Potty training a dog can be a challenge for any owner. Dogs are animals and need to do what comes naturally to them to be happy and healthy. However, not all dogs are potty-trained at the same rate. Some dogs are more stubborn than others, making potty training a frustrating process. You will be introduced to 35 hardest dogs to potty train.
Several dogs have the reputation of being the hardest to potty train; they include Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Chihuahua, Pomeranians, Yorkshire Terriers, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, Greyhounds, Dachshunds, Maltese, and Pugs.
The difficulty of potty training a dog can depend on several factors, including the dog’s age, personality, and the consistency and effectiveness of the training methods used by the owner.
Some breeds may be more challenging to potty train than others due to their instincts or behaviors, but they can successfully train all dogs with patience and persistence. Choosing a training method that works well for the dog and the owner is essential.
35 Hardest dogs to potty train
There is no definitive list of the 26 hardest dog breeds to potty train, as every dog is different and can be trained with patience and consistency. However, some breeds are generally considered more challenging to potty train than others due to their strong instincts and high energy levels. These breeds include:
1. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is one of the hardest dogs to potty train. Their size and high energy level can make potty training difficult.
2. American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is also a hard-to-train breed. They have a stubborn streak and do not like to be corrected, which makes training them harder than other dogs.
3. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound has a strong prey drive; this means that they need to be trained early in life or else will not follow commands like “sit” or “stay.” Beagles are also known for being hard to train because they are brilliant and want to please their owner.
4. Beagle
Beagles are one of the most challenging dogs to potty train. They are very energetic and tend to have a strong prey drive, so they often go after small animals in your yard. It can be hard to keep them from chasing birds or squirrels.
5. Havanese
Havanese are also very difficult to train. They have a high prey drive and are prone to digging up gardens and chasing cats. They also need regular grooming, so if you think one of these dogs will be great for your family but are still determining how much time you want to spend training them, consider adopting another breed.
6. Maltese
Maltese are also tricky to potty train; they have high energy levels and are prone to digging up gardens. This might not be the ok if you’re looking for an all-around family pet that only needs a little attention or training time.
7. Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier is a dog that can be difficult to potty train. It’s a small dog with short legs, so it can trip over its own feet as it walks. The Biewer is also prone to “holding” its urine or feces in its body until it decides to let go of it, which means that you’ll have to constantly check your dog’s anal region for signs of leakage.
8. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is another small dog that is difficult to train, and potty accidents are common. They are small dogs and look very similar to lapdogs, but they don’t have the same personality as the standard Bichon Frise.
They have large eyes and long ears, which makes them look like they’re always listening when they shouldn’t be. The Bichon Frise is playful and loves attention, but if you’re looking for an easy-to-train puppy, then this might not be the best choice for you because these dogs require a lot of attention from their owners, who can sometimes lead them to unwanted behaviors like chewing on furniture or furniture
9. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are one of the most stubborn potty-training dogs around. Their thick coats, charismatic personalities, and tendency to become overstimulated when confined in small spaces make it difficult for owners to train them.
If you’re already struggling with your Cocker Spaniel’s potty training, we recommend looking into training aids like dog toilet seats and dog poop bags.
10. The Dachshund
This little dog has a reputation as being one of the most challenging breeds to potty train, primarily because of its short legs and long body. Its short legs make it difficult to get down on all fours, so it’s more prone to accidents when standing up instead.
It also tends to have accidents in small spaces like under furniture or corners, so you’ll need to be mindful about where you’re placing the dog when it’s trying to go “potty.”
11. The English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is another breed with a reputation for being hard to potty-train. They have large heads with floppy ears prone to flopping over during playtime, making it hard to clean up after an accident.
You’ll also need patience when working with this breed because they can sometimes be stubborn.
12. French Bulldog
This breed is known for being stubborn and difficult to train. They have a high energy level, which can be challenging to manage when trying to potty teach them.
13. German Shepherd
The German shepherd is also known for being stubborn and difficult to train. They have a high energy level, which can be challenging to manage when trying to potty train them.
14. Golden Retriever
The golden retriever may be one of the most popular breeds, but it is also one of the hardest to potty train. Their tendency toward independence can make training difficult, as well as their strong desire not just to use the bathroom but also to mark territory with urine or feces.
15. Great Dane
The Great Dane is known for having a huge bladder, which means they can have difficulty holding their urine for long periods.
Some experts say that the Great Dane should be able to hold their urine for up to 12 hours at a time, but many Great Danes only manage to keep themselves out of trouble for about 5 hours. It’s important to note how long your dog can go without needing to relieve them and plan accordingly.
16. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is also a notoriously difficult dog to potty train, mainly because they are so small and don’t take long to tire out. If your Jack Russell Terrier has been trained before and needs help again, consider looking into an online course designed specifically for them instead of going through the process yourself.
17. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are known for being extremely loyal and playful toward their owners. Still, they can sometimes be stubborn when it comes time for them to go out into public spaces and off-leash areas where other dogs may interact with them during playtime or when going on walks around town with other people they may not know.
18.Miniature Pinscher
The miniature pinscher is a small breed that’s very active and energetic; they can’t stay still for long. They’re also known for being stubborn, so it may take some time to adapt to their new environment. It’s essential to give them plenty of attention and exercise, so they don’t get bored or develop negative behaviors like chewing on objects or shredding furniture.
19. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are incredibly loyal dogs who love people and are often described as having “a lot of personalities.” They have an uncanny sense of smell, which makes training them somehow than other breeds because they’re more likely to respond when you call them by name or scent mark something with their scent glands (like a toy).
Newfoundlands also require regular grooming, as they shed heavily twice per year, so they’ll need weekly brushing and bathing sessions.
20. Pomeranian
This little pup is the perfect example of a picky dog. They’re cute, but they can be challenging to train. They have a lot of energy and will want to play all day long, making potty training difficult. You’ll need to tire them out before you take them out, so they don’t have any more accidents in the house.
21. Poodle
They’re big, fluffy, and adorable. But they also have some severe issues with potty training. If you want to teach your poodle to do its business outside, you will have to work twice as hard on this than any other dog breed.
22. Pug
Pugs are adorable, but getting them to potty outside can be difficult. They don’t have many instincts for potty training, so it’s up to you to teach them. You’ll need patience and a lot of treats to get through this stage.
23. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are stubborn dogs who can be difficult to train. But if you’re persistent enough, you’ll eventually succeed in teaching your Rottweiler how to use the toilet.
24. Shar-Pei
This breed is incredibly stubborn and has a strong sense of independence. They can be tough to housebreak because they are not very good at listening when you tell them to sit or lie down. They also might try to hide somewhere so you won’t find them. This can be frustrating for an owner because it means there’s no way for them to know where the dog is hiding.
25. Shih Tzu
These dogs are also known for being difficult to housebreak because of their small stature and short coats, which make it harder for them to feel around for things like urine and feces.
They may also have trouble getting used to their surroundings since they were bred in China, which raised them with little human interaction or interaction outside of food and water bowls.
26. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is another breed that tends to be quite energetic and hard to control when it comes time for its owners to take them out for walks or playtime. They also have thick fur that makes grooming difficult, and they tend not to want people touching them too much while awake.
27. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a gigantic dog breed, so it can be challenging to train them to use a crate or other containment area. They are also known for being highly energetic, so that the training process will be long and time-consuming.
28.Standard Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a small dog with a high prey drive and can quickly become bored if there are not enough activities around them. This makes it very difficult for owners to train them to do things like sit or stay while they are outside.
29. Vizslas
Vizslas are known for their intelligence and their loyalty to their owners. Unfortunately, this means that they can be very stubborn regarding potty training. They will not respond well to harsh reprimands or punishments, so you may have to resort to positive reinforcement methods instead.
30. Weimaraner
Weimaraners are similar to Vizslas in that they are very loyal and intelligent dogs but also very stubborn in potty training. They do not respond well to harsh reprimands or punishments, so you may have to resort to positive reinforcement methods instead.
31. Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are another breed that is notoriously hard to potty train because they have a strong sense of territoriality and aggression toward other dogs and humans who enter their territory without permission (or even get too close).
32. The Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is the hardest dog to potty train. It’s a small breed, so it’s easy to get them used to going outside on short walks, but they’re susceptible to their environment and don’t like being left alone for long periods. They can also be distracted by their surroundings and can take a while to get back on task if they get distracted by something.
33. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is also a problematic dog to toilet-train because it’s an old-fashioned breed that has been around since antiquity, which means they were trained much differently than modern dogs. The Afghan Hound was bred to hunt wild pigs, so it needs special attention when training its instincts.
34. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is a famous dog, and for a good reason. They’re playful, loving, and loyal, but they also have quirks. One of the most common quirks is that Dalmatians are extremely difficult to train.
They have a strong prey drive and chase after cars, cats, dogs, and even squirrels. If you’re looking to get your Dalmatian started on potty training, keep this in mind: it can take up to six months.
35. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback. This breed is known for its stubbornness and high energy levels, which can make potty training difficult. Make sure you give them plenty of exercise each day, so they are more focused when it comes time for them to go outside.
It’s important to note that even though these breeds may be more challenging to potty train, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Can train every dog with the proper techniques and approach. It’s best to consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for personalized advice on how to potty train your dog.
What is the hardest dog to potty train?
All dogs are different; some may be easier to potty train than others. Among dogs that are stubborn or independent, which can make them more difficult to train, are Dachshund and Afghan Hound.
However, smaller breeds of dogs tend to be easier to potty train because they have smaller bladders and can hold their urine for shorter periods. This means they need to go outside to relieve themselves more frequently, making it easier to establish a regular potty schedule.
What is the most angry dog breed?
The angriest dog breed is the pit bull. Pit bulls are known for their tendency to be aggressive and can become aggressive when they sense danger. They are also known for their high energy levels, making them more likely to act out when feeling threatened.
This could explain why they’re so common in dog fighting rings and why they have been used by law enforcement for years as a tool for capturing dangerous criminals or other violent individuals.
What is the number one meanest dog?
The number one meanest dog is the Rottweiler. This breed is known for having a very strong bite and an aggressive temperament. They are also very obedient, which makes them ideal guard dogs.
These qualities make them the perfect choice for those who want their home to be protected by a fierce dog that will not be scared of anything.
What’s the most obedient dog?
Border Collies are known for being the most obedient breed of dog. They’re also known as “smart dogs” because they’re usually good at learning new tricks and commands. They’re used in Search and Rescue operations to locate people and animals who are lost or trapped in remote areas.
They are known for their strong work ethic and ability to learn new tasks quickly. They are also very social, which makes them a good candidate for adoption by families with children.
Border Collies tend to be friendly and loyal, making excellent family pets, but they can also be a little stubborn if you don’t train them right.
Last resort for dog potty training
If you have difficulty potty training your dog, there are a few steps you can take to try to improve their behavior. First, it’s essential to ensure that your dog has plenty of opportunities to go outside to relieve themselves and take them out on a regular schedule.
It would help if you also established a specific spot in your yard or on your property where your dog can go to the bathroom and take them to that spot whenever they need to.
Additionally, it can be helpful to use positive reinforcement techniques, such as praising your dog or giving them treats when they go to the bathroom outside, to encourage the desired behavior.
At what age is it too late to potty train a dog?
Potty training a dog is always possible as long as they can learn and understand the training. However, you can begin as early as three months.
Older dogs may take longer to potty train than puppies, but with patience and consistency, it is possible to train a dog at any age successfully. Many older dogs can learn new behaviors and habits quickly and easily if provided with a structured and positive training environment. If you have difficulty potty training an older dog, consult a professional dog trainer for advice and guidance.
At what age are dogs normally potty trained?
Puppies are typically ready to start potty training at around 3-4 months of age. They have gained enough physical control over their bladder and bowel movements at this age to hold it for extended periods.
However, it’s important to note that every dog is different, and some may be ready to start potty training earlier or later than others. The key to successful potty training is to pay attention to your dog’s behavior and physical cues and to begin training them as soon as they are physically ready.
What percent of dogs are potty trained?
According to a recent study, 67% of small dogs and 95% of large dogs were wholly housetrained. The study, published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, surveyed 500 dog owners and found that only 3% of dogs had accidents in their homes. The remaining 97% were completely housetrained.
While this is excellent news for many dog lovers struggling with potty problems, there are still some areas where you should be cautious. For example, if your dog has accidents outside the house, it’s essential to be aware of what might trigger them.
If you notice strong smells or loud noises that frighten your pet, try keeping those things away from where they are allowed access to the outdoors (this includes trash bins).
How do you know if a dog is housetrained?
A dog is considered to be housetrained when they have learned to go to the bathroom outside or in a designated area inside the house and no longer has accidents. There are a few key signs that can indicate that a dog is housetrained, including:
The dog goes to the same spot to go to the bathroom every time
The dog shows signs of needing to go to the bathroom, such as pacing or whining
The dog consistently goes to the bathroom outside or in a designated area
The dog has few or no accidents in the house
If you are unsure whether your dog is fully housetrained, consult a professional dog trainer for guidance and advice.
Are big dogs easier to potty train?
It’s not necessarily true that big dogs are easier to potty train than small dogs. While it may be easier to spot when a big dog needs to go to the bathroom, and they may be able to hold their urine for extended periods, they may still need to be easier to train.
Some large breed dogs can be more difficult to potty train due to their size and temperament. The key to successful potty training is to start early, be consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage the desired behavior.
How do I punish my puppy for potty training?
It is not recommended to use punishment as a means of potty training your puppy. Punishing your puppy for having accidents in the house can cause them to become scared or anxious and even worsen the problem.
Instead, it’s essential to use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage the desired behavior. For example, you can give your puppy treats or praise when they go to the bathroom outside and ignore or redirect them if they have an accident in the house.
Consistency and patience are essential to successful potty training. If you are having difficulty with your puppy’s potty training, consult a professional dog trainer.
Should you punish puppy for potty accidents?
There are a lot of ways to discipline your puppy, and many of them revolve around potty training. Potty training your puppy is a process that takes time, patience, and consistency.
If you’re still new to potty training, it’s probably tempting to throw your pup out of the house for the occasional accident. But if you do that, you’re setting yourself up for failure, and your puppy will learn that going outside means something terrible is coming.
Instead, start by discouraging your dog from making potty accidents with a positive reinforcement method like treats or praise. Give them food every time they use their crate or bed as a bathroom (or simply in the house).
If they’re already good at getting into their crate/bed when they need to go potty but not in other areas of the house (like on the floor), reinforce this behavior with praise and rewards.
Once they’ve mastered using their designated bathroom area consistently and on command, start helping them learn how to hold it until after eating or drinking before moving on to eliminating inside instead of outside. Once again, ensure all other areas are cleaned regularly, so there’s no temptation for them when it comes time.
At what age can you discipline a puppy for peeing in the house?
It’s important to start training your puppy as soon as possible. Most puppies can begin learning basic commands, such as “no” or “go potty,” as early as 8-16weeks of age.
However, remember that every puppy is different and may be ready to learn at a slightly different age. The key is to be consistent with your training and to be patient.
If you catch your puppy peeing in the house, you can say “no” firmly and take them outside to their designated potty area. Reward them with praise and a treat if they go potty out. This will help them learn that going potty outside is the desired behavior.
How do you stop a puppy from pooping and peeing in the house?
One way to stop a puppy from pooping and peeing in the house is to take them outside frequently and give them plenty of opportunities to go to the bathroom. This can be especially effective if you take them to the same spot each time, as this can help to establish a routine.
Additionally, being patient and consistent is essential, as puppies often need to go to the bathroom more frequently than adult dogs. You can also use positive reinforcement, such as praising and rewarding your puppy when they go to the bathroom outside, to encourage them to continue this behavior.
It’s also a good idea to ensure that your puppy has access to plenty of water and is on a regular feeding schedule, as this can help regulate their bathroom habits.
Finally, if your puppy has persistent accidents in the house, it may be a good idea to consult a veterinarian or professional dog trainer for additional advice and guidance.
Conclusion
We learned that the hardest dogs to potty train are those with genetic predispositions to bladder or bowel problems. And we also learned that older dogs who were trained as puppies tend to be easier to train than younger dogs because they’ve already been exposed to things like puppy pads and leash walks.
So, if you’re thinking about getting a dog, consider your dog’s age when deciding whether it’ll be a good candidate for potty training. If they’re young and still learning how to go outside, don’t worry too much about it. They’ll know soon enough.