Health & Diet
15 Dog Breeds That Will Seriously Test Your Patience
Dogs are loyal, loving, and usually pretty easy to forgive. But some breeds? They’ll have you questioning your sanity one minute and laughing the next. Whether it’s their stubborn streak, boundless energy, or constant need for attention, these pups are guaranteed to try your patience at times.
Here are 15 dog breeds that are total handfuls—but also totally worth it (most days).
1. Jack Russell Terrier
Small but mighty, Jack Russells are absolute firecrackers. They’ve got enough energy to power a small city and a will of steel. Training them takes consistency and creativity—they’ll outwit you if you’re not careful. If you’re not giving them a job to do, they’ll invent one (like dismantling your sofa).
2. Siberian Husky
Huskies are stunning, silly, and so much work. They’re escape artists, drama queens, and expert howlers. They have endless energy and love to “talk back.” You’ll need patience, a sense of humor, and a solid fence to keep up with one of these winter-loving wild things.
3. Beagle
Beagles are ruled by their noses, not by your rules. If they catch a scent, they’re off—commands be damned. They’re adorable, social, and great with families, but don’t expect instant obedience. They also bark. A lot. Especially when bored or left alone.
4. Dalmatian
Behind that spotted coat is a dog with strong opinions and a whole lot of energy. Dalmatians are prone to destructive behavior if not properly exercised and mentally stimulated. They can also be stubborn and aloof, so early training and lots of patience are essential.
5. Chihuahua
They may be tiny, but Chihuahuas are packed with personality—and they know it. These feisty little dogs often think they run the show. They’re notorious for being territorial, vocal, and a bit too brave for their size. You’ll spend a lot of time reminding them they’re not 80 pounds.
6. Afghan Hound
Afghans are elegant and aloof—and completely uninterested in impressing you. They’re independent to the core, making training a test of your persistence. They also require lots of grooming, so between brushing sessions and selective listening, you’ll need a deep well of patience.
7. Dachshund
Dachshunds are stubborn with a capital S. Bred to hunt badgers, they’ve got strong prey drives and even stronger opinions. Potty training can be a challenge, and they’ll often do things on their terms. But with consistency (and a few treats), they’ll come around… eventually.
8. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is the cat of the dog world—aloof, proud, and often unbothered by your commands. They’re incredibly smart but love to do things their own way. And don’t even try brushing them when they’re not in the mood—they’re famous for the “Shiba scream.”
9. Weimaraner
These sleek, silver-coated dogs are beautiful athletes, but they’re needy. Weimaraners suffer from serious separation anxiety and hate being left alone. They’re also incredibly strong-willed and require firm training and loads of daily exercise. They’ll test your endurance—and your furniture.
10. Bulldog
Bulldogs may not be energetic, but they can be ridiculously stubborn. Ask one to move when they don’t want to? Good luck. They’re also prone to health issues that require extra care. Between the snoring, the drooling, and the digging in of heels, you’ll need a lot of love (and patience).
11. Australian Cattle Dog
These working dogs are sharp as a tack and bursting with energy—but that brain needs something to do. If left bored, they’ll chew, dig, nip, or outsmart you in new and exciting ways. They’re not for the faint-hearted, but with the right outlet, they’re incredible companions.
12. Lhasa Apso
Don’t let their fluffy coat fool you—Lhasas are stubborn, independent, and often suspicious of strangers. They have a bit of a diva streak and require regular grooming, too. Training one takes time and gentle persistence (and ideally, some bribery in the form of treats).
13. Fox Terrier
Fox Terriers are bold, curious, and relentlessly active. They’re constantly looking for something to chase, chew, or dig up. Their energy and independence mean you’ll spend a lot of time managing mischief. But they’re also wildly entertaining and loyal once they settle.
14. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are sweet and loving—but they can also be high-strung and needy. They’re prone to separation anxiety and require consistent grooming. Their sensitivity means they don’t respond well to harsh correction, so training takes patience, kindness, and the occasional deep breath.
15. Boxer
Boxers are goofy, playful, and full of personality. But they’re also big, strong, and slow to mature. Think of them as giant toddlers who stay in the “zoomies and destruction” phase for a while. They need lots of exercise and socialization—or they’ll bounce off the walls (and your guests).
Amanda O’Brien is the owner of The Dog Snobs website. She is dog mad and dog aunt to Clover in London and Poppy in Sydney. She can’t wait to have a schedule that allows her to have a dog of her own (for now it is two Siberian cats) and loves learning about dog breeds and dog behavior.