As adorable as they are, these breeds also happen to be some of the hardest dogs to train. Here's what to do, according to dog trainers and canine behavior experts.
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Beagle
Beagles are excellent family dogs and even considered one of the best dogs for kids. However, these hunting dogs have a very strong focus on the smells around them and a strong genetic inclination to follow scent trails. That’s what makes them one of the hardest dogs to train. “They can be a challenge training in distracting outdoor environments and off-leash recalls,” says Joy.
Pro training tip
The good news about beagles is that they are usually very food driven. Joy says that this helps in the training process, as you can use high-value dog treats to engage and train them with endless skills and good manners.
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Siberian husky
Siberian huskies were bred to think independently, which can make them less responsive to traditional training methods. To make matters worse, this sled dog is prone to lots of barking, digging and running away when they’re not adequately exercised.
“Huskies are notoriously independent and willful, making them resistant to training methods that other breeds may respond well to,” says Phifer. He adds that they’re also one of the smartest dog breeds and have a strong sense of their own identity, which can cause them to be socially selective and easily offended.
Pro training tip
Because they’re some of the hardest dogs to train, you’ll need to start training your Siberian husky as early as possible and make sure to give them plenty of exercise and socialization. “With a focus on teaching resilience to regular handling, patience, plenty of positive reinforcement and a dash of a sense of humor, Siberian huskies can become well-behaved and loving companions for their owners,” Phifer says.
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Alaskan malamute
Similar to the Siberian husky, the Alaskan malamute is a cold-weather dog breed known for its great sense of independence. Madson notes that these fluffy dogs aren’t very motivated by food, toys or pleasing their owners. On top of this, malamutes have a very high prey drive and will go after cats, chickens and other small dogs. It’s important to rein this in, even if it’s tricky to do so.
Pro training tip
Make sure your malamute has a lot of enrichment and activities meant for the breed, such as pulling a person on skis or sleds and playing with a flirt pole (to help with prey drive), says Madson. Doing so gives these hard-to-train dogs a necessary outlet for their natural instincts.
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Jack Russell terrier
Jack Russell terriers are small, powerful dogs that were bred to be used in fox hunting. Joy says they have a very high prey drive, which makes them one of the hardest dogs to train. “It is important to do your research on this breed, as they require lots of exercise and proper outlets for their smart and funny personality,” she says. “They love to learn and play games but can get bored, which could lead to destructive behavior.”
Pro training tip
It’s important to find good energy outlets for Jack Russell terriers and keep their mind engaged in learning through obedience training, tricks and brain games.
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Doodles
Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles and other doodle varieties are impossibly adorable curly haired dogs that remain popular in households across the country. Madson says that there’s a misconception that these dogs are easy to train, but “overbreeding has contributed to them being more anxious and fearful than other breeds.”
She notes that many of the doodles she’s personally worked with tend to be needy and struggle with separation anxiety, dog anxiety and other fear-related behavior problems.
Pro training tip
“Start young with positive socialization and training,” Madson advises. “Also include enrichment and problem-solving activities for confidence and to make sure the dog has as much mental exercise as physical exercise.”
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Basenji
Calm and highly independent, Basenjis stand out thanks to their catlike proclivities and the fact that they don’t bark. “You may find their independent and selective personality a challenge, especially in distracting environments, when their prey drive may overrule any treat or toy you possess,” Joy notes.
Pro training tip
Phifer recommends avoiding old-fashioned training methods that demand perfect obedience and repetition, as this “can lead to frustration for the dog and the trainer.” Try things like giving your Basenji a longer leash or more space to roam in the yard. Then find what motivates them most and use it in your dog training.
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Bloodhound
Similar to beagles, bloodhounds are hunting dogs renowned for their exceptional sense of smell. “The bloodhound is law enforcement’s go-to choice to locate fugitives and find missing individuals,” says Phifer. “However, their instincts and self-reliance can pose a challenge during training. Bloodhounds are stubborn and easily sidetracked, making standard training techniques less effective.”
Pro training tip
Although bloodhounds are one of the hardest dogs to train, persistence, patience and positive reinforcement pay off in spades with this dog breed. Their amazing sense of smell and independence make them affectionate dogs and loyal companions.
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Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is known for its deep sense of loyalty to its family, which is why it’s considered an excellent guard dog. That said, they were bred to operate on their own agenda, as they expertly guarded sheep and rarely relied on owners to tell them what to do. This sense of independence makes them one of the hardest dogs to train.
“They may try to herd and guard children or other family members, and they aren’t very motivated to work for treats,” says Madson.
Pro training tip
Provide your Pyrenees with enrichment or activities that give them an outlet for the things they were originally bred to do. “Scent work and playing Treibball are a couple good examples of activities,” Madson says.
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Australian shepherd
The adorable Australian shepherd is a true smarty pants, which would make you think it’d be easy to train. However, this breed is perhaps a bit too smart for its own good! Smart dogs have a tendency to grow bored very quickly and are more apt to push your boundaries. Plus, they might just outsmart you.
Pro training tip
Whether you’re teaching your dog to fetch, roll over or sit, focus on short and frequent training sessions that are highly engaging. Leverage food and toys to keep them motivated during your sessions.
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Border collie
Border collies are an extremely smart, loyal breed with high energy levels, known for herding sheep over vast distances throughout Scotland and England. “Due to their athletic nature, border collies naturally seek a job and outlet for their energy requirements,” Joy says. “If not given a decent outlet, they may find a job that is not particularly ideal in your household, such as destructive or obsessive behaviors.”
Pro training tip
Give your border collie plenty of exercise to keep them stimulated and happy. Joy recommends canine sports, backpacking and running long distances with this pup. And be sure to make training sessions short and very engaging.
FAQs
What personality traits make a dog difficult to train?
Dogs with high energy levels and a strong sense of independence can be tough to train. As can pups with stubborn natures and smarts, both of which make them more likely to disobey commands.
How much time do you need for training a challenging dog breed?
Training sessions that are a few minutes long and repeated several times a day can be quite effective in changing a dog’s behavior. You’ll be most successful if you keep this recommendation from the American Kennel Club in mind: Aim for consistency and patience. They’re key when training any puppy but are especially important with the hardest dog breeds to train. A structured routine without any abrupt changes will be most beneficial.
Are there specific training tools that help with stubborn dog breeds?
Yes, there are some training tools that professional dog trainers swear by. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, using a treat or a favorite toy can help break the ice with stubborn dog breeds. Sounds and gestures, such as a clicker, whistle or thumbs-up gesture, can help.
Can professional dog trainers make a difference with hard-to-train breeds?
Definitely! Training classes and professional help are beneficial in multiple ways for your canine. It’s a safe environment where the puppies get to socialize and learn in a fun way. Consult a dog trainer if you have one of the hardest dog breeds to train as your pet.
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Sources:
- Traci Madison, certified dog expert and trainer at Pupford
- Bradley Phifer, executive director of Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
- Chrissy Joy, celebrity dog trainer, studio canine trainer and educator
- US Service Animals: “Dealing with a Stubborn Pup: The Top 10 Hardest Dogs to Train”
- VCA Hospitals: “Puppy Behavior and Training – Training Basics”
- AKC: “What Your Dog Trainer Wishes You Knew About Consistency”
