Least Obedient Dog Breeds in the World

These dog breeds are more difficult to train than others.

All dogs deserve an abundance of love and attention from their owners as well as proper training, especially when they are young. However, certain breeds are more stubborn than others when it comes to obedience. This may be due to their level of intelligence, independence and mischievousness, which makes them a bit more resistant to training.

It’s important to remember that every dog has its own personality and genetic makeup, so a lot of kindness and patience goes a long way in teaching them obedience, problem-solving and socialization skills.

These are the least obedient dog breeds. But they still make loving, adorable companions.

35. Border Collie

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Temperament: Bright, loyal, athletic

Height: 21-22 inches

Weight: 40-45 pounds

Longevity: 10-17 years

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Bottom Line: Border Collie

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Confused to see border collies on this list? There’s a perfectly good reason for it. While the agile, intense border collie is known for its boundless energy and unmatched drive to work, border collies weren’t designed to be laid-back household pets.

When people impulse buy a collie after falling in love with their lush fur and bubbly personality, it doesn’t take long for them to realize they’re in over their heads. Border collies can be extremely obedient, but only if they’re put to work.

If they don’t have a job to do, they often take to herding anything and anyone, including children.

Border Collie in Action

34. Spanish Water Dog

Spanish water dog, least obedient dog breed

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Temperament: Affectionate, intelligent, athletic

Height: 15-20 inches

Weight: 31-49 pounds

Longevity: 12-14 years

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Bottom Line: Spanish Water Dog

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The Spanish water dog can be a loving family dog, but don’t be fooled by their goofy, shaggy appearance. This breed was developed to work hard as a herding and hunting breed, and their drive to guard and protect is strong.

Spanish water dogs have surprising agility for their size, so they can easily be trained to do tricks. Unfortunately, if their energy and eagerness to work aren’t channeled into productive outlets, Spanish water dogs are likely to run amok.

Socialization with kids and other pets during puppyhood is nonnegotiable as well, and if you’re dreaming of a cuddly couch potato dog, this is not the breed for you.

Spanish Water Dog in Action

33. Irish Wolfhound

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Temperament: Patient, dignified, loyal

Height: 32-35 inches

Weight: 115-180 pounds

Longevity: 6-10 years

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Bottom Line: Irish Wolfhound

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The Irish wolfhound originated as a war dog, pulling soldiers off horses during battle. They were also used as a hunting breed to go after large, dangerous game. Now, Irish wolfhounds are appreciated as a patient, even-tempered family breed.

Known as gentle giants, Irish wolfhounds are the tallest dog breed in the world. Because of their impressive size, they need lots of time outdoors and a fence that’s high enough to keep them from escaping the yard and chasing down the neighbor’s cat.

Irish Wolfhound in Action

32. Newfoundland

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Temperament: Sweet-tempered, gentle, trainable

Height: 26-28 inches

Weight: 100-150 pounds

Longevity: 8-10 years

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Bottom Line: Newfoundland

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The Newfoundland is often depicted in the news as a hero dog, and this is one instance in which the media got it right. Newfoundlands are huge, strong and loving to an extreme.

They’re responsive and affectionate, albeit very drooly, and there have been numerous reports of Newfies jumping into frozen lakes to rescue children from icy waters.

Here’s the catch. They grow to over 100 pounds practically overnight, so they need to be trained properly from puppyhood. If not, you’ll be stuck with a human-sized pile of fur who refuses to get off the couch.

Newfoundland in Action

31. Rottweiler

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Temperament: Courageous, confident, alert

Height: 22-27 inches

Weight: 85-130 pounds

Longevity: 8-12 years

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Bottom Line: Rottweiler

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The Rottweiler, best known as aggressive guard dogs, can be much better family dogs than the news would lead you to believe.

Rottweilers are very intelligent, shockingly strong and gentle at heart. Because of their large size, extreme strength and protective instincts, however, Rotties can go awry in the hands of inexperienced owners.

Rottweilers are eager to learn, so it’s not exactly fair to call them disobedient. They do, however, need consistent training to channel their territorial, protective drive.

Rottweiler in Action

30. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell terrier running with tennis ball in mouth, least obedient dog breed

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Temperament: Stubborn, energetic, fearless

Height: 10-15 inches

Weight: 13-17 pounds

Longevity: 13-16 years

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Bottom Line: Jack Russell Terrier

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The Jack Russell terrier has somewhat of an unpleasant reputation. The small, athletically built breed was designed to be a hunter. They’re eager to work, which explains their penchant for digging and chasing small animals.

To prevent a Jack Russell from becoming an utter nuisance, lots of exercise and obedience training is a must. They’re also a big no-no for families with cats or other small pets in the house, as any Jack Russell is likely to see them as prey.

Jack Russell Terrier in Action

29. Wire Fox Terrier

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Temperament: Bold, quick, alert

Height: 13-15 inches

Weight: 16-18 pounds

Longevity: 10-13 years

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Bottom Line: Wire Fox Terrier

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The wire fox terrier is full of energy and attitude. Their antics are beyond entertaining, and they can be an ideal breed for families, but only if given strong guidance from an early age.

Owners who can keep up with the wire fox terrier love their curiosity and intensity, but even they warn prospective terrier owners never to let them off their leash at the park.

They’re so independent and agile that they’re likely to tear off after a squirrel and never come back. They won’t back down if challenged, and they may do much of the challenging themselves.

Wire Fox Terrier in Action

28. Pit Bull Terrier

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Temperament: Friendly, strong-willed, stubborn

Height: 17-21 inches

Weight: 30-60 pounds

Longevity: 8-15 years

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Bottom Line: Pit Bull Terrier

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The American pit bull terrier might be the most misunderstood breed on the planet, so don’t be too quick to judge. Pit bulls were first bred to “bait” bulls, before becoming farm dogs and family dogs thanks to their gentleness. Yes, the breed you’ve heard horror stories about is actually a big sweetie.

Pit bulls are naturally gentle and good with kids, but their tenacity and physical strength turned them into targets for irresponsible owners and illegal dog fighting rings.

Pit bulls can be very obedient when properly trained, however, and owners often describe them as big, muscular cuddle bugs.

Pit Bull Terrier in Action

27. Husky

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Temperament: Outgoing, friendly, intelligent

Height: 20-23.5 inches

Weight: 35-60 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

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Bottom Line: Husky

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Siberian huskies are the classic sled dogs of the Alaskan wilderness. They’re graceful, athletic and eager to please, but they also have a mind of their own.

They adore their owners, but their strong-willed personalities require firm, consistent training. Otherwise, your husky will quickly become the head of the house instead of you.

Even well-trained huskies have a tendency to run, so make sure to keep them leashed at all times.

Husky in Action

26. Australian Cattle Dog

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Temperament: Loyal, brave, energetic

Height: 17-20 inches

Weight: 30-50 pounds

Longevity: 13-15 years

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Bottom Line: Australian Cattle Dog

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The Australian cattle dog was developed by Australian settlers to, you guessed it, herd cattle. As a herding breed, Australian cattle dogs turn into willful, hard to live with fur beasts if not given a job to do.

They also have an instinct to catch cats and any small animals that run away, and they can be aggressive to other dogs of the same sex.

Overall, Australian cattle dogs are a bright, loyal breed as long as they’re kept busy and in a household without small pets.

Australian Cattle Dog in Action

25. Afghan Hound

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Temperament: Energetic, independent, dignified

Height: 25-27 inches

Weight: 50-60 pounds

Longevity: 12-18 years

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Bottom Line: Afghan Hound

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The Afghan hound is a confident but strong-willed, aloof dog, part of the hunting breed. They would rather follow their hunting instincts instead of looking to their owner for directions.

Sensitive to harsh commands and impatience, they may resist being obedient if not handled carefully. Therefore, it’s best to use gentle but firm training techniques with these pups and earn their trust early in the process.

Afghan Hound in Action

24. Basenji

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Temperament: Smart, active, independent

Height: 17 inches (male), 16 inches (female)

Weight: 24 pounds (male), 22 pounds (female)

Longevity: 13-14 years

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Bottom Line: Basenji

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Nicknamed the “barkless dog” due to its unusually shaped larynx, the basenji is known for its powerful sense of smell and keen eyesight. Although they are very affectionate animals, they are wary of strangers and prickly around other dogs.

The combination of their boundless energy and short attention spans adds to the difficulty in training this breed. They need patient handling and creative training methods to learn obedience.

Basenji in Action

23. Bulldog

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Temperament: Calm, affectionate, courageous

Height: 14-15 inches

Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)

Longevity: 8-10 years

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Bottom Line: Bulldog

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Bulldogs make excellent, loving pets for families with children due to their gentle disposition and desire to be around humans. They are dependable, predictable dogs, but they like to do things on their own time and at their own speed.

Unfortunately, this stubborn streak makes them difficult to train. They’ve also been reported as being slow to learn new skills. The best way to teach them obedience is through positive reinforcement such as gentle voice commands and doggy treats.

Bulldog in Action

22. Chow Chow

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Temperament: Refined, smart, adaptable

Height: 17-20 inches

Weight: 45-70 pounds

Longevity: 8-12 years

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Bottom Line: Chow Chow

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Chow chows are devoted animals with cat-like personalities — a reputation earned from their non-social behavior with strangers and other dogs. They were initially bred as guard dogs, so they need creative training to control their strong guarding tendencies.

In addition, chow chows do not desire to please their owners and will only follow directions if they can be convinced that the task is something they want to do. But they are intelligent, agile dogs that will learn to be obedient if trained early in social settings.

Chow Chow in Action

21. Borzoi

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Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, clownish

Height: 28+ inches (male), 26+ inches (female)

Weight: 75-105 pounds (male), 60-85 pounds (female)

Longevity: 9-14 years

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Bottom Line: Borzoi

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Like the greyhound, the borzoi has similar features, except for its long, silky coat. Once known as Russian wolfhounds, these pups love to run, making them excellent hunters; however, training them can be a challenge.

Being the obstinate dogs they are, they approach new skills with a sense of humor which can be frustrating for the owner. Borzois are also sensitive animals that need patience and a gentle hand in their training.

Borzoi in Action

20. Bloodhound

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Temperament: Friendly, curious, boisterous

Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)

Weight: 90-110 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)

Longevity: 10-12 years

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Bottom Line: Bloodhound

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These independent dogs are tolerant, mild-mannered pups but are also very determined to do things their own way. They were bred to think for themselves while hunting prey — an instinct that can lead to disobedience.

If something catches a bloodhound’s attention, they will only focus on that and tune out their owner’s commands. It takes time and firm training to teach this breed obedience, but it will be worth your while, as these dogs are exceptionally tolerant and make loving house pets.

Bloodhound in Action

19. Pekingese

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Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, brave

Height: 6-9 inches

Weight: Up to 14 pounds

Longevity: 12-14 years

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Bottom Line: Pekingese

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Bred as a lapdog for Chinese royalty, the Pekingese were never meant to be placed in rigorous obedience training programs. They’re extremely intelligent dogs but have a substantial stubborn side to their personality that makes them question authority.

Therefore, training and socialization need to begin at an early age with these pups. The owner will be rewarded with years of loyalty, love and protection from these affectionate animals with time and consistency.

Pekingese in Action

18. Beagle

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Temperament: Curious, happy, sweet-tempered

Height: 13-15 inches

Weight: 20-30 pounds

Longevity: 10-15 years

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Bottom Line: Beagle

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Beagles are cheerful dogs that get along well with humans and other pets. However, they are one of the most challenging breeds to train. They need plenty of exercise, or they can become highly destructive and bark excessively if left alone for long periods at a time.

Beagles were bred to follow their nose in search of prey, and that instinct often prevents them from listening to their owner’s commands. These dogs are also curious by nature and prone to wandering off when outdoors. Therefore, owners need to keep a close eye on their pups and put in a little more effort to train them.

Beagle in Action

17. Bullmastiff

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Temperament: Courageous, loyal, affectionate

Height: 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)

Weight: 110-130 pounds

Longevity: 7-9 years

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Bottom Line: Bullmastiff

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These enormous, powerful dogs make great pets due to their easy-going nature. But bullmastiffs have strong territorial instincts and need to be socialized at a young age. They’re intelligent yet stubborn enough to test their owner’s patience by doing things their own way and in their own time.

Obedience training is a must and needs to start while they are puppies. The best way to teach a bullmastiff is to reward good behavior with doggy treats and positive verbal cues.

Bullmastiff in Action

16. Basset Hound

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Temperament: Mellow, patient, stubborn

Height: Up to 15 inches

Weight: 40-65 pounds

Longevity:12-13 years

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Bottom Line: Basset Hound

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Trained to hunt in packs, the tenacious basset hound gets along well with other dogs and is exceptionally people-oriented, making them an ideal family pet. Although they are generally laid-back dogs, they will become nuisance barkers if left alone for too long.

They also have a one-track mind when the hunting urge takes over and are prone to wandering off if not supervised. Basset hounds are stubborn dogs that tend not to be as intelligent as some other breeds, but the good news is that they become more obedient with age.

Basset Hound in Action

15. Dachshund

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Temperament: Spirited, friendly, inquisitive

Height: 8-9 inches (standard), 5-6 inches (miniature)

Weight: 16-32 pounds (standard), 11pounds (miniature)

Longevity: 12-16 years

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Bottom Line: Dachshund

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Bred to hunt small prey, these brave little dogs are notoriously hard to housebreak and train. Dachshunds are active, intelligent animals that need to keep their minds and bodies busy.

If boredom sets in, they’re more likely to be destructive and bark for attention. However, Doxies are whip-smart and eager to learn new skills. Therefore, training should involve plenty of patience and positive reinforcement.

Dachshund in Action

14. Welsh Terrier

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Temperament: Clever, active, friendly

Height: 15 inches

Weight: 20 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

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Bottom Line: Welsh Terrier

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Another canine that was bred to hunt independently, the Welsh terrier is not keen on taking orders from their owner. They are energetic dogs that would rather run and play fetch rather than learn obedience, and they get easily bored if not consistently challenged mentally and physically.

Prone to barking and digging, this breed is known for making messes such as getting into the garbage or destroying clothing and furniture. They’re also aggressive with other dogs and need to be properly socialized at a young age. It takes firm discipline and creative training methods to teach these clever, independent thinkers obedience.

Welsh Terrier in Action

13. Chihuahua

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Temperament: Feisty, loyal, graceful

Height: 5-8 inches

Weight: No more than 6 pounds

Longevity: 14-16 years

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Bottom Line: Chihuahua

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A tiny dog with a big personality, the Chihuahua is equally intelligent and stubborn but not very well-mannered, which earns them a spot on the list of less obedient dogs.

Extremely loyal to their owners, these pups don’t like strangers and are known to become aggressive — snapping, barking and trembling whenever they feel threatened. Their sassy, bossy demeanor requires plenty of patience in obedience training, but they are loving lap dogs once trained.

Chihuahua in Action

12. Saint Bernard

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Temperament: Playful, curious, social

Height: 28-30 inches (male), 26-28 inches (female)

Weight: 140-180 pounds (male), 120-140 (female)

Longevity: 8-10 years

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Bottom Line: Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards were originally bred as search and rescue dogs, so their natural instinct is to think and work independently. Add to that their massive size, and these dogs can be hard to train.

It’s best to start obedient behavior while they’re young since training is much harder once they become older and set in their ways. After they’ve learned obedience, these gentle giants make excellent family pets because they are non-aggressive, playful and tolerant dogs.

Saint Bernard in Action

11. Shih Tzu

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Temperament: Friendly, playful, inquisitive

Height: 9-10.5 inches

Weight: 9-16 pounds

Longevity: 10-18 years

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Bottom Line: Shih Tzu

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Although strong-willed, these dogs were bred as companions and are prevalent in families with young children. Shih tzus are even-tempered, excellent watchdogs; however, they have stubborn personalities that make them less obedient.

It takes time to instill the house rules with these adorable pups, but it’s worth your patience, as these dogs make happy, fun-loving and affectionate pets.

Shih Tzu in Action

10. Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier, least obedient dog breed

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Temperament: Spunky, independent, affectionate

Height: 10 inches

Weight: 19-22 pounds (male) 18-21 pounds (female)

Longevity: 12 years

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Bottom Line: Scottish Terrier

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Like the majority of dogs in the terrier family, Scottish terriers are energetic, playful pups who love to be around their owners. However, they can be excitable and moody at times. Some Scotties only attach to their owners and are aggressive with other humans or dogs.

They don’t demand a lot of attention, but they’re stubborn animals who may resist training. Since they were created to work on their own, it may take a bit of coaxing to get them to obey. But if they are treated gently and with respect, they will eventually learn obedience.

Scottish Terrier in Action

9. Old English Sheepdog

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Temperament: Gentle, mellow, intelligent

Height: 22+ inches (male), 21+ inches (female)

Weight: 60-100 pounds

Longevity: 10-12 years

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Bottom Line: Old English Sheepdog

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The Old English sheepdog is a herding dog initially bred for driving cattle and sheep. They’re large, enthusiastic dogs with a sense of adventure and independence, but it’s their stubborn side that makes them so difficult to train.

They tend to be rowdy puppies, so it’s essential to start behavioral training early. These dogs will only obey if they have a confident owner who has earned their respect.

Old English Sheepdog in Action

8. Maltese

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Temperament: Athletic, playful, sweet-natured

Height: 7-9 inches

Weight: Under 7 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

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Bottom Line: Maltese

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Part of the toy breed, the little Maltese is a sweet, gentle dog that makes an exceptional family companion. However, they suffer from separation anxiety and are prone to excessive barking when left alone.

They also have a reputation for being hard to house train. Persistence and patience are key when training a Maltese, and the payoff will be an affectionate, playful pooch who will thrive by your side.

Maltese in Action

7. French Bulldog

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Temperament: Smart, clownish, loving

Height: 11-13 inches

Weight: Under 28 pounds

Longevity: 10-12 years

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Bottom Line: French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs have a long history as somewhat spoiled companion dogs in England and France. Their innate stubbornness and humorous antics get them into trouble since they’d rather play than follow directions.

Frenchies work best with owners who are firm and consistent during the training process. If given the attention they crave and plenty of exercises, they will learn obedience in no time.

French Bulldog in Action

6. Pug

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Temperament: Mischievous, affectionate, stubborn

Height: 10-13 inches

Weight: 14-18 pounds

Longevity: 13-15 years

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Bottom Line: Pug

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The pug is an irresistible but sensitive, mischievous dog, one of the oldest breeds around. They are the clowns of the canine world that thrive on attention from their owners.

Although they are pretty smart, pugs are incredibly stubborn and difficult to housetrain. But their outgoing personality and general silliness make up for their mischievousness. Persistence in training is vital, and they will be perfect, loving companions for anyone lucky enough to own one.

Pug in Action

5. Akita

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Temperament: Loyal, alert, loving

Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)

Weight: 100-130 pounds (male), 70-100 pounds (female)

Longevity: 10-13 years

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Bottom Line: Akita

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Originally bred to guard royalty in Japan, Akitas were also used for hunting wild game. Although they are affectionate pups, their guarding instincts make them wary of strangers. Therefore, they need an experienced trainer to teach them how to interact with other people and animals.

Akitas are also known for having complex personalities, which makes them a challenge for obedience training. Due to their stubbornness, they are not recommended for novice dog owners, but if early training is successful, you’ll have a loving companion for life.

Akita in Action

4. Lakeland Terrier

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Temperament: Smart, fearless, friendly

Height: 14-15 inches

Weight: 17 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

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Bottom Line: Lakeland Terrier

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Like other terriers, the Lakeland terrier is a bold, energetic dog that needs a lot of exercise and attention. They’re intelligent dogs that get bored easily with repetition, so it is best to keep training sessions in short increments.

If these pups do become bored, they exhibit nuisance behavior such as repetitive barking and digging. This can be challenging for owners who are not accustomed to handling sensitive dogs. Consistent, firm training is advised at an early age for these pooches, and once achieved, the rewards will be endless.

Lakeland Terrier in Action

3. Lhasa Apso

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Temperament: Amusing, intelligent, aloof

Height: 10-11 inches

Weight: 12-18 pounds

Longevity: 12-15 years

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Bottom Line: Lhasa Apso

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Although lhasa apsos look like beautiful little lap dogs, they’re one of the toughest and strong-willed canines of the smaller dog breed group. Their independence and stubborn nature may even require the help of a professional trainer to teach them obedience.

Lhasa apsos are comical pups that are also smart enough to charm their way out of any situation, so it’s crucial to instill firm discipline when they are young. Use plenty of praise and doggy treats while training them, and they will end up being perfect family pets.

Lhasa Apso in Action

2. Bull Terrier

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Temperament: Mischievous, spunky, friendly

Height: 21-22 inches

Weight: 50-70 pounds

Longevity: 12-13 years

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Bottom Line: Bull Terrier

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Bull terriers are friendly, exuberant dogs that are often compared to toddlers for their naughty behavior. They are somewhat stubborn dogs that will push the limit during training to see how much they can get away with.

Their endearing, comical personalities make them hard to resist, but it’s important to remain consistent with training and to use firm discipline when needed.

Bull Terrier in Action

1. Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees, least obedient dog breed

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Temperament: Patient, intelligent, laid-back

Height: 27-32 inches (male), 25-29 inches (female)

Weight: 100+ pounds (male), 85+ pounds (female)

Longevity: 10-12 years

Pet insurance offer: On Lemonade

Bottom Line: Great Pyrenees

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These regal, powerful dogs were originally bred to guard sheep against predators in the snowy mountaintops. Today, they are valued for being vigilant watchdogs with a calm demeanor.

However, the Great Pyrenees are also stubbornly independent and question authority if confidence is not shown early in their training. You’ll need to earn their respect before they follow your commands, but once they’ve learned obedience, they will be devoted pets for life.