Top Dog Breeds with Problematic Behaviors that are Hard to Train

Training a dog ranks among the most fulfilling experiences that pet owners have. Not all breeds are the same when receiving training. While some puppies learn commands in no time, the others may not pick them fast, being stubborn, independent, or slow in learning. That does not mean they are dumb or unsympathetic; it just means a bit more patience, consistency, and effort in the training process. In this article, we shall discuss five dog breeds known to exemplify problematic behaviors in trainings.

1. Afghan Hound

Dog breeds of Afghan Hounds are really dignified-looking with flowing and long coats. Many describe Afghan Hounds as independent and aloof, though they are very intelligent. All the same, their stubborn nature makes them hard to train. It has a mind of its own and often finds itself quite interested in doing what it wants, rather than what it is asked to do. Afghan Hounds were bred primarily to hunt, and their instinctual prey drive will always run high, making them easily distracted. Training is not an easy task, since these dogs are not that eager to please their masters. Short, positive training sessions with a lot of rewards are the key to this breed.

2. Basenji

Basenjis are some of the most beautiful, elegant dogs you have ever seen. They have a rather unusual yodel-like bark that comes from their otherwise remarkably different vocal cords. However, independent and cat-like personalities can sometimes make them untrainable. Basenjis are highly intelligent but have a strong sense of autonomy, and they will often ignore commands if they don't feel like listening. They are also notorious escape artists, so a major concern that needs to be entertained is how to train them to stay safe. Positive reinforcement, along with mental stimulation and games that challenge their intellect, works best for this breed.

3. Chow Chow

Chow Chows have become famous for their lion-like mane and proud demeanor, but because they are such a strong-willed animal, they rank as one of the harder breeds to train. Often described as being very cat-like, Chow Chows are independent and aloof, preferring to do things on their own terms. Their stubborn nature can be very challenging for first-time owners as they only do what they want to do and refuse to comply with commands unless given the right incentives. Socialization and early training are necessary for this breed to prevent behavioral problems. Reward-based and repetition are encouraged as harsh training may trigger aggression or aloofness.

4. Bulldog

The bulldog may be full of adorableness in their wrinkly faces and boxy body, but they can sure be very stubborn to train. Unfortunately, their sweet disposition goes hand in hand with stubbornness and laziness. Bulldogs are lazier than any other breed, and more than most other breeds, they often require a bit of coaxing to wake up and move, to say nothing of learning a new command. Their independent nature has the tendency to disagree with authority, and they follow commands more on whim rather than cue. It requires short training sessions, loads of patience, and good reinforcement in order to make it through this breed.

5. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs, feisty and clever. As much as they are bred to hunt, they have high prey drives and can be distracted easily by mere movements. With smartness comes rapid learning; yet this only makes them more unpredictable as well, thereby making the training a test of patience. The Jack Russell is very obstinate and constant energy does not help calm them down for some instructional sessions. They survive on mental stimulation; thus interactive teaching is used in keeping attention fixed on the subject.

While the breeds mentioned here can be tough, it's also key to know that every dog is an individual; and with the right approach, any breed can get trained. Being patient, consistent, and sticking to positive reinforcement are key factors that help to overcome the challenges that breed poses regarding unique behavioral characteristics. The owners of these dogs, who are willing to put in time and effort with them, can help transform even the most unruly into respectful companions.