15 Stubborn Dog Breeds Who Won’t Be Ignored

Bulldogs are the masters of laid-back stubbornness. They have a one-track mind when they decide it’s time to nap, eat, or cuddle and won’t be swayed otherwise. Their squat, muscular build complements their calm refusal to be rushed or hurried. While they may seem lazy, they’re actually testing your patience in the sweetest way possible. Once a Bulldog takes position, it’s hard to move them, and why would you want to?

Shiba Inu

Shutterstock

Shiba Inus are fierce, independent, and unshakably sure of themselves. They’ll follow commands if it suits them and completely ignore you otherwise. Their fox-like expression matches their self-reliant spirit and lofty standards. Training requires patience, consistency, and occasionally an apology when they reject a treat… or you. These dogs show their loyalty on their own terms.

Dachshund

Shutterstock

Dachshunds were built for determination and digging, traits that carry into their personalities. Once they set their mind on something, whether it’s a snack or a sunny patch, they stick to it, come what may. Their bold nature and charming defiance make them hard to resist, even when they won’t budge. Training might be a negotiation, but success feels sweet. Their little legs carry big opinions.

Siberian Husky

Shutterstock

Huskies are effortlessly stubborn and impossible to ignore when they choose to be. Known for their howl-ation skills, they’ll sing loud if ignored and stand firm in icy independence. Escape artists and opinionated runners, they’ll challenge boundaries with boundless energy. They require strong leadership, creative engagement, and a sense of humor. With a Husky, life is never predictable and always full of lively surprises.

Beagle

Shutterstock

Beagles bring stubborn streaks wrapped in floppy ears and sweet puppy eyes. They follow their nose, and that often leads them away from your commands. Redirecting a Beagle means redirecting that nose, which takes focus and tenacity. They’re friendly and good-natured, but cunning enough to test your patience with a plea for treats. Their independent spirit makes them memorable walking companions, and they challenge your training skills.

Jack Russell Terrier

Shutterstock

Jack Russell Terriers may be small, but they’re packed with persistence and personality. They actively resist boredom and will take matters into their own paws if neglected. They dig, chase, and explore with stubborn flair. Training must be engaging and consistent, or they’ll find their own adventures. Their defiance is playful and energetic, making them lively, challenging companions. With a Jack Russell, it’s game on.

Afghan Hound

Shutterstock

Afghan Hounds are elegant and aloof with a dose of aristocratic stubbornness. They know they’re beautiful and act accordingly, responding to commands like occasional court etiquette. Their independent streak doesn’t diminish their loyalty; it just means training is best handled with respect and patience. They’re dignified dogs with opinions, and sometimes they show it by ignoring you. But their affection, when given, is deeply felt.

Chow Chow

Shutterstock

Chow Chows have a regal bearing and unwavering stance physically and emotionally. They decide when to engage and when to retreat into a silent world of independence. Training often needs a soft touch balanced with assertiveness. They’re loyal to their circle, but stubborn about entering it. Living with a Chow means respecting their boundaries and earning their respect in turn.

Scottish Terrier

Shutterstock

Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, are feisty, proud, and stubborn, and will stand their ground. They burrow and bark with confidence and are rarely outmaneuvered. Their alert nature makes them opinionated watchdogs, and they stick to their own agenda. Training requires firm guidance and consistency, plus the ability to give them freedom when needed. Scotties are dignified little charmers with big personalities.

Basenji

Shutterstock

Basenjis are smart, aloof, and born to do things their own way. They groom like cats, don’t bark, and resist commands that don’t appeal to them. They evaluate every instruction like a business proposal. If a command doesn’t suit their mood, they’ll just walk away from it. Their quirky intelligence and calm defiance keep life interesting and training sessions short.

Akita

Shutterstock

Akitas are loyal guardians with a proud, unflinching presence. They bond deeply with family and decisively test outsiders’ authority. Training requires a consistent, firm leader whom they respect. They’ll respect you once they trust you, but not before. Once trust is earned, their loyalty is absolute, and they won’t back down on your behalf.

Wire Fox Terrier

Shutterstock

Wire Fox Terriers are lively, confident, and loaded with stubborn determination. They were bred to hunt independently, which means they have no problem making their own decisions, especially when they disagree with yours. This breed thrives on mental stimulation but has no issue ignoring commands if it doesn’t feel mentally engaged. They’re known to outsmart their humans with charm and persistence, often getting their way through sheer willpower. With a Wire Fox Terrier, you’re not just giving commands, you’re entering negotiations.

Shar Pei

Shutterstock

Shar Peis have a stoic presence and a calm demeanor that hides a seriously stubborn streak. These wrinkle-faced charmers like things done their way and may not respond unless there’s a clear benefit for them. Their loyalty runs deep, but their independence means they’re selective about obedience. If they sense uncertainty in your tone, they’ll likely wait you out. Shar Peis don’t push boundaries loudly; they just quietly decide to do their own thing.

Rottweiler

Shutterstock

Rottweilers are confident, bold, and unshakably sure of themselves. They respect strength and clear leadership; anything else, they’ll challenge. Their loyalty is deep, but they won’t follow every whim. Training them well is rewarding but takes dedication. With a Rottweiler by your side, you’ll always face the world together on both your terms.

Cairn Terrier

Shutterstock

Cairn Terriers may be small, but they deliver strong-willed determination. They’ll follow a path that interests them and often veer away from commands when distracted. Their energy means they’re constantly ready to test limits, dig holes, or initiate games. Training should include playful problem-solving and consistency. Cairns bring a spark of determination in a compact, cuddly package.

The Ignore Button Is Broken

Shutterstock

Living with a stubborn dog is a lesson in humor, humility, and unconditional love. These pups have opinions about everything and aren’t shy about letting you know. They’ll challenge your commands, ignore your rules, and tilt their heads at your reasoning, but somehow, it’s all endearing. They make you work for every “sit” and “stay,” but the bond that forms in the process is something truly special. When they finally listen, it’s not just obedience, it’s trust. And that trust, earned through persistence and patience, is deeply rewarding.