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Some dogs are easygoing, while others have the determination of a top athlete. When it comes to stubbornness, some pups take it to a whole new level. If you’ve ever found yourself locked in a battle of wills with your dog, you might be living with a gold medal contender in stubbornness. From refusing to walk in the rain to ignoring every command, these dogs prove that their willpower is unmatched. Here are the signs that your dog would take home the gold in this event.
They Ignore Commands Like They’re Optional
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One of the most obvious signs your dog might be a contender for a stubborn gold medal is their complete and utter disregard for commands. You’ve spent time training them to sit, stay, or come, but when they choose to ignore you, it’s like you’ve become invisible. Whether they’re sitting on the couch, staring at you with that ‘not today’ look, or casually walking away when you call them, these dogs make it clear that obedience is negotiable—at least according to their rules.
Refusing to Move During Walks
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When it’s time for your dog’s daily walk, you’d think they’d be excited. But instead, they plant themselves like a stubborn rock. No amount of coaxing, tugging, or even bribes with treats can move them. Whether it’s a rainy day, an inconvenient time, or simply because they’re feeling like a couch potato, your dog will let you know that unless it’s on their terms, there will be no walking today. You could be outside in the middle of a beautiful park, and still, they’re just not having it.
Master of the “Stare of Defiance”
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Nothing says stubbornness like the classic “stare of defiance.” Your dog will give you a look that says, “I see you, but I’m not doing anything you want.” They’ll sit or lay there, staring at you with unwavering resolve while you ask them to perform basic tasks. Whether it’s refusing to jump in the car or ignoring your commands entirely, that look is all you need to realize you’re up against a master of persistence. In their mind, they’re the ones in charge, not you.
Selective Hearing is Their Superpower
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If you have a dog that only responds when it suits them, you are likely dealing with a stubborn champion. Dogs are known for their excellent hearing, but some can act as though they’ve lost their sense of hearing entirely—unless the sound of a treat bag crinkling or the opening of a refrigerator door is involved. Calling them to come inside or asking them to get off the couch? Crickets. But if you so much as make the sound of their favorite food being prepared, they’ll come running as if they’ve been waiting for you to finally get the hint.
They Have an Unshakable Routine
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Some dogs have an uncanny ability to stick to a schedule, and any deviation from their routine is met with immediate resistance. Whether it’s mealtime, walk time, or even nap time, they’re creatures of habit. If you dare try to move their walk to a different time or mix up their feeding schedule, prepare for a battle. They’ll make it known, either by sitting by their food bowl glaring at you or by refusing to leave the spot they’ve chosen for their afternoon nap. This unwavering commitment to their own schedule is a sure sign of a gold medal-level stubborn dog.
The “I’m Not Ready Yet” Face
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Trying to get your dog to do something when they’re not in the mood can be a challenge. Even if you know it’s time to go, whether it’s a trip to the vet or simply going for a car ride, they will dig their heels in. They’ll give you that “I’m not ready yet” face, which may involve sitting or lying down dramatically and staring at you with an expression that could rival the most stubborn of toddlers. It’s as if they are saying, “I’m in charge of when this happens.”
They Won’t Eat What You Offer
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The ultimate test of stubbornness might be when your dog refuses to eat what you’ve prepared for them. You’ve given them a perfectly balanced meal, or even something special, but they turn their nose up at it. They’ll walk away as if they’re holding out for something better, leaving you perplexed and frustrated. You could try offering different treats, coaxing them with enthusiasm, but the stubborn refusal to eat what’s in front of them will leave you wondering if they’ve developed a sophisticated taste. Ultimately, the meal is on their terms, and they won’t settle for less.
They Drag Their Feet to the Vet
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Taking your dog to the vet is always a mission, but for some dogs, it’s a full-blown protest. From the moment you mention the word “vet,” they’ll freeze up and refuse to budge. They’ll know exactly where you’re going and will fight you the entire way, dragging their feet as if they’re protesting the entire concept. No amount of sweet talk or bribery will convince them that it’s for their good. In their eyes, the vet visit is just a waste of time, and they’re willing to make you work hard for it.
They Hold Grudges Like a Pro
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Ever had your dog give you the cold shoulder after a minor inconvenience, like bathing them or taking away something they shouldn’t have? A truly stubborn dog doesn’t forget, and they’ll hold that grudge as if they’ve been wronged. They might refuse to come to you for affection or act as though they’re upset with you for an extended period. It’s as though they’ve mentally taken note of every perceived slight, and they’re waiting for the right moment to make you pay for it—usually by acting aloof or refusing to listen.
Their “Go to the Crate” Drama
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If you need to crate your dog, and they’re not in the mood, expect drama. Some dogs will immediately refuse to enter their crate when it’s time for a break or a trip to the kennel. They’ll dig their paws in, put their body weight into resisting, and look up at you with a look of utter betrayal as if you’ve asked them to do something unreasonable. They know exactly what’s going on and will do everything in their power to make this task as difficult as possible, showing their gold-medal-worthy stubbornness.
They Love Being the Center of Attention
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A dog that insists on being the center of attention has mastered the art of stubbornness. Whether you’re talking to someone else, trying to focus on something, or simply trying to get work done, your dog will make it clear that they are the most important thing in the room. They’ll nudge, whine, or even bark to demand your attention, and they won’t stop until they’ve achieved their goal. It’s not that they’re trying to be annoying—it’s just that they believe they deserve your undivided focus, and nothing will get in their way.
The Gold Medalist In Stubbornness Has Arrived
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Living with a stubborn dog means you’re sharing your home with a true champion. Whether they’re ignoring commands, refusing to leave the couch, or acting like they have their schedule, these dogs know how to stand their ground. While they might not win any official medals for their behavior, they’ve certainly earned a gold medal in your heart. After all, a little stubbornness just adds to their charm—because in the end, they’re the ones running the show!
Toledo, United States.
