How to Train a Stubborn Dog: Pro Tips

Let’s face it—training a stubborn dog can be a serious test of patience. Ever feel like your dog’s giving you the side-eye while not sitting on command?

Yep, you’re not alone. But don’t worry; stubborn dogs aren’t impossible to train. You just need the right approach.

Ready to turn things around? Let’s get into it.

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Be Consistent (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)

If there’s one thing dogs need, it’s consistency. Stubborn dogs especially thrive on it. If one day you let them jump on the couch and the next day you scold them for it, they’ll have no idea what’s expected.

Pro Tip: Use the same commands every time. Stick with “sit,” “stay,” and “come” instead of switching up words. Dogs aren’t mind readers, so clarity is key.

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Consistency isn’t just about the commands you use. It’s about timing, too. If you reward your dog five minutes after they obey a command, they won’t make the connection. Immediate feedback is crucial.

Positive Reinforcement (AKA: Bribery Works)

Let’s be real—who doesn’t love a good bribe? Your stubborn dog isn’t ignoring you because they’re mean; they just need a good reason to listen. That’s where positive reinforcement comes in.

When your dog obeys, reward them immediately with something they love—whether that’s a treat, a toy, or a belly rub. It’s all about creating positive associations with good behavior.

Pro Tip: Make sure the rewards are high value. Some dogs will work for kibble, but others need something more exciting like bits of cheese or chicken. Find what motivates your dog.

Consistency in rewarding behavior is just as important. Don’t only give treats for “sit” on a Tuesday and then ignore them the rest of the week. Keep the rewards coming until the behavior sticks.

Keep Training Sessions Short and Sweet

Stubborn dogs have short attention spans, and long training sessions can feel like a drag—for both of you. After a few minutes, your dog will probably lose interest (and let’s be honest, so will you).

Pro Tip: Keep training sessions to 5-10 minutes. This way, your dog stays engaged, and you avoid burnout. Quality over quantity!

Make training fun! If it feels like a chore, your dog will pick up on that vibe. Use toys, play, or even a little game of chase to keep the energy light and positive.

Stay Patient (Easier Said Than Done)

Training a stubborn dog takes time. You might feel like you’re making zero progress some days, but don’t let that discourage you. Stay patient, and remember that even small victories are steps in the right direction.

Pro Tip: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps. If your dog isn’t mastering “stay” for 30 seconds, start with just 5. Celebrate those little wins!

Patience goes a long way in building a strong bond with your dog. It’s not just about the training—it’s about building trust.

Avoid Punishment (It Doesn’t Work Anyway)

Here’s the deal—punishing your dog for not obeying won’t teach them what you want. It’ll just make them scared or confused. Stubborn dogs, in particular, don’t respond well to negative reinforcement.

Pro Tip: Focus on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. Redirect their focus if they’re acting out, and always show them what to do, not what not to do.

Using punishment can actually make your dog more stubborn and resistant to learning. Keep it positive and encouraging!

Use Their Energy to Your Advantage

Stubborn dogs tend to be full of energy. Whether they’re high-energy by nature or just trying to burn off some frustration, use this energy to your advantage during training.

Pro Tip: Incorporate physical activity into training sessions. Make them fun and active, like practicing commands while playing fetch or going for a walk.

A well-exercised dog is usually more willing to focus and obey. Channeling that extra energy into something productive can make a huge difference.

Understand Your Dog’s Breed

Some dogs are just naturally more independent or stubborn. Breeds like Huskies, Beagles, and Dachshunds are notorious for doing things their own way. Understanding your dog’s breed and why they might be stubborn helps you tailor the training approach.

Pro Tip: Research your dog’s breed traits and adjust your expectations. For example, Beagles are scent-driven, so you might need to incorporate scent games into their training to keep them engaged.

Each breed has its quirks, so don’t expect a Husky to train the same way as a Labrador!

FAQs

Q: Why is my dog so stubborn during training?
A: Some breeds are naturally more independent, and dogs can be stubborn for various reasons—like boredom, lack of motivation, or confusion about what you want.

Q: How do I stay patient with a stubborn dog?
A: Break tasks into small steps, celebrate small wins, and remember that training takes time. Stay positive, and don’t be afraid to take breaks if you or your dog gets frustrated.

Q: Should I use treats all the time?
A: Treats are great for motivating stubborn dogs, especially at the start. Over time, you can phase them out and replace them with praise or playtime, so your dog doesn’t become dependent on treats alone.

Final Thoughts

Training a stubborn dog isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely possible with the right approach. Be patient, stay consistent, and use positive reinforcement to your advantage. Every dog can learn—it just takes time and effort. And remember, training is not just about teaching commands. It’s about building a strong bond of trust between you and your dog.

At the end of the day, even the most headstrong pup can become an obedient companion. Keep at it, and you’ll get there!

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