how to train a stubborn puppy

Learning how to train a stubborn puppy can feel like trying to reason with a tiny, furry tornado. If your pup constantly ignores commands, resists leash training, or gives you that classic “you’re not the boss of me” attitude—don’t panic. You’re not alone, and more importantly, you’re not out of options. With the right techniques, a calm mindset, and consistent effort, even the most strong-willed puppy can transform into a well-behaved, loyal companion.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the proven, science-backed methods that work with stubborn puppies—step by step.

Table of Contents

Understanding Puppy Stubbornness

What Does “Stubborn” Really Mean in Dogs?

“Stubborn” in dog training typically refers to a pup who resists learning, refuses to obey, or shows disinterest in training. But here’s the truth: stubbornness is often a sign of confusion, lack of motivation, or mismatched communication styles.

Common Breeds Known for Stubbornness

Certain breeds are genetically more independent. These include:

Beagles
Bulldogs
Dachshunds
Shiba Inus
Terriers

While these breeds may seem defiant, they simply require tailored training approaches.

Signs of a Stubborn Puppy

Ignoring commands repeatedly
Walking away during training
Only responding when treats are visible
Reacting defiantly or with hyperactivity

Understanding that stubborn behavior often stems from poor communication can help shift your training style.

Why Early Training is Crucial

Behavioral Issues That Can Worsen Over Time

If left untrained, behaviors like:

Jumping
Nipping
Barking excessively
Leash pulling

…can intensify with age and become harder to reverse.

Benefits of Starting Early

Early training:

Builds confidence
Teaches boundaries
Fosters mental stimulation
Establishes routines and expectations

Training Milestones by Age

Puppy Age	Key Training Focus
8–12 weeks	Crate training, name recall
12–16 weeks	Basic commands, potty training
4–6 months	Leash training, socialization
6+ months	Problem-solving, advanced commands

Preparing Your Mindset First

Patience is Key

Rome wasn’t built in a day—neither is a well-behaved pup. Training requires consistency and composure, even when your dog tests limits.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Don’t expect miracles in one week. Set daily micro-goals like:

Today, he learns to “sit.”
Tomorrow, we reinforce “stay.”

Building Trust Before Training

Before a pup listens, they must trust you. Engage in bonding activities like:

Short, playful fetch games
Cuddle sessions
Grooming routines

These establish you as a safe, caring leader.

Creating the Right Environment

Puppy-Proofing Your Home

Remove temptations like:

Loose cords
Shoes
Trash bins
Limit their space with baby gates to prevent bad habits.

Choosing the Right Training Space

Quiet, distraction-free areas work best initially. Gradually increase distractions to build real-world obedience.

Tools You’ll Need

Treat pouch
Clicker (optional)
Training leash
Puzzle toys
Crate

Using Positive Reinforcement

Why Punishment Fails

Yelling or scolding builds fear—not respect. It can worsen behavior and erode trust.

Reward-Based Methods Explained

Reward behaviors you want to see repeated using:

Treats
Praise
Toys
Affection

Types of Rewards That Work

Reward Type	Best Use Case
High-value treats	Learning new skills
Praise & petting	Reinforcing known behaviors
Toys	Interactive sessions
Clicker	Precision marking of correct behavior

Establishing a Routine

The Power of Consistency

Dogs thrive on predictability. Consistent routines reinforce behavior and reduce anxiety.

Feeding and Potty Schedules

Feed at the same time daily, and take potty breaks:

After meals
After naps
Before bed
Every 2–3 hours for younger pups

When and Where to Train

Short, focused sessions:

5–10 minutes, 2–3x per day
Start indoors, then transition outdoors
Use same verbal cues consistently

Socialization as a Training Tool

The Link Between Socialization and Obedience

Well-socialized puppies are:

Less reactive
More adaptable
Easier to train

How to Introduce New People and Pets

Let your puppy observe first
Reward calm behavior
Avoid overwhelming environments

Dealing with Fear-Based Stubbornness

Sometimes, “stubborn” = “scared.” Use desensitization:

Expose gradually
Pair with rewards
Never force interaction

Basic Commands Every Puppy Must Learn

Sit, Stay, Come

“Sit” builds focus
“Stay” creates impulse control
“Come” is essential for safety

Leave It and Drop It

Prevents:

Eating toxic things
Holding onto stolen items

Recall Training for Safety

Start on a long leash:

Use excited tone
Reward BIG when they come

Advanced Training for Stubborn Puppies

Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning

Great for:

Fear-based reactivity
Sensory overload
Pair scary things (vacuum, strangers) with treats.

Teaching “Place” and Extended Stay

Use a mat or bed:

Command “place”
Gradually increase time they must stay there

Crate Training Techniques

Never use crate as punishment. Instead:

Feed meals inside
Toss in treats randomly
Praise when calm inside

Handling Setbacks and Regression

What to Do When Your Puppy “Forgets” Commands

Go back a step
Reduce distractions
Reinforce basics again

Recognizing Stress and Overwhelm

Signs of overwhelm:

Yawning
Pacing
Lip licking
Stop and let them decompress.

When to Pause and Restart

It’s okay to take a break. Let the dog reset, then reintroduce training slowly.

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Dealing with Specific Problems
When to Call a Professional Trainer
Training Myths That Hold You Back
Real-Life Success Stories
FAQs + Conclusion
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Dealing with Specific Problems

Excessive Barking

Stubborn puppies may bark to get attention or express boredom. Combat this by:

Ignoring demand barking
Rewarding quiet moments
Teaching the “quiet” command after saying “speak”

Tip: Mental stimulation can cut barking in half. Puzzle feeders and scent games help a lot.

Biting and Chewing

All puppies bite—it’s how they explore. But stubborn ones often ignore corrections. Try:

Redirecting to chew toys
Saying a firm “no” or yelp, then walking away
Freezing your hand when bitten so it becomes boring

Ignoring Commands on Purpose

If your pup walks away when you say “sit,” ask yourself:

Is the environment too distracting?
Are your rewards strong enough?
Are your cues consistent?

Make the task simple again, reward generously, and gradually increase difficulty.

The Importance of Exercise and Play

Burning Off Excess Energy

A tired dog is a trainable dog. Active breeds especially need:

Two 30-minute walks daily
Off-leash time (if safe)
Agility or fetch

Brain Games and Puzzle Toys

These challenge stubborn pups mentally:

Snuffle mats
Kongs filled with frozen peanut butter
Hide and seek

How Play Reinforces Obedience

Training can be a game. For example:

Ask for “sit” before throwing a toy
Play tug with “drop it” command
Use recall during a game of tag

When to Call in a Professional Trainer

Signs It’s Time for Help

If your puppy:

Shows aggression
Won’t respond despite effort
Causes harm to people or pets

…it’s time to consult a certified dog trainer.

What to Expect from a Dog Trainer

A good trainer:

Assesses your dog’s temperament
Builds a custom plan
Trains you and your pup together

Look for certifications from:

CCPDT
IAABC
APDT

Choosing the Right Expert

Avoid trainers who:

Use prong or shock collars first
Promise “fast fixes”
Use dominance-based tactics

Instead, seek professionals with positive reinforcement philosophies.

Training Myths That Hold You Back

“Alpha Dog” Theory Debunked

Modern science shows dogs aren’t trying to dominate you—they’re just trying to understand you.

Why Dominance-Based Training Fails

Punishing or “alpha-rolling” your pup can lead to:

Fear-based aggression
Shutdown behavior
Loss of trust

Myths Around Breed and Intelligence

No breed is “too dumb” to train. Stubbornness ≠ low IQ. Many “stubborn” dogs are actually very smart—they just need better incentives.

Success Stories: Real People, Real Puppies

Before and After Case Studies

Case 1: Luna the Shiba Inu
Before: Ignored every command, bolted outdoors
After: Responds to name, crate-trained, polite walker
Key Tool: High-value cheese treats + patience

Case 2: Max the Beagle
Before: Barked 24/7, nipped hands
After: Quiet on command, rarely bites
Key Tool: Clicker training + snuffle mats

What Worked and Why

All success stories had one thing in common: consistency. They didn’t give up during setbacks.

Tips from Dog Owners Who’ve Been There

“I recorded our training so I could spot my mistakes.”
“I trained after play sessions—he was less wild.”
“We stopped comparing our pup to others. That helped most.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to train a stubborn puppy?

Training timelines vary by dog, but noticeable progress can happen within 2–4 weeks of consistent, daily training.

2. Is it okay to use a clicker with a stubborn puppy?

Yes! Clickers provide clear feedback and are often more effective than just using voice.

3. Can stubborn puppies grow out of it?

Not automatically. While maturity helps, proper training is what truly changes behavior.

4. Should I avoid certain toys or treats?

Avoid over-sugary treats or toys that encourage aggressive chewing. Use puzzle feeders and soft, healthy treats.

5. What if my puppy only behaves for someone else?

That’s common. Puppies often test their owners more than strangers. Rebuild your training bond with high-reward activities.

6. Do older dogs stay stubborn if not trained early?

Not necessarily. You can teach an old dog new tricks—it just takes longer and more patience.

Conclusion: Raising a Respectful, Happy Dog

Training a stubborn puppy isn’t easy—but it’s absolutely worth it. With patience, the right techniques, daily consistency, and lots of love, your spirited pup can become the well-mannered dog you’ve dreamed of.

The key takeaway? Your dog isn’t defiant—they just need your guidance.