You’re looking to get a new fur baby.
But you need them to be house-trained to keep your home tidy.
Well, who wouldn’t want that, right?
That’s why you’re now searching the web for dog breeds that are stubborn.
Just in case your target dog breed is difficult to train…
You’d be ready for the task.
Or maybe…
You already adopted them and you’re wondering why they don’t follow commands quickly.
Wanna learn more about the common dog breeds that are stubborn?
Continue reading to find out:
- Why some canines are a bit “hard-headed.”
- Top 20 most stubborn dog breeds that are difficult to train.
- What training technique is best when dealing with non-compliant canines.
- And this is just the beginning…
Table of contents
Part 1: Most stubborn small dog breeds that are difficult to train
#1: Pekingese
Are you into toy dogs? Then you just might love the Pekingese. These small dogs originally hail from China. And Pekingese were mostly owned by the ancient royals.
This majestic breed stands between 6 in. to 9 in. (15 cm. to 23 cm.)
Pekingese also weigh up to 9 lbs. (4 kg.) and usually live up to 14 years.
Personality and character
Pekingese look sophisticated and unique. They have long hairs on their neck. Which some people call a “lion’s mane.” And it does make them look like the big cat.
This dog breed is confident and has a “strong personality.” Training can be a bit challenging because of their attitude. It’s not impossible, though.
They might have gotten their independent personality from their royal parents. This is because they were bred to live in palaces.
They are fiercely loyal. And can easily develop a bond with their fur parents. However, they are not that good with kids.
“Wait. Do they hurt children?”
No. They aren’t aggressive in that they do tolerate some toddlers. But too much roughhousing can be annoying for them.
How to groom Pekingese
You might have to spend time maintaining Pekingese hair.
They have thick double coats which shed seasonally. Anticipate it happening when the weather is about to change.
You’ll also need to brush them per week. One-hour brushing session will help keep their fur healthy. This way their fur doesn’t matte.
Try purchasing a metal comb to help detangle their hair. The Hartz Groomer’s Combo Brush is a well-reviewed one from Amazon.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Pekingese:
Pekingese are generally healthy dogs. However, you need to protect their eyes from getting poked.
This dog breed has a short snout. And can cause them to bump their heads. This can sometimes lead to eye poking or worse, blindness.
#2: Beagle
You can see a Beagle almost anywhere in the U.S. After all, the AKC ranks this dog 7th in the most popular breeds in 2020.
This furry baby stands between 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm.) tall. And they can weigh from 20 lbs. to 30 lbs. (9 kg. to 14 kg.)
This is a small dog breed. But their lifespan isn’t. They can live around 10 to 15 years.
Personality and character
Beagles are good partners in hunting. They have excellent noses and can help you track down animals. This breed is also kid-friendly. And is therefore perfect as a family dog.
A Beagle’s character screams happiness. They’ll happily tag along with their family. And people they trust. This breed loves the outdoors and thrives in doing exercises.
This dog breed is also a very intelligent being. However, they can easily be distracted. This is the reason why it’s a challenge to train them.
One call from a familiar face and POOF attention gone. It’s like teaching a toddler. When they hear the Cocomelon intro song, they’d go crazy.
Despite the challenge, you’ll still need to train Beagles properly. They have high energy levels. This is due to their working dog ancestry.
As much as possible, stimulate their minds. You can use puzzles as toys. Or incorporate hide-and-seek during playtimes.
How to groom Beagles
Despite a Beagle’s coat being short, it can still shed. You’ll have a bit of hair here and there. Which will require you to clean up regularly.
I wouldn’t suggest having this breed if you’re allergic to fur.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Beagles:
- MLS DNA test.
- Hip evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
#3: Wire Fox Terrier
Fur parents who love watching canine shows know this breed. After all, they’re magnificent contestants. And they have garnered the most wins at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
The Reader’s Digest mentions 12 championships for this breed. Impressive, right? They’re like the Michael Jordan of dog shows.
But the Wire Fox Terrier isn’t just amazing on T.V. They are also excellent family dogs. They are intelligent by nature.
If you live an active lifestyle, having this dog breed would be perfect. They can go out on runs with you. Maybe even clear some obstacle courses.
This breed usually weighs at 15 lbs to 18 lbs (7 kg. to 8 kg.)
And generally are 15.5 inches (39 cm.) tall. Their size makes them quick and nimble on their feet.
Personality and character
Wire Fox Terriers are typically upbeat and friendly. They easily get along with other dogs. And bond with their hoomans well.
This dog breed is agile and full of energy. Their hunting ancestry just shines in everything they do.
Wire Fox Terriers also have a huge prey drive. And because of this, they usually are independent. Which makes them hard to train.
They can be stubborn and would rather do their own thing. However, it’s not impossible to coach them. After all, they are excellent show dogs. And these canines need discipline and obedience.
How to groom Wire Fox Terriers
Well, it depends on the purpose of grooming them. If you want them to join a show, hand-stripping is best. Otherwise, you can use clippers to trim their hair.
You can purchase the oneisall Dog Shaver from Amazon.
Brushing Wire Fox Terriers is also a requirement. This is to stop their hair from matting. You also need to clip their nails at least once a month.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Wire Fox Terriers:
- Cardiac exam.
- Patella evaluation.
However, this dog breed is generally healthy. But they still need their regular check-up to prevent disorders.
#4: Shih Tzu
Agggh this dog breed is just too cute. And I guess some fur parents agree with me. Shih Tzus have big round eyes that make us melt.
If you’re wondering, Shih Tzus are originally from Tibet. Then ancient Chinese people bred them with Pekingese or Pugs. And hence came the modern-day Shih Tzus.
This dog breed is often called “Lion Dog”. But they aren’t as huge as the big cat.
In fact, they are small. Shih Tzus stand between 9 in. to 10.5 in. (23 cm. to 27 cm.)
And they only weigh 9 lbs. to 16 lbs. (4 kg. to 7 kg.)
Personality and character
Shih Tzus are known to be affectionate. They love cuddling up with their hoomans. And are good with kids.
If you have other fur babies, no problem. A Shih Tzu can make friends anywhere. That’s why a lot of people looking for family companions adopt Shih Tzus.
But, despite their agreeable personality, Shih Tzus can be ard to train. They are often mischievous. But with patience, they can become obedient.
This dog breed looks small and fluffy. But behind their fur is a muscular body. Which makes them excellent for dog shows. Specifically agility contests.
In fact, this dog breed is the first to win both championship and agility titles in one show. This happened last 2014 according to the AKC.
How to groom Shih Tzus
It’s recommended to give this breed a bath once every 3-4 weeks. This helps keep their fur clean.
Their fur also needs to be brushed daily. Especially their mustache and the hair on their head. It’s best to keep their fur tied with a knot. This can keep their eyes from getting irritated.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Shih Tzus:
This dog breed is generally healthy. But, you need to keep them away from the heat. Since they cannot stand it for long. This is due to their long fur.
Research even shows that 14.18% of dogs who experienced heatstroke died from it.
Shih Tzus are also not excellent swimmers. So don’t bring them to pools and beaches without supervision.
#5: Brussels Griffon
Have you ever seen a dog that looks like a human? Well, Griffons aren’t exactly like us. But they do have human-like eyes.
And as complex as humans are, this dog breed is full of personality, too.
Brussels is typically between 8 lbs. to 10 lbs. (4 kgs. to 5 kgs.) in weight. They also stand no more than 10 in. (25 cm.)
Personality and character
This dog breed is playful and is a bit open to strangers.
However, despite all their energy, they might not be okay with kids. This is because they are a bit sensitive. A Brussels Griffon basically is super dramatic.
If a child roughhouses with this breed, they might not like it. They also have a tendency to sulk. And this can make training difficult.
One quick act of disciplining and their sensitive nature kicks in. However, if you are gentle, they can become obedient.
This dog breed is also loyal. And they love to be around their hooman. Well, partly because they get sad quickly. So you should avoid leaving them alone.
How to groom Brussels Griffons
Grooming Brussels Griffons depends on their hair type. There are ones that have smooth fur. And those that have smooth hair.
If a Griffon has a rough coat, they usually don’t shed. It’s easier to maintain their fur. Just give them a regular bath to remove dirt.
A smooth-haired Griffon is a different story. They need weekly hair brushing sessions. And this will increase to daily when they’re shedding. This usually happens during spring and fall.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Brussels Griffon:
- Hips exam.
- Patella evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
#6: Maltese
This loving dog breed is an awesome companion for playful parents. Maltese are naturally energetic and charming.
This dog breed typically stands at 7 in. to 9 in. (18 cm. to 23 cm.)
And they weigh below 7 lbs. (3 kgs.)
Personality and character
As mentioned, this dog breed loves to play. If you want someone to entertain you, you should adopt a Maltese.
This canine breed is agile and is perfect for competitions. They have athleticism in their blood. And have the body to back it up.
However, Maltese can be stubborn and determined. Making their training a bit difficult. But, you can counter this by being consistent. And you need to use rewards for their coaching sessions.
Maltese are also good watchdogs. They are alert and are fearless. But, they can also be friendly to their hoomans. In fact, they are very affectionate canines.
You just need to introduce them slowly to other dogs. They might not become friends with them immediately.
How to groom Malteses
A Maltese’s fur is elegant-looking. It’s usually long and white. And that’s why it needs constant brushing. You need to bathe them regularly. And use conditioner to keep their hair healthy.
You should check out the Oatmeal Conditioning Spray from Amazon.
A daily brush can also help untangle their hair. And keep it from matting.
Another important reminder is to clean their teeth regularly. As Malteses grow old, they become more open to dental problems.
Also, check their ears for wax regularly.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Malteses:
- Cardiac exam.
- Patella evaluation.
#7: Japanese Chin
Kon’nichiwa! That’s Japanese for “hello.” And like some things related to Japan, this dog breed is super cute, too.
I’m thinking of Hello Kitty, not a Samurai.
Anyway, this noble dog breed stands at a height of 8 in. to 11 in. (20 cm. to 28 cm.)
And they weigh around 7 lbs. to 11 lbs. (3 kgs. to 5 kgs.)
Personality and character
This dog breed is full of charm and is very loving towards their family. And more so if you provide them with lots of love, too.
Japanese Chins are also friendly. They’d love to be taken to the dog park. And once they’re there, they’ll make friends easily.
But if you’re more of an indoor person, this dog breed is okay with that, too. They are classic lap dogs. And would love to cuddle with you on rainy days.
Japanese Chins are also typically silent. They don’t howl as much. And some people would see “grace” in their movements.
How to groom Japanese Chins
It’s pretty easy to maintain this dog breed’s fur. But it might look a bit hard at first. Since they have long and smooth fur.
Just a quick brush once a week is enough. Bathe them regularly too to keep them clean. This dog breed is generally clean and you won’t have to exert much effort washing them.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Japanese Chins:
- Cardiac exam.
- Patella evaluation.
- GM2 Mutation DNA test.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
Part 2: Most stubborn medium dog breeds that are difficult to train
#1: American Foxhound
These affectionate canines are well-known for their speed and friendliness.
American Foxhounds are an excellent choice for a family dog. Since they are open to bonding with other people and pets.
This dog breed has huge hearts in a mid-sized canine package. They stand at 25 in. (64 cm.) tall. And weigh up to 70 lbs. (32 kg.)
Personality and character
While this dog is a bit laid-back and easy-going, they can be independent. Those who want to adopt one need to be dedicated parents.
Proper training should be given to them lest they become stubborn. This is because they have strong prey drives.
Just one look at another animal, and they have the tendency to run after them. And this may also be distracting during training.
The AKC even suggests giving this dog breed obedience classes. But, despite being “hard-headed”, they are also excellent family dogs.
American Foxhounds are good with children. They have a high tolerance for rough play. And they are gentle with them.
How to groom American Foxhounds
This dog breed is pretty low-maintenance. Giving them a quick brush once a week is enough. Just make sure you remove dust and debris on their fur.
American Foxhounds are active canines. And they have the tendency to go on adventures. There’s a high chance this pooch would get dirty.
This dog breed has short and compact hair. And it doesn’t need to be washed a lot. Unless they go out and play in puddles. Or maybe even roll in fox poo.
Medical exams recommended
American Foxhounds are generally healthy dogs. You just need to check their ears regularly. They have long ones and can get dirty. And have wax buildup.
#2: Siberian Husky
If you’re hearing a dog howl, then there’s a good chance it’s a Husky. This dog breed can sound like an ambulance if provoked.
“Weewoo weewoo”
Just watch this video of a Husky, Nikita, who howled at the sound of her toy:
Sometimes you don’t if you’re going to be annoyed or just laugh at their silliness.
And all this attitude comes in a huge package, too. Huskies are huge standing at 23 in. (58 cm.). And they can also weigh up to 60 lbs. (27 kg.)
Personality and character
Siberian Huskies are very outgoing. And they love socializing with other pets and people. They’re all about having fun. And keeping them active is important.
Otherwise, you’ll hear the ambulance sound again.
This dog breed is an excellent family dog. They are very loving toward their hoomans. And are good with kids. They know how to play and usually initiate it.
If you have other canines in your home, Huskies can get along well with them. And that’ll happen in a short time. After all, they are very friendly and can connect with just about anyone.
However, when it comes to training, their playful nature can be an issue. You’ll need to keep coaching fun. If they feel bored, they won’t listen. Always keep training routines feel like a game to them.
How to groom Siberian Huskies
Huskies are naturally clean dogs. They don’t need to shower regularly. A few baths to keep dirt off in a year is enough.
This dog breed has an undercoat. And sheds off twice a year. You might also wanna brush their hair to keep it healthy.
You can also opt to use a steel brush for their fur. This can help Huskies shed their old fur off.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Siberian Huskies:
- Hip evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
#3: Appenzeller Sennenhund
This canine is perfect for people who live active lives. They are active and versatile. Whatever it is you want to do with them, they’d be down with it.
Appenzeller Sennenhunds usually stand at 19 in. (48 cm.)
And they weigh 48 lbs. (22 kgs.) and above.
Personality and character
This dog breed is very energetic. They have high endurance and are very agile.
This pooch is also wary of strangers. And they don’t get easily distracted when they’re suspicious. They also have a muscular structure. And this is why they make perfect guard dogs.
Appenzellers are intelligent. And can easily understand tasks. But, they need a firm trainer. They can be stubborn and too chaotic when bored.
“Oh wow, really?”
You might wanna keep them from being destructive. You can do this by letting them go out for exercise. An Appenzeller doesn’t like living in a closed space.
How to groom Appenzeller Sennenhunds
This dog breed’s hair is quite easy to maintain. They only need to be brushed once a week. This is to keep their double coat clean.
An Appenzeller would also benefit from regular baths. Especially if they always go outside.
Medical exams recommended
According to AKC, Appenzellers don’t have a lot of health issues. They typically live healthy lives. And they’ll be with you between 12 to 15 years.
#4: Australian Cattle Dog
If you are in search of a smart canine, then an Australian Cattle Dog would be perfect for you. They are also loyal and always alert.
There’s a reason that Australian Cattle Dogs are also muscular and agile.
This dog breed usually stands at 20 in. (51 cm.)
And they weigh around 45 lbs. (20 kgs.)
Personality and character
Because the Australian Cattle Dog is a working canine, they are known to be fast runners. They can also be mischievous at times.
This canine’s intelligence also comes with curiosity. If you’re out on a walk with them, they’d most likely go ahead of you.
This dog is also in need of daily exercise. And they get bored quickly. If they do, they’d usually become destructive.
If you want to have a running partner, this canine would be perfect. They can endure a long run with you.
How to groom Australian Cattle Dog
This dog is generally clean. They don’t sweat and get oily as much. And they wouldn’t need frequent bathing, too.
“That’s nice to hear. I like keeping a tidy home.”
And this dog breed also doesn’t shed a lot. Although during shedding season, they will need combing once a few days. This way, you can remove excess hair. And keep it healthy.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Australian Cattle Dog:
- Elbow exam.
- BAER testing.
- PLL DNA test.
- Hip evaluation.
- PRA optigen DNA test.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
#5: Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier is perfect for those who want an entertaining canine. This medium-sized dog is full of personality and charm.
This dog breed is also known for their curved snout. It kinda looks like an egg from the side. And they have pointy ears which are unmistakable for their breed.
Bull Terriers usually stand at 22 in. (56 cm.)
And they weigh around 60 lbs. (27 kgs.)
Personality and character
Bull Terriers are active and sometimes playful dogs. This is why some fur parents love adopting them.
However, this playfulness may also turn into naughtiness. And this can also translate into their training needs.
This dog breed can become stubborn if you’re not firm. But always keep their routines filled with love and positive reinforcement.
Research shows that using rewards can keep your pooch from getting stressed.
You should also incorporate physical activities into their routine. These dogs love doing work.
How to groom Bull Terriers
Grooming Bull Terriers is pretty easy. Their coat doesn’t require a lot of attention. All you need to do is keep their hair free from dirt.
Also, a once-a-week brushing would help them shed off excess hair.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Bull Terriers:
- BAER testing.
- Cardiac exam.
- Patella evaluation.
- Kidney-urine analysis.
#6: Chow Chow
You’ll see this dog breed with wrinkly skin. And they just look so cute. But behind their appearance is a muscular and a “serious” kind of dog.
The Chow Chow stands at around 20 in. (51 cm.)
And they weigh about 50 lbs. (23 kgs.
Personality and character
As mentioned earlier, this dog breed is a bit serious. They are dignified and have the tendency to want to be alone.
Chow Chows are unlike other canines who sulk because of boredom or tiredness. This is just how they are as dogs. Which can also make them a bit challenging to train.
This dog breed is also known to have bluish tongues. It’s mixed with a little bit of black. A little bit different than the usual red we see.
Chow Chows are also a bit low-maintenance. What I mean is they don’t need a lot of attention. They have a cat-like attitude and are one of the cleanest dogs around.
How to groom Chow Chows
You’re going to spend a little bit of time grooming this dog breed. They have thick fur. And they have a double coat type of hair.
Chow Chows need to be bathed at least once a month. And be brushed twice a week. You also need to watch out for ticks. They have flabs and these pests can stay there.
Matting is also an issue for these canines. Pay close attention to their heads. The hair in that area has a high chance of clumping.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Chow Chows:
- Hip exam.
- Elbow test.
- Patella evaluation.
- Thyroid examination.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
Part 3: Most stubborn large dog breeds that are difficult to train
#1: Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is among the tallest dog breeds. They look like their Greyhound siblings. And have athletic looks.
They have muscular structures which help them hunt. After all, they are bred to go after giant wild red deers. And by the looks of it, Scottish Deerhounds can outrun them, too.
From a distance, these dogs look like magnificent beasts. They stand tall and look sturdy.
This breed usually stands between 28 in. to 32 in. (71cm. to 81 cm.) in height. And are 75 to 110 pounds (34 to 49 kg.) in weight
Personality and character
This dog breed is typically gentle and calm. They love staying in and getting cuddles from their hooman.
You wouldn’t think of them as affectionate dogs because of their size. But their hearts and love for their family is just as big.
However, they can sometimes be too sensitive. And this makes training more challenging. Since they are huge dogs, you can’t easily carry them.
Scottish Deerhounds probably wouldn’t move unless they decide to.
You should also watch them when they’re around kids. They aren’t aggressive or anything. But because of their size, they might bump into them.
How to groom Scottish Deerhounds
If you are a bit busy, then the Scottish Deerhound would be good for you. It’s quite easy to maintain their fur. Just a brushing session once a week is enough for them.
Also, you need to bathe this dog breed regularly. They are excellent hunting dogs and might need exercise outside. And due to this, they could get dirty once in a while.
Getting them their daily exercise is important for this dog breed. Scottish Deerhounds hate being left alone inside your home. Or in their crates.
Scottish Deerhounds also shed a little bit. If you got allergies, then you might wanna steer clear
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Scottish Deerhounds:
- Bile acid test.
- Cardiac exam.
- Factor VII DNA test.
You should also lookout for the following illnesses:
- Bloat.
- Sensitivity to anesthesia and drugs.
#2: Great Dane
Excellent guard dogs and loving companions. These are just some of the words I’d use to describe a Great Dane.
If you see one on the road, you’ll immediately notice their height. They’re tall and look confident. And this isn’t just all looks. They’re fearless, too.
Adult Great Danes can weigh up to 175 lbs. (79 kg.)
And they usually stand between 28 in. to 32 in. tall (71 to 81 cm.)
Personality and character
As mentioned, Great Danes are good to have as guard dogs. They are alert and protective of their hoomans.
They have loud, rumbling barks. Which is enough to make a grown man pee in fear. Intruders would think twice before trying to enter your home.
Great Danes are also loving creatures. And they love getting cuddles. However, their size might not be for everyone. They’re best for those with backyards. And wide spaces.
Training Great Danes can be easy. If you are firm and consistent. Now, the problem lies if they don’t receive this type of coaching. They can be stubborn.
You’ll also need to socialize this dog breed early on. Research shows that meeting new friends can make your dog less fearful
How to groom Great Danes
A Great Dane’s hair is short and smooth. And they don’t shed a lot. But, because they are huge, the total volume of hair can accumulate. You might find yourself picking up hair from your couch.
But, generally, it’s easy to groom this dog breed. Just give them a brushing session once a week. This will keep their shedding to a minimum. And will therefore make your house cleaner.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Great Danes:
- Hip exam.
- Thyroid test.
- Cardiac exam.
- Ophthalmologist evaluation.
Warning: Always be on the lookout for bloat. This is the number one health issue of Great Danes. And can be fatal.
#3: Azawakh
Coming in from Western Africa, this dog breed is a large hunting canine. They are sturdy and are muscular. They can also run quickly and have slender bodies.
If you’re looking for guard dogs, Azawakhs are excellent ones. They can also be good options for companion canines.
Azawakhs typically weigh around 33 to 55 pounds (15 to 25 kg.)
And they stand between 23.5 to 29 inches (60 to 74 cm.)
Personality and character
Azawakhs are a bit aloof canines. They don’t enjoy playing that much. But will love to go out and exercise with you. They are, after all, bred to work.
This can cause difficulties in their training. You need to be assertive yet loving when coaching them. You’ll need to use prizes to keep them engaged.
If you wanna build a bond with them, you do it through physical activities. You can train them to go through an obstacle course. Or a quick hide-and-seek game. Maybe play fetch or frisbee catch with them.
How to groom Azawakhs
You won’t have to spend much time grooming this dog. They have short and smooth hair. And this is easy to maintain.
But this dog has a strong prey drive And they can be triggered to go into hunting mode when you’re out. They might run after “targets”.
They sometimes disguise their smells to be better hunters. That’s why you might need to stop them from rolling in dead animals.
Aside from dirt and dust, you wouldn’t have to worry much about their fur. Brushing them a few times a week is already enough to help them shed.
Medical exams recommended
Be on the lookout for these diseases as suggested by the AKC for Azawakhs:
- Seizures.
- Heart problems.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Autoimmune-mediated disease.
#4: Mastiff
This giant dog breed has been around for a long time. And have been helping humans guard their properties.
And with their size and stature, they make good guard dogs.
Weighing up to 230 lbs. (104 kg.), they can look like beasts. They also stand at 30 in. (76 cm.) and above.
They’d be perfect for those who have huge spaces. And warm, cozy hugs.
Personality and character
Mastiffs are naturally protective. They want to keep their hoomans safe. And they have the capacity to do so. Quite easily, actually.
This dog breed is also kind and nurturing. And they’re really good with kids. They can tolerate rough play. Even if children frequently rub and sometimes pull on them.
This is because they are sturdy. And have good bone structure. And this can scare intruders, too. A plus point for the Mastiff.
But because of their protective nature, it can be hard to socialize Mastiffs. It’s also going to make training challenging. That’s why it’s important to socialize them while young.
Make sure that they have their vaccines first before letting them meet other dogs. This way they can be protected from fatal diseases.
How to groom Mastiffs
Giving Mastiffs a quick brushing session is more than enough. Do it every few days and you’ll be helping their fur stay healthy.
This dog breed has short and compact hair. It’s pretty easy for new fur parents to groom this type of fur.
Though, you need to keep wipes ready beside you. Mastiffs drool a lot. And can make do over your furniture and clothes
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Mastiffs:
- Hip test.
- Cardiac exam.
- Elbow evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
#5: Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are walking regal creatures. Their long, flowy hair can make most people’s heads turn.
And their beautiful fur alone isn’t what catches your attention. It’s their size, too. After all, they belong to the hound dog group. These canine types are large in nature. And are excellent hunters.
Afghan Hounds stand between 25 in. to 27 in. (64 cm. to 69 cm.)
They also weigh around 50 lbs. to 60 lbs. (23 kg. to 27 kg.)
Personality and character
Being a good hunting canine, Afghan Hounds are agile. Their bodies can stand long hours of hunting.
If you look at their paws, they’re huge in size. The purpose of this is to absorb the harshness of the terrain of their home country.
Most of the land Afghan Hounds run on is rocky. And the weather is a bit ruthless, too. That’s where their fur comes in. Every part of their body is designed to be enduring.
Imagine this dog breed as a 4×4 pickup. Large and can survive rough terrain.
But all this toughness also comes at a price. Afghan Hounds are mostly independent. They tend to be aloof. And this can be an issue when it comes to training.
Afghan Hounds also have a strong prey drive. This can make them focus on their target. And instead of listening to your commands, they’d run after “prey.”
How to groom Afghan Hounds
Because of their long and silky hair, it can be hard to maintain their coat. You’ll need to spend a couple of hours brushing their coats. Which can help remove tangles, dirt, and prevent matting.
You can also opt to use conditioner for their hair. This way, their coat remains shiny and healthy.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Afghan Hounds:
- Hip exam.
- Thyroid evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
#6: Borzoi
This Russian good boi is just amazing to look at. They’re bred to be fast enough to run after prey. And pin them down. Their speeds can go up to 40 mph (64 kph). Most preys can’t outrun Borzois.
And when this dog breed catches up to their target, they use their size to seize them. They stand at 28 in. (71 cm) and above. Their weight can also go up to 105 lbs. (47 kgs.)
Personality and character
Borzois are dignified and regal in stature. They are calm and have a laid-back temperament. And when you gaze at them, they’re just royal-looking.
This dog breed is also muscular and sleek. They look a lot like their Greyhound brothers with longer fur.
Borzois are also good family companions. They’re affectionate, loving, and enjoy a good cozy cuddle. Although they can’t withstand a lot of roughhousing.
However, because of their hunting ancestry, they are easily distracted. Especially when a quick animal passes by.
Imagine a squirrel running past your home. If this happens, a Borzoi will most likely run after them.
How to groom Borzois
Borzois have long coats. And it sheds a lot. If you are a bit allergic to fur, you might wanna adopt another canine.
They also need a bit of brushing once every 2 days. You can opt to use slicker brushes to help them shed. The Slicker Dog Brush is a perfect tool to keep your Borzoi’s hair healthy.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Borzois:
- Cardiac exam.
- Thyroid evaluation.
- Ophthalmologist exam.
- Degenerative myelopathy DNA test.
#7: Great Pyrenees
This dog breed is a fearless and strong guard dog. They have been protecting sheep from wolves and other attackers. Can you imagine how brave a dog has to be to fight wolves?
Great Pyrenees’ courage may also come from their size. It’s easy for them to fight off predators. This is because they can outpower some of them.
This dog breed weighs 100 lbs. (45 kgs.)
And they can grow up to 32 in. (81 cm.)
Personality and character
Great Pyrenees are smart and very affectionate canines. They are also extremely loyal to their hoomans. And they are protective of them.
This dog breed’s vigilance can also benefit shepherds and farmers. Great Pyrenees are known to be powerful. And they are excellent working dogs.
Despite being fearless, these canines are usually calm. They move with grace and are patient.
However, when it comes to working, they can be very focused. When it comes to running down predators, they’re steadfast.
But because of their personality, they tend to be independent. And this can raise issues in training.
How to groom Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are bred to live in cold areas. And this is because they have thick fur. They have a double coat that sheds a lot.
But the good thing is they don’t require a lot of brushing. As thick as it is, a Great Pyrenees’ coat is resistant to tangles and dirt.
If you want to lower the amount of hair on your couches and clothes, you can brush them. This will remove excess fur. And keep their hair healthy.
Medical exams recommended
Health tests suggested by the AKC for Great Pyrenees:
- Hip examination.
- Patella evaluation.