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Some dogs live to please—but not these independent thinkers. They hear your commands, consider them carefully, and then do the opposite… just because they feel like it. Fiercely smart, hilariously stubborn, and full of personality, these breeds prefer living by their own rules. They aren’t untrainable—they’re just not into micromanagement. While they love their humans deeply, they’ll happily test your patience and question your authority daily. If you’re looking for a dog with spunk, spirit, and zero interest in being bossed around, these breeds deliver in glorious fashion.
Afghan Hound
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The Afghan Hound is the canine version of a runway model who knows they’re fabulous and expects you to catch up. Known for their beauty and grace, Afghan Hounds are also famously aloof and independent. They were bred to hunt solo in rugged terrain, so they developed a strong sense of autonomy. These dogs may look like royalty—and act like it, too—but don’t expect them to fetch your slippers. Commands are more like suggestions to an Afghan; if they feel like complying, they will… eventually.
Basenji
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The Basenji doesn’t bark, but don’t let that silence fool you—they’re quietly plotting their own path. These dogs are known for their cat-like behavior, including their aloofness, self-grooming habits, and general disinterest in listening to anyone. Originally bred for hunting in Africa, Basenjis relied on their own instincts, not human direction. Today, they’ll gladly ignore your “sit” command if they see something more interesting, like a squirrel, a shadow, or an invisible gremlin only they can sense. Training a Basenji is like negotiating with a very small, very stubborn dictator.
Shiba Inu
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Shiba Inus are the foxes of the dog world, and they know it. These beautiful dogs are independent, strong-willed, and often hilariously indifferent to human authority. They’re notorious for giving you a blank stare when asked to do something they find beneath them—which is most things. They love their people but on their own terms. Training a Shiba is possible, but only if you make them believe it was their idea in the first place. Otherwise, prepare for some epic side-eyes and passive resistance.
Chow Chow
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If the Chow Chow had a catchphrase, it would be, “You’re not the boss of me.” These fluffy, lion-like dogs were bred to guard and protect, and they don’t see the need for constant direction. Dignified, stoic, and sometimes downright stubborn, Chows aren’t interested in performing tricks or participating in silly games. They’ll love you but don’t expect them to fawn over you. A Chow Chow will follow your command only if it aligns with their own agenda—which may or may not involve napping in the most inconvenient spot possible.
Borzoi
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The Borzoi is the dog that sees your command, raises an eyebrow, and continues reclining gracefully on your couch. These elegant sighthounds were bred for independent hunting, meaning they had to rely on their own judgment rather than wait for instructions. Borzois are affectionate but reserved, and they’re not particularly concerned with impressing anyone. Training sessions may be met with a sigh, a dramatic stretch, and a slow blink that says, “Is this really necessary?” They’ll do what you ask if they feel like it—and only then.
Scottish Terrier
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Scottish Terriers, or Scotties, have the spirit of a rebellious poet trapped in a stout, wiry frame. These dogs are independent thinkers with strong personalities and a healthy dose of stubbornness. They were bred to hunt vermin, and like most terriers, they developed a taste for doing things their way. Scotties can be loyal and loving, but when it comes to following orders, they often respond with selective hearing. They’ll consider your command, weigh the pros and cons, and probably dig a hole in the yard anyway.
Jack Russell Terrier
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Jack Russell Terriers are tiny powerhouses of energy, confidence, and chaos. These dogs are whip-smart, but they prefer to channel that intelligence into things like escaping fences, chasing anything that moves, and ignoring commands in favor of self-appointed missions. They were bred to work independently, and it shows. Training a Jack Russell can feel like trying to outwit a furry tornado with a superiority complex. They don’t mean to be disobedient—they just have better things to do.
Siberian Husky
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Siberian Huskies are known for their stunning good looks, vocal opinions, and complete disregard for authority. These pack-oriented dogs were bred to pull sleds across icy tundras—not to sit, stay, or roll over on cue. Huskies are escape artists, drama queens, and masters of manipulation. If you tell a Husky what to do, there’s a 50/50 chance they’ll do the exact opposite just to mess with you. But hey, at least they’ll do it with flair—and possibly while singing you the song of their people.
Alaskan Malamute
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The Alaskan Malamute is the stoic cousin of the Siberian Husky, with all the stubbornness and twice the bulk. These powerful dogs were bred for endurance and strength, not blind obedience. Malamutes have a mind of their own and are known for constantly testing boundaries. They may acknowledge your command with a slow, thoughtful stare, then pretend they never heard you. Owning one is like having a roommate who does what they want and never refills the coffee pot.
Chinese Shar Pei
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The Chinese Shar Pei is a walking wrinkle with a serious attitude and a very low tolerance for nonsense. Originally bred as a guardian and hunter, this breed is fiercely independent and often downright suspicious of strangers—and sometimes their own humans. Shar Peis are loyal, but they don’t need to prove it through tricks or obedience. They’ll protect you, sure, but only after they finish doing whatever mysterious thing they were already busy with. Training them requires creativity, consistency, and a healthy dose of humility.
Lhasa Apso
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Don’t let the long, flowing coat fool you—the Lhasa Apso is no pampered lapdog. These little lions were originally temple guards in Tibet and still carry themselves with a regal confidence that borders on arrogance. Lhasas don’t blindly follow orders—they assess whether you’re worth listening to. They’re smart, willful, and deeply stubborn when they want to be. Ask one to come when called, and they’ll likely respond with a thoughtful pause… followed by a leisurely stroll in the opposite direction.
Akita
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Akitas are noble, loyal, and highly intelligent—but they are not interested in your micromanagement. These strong-willed dogs were bred for protection and have a deep sense of independence. They tend to be quiet observers, taking everything in before deciding whether or not your command is worth acknowledging. Training an Akita takes time, patience, and mutual respect—because barking orders will get you nowhere fast. Think of them as the executive who only takes meetings when they’re in the mood.
Beagle
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Beagles are sweet, friendly, and totally ruled by their noses. These hounds were bred to follow scent trails with single-minded focus, which means commands often take a backseat to whatever invisible smell has captured their attention. It’s not that they don’t love you—it’s just that the scent of a half-eaten sandwich three blocks away is way more interesting than your “sit” request. Training a Beagle requires the patience of a saint and a pocket full of treats. But even then, don’t expect miracles.
The Rebels With Paws and a Purpose
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These breeds aren’t trying to be difficult—they simply know what they want and aren’t afraid to go after it, even if that means completely ignoring your instructions. Living with one of these independent thinkers means embracing a life of laughter, creative compromises, and occasional treat-based negotiations. While they may not be taking home obedience trophies anytime soon, they’ll easily win your heart with their charm, cleverness, and unapologetic confidence. Just remember: in their world, you’re not the boss—you’re more of a helpful assistant with snacks.
Toledo, United States.
