13 Stubborn Dog Breeds Always Ready to Do Things Their Way

Siberian Huskies are famously independent and have a strong desire to do things their way. Bred for endurance and survival, they’ve learned to make their own decisions, especially in challenging conditions. This can translate into selective hearing when it comes to commands. Their intelligence and high energy make them quick learners, but also skilled escape artists if they decide your plans aren’t as exciting as theirs.

Beagle

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Beagles have a nose that rules their brain. Once they catch an interesting scent, everything else fades into the background. This strong scent drive can make them appear stubborn because they’d rather follow their nose than follow orders. They are affectionate and loving, but training them requires patience, consistency, and plenty of rewards to compete with whatever smell has caught their attention.

Shiba Inu

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Shiba Inus are known for their spirited independence and confident personalities. They like to decide when and how they’ll participate in your plans. They’re clever, often figuring out how to get what they want without asking permission. This determination can be challenging during training, but it also makes them resourceful and self-assured companions.

Basset Hound

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Basset Hounds may look laid-back, but their stubborn streak is strong. Their powerful noses lead them wherever they please, often ignoring calls to come back. Training them can be tricky because they weigh every request against their own priorities. They’re loyal and loving but will always choose a good sniff over a quick response to a command.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds were bred to hunt independently, which means they’re used to making their own choices. Their stubborn nature often shows up when they don’t agree with your plans, especially if it involves stopping playtime or giving up a favorite toy. They’re bold, spirited, and fearless for their size, but they can be just as skilled at ignoring commands they don’t like.

Akita

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Akitas are dignified, intelligent, and highly independent. They like to think things through before deciding whether to follow a command. This can be mistaken for disobedience, but it’s really their way of showing they’re in control of their own choices. Their confidence and strong personalities mean they prefer mutual respect in training, rather than strict orders.

Jack Russell Terrier

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Jack Russell Terriers are bursting with energy and determination. They were bred to work independently, chasing after prey without waiting for instructions. This strong work ethic often comes with a side of stubbornness, as they tend to choose their own priorities. They’re quick thinkers and natural problem solvers, but convincing them to follow your plan can be an art form.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas may be tiny, but their personalities are anything but small. They know exactly what they want and aren’t afraid to stand their ground. Their stubbornness often shows in training, especially if they sense they can outlast your patience. They’re fiercely loyal but love to have things go their way.

Scottish Terrier

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Scottish Terriers have an independent streak that matches their bold appearance. They like to be in charge of their own activities and aren’t quick to change their minds once they’ve made a decision. Training a Scottie requires persistence and mutual respect. Their determination can be challenging, but it’s also part of their charm.

Bullmastiff

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Bullmastiffs are strong, intelligent, and have their own opinions about how things should be done. While they are generally calm, they can dig in their heels if they’re not convinced your idea is worth the effort. This stubborn streak requires confident leadership and patience in training. They’re loyal protectors but will always reserve the right to think for themselves.

Weimaraner

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Weimaraners are intelligent, high-energy dogs that thrive on activity but like to do things their way. Their independent thinking can sometimes come across as willful defiance, especially if they’re bored or see a better option than your command. They’re quick learners but also quick to decide what’s worth their effort. A confident and engaging training approach works best with these spirited, self-assured pups.

Lhasa Apso

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Lhasa Apsos were originally bred as independent watchdogs, so they’re used to making their own judgments. They often decide for themselves when it’s time to listen. Their stubbornness isn’t about defiance; it’s about confidence in their own instincts. With consistent and positive training, they can be cooperative, but they’ll always keep their strong will.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, independent thinkers with a history of working in harsh conditions. They’re used to problem-solving on their own, which can make them resistant to commands they see as unnecessary. Their stubbornness comes from intelligence and self-reliance. Training them takes time, patience, and a lot of mutual respect.

The Art of Letting Dogs Think They’re in Charge

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Living with a stubborn dog means embracing their independence and learning to work with it rather than fight against it. These breeds are not being deliberately difficult; they simply have strong opinions about how life should go. With patience, consistency, and mutual respect, their stubborn streak can be shaped into a bond rooted in trust and understanding. In the end, their determination, charm, and one-of-a-kind personalities make them unforgettable companions, bringing just as much joy, love, and laughter as they do a little playful mischief.