Hardest Dog Breeds to Train: Stubborn but Lovable
These independent-minded breeds march to the beat of their own drum. They can be wonderful companions, but require patience and experienced handling.
Top 10 Hardest Dog Breeds to Train
1
Basenjismall
1/5
The "barkless dog" from central Africa — one of the oldest known breeds. Basenjis are cat-like in their grooming habits, fiercely independent, and produce a unique yodel-like sound instead of barking.
2
Afghan Houndlarge
1/5
An ancient, aristocratic sighthound with a flowing silky coat and a dignified, aloof manner. Afghan Hounds are independent thinkers that move with effortless speed and striking elegance.
3
Bulldogmedium
2/5
The gentle, courageous Bulldog is a beloved symbol of determination. Despite their muscular build, they are calm and friendly companions who prefer lounging on the couch to long hikes.
4
Dachshundsmall
2/5
Bold and tenacious with a distinctive elongated body, the Dachshund is a spirited companion. Originally bred for hunting badgers, they are fearless, clever, and endlessly entertaining.
5
Siberian Huskymedium
2/5
A strikingly beautiful sled dog with wolf-like features and boundless energy. Siberian Huskies are independent, mischievous, and need an experienced owner who can keep up with their adventurous spirit.
6
Chihuahuasmall
2/5
The world's smallest dog breed with the biggest attitude. Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their chosen person and pack enormous personality into their tiny frame.
7
Akitalarge
2/5
A large, powerful breed from Japan with unshakable loyalty and a noble bearing. Akitas are quiet, dignified, and deeply devoted to their families but wary of strangers.
8
Basset Houndmedium
2/5
Droopy-eyed, long-eared, and impossibly charming, the Basset Hound is a low-key companion with one of the best noses in the dog world. They are patient, gentle, and stubbornly lovable.
9
Bloodhoundlarge
2/5
The world's greatest tracking dog with a nose that can follow a scent trail for miles. Bloodhounds are gentle, patient, and deeply affectionate but incredibly stubborn when on a trail.
10
Great Pyreneesgiant
2/5
A majestic, calm guardian originally bred to protect livestock in the Pyrenees mountains. Great Pyrenees are gentle with family but naturally wary of threats, with a thick white coat built for cold weather.
Full Ranking: All 100 Breeds
#
Breed
Size
Trainability
Description
1
small
1/5
The "barkless dog" from central Africa — one of the oldest known breeds. Basenjis are cat-like in their grooming habits, fiercely independent, and produce a unique yodel-like sound instead of barking.
2
large
1/5
An ancient, aristocratic sighthound with a flowing silky coat and a dignified, aloof manner. Afghan Hounds are independent thinkers that move with effortless speed and striking elegance.
3
medium
2/5
The gentle, courageous Bulldog is a beloved symbol of determination. Despite their muscular build, they are calm and friendly companions who prefer lounging on the couch to long hikes.
4
small
2/5
Bold and tenacious with a distinctive elongated body, the Dachshund is a spirited companion. Originally bred for hunting badgers, they are fearless, clever, and endlessly entertaining.
5
medium
2/5
A strikingly beautiful sled dog with wolf-like features and boundless energy. Siberian Huskies are independent, mischievous, and need an experienced owner who can keep up with their adventurous spirit.
6
small
2/5
The world's smallest dog breed with the biggest attitude. Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their chosen person and pack enormous personality into their tiny frame.
7
large
2/5
A large, powerful breed from Japan with unshakable loyalty and a noble bearing. Akitas are quiet, dignified, and deeply devoted to their families but wary of strangers.
8
medium
2/5
Droopy-eyed, long-eared, and impossibly charming, the Basset Hound is a low-key companion with one of the best noses in the dog world. They are patient, gentle, and stubbornly lovable.
9
large
2/5
The world's greatest tracking dog with a nose that can follow a scent trail for miles. Bloodhounds are gentle, patient, and deeply affectionate but incredibly stubborn when on a trail.
10
giant
2/5
A majestic, calm guardian originally bred to protect livestock in the Pyrenees mountains. Great Pyrenees are gentle with family but naturally wary of threats, with a thick white coat built for cold weather.
11
medium
2/5
A deeply wrinkled, fiercely loyal breed originally used for guarding and fighting in ancient China. Shar-Peis are calm and independent, devoted to their family but aloof with strangers.
12
large
2/5
A powerful, heavy-boned sled dog built for endurance in harsh Arctic conditions. Alaskan Malamutes are affectionate and loyal but strong-willed, requiring firm leadership and lots of exercise.
13
medium
2/5
An ancient, lion-maned breed famous for its blue-black tongue and dignified bearing. Chow Chows are deeply loyal to their owners but reserved and territorial, making them excellent watchdogs.
14
small
2/5
An ancient sentinel breed from Tibetan monasteries, known for its floor-length coat and keen hearing. Lhasa Apsos are hardy little watchdogs with a regal, independent personality.
15
small
2/5
A dignified, independent terrier with a distinctive beard and eyebrows. Scotties are bold and spirited despite their small size, known for unwavering loyalty and a confident strut.
16
giant
2/5
A massive, powerful livestock guardian with roots in ancient Turkey. Anatolian Shepherds are fiercely territorial and independent, built to protect flocks from predators without human direction.
17
giant
2/5
An ancient guardian breed from the Himalayan highlands with a thick, lion-like mane. Tibetan Mastiffs are fiercely protective, independent thinkers that take their duty as family guardians seriously.
18
large
2/5
A graceful Russian sighthound once used by aristocrats to hunt wolves. Borzois are quiet, gentle, and cat-like indoors, but capable of explosive speed when running in open fields.
19
small
3/5
A playful, adaptable companion with bat-like ears and a charming personality. French Bulldogs thrive in city apartments and make excellent companions for singles and families alike.
20
small
3/5
Merry, curious, and always following their nose, Beagles are compact hounds with big personalities. They are wonderful family dogs who get along well with kids and other pets.
21
small
3/5
A tiny terrier with a huge personality, the Yorkshire Terrier is a spirited, glamorous companion. Despite their small size, Yorkies are bold, confident, and make excellent watchdogs.
22
large
3/5
Fun-loving, bright, and endlessly energetic, the Boxer is a muscular athlete that never seems to grow up. They are devoted family guardians with a playful, clownish streak.
23
giant
3/5
The gentle giant of the dog world, Great Danes combine massive size with a sweet, patient temperament. Despite standing up to 32 inches tall, they are affectionate couch companions at heart.
24
small
3/5
An ancient royal companion bred for Chinese emperors, the Shih Tzu is a charming, outgoing lap dog. They are affectionate with everyone they meet and thrive on human companionship.
25
small
3/5
A tiny ball of fluff with a fox-like face and outsized confidence. Pomeranians are lively, curious, and surprisingly bold, making them spirited companions for city dwellers.
26
small
3/5
A charming, mischievous companion with an expressive wrinkled face. Pugs are natural comedians who live to love and be loved, making them perfect lap dogs for anyone.
27
small
3/5
An aristocratic toy breed with a flowing white coat and gentle, playful personality. The Maltese has been a cherished lap dog for millennia and is surprisingly spirited for its tiny size.
28
small
3/5
A confident, plucky little terrier with a bright white coat and mischievous dark eyes. Westies are loyal, entertaining companions with a sturdy build and independent streak.
29
large
3/5
A dignified, athletic hound originally bred to track lions in Africa. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are quiet, powerful, and fiercely loyal, with a distinctive ridge of hair along their back.
30
giant
3/5
A massive, gentle rescue dog from the Swiss Alps with a heart as big as its body. Saint Bernards are patient, friendly, and wonderful with children despite their enormous size.
31
medium
3/5
Instantly recognizable by their egg-shaped head, Bull Terriers are muscular, mischievous, and full of personality. They are clownish, stubborn, and endlessly entertaining companions.
32
medium
3/5
A happy, friendly terrier with a distinctive silky wheaten coat. Wheatens are exuberant greeters known for their 'Wheaten welcome' — jumping up to say hello with boundless enthusiasm.
33
large
3/5
An iconic spotted athlete originally bred to run alongside carriages. Dalmatians are high-energy, playful dogs that thrive with active families and need plenty of daily exercise.
34
large
3/5
A shaggy, bear-like herding dog with a distinctive shuffling gait and a booming bark. Old English Sheepdogs are gentle, playful clowns that adore children and family life.
35
small
3/5
A miniature sighthound with the elegance of a Greyhound in a toy-sized package. Italian Greyhounds are affectionate lap dogs that love to sprint, cuddle, and bask in warm sunlight.
36
small
3/5
A scrappy, cheerful little terrier made famous as Toto in The Wizard of Oz. Cairn Terriers are curious, hardy explorers with a big personality packed into a compact frame.
37
giant
3/5
The tallest of all dog breeds, this gentle giant was originally bred to hunt wolves. Irish Wolfhounds are serene, courageous, and deeply devoted, combining imposing size with a sweet temperament.
38
medium
3/5
A muscular, stocky terrier nicknamed the "nanny dog" for its exceptional love of children. Staffies are brave, tenacious, and surprisingly gentle — one of the most people-oriented terrier breeds.
39
small
3/5
A dainty, aristocratic toy breed with a cat-like personality. Japanese Chin are elegant, charming lap dogs that were treasured by Japanese royalty for centuries.
40
medium
3/5
A bold, hardy Nordic breed that has hunted moose and bears for thousands of years. Norwegian Elkhounds are loyal, confident dogs with a silver-gray coat built for Scandinavian winters.
41
small
3/5
A tiny, almost human-faced toy dog with enormous expressive eyes and a bold personality. Brussels Griffons are confident, loyal companions that bond intensely with their favorite person.
42
medium
3/5
An all-purpose Irish farm dog with a distinctive soft, wavy blue-gray coat that doesn't shed. Kerry Blues are spirited, people-oriented terriers that excel at everything from herding to companionship.
43
medium
3/5
The national dog of Finland, a fox-like spitz breed famous for its bark-pointing hunting style. Finnish Spitz are lively, friendly dogs with a stunning golden-red coat and an unmistakable yodel-like bark.
44
large
3/5
An ancient, deer-like sighthound from the Balearic Islands with enormous upright ears. Ibizan Hounds are elegant, athletic dogs known for their incredible jumping ability and playful, even-tempered nature.
45
medium
3/5
The heaviest of all spaniels, with a low-slung, dignified build and a gentle disposition. Clumber Spaniels are loyal, easy-going sporting dogs that work methodically in the field and relax happily at home.
46
small
3/5
A dainty, domed-headed royal lapdog with a pushed-in face and silky coat. English Toy Spaniels are quiet, gentle companions that were favored by King Charles II and remain devoted couch companions today.
47
medium
3/5
An ancient, natural breed from the Middle East that survived for centuries as a free-roaming desert dog. Canaan Dogs are highly alert, agile, and intelligent, bonding closely with family while staying wary of strangers.
48
medium
3/5
A sturdy, dwarf-legged terrier from a remote Irish valley, bred for silent, tenacious badger hunting. Glens are gentler and quieter than most terriers, with a strong work ethic and a calm home presence.
49
medium
3/5
Not a true terrier but a Tibetan holy dog once kept as good luck charms in monasteries. Tibetan Terriers are affectionate, sensitive companions with snowshoe-like flat feet and a profuse, protective coat.
50
large
4/5
A powerful and confident guardian, the Rottweiler is deeply loyal and protective of its family. With proper training and socialization, they are calm, obedient, and surprisingly affectionate.
51
small
4/5
Low-set and sturdy with an endearingly foxy face, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a surprisingly athletic herding dog. Known for their intelligence, affection, and big personality in a small package.
52
small
4/5
The ultimate lap dog, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is gentle, graceful, and endlessly affectionate. They adapt to any living situation and bond deeply with their owners.
53
small
4/5
A spirited, obedient little dog with a distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows. Miniature Schnauzers are alert, spunky companions that adapt well to both city and country life.
54
large
4/5
A stunningly beautiful, gentle giant from the Swiss Alps. Bernese Mountain Dogs are calm, strong, and deeply devoted to their families, though their short lifespan is a known heartbreak.
55
small
4/5
Cuba's national treasure, the Havanese is a cheerful, silky-coated companion that wins hearts everywhere. They are outgoing, funny, and thrive on human attention.
56
large
4/5
A majestic Italian mastiff with an imposing presence and unwavering loyalty. The Cane Corso is a natural protector that bonds deeply with its family and requires experienced handling.
57
medium
4/5
A happy, gentle sporting dog with silky ears and expressive eyes. Cocker Spaniels are joyful companions that love to play and make wonderful family pets.
58
large
4/5
Known as the 'Gray Ghost' for their distinctive silver coat, the Weimaraner is a graceful, athletic hunting dog. They are highly energetic, intelligent, and deeply attached to their families.
59
medium
4/5
A tough, tireless herding dog built for the Australian outback. Australian Cattle Dogs are incredibly loyal, intelligent, and need a job to stay happy and well-behaved.
60
small
4/5
Nicknamed 'The American Gentleman' for their tuxedo-like markings, Boston Terriers are friendly, lively, and endlessly entertaining. They are compact, well-mannered city dogs.
61
small
4/5
A cheerful, puffy white powder puff of a dog with an irresistible personality. Bichon Frises are hypoallergenic, joyful, and get along with everyone they meet.
62
medium
4/5
A merry, affectionate sporting dog with a silky coat and perpetually wagging tail. English Cocker Spaniels are compact, athletic, and love both field work and family time.
63
giant
4/5
A sweet-natured giant bred for water rescue, the Newfoundland is often called a 'nanny dog' for their exceptional gentleness with children. They are strong swimmers and devoted family protectors.
64
large
4/5
A stunning, flame-coated sporting dog known for grace and boundless enthusiasm. Irish Setters are outgoing, sweet-natured family dogs that love long runs and outdoor adventures.
65
large
4/5
The "King of Terriers" is the largest terrier breed, known for versatility and courage. Airedales are intelligent, playful dogs that excel in obedience and make loyal family companions.
66
medium
4/5
A muscular, confident terrier with a broad head and a heart full of affection. AmStaffs are loyal, people-oriented dogs that are courageous yet gentle, especially with children they know.
67
small
4/5
A plucky, good-natured terrier bred to keep up with foxhounds on the English-Scottish border. Border Terriers are affectionate, easy-going family dogs with a wiry, low-maintenance coat.
68
large
4/5
An elegant, gentle sporting dog with a speckled "belton" coat and a natural love of the field. English Setters are mellow, sweet-tempered companions who thrive with active families.
69
medium
4/5
A plush, fox-like spitz breed with distinctive "spectacles" markings around the eyes. Keeshonden are outgoing, affectionate family dogs known for their expressive faces and love of people.
70
large
4/5
The largest and most powerful of the setter breeds, with a striking black and tan coat. Gordon Setters are devoted, confident bird dogs that bond deeply with their owners and need vigorous daily exercise.
71
giant
4/5
A powerful, imposing working dog and the largest of the three schnauzer breeds. Giant Schnauzers are spirited, intelligent guardians that demand an active lifestyle and firm, consistent training.
72
large
4/5
The eternal puppy of the retriever world — joyful, exuberant, and slow to mature. Flat-Coated Retrievers are enthusiastic sporting dogs that bring boundless optimism to everything they do.
73
medium
4/5
The older and tailed cousin of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, with ancient Celtic origins. Cardigans are loyal, adaptable herders with a long body, big ears, and a surprisingly athletic build.
74
small
4/5
A charming, cotton-coated companion from Madagascar, known for its clownish personality and habit of walking on hind legs. Cotons are happy, easy-going dogs that thrive on human companionship.
75
giant
4/5
A lion-like gentle giant bred in Germany to resemble the city crest of Leonberg. Leonbergers are patient, loving family dogs with a calm confidence, a waterproof coat, and webbed feet for swimming.
76
large
4/5
A powerful, rugged herding dog from the farmlands of Flanders, with a shaggy beard and commanding presence. Bouviers are calm, intelligent, and deeply loyal — equally capable as family dogs and working guardians.
77
large
4/5
A large, shaggy French herding dog with a heart of gold beneath its impressive coat. Briards are intelligent, loyal protectors that have served as war dogs, herders, and devoted family companions for centuries.
78
small
4/5
One of the smallest working terriers, with upright ears and a fearless spirit. Norwich Terriers are affectionate, sociable, and adaptable — equally happy on a country walk or a city apartment.
79
large
4/5
The tallest of all spaniels, with a distinctive curly liver coat and a rat-like tail. Irish Water Spaniels are hardworking retrievers with a clownish sense of humor and a natural love of water.
80
small
4/5
A sturdy, low-set working terrier developed in Australia for pest control and companionship. Aussie Terriers are spirited, affectionate, and surprisingly courageous for their small size.
81
medium
4/5
A lamb-like terrier with a curly, non-shedding coat that belies a bold, athletic spirit. Bedlington Terriers are graceful, charming companions that can sprint like a whippet and cuddle like a lap dog.
82
giant
4/5
A massive, Soviet-bred working dog designed for guarding and military work. Black Russian Terriers are confident, calm, and highly intelligent, combining power with a dignified, protective temperament.
83
medium
4/5
America's sweetheart sporting dog, with big soulful eyes and a luxurious silky coat. American Cockers are merry, gentle companions that adore children and make wonderful therapy dogs.
84
large
5/5
America's most beloved family dog, known for a friendly temperament and eager-to-please attitude. Labs excel at everything from hunting to therapy work and are incredibly versatile.
85
large
5/5
Friendly, reliable, and devoted, the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular family dogs in the world. They are eager to please and excel in obedience, agility, and as therapy dogs.
86
large
5/5
Courageous, confident, and incredibly intelligent, the German Shepherd is the world's premier working dog. They are fiercely loyal to their families and excel in police, military, and service roles.
87
medium
5/5
One of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Poodle combines elegance with athleticism. Their hypoallergenic curly coat and keen mind make them ideal for allergy sufferers who want a trainable companion.
88
large
5/5
An enthusiastic and versatile sporting dog built for endurance. German Shorthaired Pointers are tireless athletes who need an active owner to match their boundless energy.
89
medium
5/5
Strikingly beautiful and incredibly smart, the Australian Shepherd is a high-energy herding dog that thrives with an active family. They excel in agility, flyball, and any task that challenges their minds.
90
large
5/5
Sleek, powerful, and incredibly fast, the Doberman Pinscher is an elite guardian and companion. They are deeply loyal, fearless, and among the most intelligent of all dog breeds.
91
medium
5/5
A joyful, tireless sporting dog with soulful eyes and a wagging tail. English Springer Spaniels are eager to please, love the outdoors, and make wonderful active family companions.
92
small
5/5
A miniature Collie look-alike with exceptional intelligence and agility. Shelties are devoted, sensitive dogs that excel in obedience and agility competitions.
93
medium
5/5
A versatile, energetic bird dog with a sweet disposition. Brittanys are quick, agile, and eager to please, making them excellent hunting companions and active family dogs.
94
small
5/5
A compact, intelligent herding dog that packs all the drive and smarts of an Australian Shepherd into a smaller frame. They are loyal, versatile, and thrive with mental stimulation.
95
medium
5/5
Widely considered the most intelligent of all dog breeds, the Border Collie is a tireless herder with an intense work ethic. They need a job to do and an owner who can match their energy.
96
medium
5/5
A sleek, athletic Hungarian pointer known as the 'Velcro dog' for its intense bond with its owner. Vizslas are gentle, affectionate, and need plenty of exercise and human companionship.
97
medium
5/5
A popular Golden Retriever-Poodle cross combining the best of both breeds. Goldendoodles are friendly, intelligent, and often low-shedding, making them a top choice for allergy-conscious families.
98
medium
5/5
An athletic, water-loving working dog with a hypoallergenic curly coat. Portuguese Water Dogs are energetic, intelligent, and thrive with active families who love the outdoors.
99
large
5/5
An intense, athletic herding dog prized by police and military worldwide. Belgian Malinois are fiercely loyal and need experienced owners who can match their drive and energy.
100
large
5/5
An elegant, athletic Belgian herding dog with a rich mahogany coat and black mask. Tervurens are highly trainable, intensely bonded to their owners, and excel in obedience and agility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hardest dog breeds to train?
The top 5 hardest dog breeds to train are: 1. Basenji (1/5), 2. Afghan Hound (1/5), 3. Bulldog (2/5), 4. Dachshund (2/5), 5. Siberian Husky (2/5).
How are these breeds ranked?
Breeds are ranked by their trainability rating, from lowest to highest. Ratings are based on breed standard data and expert assessments.
More Rankings
Quietest Dog Breeds
Dogs ranked by how little they bark.
Loudest Dog Breeds
Dogs ranked by how much they bark.
Most Energetic Dog Breeds
Dogs ranked by energy level from highest to lowest.
Least Energetic Dog Breeds
Dogs ranked by energy level from lowest to highest.
Best Dog Breeds for Kids
Dogs ranked by how well they get along with children.
Easiest Dog Breeds to Train
Dogs ranked by trainability from easiest to hardest.