Some dogs were born to follow commands.
These dogs… were not.
They hear “sit,” and they might—if they feel like it.
Training session? More like a negotiation.
Living with a stubborn dog is part comedy, part challenge, and all heart.
These 21 breeds are known for doing things their way.
They’re clever, independent, and more than a little headstrong.
It’s not that they don’t understand you—they just don’t agree with you.
But behind that willful streak?
A personality so big, it makes the struggle totally worth it.
They’ll test your patience, outsmart your rules, and steal your heart while doing it.
Get ready to meet the dogs that make life interesting.
They may be stubborn—but they’re never boring.
Want to jump into the list of breeds next?
Bulldog
With its adorably wrinkled face and determined demeanor, the Bulldog is a breed known for its stubbornness. This determined pooch often stands its ground, unwilling to budge from its chosen spot.
Owners may find it humorous yet challenging to persuade a Bulldog to change its mind once it’s made up. Despite its stubborn streak, the Bulldog is fiercely loyal and makes a devoted companion.
It enjoys lounging around and may require some coaxing to participate in activities. Its laid-back nature is often punctuated by moments of playful defiance, making it a lovable yet obstinate pet.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound, with its droopy eyes and long ears, is a breed that embodies stubbornness. Known for its strong sense of smell, this hound often follows its nose, ignoring commands as it indulges in olfactory adventures.
Basset Hounds have a unique gait that adds to their charm, but their stubbornness can make training a test of patience. Their independent nature is balanced by their affectionate and gentle disposition, making them beloved but headstrong companions.
Owners often find joy in their Basset’s quirky antics and steadfast loyalty.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, with their elongated bodies and spirited nature, are known for their tenacious and willful character. Often described as “big dogs in small bodies,” they are fearless and unyielding.
Their stubbornness often leads them to assert their presence, whether it’s digging in the garden or chasing after small animals. Despite this, Dachshunds are affectionate and enjoy cuddling with their humans.
Their lively spirit and independent streak make them both entertaining and challenging for owners who love them dearly.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow, with its distinctive lion-like mane, is a breed known for its aloof and stubborn nature. This ancient breed often carries itself with a dignified demeanor, preferring to observe rather than engage.
Owners may find their Chow Chow to be independent and strong-willed, requiring firm but gentle guidance. Despite its stubborn streak, the Chow is incredibly loyal to its family, forming deep bonds over time.
Its reserved nature and striking appearance make it a unique and cherished companion for those who appreciate its individuality.
Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu, with its fox-like appearance and curly tail, is a breed celebrated for its spirited independence. Often likened to a cat in its behavior, the Shiba Inu is known for its stubbornness and self-reliance.
This breed’s strong personality requires firm and consistent training to manage its willful nature. While they may resist commands, Shibas are incredibly intelligent and form strong attachments to their families.
Their spirited antics and unique vocalizations add to their charm, making them a fascinating and sometimes challenging pet.
Akita
The Akita, a breed of noble bearing, is known for its strength and stubbornness. This large and powerful dog often exhibits a strong-willed nature, preferring to take charge of its surroundings.
Owners must employ patience and consistency in training their Akita, as its independent spirit can be challenging. However, this breed is incredibly loyal and protective of its family, forming deep bonds.
The Akita’s dignified presence and courageous demeanor make it a revered companion for those who respect its independent nature.
Beagle
Beagles, with their endearing expressions and boundless energy, are known for their curious and stubborn nature. Bred as scent hounds, they are instinctively driven to follow their noses, often leading them to ignore commands.
Despite this, Beagles are sociable and affectionate, making them popular family pets. Their playful antics and lively spirit bring joy to many households, even as their stubborn streak presents training challenges.
Owners appreciate their Beagle’s zest for life and the unbreakable bond they form with these curious and lovable hounds.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, with its distinctive beard and sturdy build, is a breed known for its independence and stubbornness. Often referred to as “Scotties,” they possess a strong sense of self and are unafraid to assert their will.
Scotties are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, yet their independent nature requires consistent training. Their spirited and feisty character makes them both charming and challenging companions.
Owners treasure their Scottie’s courage and tenacity, finding joy in their unique personality and unwavering loyalty.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs with boundless energy and a reputation for stubbornness. Known for their intelligence and agility, they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
These terriers are tenacious and often exhibit a strong-willed personality, making training both a challenge and an adventure. Despite their stubborn streak, Jack Russells are affectionate and lively companions, offering endless entertainment to their owners.
Their spirited nature and clever antics make them a beloved yet demanding breed for those who embrace their energetic lifestyle.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso, an ancient breed with a history as a Tibetan monastery protector, is known for its independent and stubborn nature. With its luxurious coat and dignified presence, it often carries itself with regal aloofness.
Lhasas are intelligent and watchful, requiring consistent training to manage their strong-willed character. Despite their stubbornness, they form deep bonds with their families and are devoted companions.
Owners find joy in their Lhasa’s spirited personality and unwavering loyalty, appreciating the breed’s unique blend of independence and affection.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound, with its flowing coat and aristocratic elegance, is a breed renowned for its independent and stubborn character. This breed is often described as aloof, preferring to make its own decisions.
Afghans require patience and understanding, as their independent streak can make training a challenge. Despite this, they are affectionate and form strong bonds with their families.
Their beauty and grace are matched by their unique personality, making them a captivating choice for those who appreciate their distinctiveness and charm.
Shar Pei
The Shar Pei, with its distinctive wrinkles and bristly coat, is a breed known for its stubborn and independent nature. This dignified dog often carries itself with quiet confidence, preferring to observe rather than engage.
Shar Peis require firm yet gentle training to manage their willful personality. Despite their stubbornness, they are loyal and devoted to their families, offering protection and companionship.
Owners find joy in their Shar Pei’s unique appearance and steadfast character, cherishing the breed’s blend of independence and affection.
Pekingese
The Pekingese, with its lion-like mane and regal bearing, is a breed known for its independent and stubborn disposition. This ancient breed often carries itself with an air of self-assuredness, embracing its royal heritage.
Pekingese require consistent and gentle training to manage their strong-willed character. Despite their stubborn streak, they are affectionate and form deep bonds with their families.
Owners find joy in their Pekingese’s spirited personality and unwavering loyalty, appreciating the breed’s unique blend of independence and affection.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, with its tiny stature and large personality, is a breed known for its stubbornness and boldness. This small dog often exhibits a strong sense of self, unafraid to assert its will.
Chihuahuas require patience and consistency in training to manage their independent nature. Despite their stubborn streak, they are loyal and form deep bonds with their families.
Owners find joy in their Chihuahua’s spirited personality and unwavering devotion, appreciating the breed’s unique blend of independence and affection.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel, with its long, silky ears and expressive eyes, is a breed known for its stubbornness and playful nature. This lovable pooch often exhibits a strong-willed personality, making training both a challenge and a joy.
Cocker Spaniels are affectionate and sociable, forming deep bonds with their families. Despite their stubborn streak, they bring endless joy and companionship to their owners.
Their spirited nature and charming antics make them a beloved choice for those who appreciate their unique blend of playfulness and determination.
Malamute
The Malamute, with its powerful build and thick coat, is a breed known for its strength and stubbornness. This majestic dog often exhibits a strong-willed nature, preferring to take charge of its surroundings.
Owners must employ patience and consistency in training their Malamute, as its independent spirit can be challenging. However, this breed is incredibly loyal and protective of its family, forming deep bonds.
The Malamute’s dignified presence and courageous demeanor make it a revered companion for those who respect its independent nature.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever, with its friendly eyes and boundless energy, is a breed known for its determination and occasional stubbornness. This lovable pooch is often eager to please, yet sometimes prefers to follow its own agenda.
Labradors are affectionate and sociable, forming deep bonds with their families. Despite their occasional stubborn streak, they bring endless joy and companionship to their owners.
Their spirited nature and playful antics make them a beloved choice for those who appreciate their unique blend of friendliness and willfulness.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard, with its massive build and gentle eyes, is a breed known for its stubbornness and warmth. This gentle giant often exhibits a strong-willed personality, making training both a challenge and a joy.
Saint Bernards are affectionate and sociable, forming deep bonds with their families. Despite their stubborn streak, they bring endless joy and companionship to their owners.
Their spirited nature and gentle demeanor make them a beloved choice for those who appreciate their unique blend of warmth and determination.
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner, with its sleek gray coat and piercing eyes, is a breed known for its independence and stubbornness. This graceful dog often exhibits a strong-willed personality, preferring to take charge of its surroundings.
Owners must employ patience and consistency in training their Weimaraner, as its independent spirit can be challenging. However, this breed is incredibly loyal and protective of its family, forming deep bonds.
The Weimaraner’s dignified presence and courageous demeanor make it a revered companion for those who respect its independent nature.
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier, with its fluffy coat and expressive eyes, is a breed known for its charm and stubbornness. This charismatic dog often exhibits a strong-willed personality, making training both a challenge and a joy.
Tibetan Terriers are affectionate and sociable, forming deep bonds with their families. Despite their stubborn streak, they bring endless joy and companionship to their owners.
Their spirited nature and charming antics make them a beloved choice for those who appreciate their unique blend of charm and determination.
Basenji
Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji is celebrated for its unique yodel-like sound. This breed’s independent spirit is matched by its keen intelligence, making them both fascinating and challenging companions.
Often described as cat-like, Basenjis have a penchant for cleanliness and a curious nature that keeps them exploring their environment. Their sleek, athletic build complements their energetic personality, requiring plenty of exercise to satisfy their wandering minds.
Basenjis are not just pets but captivating enigmas, living symbols of independence and charm. Proper training and patience can unlock a rewarding partnership.