There’s no doubt that dogs are intelligent and sentient beings. But each breed is unique and can be distinguished by its discrete personality traits, temperaments, and emotional needs. While some dogs are easy-going and obedient, some others are fiercely independent.
Why are some dogs more stubborn than others? A combination of factors including genetic predisposition, improper training, and purpose of breeding make some dogs discernibly stubborn. If you’re looking to bring a dog home, here are some of the most stubborn dog breeds that are otherwise spectacular, inside and out.

Siberian Husky
Don’t let the wild looks scare you. Siberian Huskies are one of the friendliest dogs you can ever have as pets. But they are also one of the most stubborn dog breeds to ever exist.
Known to be social and great with kids and other dogs, Siberian Huskies are way too smart and clever to be tamed.
If trained well when young, Huskies can learn good manners and basic obedience. They socialize really well. So it’s nice to have them around until you want to train them or make them do something they don’t want to.
Fun Fact: Remember Togo, the sled dog? He was a real-life Siberian Husky who ran the sled like a total alpha of the pack. But he was also difficult, notorious, and stubborn. That is pretty much every Siberian Husky in a nutshell.
Also Read: Calmest Dog Breeds
Chihuahua
Cute and tiny, you cannot possibly fathom just how stubborn Chihuahuas are. This breed has an attitude that is admirable and annoying at the same time. They just do their own thing and never take no for an answer.
They are charmingly lazy while often being fiery and sassy. So, training a Chihuahua can be tiresome. Some pet parents prefer taking help from an experienced and professional dog trainer to help with their pet. They also tend to get aggressive and snappy if they’re not trained well.
Besides the doggedness, Chihuahuas are also protective by nature and will do what it takes to keep their humans out of harm’s way. While their headstrong personality is admirable, this dog breed isn’t an ideal choice for first-time pet parents. This is especially true of families with toddlers.

Without a reward, it’s tough to persuade them into behaving a certain way. They aren’t picky eaters but because of their adamant nature, continue to stick to their own ways.
On the upside, Beagles are low-maintenance dogs that make for great companions, even in an apartment or around little children.
Read More: Pros and Cons of Owning a Beagle

Shiba Inu
This Japanese dog breed appears almost as a stuffed teddy bear comes to life. But in reality, Shiba Inus are strong-headed and like to dominate. They are also relentlessly independent creatures. It’s hard to mold them behaviorally.
If you want to adopt a Shiba Inu, you need to prepare yourself for a hardcore training period. Without proper training, this dog breed can also get aggressive and can be difficult to communicate with.
These stubborn dogs need a lot of patience and training. Starting their obedience training from a young age is the best way to go.

Dalmatian
If you’ve ever watched Disney’s 101 Dalmatians, you’d agree that these spotted beauties are unique creatures. They are cheerful and friendly but training a Dalmatian is a tricky business. They are innately stubborn.
Dalmatians have strong, individualistic personalities, so it’s best to have a pet trainer when they’re growing up.
With plenty of exercise and mentally stimulating activities, Dalmatians make great family dogs. They hate feeling bored. Living with a Dalmatian means that you’re always on an adventure.

English Bulldog
The all-time “couch potato” breed, English Bulldogs are naturally lazy. For pet owners who aren’t into dog training, English Bulldogs can be extremely easygoing. Their stubbornness doesn’t inspire them to do much.
You can always give them basic obedience training but you can’t really play fetch with your English Bulldog. This dog breed has a mind of its own. So if you’re trying to teach it tricks, it’s most likely that you won’t succeed.
Despite their grumpy looks, English Bulldogs are calm and amazing with children.

Dachshund
Popularly known as “sausage dogs”, Dachshunds are one of the most stubborn dog breeds in the world. They enjoy their own worlds and would rather play around than obey your commands.
As they are small and short, Dachshunds tend to be nervous most of the time. This is another reason why they bark a lot.
Perfectly suited for apartment life, Dachshunds are great for families with children. The lack of early training can make Dachshunds snappy and unpredictable.

Much like children, pet dogs grow up to be who they’re brought up to be. Some of the most fierce dogs can also be soft and nurturing if they are brought up in a holistic and caring environment.
No matter the temperament of the dog, with proper training, ample love, and consistent efforts, even the most stubborn dog breeds’ behaviors can change for the better.
Tough or not, dogs are wonderful for so many reasons. They deserve to be celebrated and loved in all their uniqueness.