Some dogs pick up commands instantly—while others act like you’re speaking another language. If your dog ignores commands, walks away mid-training, or seems determined to do the opposite of what you ask, don’t worry. What we often call “stubborn” is usually a mix of confusion, excitement, lack of motivation, or inconsistent training.

The good news? Every dog—yes, every single one—can learn with the right strategy. This guide teaches you how to train a stubborn dog step-by-step, using techniques based on positive reinforcement, science-backed behavior training, and professional-level patience.

Understanding What “Stubborn” Really Means in Dogs

Why Dogs Seem Stubborn

Dogs rarely misbehave out of spite. Instead, they may be:

Overstimulated
Unmotivated
Confused about the command
Distracted by smells, sights, or sounds
Not properly trained in different environments
Lacking physical or mental stimulation

Learning Style Differences

Some breeds—like Huskies, Shiba Inus, and Terriers—are more independent. This doesn’t make them untrainable; it just means training must match their instincts.

Preparing for Training Before You Start

Choosing a Reward System

Find what motivates your dog the most:

High-value treats (cheese, chicken)
Tug toys
Squeaky toys
Praise and affection

A stubborn dog needs a reward worth working for.

Training Environment Setup

Start in:

A quiet room
A hallway
Your backyard

Zero distractions = faster learning.

Step-by-Step Training Method for Stubborn Dogs

This sequence builds understanding, focus, and long-term obedience.

Step 1 – Build Focus Using “Watch Me”

Strong training starts with attention.

How to teach it:

Hold a treat near your eyes.
Say “Watch me.”
When your dog makes eye contact—reward instantly.

Repeat daily for 3–5 minutes.

Step 2 – Teach Clear Marker Words

Marker words tell your dog the exact second they are correct.

Use:

“Yes!”
“Good!”
Or a clicker

Fast, consistent communication = better learning.

Step 3 – Master Basic Commands Indoors

Teach commands like:

Sit
Down
Stay
Come

Indoors first! Stubborn dogs fail when trained in busy environments too early.

Step 4 – Add Mild Distractions Slowly

When your dog succeeds indoors:

Add small distractions (toy on floor)
Practice in different rooms
Introduce low-noise environments

Never jump from quiet living rooms to busy parks immediately.

Step 5 – Increase Duration & Distance

Example:
Teach “Stay” for 1 second → 5 seconds → 10 seconds
Take 1 step back → 2 steps → 3 steps

This prevents failure and boosts reliability.

Step 6 – Train Outdoors With Leashed Control

Move to:

Backyard
Quiet street
Empty park

Keep training short and rewarding.

Step 7 – Generalize Commands Everywhere

Dogs don’t generalize well.
That means “Sit” indoors ≠ “Sit” outdoors.

Practice:

On walks
In parking lots
At pet-friendly stores

Soon, your stubborn dog responds everywhere.

How to Train Specific Behaviors in Stubborn Dogs

Teaching Sit & Stay

Lure with treat
Mark + reward
Add “Stay” with tiny increments
Always release with a cue (“Okay!”)

Teaching Come (Recall)

Use high-value rewards only.

Steps:

Say “Come!”
Use excited voice
Reward heavily
Never punish your dog after coming

Teaching Leave It

Impulse control reduces stubbornness dramatically.

Place treat under your hand
Dog tries to get it
When they back off—mark + reward
Add cue “Leave it”

Positive Reinforcement Techniques That Work Best

Reward Timing

Reward within 1 second of correct behavior.

Marker Words & Clickers

Clear, consistent messages = reliable behavior.

Treat Fading Strategy

Slowly reduce treats:

Week 1: reward every time
Week 2: reward every other time
Week 3: random rewards

This maintains motivation without dependence.

Tools That Help With Stubborn Dogs

Clickers

Perfect for marking exact behaviors.

Long Training Leashes

Helps with:

Recall
Distance training
Safe outdoor practice

No-Pull or Front-Clip Harness

Gives control without causing harm.

Fixing Common Problems During Training

Overexcitement

Solution:

Pre-walk play
Tug sessions
Puzzle toys

Release energy first, then train.

Fear-Based “Stubbornness”

Scared dogs freeze or flee.

Signs:

Tail tucked
Whale eye
Trembling

Use gentle encouragement, not pressure.

Motivation Issues

Try:

Higher value treats
Shorter sessions
Training before meals

Some dogs simply need a better reason.

Mental & Physical Exercise for Better Training Results

Daily Walks & Play

A tired dog = a focused dog.

Puzzle Toys & Nose Work

Mental stimulation is key for intelligent breeds.

Short Training Sessions

Sessions should last:

Puppies: 2–3 minutes
Adults: 5–8 minutes

Quality > quantity.

Breed Tendencies That Affect Training

Independent Breeds

Huskies
Shiba Inu
Akita
Basenji

Need more patience and high-value rewards.

Easily Distracted Breeds

Beagles
Coonhounds
Spaniels

Use structured environments and controlled exposure.

Mistakes Owners Make That Lead to Stubborn Behavior

Repeating Commands Too Often

Saying “Sit, sit, sit!” confuses dogs.

Training Too Long

Dogs lose focus and become resistant.

Using Harsh Punishment

Breaks trust. Increases fear. Slows learning.

Stick to positive reinforcement.

Also check: How to Train Your Dog to Stop Pulling During Walks

When to Call a Professional Trainer

Behavioral Red Flags

Seek help if your dog shows:

Aggression
Fear-based reactivity
Severe resource guarding
Inability to focus at all

Benefits of a Certified Trainer

They can:

Identify hidden triggers
Build personalized plans
Accelerate results

FAQs

1. Can older dogs be trained even if they’re stubborn?
Yes! Age does not stop learning.

2. How long will it take to fix stubborn behavior?
2–8 weeks with consistency.

3. Should I use punishment?
No—positive reinforcement works better and builds trust.

4. Why does my dog listen at home but not outside?
They haven’t generalized the command yet.

5. How many training sessions per day?
2–3 short sessions work best.

6. Do certain breeds require different techniques?
Yes—independent breeds need more motivation.

Conclusion

Training a stubborn dog takes patience, structure, and the right mindset—but it’s absolutely achievable. When you understand your dog’s motivations, use the right tools, and follow a calm, step-by-step training plan, your dog will grow more responsive, confident, and well-behaved.

You don’t need harsh methods—just consistency, clear communication, and positive reinforcement.

A well-trained dog is not just obedient—they’re happier, calmer, and more connected to you.