Some dogs seem born to please. Others? Not so much. If you’ve ever found yourself pleading, negotiating, or straight-up bribing your dog to follow a command, you’re not alone. Training a stubborn dog can test your patience in ways you didn’t think possible. But the good news? It can be done without losing your mind in the process.
Understand Where the Stubbornness Comes From
Before you label your dog as “difficult,” take a moment to consider why they might be resisting. Not all stubborn dogs are being defiant. Some are confused, anxious, or distracted. Others are incredibly smart and simply bored of repetitive commands. Certain breeds, like Huskies or Bulldogs, are also genetically wired to be more independent thinkers.
Understanding your dog’s personality and natural tendencies is the first step to adjusting your approach and setting realistic expectations.
Keep Training Sessions Short but Consistent
You don’t need to spend hours working on sit and stay. In fact, your dog might tune out if you do. Instead, aim for 5- to 10-minute training sessions, a few times a day. The key is consistency. A short session every day will yield better results than a long one once a week.
Make it a part of your routine, like brushing your teeth. Dogs thrive on structure, and repeating commands in familiar settings helps solidify learning.
Use High-Value Rewards
Let’s face it, dry kibble just doesn’t cut it for some dogs. If your pup is turning their nose up at your treats, you may need to up your game. Try tiny bits of cheese, cooked chicken, or even a lick of peanut butter (just make sure it’s xylitol-free). The reward should be so irresistible that your dog is eager to work for it.
And don’t forget the power of praise and play. Some dogs light up with a “Good job!” or a quick game of tug more than they do with food.
Avoid Power Struggles
It’s easy to get frustrated when your dog acts like you’re invisible. But yelling, punishing, or yanking the leash usually backfires. Training isn’t about domination, it’s about communication. If your dog is ignoring a command, take a step back and ask: Is the environment too distracting? Are they tired, hungry, or scared? Adjust accordingly.
Sometimes, walking away and resetting later is the smartest move.
Make Learning Fun
Training doesn’t have to feel like boot camp. Turn it into a game. Hide treats around the house and let your dog “find it.” Teach tricks that make both of you laugh, like “spin” or “high five.” The more enjoyable the experience, the more your dog will want to participate.
A stubborn dog doesn’t mean a bad dog. It just means they need a different kind of approach, one that’s patient, creative, and kind.
Celebrate the Small Wins
Progress might be slow, but it’s happening. Your dog finally came when called? That’s a win. They sat after the third try instead of the fifth? Also a win. Take a moment to acknowledge these steps forward. Training a stubborn dog takes time, and every small success is building a stronger bond between you and your furry friend.
It’s okay to feel frustrated. It’s okay to take breaks. And it’s okay to laugh at the absurdity of it all. At the end of the day, training your dog—no matter how stubborn—should be a journey that strengthens your connection. Keep showing up. Keep trying. And remember: you’re doing better than you think.
