10 Dog Breeds That Trainers Refuse to Work With

Professional dog trainers encounter various breeds with unique challenges, and some are more difficult to train than others. Certain breeds require specialized training, strong leadership, and extensive socialization, making them less suitable for inexperienced owners or even causing trainers to refuse to work with them.

Here are 10 dog breeds that many trainers hesitate to work with—and why.

1. Chow Chow – Independent and Stubborn

Chow Chows are strong-willed, aloof, and notoriously difficult to train. Their independent nature and territorial instincts make them resistant to traditional obedience training. If not socialized properly, they can become aggressive or extremely difficult to manage.

Why trainers avoid them: Their stubbornness and unpredictable behavior make them challenging to train.
Who they’re best for: Experienced owners who can handle their independent and dominant nature.

2. Pug – Health Issues Limit Training

Pugs are friendly and affectionate, but their flat-faced (brachycephalic) anatomy causes breathing problems. This can make exercise and training sessions difficult, as they can overheat quickly or struggle to breathe.

Why trainers avoid them: Physical limitations make intense training sessions risky.
Who they’re best for: Owners who are patient and willing to adapt training to their health needs.

3. Caucasian Shepherd – Overprotective and Strong-Willed

Caucasian Shepherds were bred to guard livestock and are naturally suspicious of strangers. They are extremely large and powerful, making them hard to control if not trained properly. Without firm leadership, they may become overprotective and even aggressive.

Why trainers avoid them: Hard to socialize, extremely strong, and prone to territorial aggression.
Who they’re best for: Experienced handlers who understand guardian breeds.

4. Belgian Malinois – Too Intelligent for Casual Owners

Belgian Malinois are brilliant working dogs, but their high intelligence and endless energy make them unsuitable for the average dog owner. Without constant mental and physical stimulation, they can become destructive, anxious, or aggressive. Many trainers avoid working with them unless the owner is fully committed to their needs.

Why trainers avoid them: Too intelligent, too energetic, and needs specialized training.
Who they’re best for: Highly active individuals, police/military handlers, or experienced trainers.

5. Rottweiler – Strong and Protective, But Needs Strict Training

Rottweilers are incredibly loyal but require strong, consistent training. If they sense weakness or inconsistency, they may try to assert dominance. They also have powerful protective instincts, which can turn into aggression without proper socialization.

Why trainers avoid them: Potential for dominance, protective aggression, and difficulty for inexperienced owners.
Who they’re best for: Firm, experienced owners who can provide leadership and structure.

6. Doberman Pinscher – Highly Intelligent but Protective

Dobermans are loyal, intelligent, and incredibly protective, which can make them challenging to train for first-time owners. If they don’t receive firm, early socialization, they can become overly territorial or aggressive toward strangers. Some trainers refuse to work with Dobermans because they require highly structured training.

Why trainers avoid them: Can be dominant, territorial, and require precise leadership.
Who they’re best for: Owners committed to strong socialization and consistent training.

7. Jack Russell Terrier – Small but Extremely Difficult

Jack Russell Terriers may be small, but they are hyperactive, stubborn, and highly intelligent. They have a strong prey drive, making them difficult to train off-leash. Their boundless energy can lead to destructive behavior if not properly managed.

Why trainers avoid them: Extremely energetic, stubborn, and hard to control off-leash.
Who they’re best for: Owners who can dedicate time to extensive exercise and training.

8. Cane Corso – A Powerful Guardian Breed

The Cane Corso is a massive, intelligent, and dominant guard dog. Without strict training and early socialization, they can become territorial and extremely difficult to control. Many trainers won’t work with inexperienced owners who are unable to handle the breed’s intensity and strength.

Why trainers avoid them: Dominant nature, extreme power, and risk of aggression without proper training.
Who they’re best for: Confident, experienced handlers who can provide firm structure.

9. French Bulldog – Cute but Difficult to Train

French Bulldogs are stubborn and hard to train, despite their small size. They also suffer from health problems, limiting their ability to engage in regular training sessions. Their strong-willed personality can make them frustrating for trainers who aren’t patient.

Why trainers avoid them: Stubborn nature combined with breathing issues.
Who they’re best for: Owners willing to use gentle, positive reinforcement training.

10. Afghan Hound – Beautiful but Extremely Independent

Afghan Hounds may be stunning, but they are one of the least obedient breeds. They were bred for hunting independently, meaning they don’t have a strong desire to please their owners or obey commands. Training an Afghan requires immense patience, and many trainers don’t find them worth the effort.

Why trainers avoid them: They are aloof, independent, and not motivated by praise.
Who they’re best for: Owners who appreciate an elegant but independent dog.

Why Some Trainers Refuse to Work with These Breeds

These dog breeds aren’t impossible to train, but they require experienced, patient handlers who understand their unique challenges. Many trainers refuse to work with them because:

• They demand extensive training and socialization.
• They can be stubborn, independent, or aggressive if not handled properly.
• Some have physical or health limitations that make training difficult.

If you’re considering one of these breeds, make sure you’re fully prepared for their training needs—or find a trainer who specializes in working with challenging breeds. With the right leadership and dedication, even the most stubborn or independent dogs can become well-trained, loving companions!