Stubborn Small Dog Breeds

There are many reasons to choose a small dog. And luckily there are many fabulous breeds to choose from. Yet there are some that can be more headstrong than others. This doesn’t mean they are any less amazing, but it’s something you’ll want to take into consideration. So here are some of the most stubborn small dog breeds.

Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is a high-spirited and feisty little breed that often acts like a much bigger dog than it really is. In fact, despite its small size, it makes an excellent watchdog. Like most stubborn dog breeds the Scottish Terrier is an independent thinker.

And it can be particularly headstrong during training. The breed is also very sensitive so while training needs to be consistent you should never punish or scold your Scottie during training sessions.

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier has a unique coat with markings that make it seem as if it’s wearing a tuxedo. These are clingy companion dogs that are very intelligent. And like many smart dogs, they are also stubborn. Because of this it usually takes them longer to learn commands and to train them than other dog breeds.

For example housetraining a stubborn Boston Terrier pup can take up to six months, so you will want to start as early as you can. With all types of training, you will want to be patient and give your Boston Terrier as much time as he needs to get it right.

Dachshund

The Dachshund has one of the most unique-looking body types of all dogs. It is both very low to the ground and also long. What actually makes the Dachshund stubborn is the fact that it was created to be extremely confident and think on its own when hunting.

It was originally used to hunt animals much larger than itself and specifically badgers which are known for being ferocious. Their stubbornness can make the early stages of training a bit challenging. That being said the breed is great with small children and is an excellent family dog.

Pug

The Pug has a distinct round head with a wrinkly flat face and large eyes. While they are small, many people are surprised to find out that Pug is actually in the toy group. These laid-back dogs make an ideal family pet. However, they are considered stubborn since they think for themselves and typically do whatever they feel is the best option for them at the moment.

Unfortunately, this may not coincide with what their owner would like them to do. Because of this, extra time and patience are needed when training this stubborn small dog breed. Reward-based training appeals to the Pug’s self-serving nature and often gets the best results.

Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is one of the Tibetan dog breeds. In the past, it was used as a watchdog in Tibetan monasteries. While this is a companion dog it is known for being headstrong.

What makes the Lhasa Apso stubborn is its independent nature and that it often simply isn’t motivated or interested in listening to commands. Like with other stubborn small dog breeds using treats and rewards during training can be a big help when you’d like to create an obedient and well-trained pet.

Corgi

The Corgi was created as a livestock herding dog. Therefore it is strong, sturdy, and thinks for itself. It likes to do things its own way. This breed is often considered to be a big dog but in a small package.

The Corgi will need firm and consistent training from an early age to make sure their stubbornness doesn’t cause a problem in the future. This lively and loyal breed comes in two types the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a dog with high intelligence and a ton of energy. It was created to hunt foxes and despite its small size has one of the strongest wills of any dog breed. The Jack Russell needs an owner that understands it is a hunting dog with a strong prey instinct that requires a lot of exercise. And when it comes to training the breed can be stubborn. Training should therefore include rewards and praise.

You may also want to make training sessions exciting to help keep the attention of a stubborn Jack Russell Terrier. Starting to train your puppy as early as possible is very important. And be sure to stay calm, assertive, and above all patient. Training a Jack Russell just takes longer than with other breeds. It’s something you’ll need to accept from the start when owning one.

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a small and compact breed with bat-like ears. It is a favorite for those who love wrinkly dog breeds and would like a pet that can easily live in an apartment or small space. Like its relative the English Bulldog, the Frenchie can also be quite stubborn.

Obedience classes can be a big help when it comes time to teach a young dog what is expected of him. When training at home, positive praise and rewards will work well with a stubborn French Bulldog. Always keep in mind that the breed is quite sensitive so keep things positive at all times.

Miniature Bull Terrier

Don’t be fooled the Miniature Bull Terrier is the same dog as the Bull Terrier. It’s just smaller in size. And that means it has all the same traits and characteristics including clownish behavior, the habit of getting up to mischief, and a very strong will.

This is one of the stubborn small dog breeds that are typically only recommended for dog owners with a lot of experience. However, once you do own one you may not want to own any other breed. Training a Mini Bull Terrier will test your patience, but making it fun by turning it into a game can help.

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