Training a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences for owners, but if your dog is a bit stubborn it can feel like an uphill battle. Stubborn dogs—often breeds like Bulldogs, Huskies, or Terriers—aren’t necessarily disobedient; they might just be independent dogs who need a tailored approach. The good news? With the right strategies even the most independent and/or stubborn dog can learn new tricks. Today I’ll share five practical tips to help you train your stubborn dog.
And remember — stubborn dogs aren’t bad dogs, they’re some of the best (and cheekiest) dogs I know. Like us our dogs all have unique personalities, and sometimes that just requires a slightly different approach to training.
Use Positive Reinforcement Consistently
Dogs, even stubborn and independent ones, respond best to rewards rather than punishment. Instead of scolding for bad behavior remember to focus on using praise and treats for good actions.
For example, if your dog ignores the “sit” command wait patiently and reward them the moment they comply. High-value treats like small pieces of chicken or cheese can motivate even the most reluctant learners. Consistency is key—everyone in the household must use the same commands and rewards to avoid confusion. Over time, this builds trust and makes training feel like a game rather than a chore.
Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun
Long training sessions can bore or frustrate any dog, especially young and stubborn ones. You should aim for several 5-10 minute training sessions a few times a day to keep your dog’s attention.
And don’t forget to incorporate play, like using toys or games, to keep things engaging and fun. If your dog loves fetch, teach your dog the “drop it” command to kill two birds with one stone, teaching them a practical cue while making a game of it. This approach will use your dog’s natural excitement and energy for interactive play while preventing burnout.
And remember — ending on a positive note reinforces success and leaves them eager for the next session.
Establish A Routine
Stubborn dogs thrive on structure. Set a daily routine for meals, walks, and playtime to establish what’s expected of your dog at any given time. It’s an easy way to teach good manners while feeling natural, letting them develop good behaviors on a consistent basis. A predictable environment reduces anxiety and makes them more receptive to commands.
Use tools like leashes or crates to guide behavior gently. For instance, if your dog pulls on walks, stop moving until they relax—this teaches patience. Another favorite tip of mine is to use snuffle mats or interactive toys to have your dog “work” for their meals versus free feeding. It may sound weird, but scavenging is on our dogs DNA, so it hones in on their natural abilities and gives them plenty of mental stimulation.
Address Underlying Issues
Sometimes a dog may lose interest or become stubborn from boredom, lack of exercise, or even health problems. Ensure your dog gets plenty of physical and mental stimulation through puzzle toys, agility courses, or scent work games. If the behavior persists consult your vet to rule out health issues that may be contributing to your dog’s lack of interest.
Breeds with high intelligence like Border Collies can act out and become destructive if under-stimulated. Tailoring activities to their natural instincts can turn a “stubborn” dog into an enthusiastic trainee. For example, high prey dogs will probably love playing with a flirt pole, and it helps them burn off a tun of energy. Not all dogs can go with one walk a day to fulfill their exercise demands, some will need additional activities throughout the day.
Be Patient and Seek Professional Help if Needed
Patience is your greatest ally when it comes to dog training. Stubborn dogs may take longer to learn, but rushing can lead to setbacks. Remember to celebrate small wins and avoid frustration. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a well trained dog.
If progress stalls and you’re at a complete loss consider a professional trainer or behaviorist who specializes in positive methods. There’s nothing wrong with asking for help, especially when it comes to something as complicated as dog training since there’s so many methods available.
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