What is the hardest type of dog to train?

New dog parents often dream of easy training sessions—until they meet a breed that marches to its own beat. Breeds like the Basenji and Alaskan Malamute frequently land on lists of the hardest dog breeds to train, and it’s not for lack of smarts. Basenjis, nicknamed “barkless dogs,” have a wild streak from their African hunting roots; they’ll dart after a squirrel mid-training without a second thought.

Malamutes, built for hauling heavy loads, have that same independent fire—they don’t see the point in waiting for a “sit” command when there’s exploring to do. Trainers often joke these dogs “listen when they want to,” but it’s really their instinct to lead, not follow. That’s what makes them difficult dogs to train: they’re wired to make choices, not just obey.

Local laws don’t cut these breeds any slack, either. In the UK, the Dangerous Dogs Act requires certain “restricted breeds” (like some Mastiffs) to be muzzled in public—untrained ones risk being seized. Over in Canada, Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act holds owners accountable if an untrained dog bites someone; last year, a Toronto family paid $3,000 in damages after their untrained Chow Chow nipped a neighbor. Dog training compliance here isn’t just polite—it’s legally required.

The fix isn’t giving up on these breeds, but speaking their language. Behaviorists swear by “variable reinforcement”—mixing treats (think fresh chicken bits) with praise so the dog never knows when a reward’s coming. For Malamutes, adding 30 minutes of daily tug-of-war before training burns off energy, making them focus better. Also, most U.S. states ban shock collars now, so harsh tactics won’t just fail—they might break animal welfare laws.

Europe’s focus on “dog-friendly communities” adds another angle. In Sweden, dogs must pass a basic obedience test to enter public parks; an untrained Dalmatian (another tough breed) could get you kicked out. Socialization matters too—skip exposing a young Doberman to kids or bikes, and you’ll end up with a dog that reacts aggressively, violating laws that demand calm pets in shared spaces.

Training the “hardest” breeds takes patience, not perfection. Whether you’re in Berlin or Boston, matching their energy (long walks for Malamutes!) and following local laws keeps both you and your dog out of trouble. At the end of the day, that stubborn Basenji or playful Malamute? They’re just waiting for a training plan that fits their needs—and the effort will turn frustration into a lifelong bond.