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10 Least Trainable Dog Breeds

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| November 19, 2023

While some dog breeds excel in trainability, others are known for being less receptive to traditional training methods. This often stems from strong independence, a predilection for following their instincts, or a more laid-back attitude. Below are 10 breeds that are often considered among the least trainable.

1. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds, known for their majestic appearance, are also notorious for their independent streak. This breed’s aloof nature and tendency to get distracted easily make training a challenging task. They are often more inclined towards hunting and exploring than obeying commands.

2. Basenji

Basenjis, often called “barkless dogs,” are celebrated for their intelligence but are not always keen on obedience. Their independent and sometimes stubborn nature can make traditional training a bit tricky. They are often motivated by their own interests rather than the desire to please their owners.

3. Bulldog

With their amiable and calm demeanor, Bulldogs can also exhibit a stubborn side when it comes to training. They often require more patience and consistency in training as they can be less responsive to commands compared to more eager-to-please breeds.

4. Chow Chow

Chow Chows are known for their dignified and independent character. They can be quite aloof and are not typically as eager to please as other breeds, which can pose challenges in training. They respond best to patient and consistent training methods.

5. Borzoi

Borzois are independent sighthounds, and like many in this category, they can be somewhat aloof and self-directed. Bred for hunting, their strong prey drive and independence can sometimes overshadow their response to training commands.

6. Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are famed for their incredible tracking abilities, but this specialization can sometimes make obedience training more challenging. They are often more interested in following a scent trail than sitting or staying on command.

7. Pekingese

Pekingese were bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty and often prefer a leisurely lifestyle over rigorous training. They can be strong-willed and may require a more patient and gentle approach to training.

8. Beagle

Beagles are friendly and curious but can be challenging to train due to their strong sense of smell and distractibility. Their inclination to follow their noses often overrides their interest in obedience training.

9. Mastiff

Mastiffs are gentle giants known for their protective nature but can also exhibit an independent streak. Training a Mastiff often requires patience and understanding, as they may not be as quick to respond to commands or as motivated by traditional training incentives.

10. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds, with their endearing looks and laid-back demeanor, can be quite stubborn regarding training. Their scent-driven focus often precedes training exercises, requiring more patience and creativity in training approaches.

Conclusion

These 10 dog breeds present distinct challenges in training due to their unique temperaments and breed characteristics. However, they can still become well-mannered and beloved companions with appropriate training techniques, understanding, and patience.

Related: 15 Most Trainable Dog Breeds