afghan Hounds are known for their aloof, almost cat-like personalities. They’re intelligent, but they don’t see the point in obeying commands just to please you. Afghans are often described as “selectively deaf”—they hear you, but they’re just not interested in listening. Training them takes patience and a sense of humor, as they’re quick to lose interest and wander off to do their own thing. If you want a dog who comes when called every time, the Afghan Hound might not be your best bet.
Chow Chow: The Blue-Tongued Boss
Chow Chows have an unmistakable look and an unmistakable attitude to match. These fluffy, lion-like dogs are fiercely independent and often described as “cat-like” in their behavior. They’re loyal to their families, but don’t expect them to jump at your every command. Chow Chows have their own opinions about everything and they’re not afraid to show it. Training a Chow can feel like a negotiation with a very stubborn (and furry) executive. They tend to be reserved with strangers and aren’t easily bribed with treats, so patience and consistency are key. If you want a dog who always goes with the flow, a Chow Chow might leave you shaking your head.
Beagle: The Stubborn Sniffer
Beagles are lovable, goofy, and incredibly good at following their noses—sometimes to a fault. Bred as scent hounds, Beagles are single-minded when it comes to tracking smells. If a Beagle picks up a scent, good luck getting their attention back. Their stubbornness isn’t about being difficult for the sake of it; it’s just that their instincts are so strong, they can’t help themselves. Beagles are intelligent but can be easily distracted, making training a constant adventure. They’re experts at ignoring commands when something more interesting comes along, and often seem to have selective hearing. Living with a Beagle means accepting that sometimes, the nose knows best.
Siberian Husky: The Free-Spirited Adventurer
Siberian Huskies are famous for their beauty, energy, and—let’s be real—their refusal to do anything they don’t want to do. Huskies are bred to run and work independently, so they have a strong-willed, free-spirited nature. If a Husky decides it’s time to go for a run, a fence or a closed door is just a minor inconvenience. Training a Husky can feel like arguing with a teenager: lots of eye rolls and dramatic sighs. They’re clever and mischievous, always ready to test boundaries and see what they can get away with. Huskies need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep that stubborn streak in check.
What would you do if your dog simply refused to listen—would you laugh, cry, or join in the mischief?
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
