Top 30 Dumbest Dogs

You’ll need patience and high-value treats with breeds like the Afghan Hound, Basenji, or Old English Sheepdog-they take 80–100 repetitions to learn a command and obey only 25% of first cues. Their low obedience stems from independence, not lack of intelligence. These dogs thrive on consistency, short 5-minute training sessions, and positive reinforcement. Distractibility, strong instincts, and sensitivity shape their behavior more than smarts. Up next reveals how even the most stubborn breeds can succeed with the right approach.

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Notable Insights

• “Dumb” in dogs refers to low working and obedience intelligence, not overall cognitive ability.
• Breeds like Afghan Hounds and Bloodhounds may need 80–100 repetitions to learn commands and obey ≤25% of the time.
• Low obedience scores don’t reflect poor instinctive or adaptive intelligence, such as scent tracking in Beagles.
• Rankings come from Stanley Coren’s studies based on 199 obedience judges evaluating over 100 breeds.
• Training success with less obedient breeds requires patience, consistency, positive reinforcement, and high-value rewards.

What Defines a “Dumb” Dog Breed?

What makes a dog “dumb,” anyway? It’s not about smarts overall, but rather working and obedience intelligence-the ability to follow human-led tasks. According to Stanley Coren, the dumbest dog breeds take 80 to 100 repetitions to learn commands and obey only about 25% of the time. That’s based on surveys of professional trainers and obedience trials. But don’t mistake slow learning for low intelligence-these dogs often shine in instinctive roles, like scent tracking or independent hunting. Breeds like Afghan Hounds or Basenjis may resist commands, not from dullness, but from selective listening and strong prey drives. Coren’s rankings focus on trainability, not problem-solving or adaptability. So, if you’re training one of these breeds, use patience, consistency, and high-value treats. Their behavior reflects independence, not lack of potential.

How Stanley Coren Measures Dog Intelligence

While you might think dog intelligence is just about how quickly a pup sits on command, Stanley Coren breaks it down into three clear types: instinctive intelligence, or what a breed was born to do-like herding or digging; adaptive intelligence, which covers how well a dog learns from its environment or solves problems on its own; and working and obedience intelligence, the measure of how fast a dog picks up human-led tasks. Coren based his rankings on surveys from 199 obedience judges who assessed over 100 breeds using repetition and command response rates. The smartest dogs learn a new command in under 5 reps and obey 95% of the time, while the least may need 80–100 reps and obey only 25%. Though Stanley Coren’s method emphasizes working and obedience, it doesn’t always reflect a dog’s full cognitive range, especially for independent breeds with strong adaptive intelligence.

Why Trainability Doesn’t Equal Intelligence

Since trainability is just one slice of a dog’s mental abilities, judging a breed as “dumb” because it resists commands misses the bigger picture, especially when that dog thrives in other cognitive areas like problem-solving or instinctual work. You might struggle with training a Basenji or Afghan Hound, but that doesn’t mean they’re not intelligent-just that they score lower in obedience intelligence. Breeds like Bloodhounds, with 230 million scent receptors, show exceptional adaptive and instinctive intelligence, excelling in tracking despite poor command response. A Beagle’s fixation on smells isn’t dullness; it’s strong drive overriding obedience. Smart training means working with, not against, these instincts. Focus on consistent routines, positive reinforcement, and mental stimulation. When you understand that obedience intelligence isn’t the only measure, you’ll see these dogs not as untrainable, but as differently intelligent.

Afghan Hound: Elegant but Resists Commands

How do you train a dog that seems to listen when it wants to? The Afghan hound, often ranked among the dumbest dog breeds, isn’t slow-it’s stubborn. This breed requires up to 100 repetitions to learn a single command and obeys only 25% of the time, making it difficult to train. Bred for independent hunting in rugged Afghan terrain, it has an independent streak that outweighs obedience. While it excels in instinctive intelligence-like spotting and chasing prey-it resists commands, not from lack of ability but choice. Its elegant coat and loyalty charm, but success in training hinges on consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. Use high-value treats, short 5-minute sessions, and a calm, confident tone. Avoid harsh tools; opt for slip collars or harnesses during recalls. Real trainers report clicker training helps, but progress is slow. Manage expectations: this hound follows its will, not yours.

Basenji: Silent and Stubbornly Independent

If you’re looking for a dog that follows orders without question, the Basenji might not be your best bet, but if you appreciate a smart, independent thinker, this breed brings a unique kind of challenge. The Basenji is silent by biology, thanks to a uniquely shaped larynx-it doesn’t bark, yodeling instead. Bred in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for silent hunting, it’s fiercely independent and often ignores commands unless it sees a reason to comply. Training can take up to 80 repetitions, reflecting its stubborn streak. This catlike dog grooms itself, dislikes baths, and resists leash training, demanding patience. Use high-value treats, like freeze-dried liver, and keep sessions short-Basenjis tune out fast. Crates should be escape-proof. Their silent, aloof nature isn’t a flaw, but a trait-understand it, work with it, and you’ll share life with a sharp, self-assured companion.

English Bulldog: Lovable but Slow to Learn

You might admire the Basenji’s sharp independence, but the English bulldog offers a completely different kind of challenge-one wrapped in wrinkles and a heart of gold. While ranked among the dumbest dog breeds, this pup isn’t dumb-just hard to train and stubborn and independent by nature. It takes 80–100 repeats to learn a command, obeying only 25% of the time. Yet, its docile temperament makes it safe around kids and less likely to bite.

This brachycephalic breed tires fast, so keep training low-impact. Nutrition must support joint and respiratory health. Patience beats punishment every time with an English bulldog.

Chow Chow: Proud and Uninterested in Training

Though they’re not the easiest to train, Chow Chows bring a dignified presence to any home, with a history rooted in guarding, hunting, and even herding in ancient China. You’ll quickly learn that the Chow Chow ranks among the dumbest dog breeds, needing 80–100 repetitions to grasp a new command. Their obedience rate sits below 25%, meaning they ignore you three out of four times. Stanley Coren once joked furniture’s more trainable-this breed’s stubbornness makes training difficult, requiring patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Don’t expect willing-to-please energy; their independent streak runs deep. Still, they bond closely with family, offering loyalty and calm demeanor. Early socialization and structured routines help counter their aloofness. Use high-value treats, short sessions, and reward calm compliance. While not ideal for first-time owners, a well-trained Chow Chow can thrive with firm, respectful handling. Their pride isn’t laziness-it’s centuries of self-reliance showing.

Borzoi: Graceful Hunter With Low Obedience

While built for speed and elegance on the open chase, the Borzoi isn’t one to jump at your command-this breed typically needs 80 to 100 repetitions to learn a new cue and follows through less than 25% of the time, per Stanley Coren’s rankings. As a sighthound bred for independent hunting, the Borzoi’s stubborn nature makes obedience training a test of patience. You’ll need consistency, calm repetition, and a sense of humor to guide this elegant dog.

Though aloof, the Borzoi bonds quietly with families. Start obedience training early, use high-value treats, and respect its sighthound instincts-success lies in working *with*, not against, its nature.

Bloodhound: Legendary Nose, Poor Listener

Because its nose knows best, the Bloodhound often tunes out your commands in favor of following a scent trail, no matter how faint-this breed typically needs around 100 repetitions to learn a new cue and obeys the first command less than 25% of the time, according to Stanley Coren’s obedience trials. You’re not imagining it: when it comes to obedience, Bloodhounds rank low in canine intelligence metrics. But don’t mistake their stubborn streak for dullness. As scent hounds, they’re built for tracking, not tricks, with 230 million scent receptors driving their focus. This instinct can override even solid training and socialization efforts. While they may ignore you in the backyard, police and rescue teams rely on them worldwide. Their real-world performance shows that intelligence depends on the task. For you, consistent training using high-value treats and secure fencing is essential. They’re not “dumb”-they’re just wired differently.

Pekingese: Lapdog With Minimal Obedience

If you’re expecting your Pekingese to leap at your command like a border collie, you might be in for a surprise-this regal little companion obeys the first command less than 25% of the time, according to Stanley Coren’s obedience trials, landing it among the least trainable breeds. Bred as a pampered companion dog for Chinese emperors, your Pekingese thrives on affection, not obedience drills. This breed typically needs 80–100 repetitions to grasp a new command, thanks to its stubborn nature and low motivation. Don’t mistake calm cuddles at home for trainability-out in the real world, your Pekingese may ignore cues entirely, treating training like a game it didn’t agree to play. Though loyal and loving, this small 14-pound dog has a dual personality: peaceful on your lap, defiant in lessons. If you want a responsive dog, the Pekingese is one of the least trainable, requiring patience, consistency, and plenty of high-value treats to make modest gains.

Beagle: One of the Dumbest Dogs for Focus

Though your beagle might charm you with those soulful eyes and a wagging tail, don’t expect laser focus during training-this breed ranks among the least responsive in obedience, needing 80 to 100 repetitions to learn a single command and obeying the first cue only 25% of the time, according to Stanley Coren’s intelligence trials. As one of the dumbest dogs in obedience rankings, the Beagle’s powerful sense of smell, with over 220 million scent receptors, constantly pulls attention away from commands. Even familiar cues often get ignored mid-sniff, making them difficult to train and nearly impossible to trust off-leash. Their stubborn streak and boredom-driven mischief demand consistency, high-value treats, and scent-integrated training. Daily mental drills-like hide-and-seek with kibble or scent boxes-are essential. Use a 6-foot nylon lead for control and reward focus every 15–20 seconds. Patience isn’t optional; it’s required.

Mastiff: Gentle Giant, Low Learning Speed

You might’ve thought the Beagle’s distraction was tough to manage, but the Mastiff brings a different challenge-one of sheer size paired with slow learning. This gentle giant ranks among the dumbest dog breeds in Stanley Coren’s studies, needing 80–100 repetitions to grasp a new command. With a low learning speed, it obeys the first command just 25% of the time or less. Its independent nature means it weighs your requests before deciding to comply. Despite this, strong bonds form quickly, boosting responsiveness when trust is built. Training requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement-harsh methods backfire. A calm, structured routine, high-protein diet, and early socialization help manage its docile yet stubborn temperament. Though large at 120–230 lbs, exercise needs are moderate: two 20-minute walks daily. With a lifespan of 6–10 years, proper care maximizes health and harmony.

Basset Hound: Scent-Obsessed, Hard to Train

While the Mastiff’s slow learning stems from a laid-back independence, the Basset Hound’s challenges run straight to its nose-literally. This scent-obsessed breed has over 220 million scent receptors, making it second only to the Bloodhound, but that strength is also why it’s hard to train. A Basset Hound often ignores commands when a smell takes over, proving its stubborn nature time and again.

Use high-value treats, like soft chicken strips, to maintain focus. Keep training short and scent-free. A secure fence is essential-recall often fails with this hard to train, scent-obsessed hound.

Shih Tzu: Affectionate but Disobedient

The Basset Hound’s nose may lead it astray, but the Shih Tzu’s stubborn charm presents a different kind of training hurdle. You’ll find that your Shih Tzu, while affectionate and playful, ranks among the dumbest dog breeds due to low obedience and intelligence in working tasks. Stanley Coren’s research shows they obey the first command less than 25% of the time, requiring 80 to 100 repetitions to learn a single cue. That makes them difficult to train, even with consistent daily sessions. Bred for companionship, not performance, they treat commands as optional games. Use high-value treats, like soft chicken pieces or freeze-dried liver, in 5-minute drills to maintain focus. Keep training upbeat and repetitive. Though they’re poor learners, their friendly nature with family and other dogs makes up for it. Just don’t expect precision.

Chihuahua: Toy Breed With Poor Recall

Though small enough to fit in a tote bag, the Chihuahua packs a big personality that often resists the basics of obedience training. As a toy breed, your Chihuahua has a stubborn streak and a poor recall, making off-leash freedom risky. Their learning ability ranks low-expect up to 80 repetitions to grasp a new command. According to Stanley Coren, they obey the first command only 30% of the time. Distractibility and territorial barking worsen their poor recall, especially around smaller animals.

Chihuahuas need consistency, positive reinforcement, and secure spaces-invest in a harness and recall training early.

Bullmastiff: Powerful but Unresponsive

You thought training a Chihuahua was tough, but meet the Bullmastiff-a massive, muscular breed that takes stubbornness to another level. Ranked among the dumbest dog breeds, the Bullmastiff needs 80 to 100 repetitions to learn a new command and obeys the first instruction less than 25% of the time. Bred from Bulldog and Mastiff lines for independent guarding, it has a stubborn streak that resists quick training efforts. It’s not aggressive, but it *is* self-reliant, often choosing when to listen. Success comes with early socialization, consistent routines, and positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Harsh methods backfire. Despite low working intelligence, the Bullmastiff bonds deeply with family, offering calm loyalty. Invest in patience, use high-value rewards, and expect progress over months, not weeks. With steady training, this powerful dog can follow basic commands-just don’t expect instant obedience.

Lhasa Apso: Watchdog Who Ignores Commands

While bred to alert monks in remote Himalayan monasteries, your Lhasa Apso carries that legacy with a twist-expect crisp vigilance at the door but little interest in following up when you give a command. This watchdog barks confidently at strangers yet rarely obeys the first command, succeeding less than 25% of the time. With 80 to 100 repetitions needed to learn a new cue, the Lhasa Apso is undeniably challenging to train. Their independent thinking isn’t low intelligence-it’s selective cooperation.

Stay consistent, use positive reinforcement, and respect their stubborn independence for better results.

St. Bernard: Rescue Dog With Low Obedience

Bred for centuries to brave snow-choked Alpine passes, the St. Bernard was never meant to master obedience intelligence. You’ll find this rescue dog ranks low in formal training, needing 80–100 repetitions to learn a command, according to Dr. Stanley Coren’s research. That’s due to low obedience, not lack of smarts - their instinctive intelligence shines in crisis. These dogs were bred to locate lost travelers, relying on scent, strength, and determination, not obedience drills. While devoted and gentle, a St. Bernard often chooses when to respond. Their independence means consistent, reward-based training is essential, especially with high-value treats like freeze-dried liver. A harness, 6-foot leash, and early socialization improve control. Despite low obedience, their work ethic thrives in search and rescue scenarios, where purpose fuels their focus, not commands.

Pug: Playful but Easily Distracted

Though they’re known for their comical expressions and affectionate nature, pugs can be a handful when it comes to training, needing up to 80 repetitions to learn a new command and obeying the first time only about 30% of the time, according to Stanley Coren’s rankings. As a Pug owner, you’ll quickly notice how easily distracted your dog is-squirrels, smells, even a passing shadow can steal their focus. They’re affection-driven, not task-driven, which makes them stubborn during lessons. But don’t resort to harsh tones; pugs are sensitive, and scolding backfires. Instead, stick with positive reinforcement using small, soft treats and enthusiastic praise. Crate training and consistent schedules help curb housebreaking issues and territorial marking. Keep sessions short, fun, and repeat often. Your patience pays off with gradual progress, not instant results. A clicker paired with treats can sharpen recall. Stay consistent-you’re not training a border collie, just a lovable, easily distracted, stubborn pug who’d rather nap on your lap than follow commands.

French Bulldog: Popular but Stubborn

A French Bulldog might win your heart with its bat ears and charming personality, but don’t expect quick tricks or instant obedience-this breed needs 80 to 100 repetitions to learn a new command and obeys the first time less than 25% of the time, according to Stanley Coren’s rankings. Known for being stubborn, your French Bulldog won’t jump at your commands unless you commit to consistent, early training. Positive reinforcement works best; they’re sensitive and shut down with harsh methods. Housebreaking can be tough, and urine marking is common without structure.

Prioritize routine and gentle corrections to build reliable obedience.

Sealyham Terrier: Rare and Willful

Even if you’re drawn to the Sealyham Terrier’s bold expression and tidy, all-white coat, you’ll want to go in knowing this small but resolute breed won’t bend to your will without a fight, needing 80 to 100 repetitions to learn basic commands and obeying only about 20% of the time on the first try, per Stanley Coren’s breed intelligence rankings. The Sealyham Terrier is a rare breed with a willful streak, originally bred in Wales for hunting fox and vermin. Its stubborn temperament means harsh methods backfire-expect growling or resistance. You’ll need consistency, positive reinforcement, and early socialization. This terrier thrives on mental challenges, so use puzzle feeders and short, engaging sessions. Due to low obedience responsiveness, prioritize recall training in secure areas. Grooming the double coat weekly maintains health, while balanced nutrition supports their compact, active build. Not a beginner’s dog, the Sealyham demands patience, structure, and respect for its independent mind.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Low-Runner, Hard to Train

Since you’re considering the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, you’ll want to know this compact, low-slung breed comes with a stubborn streak that resists basic commands-taking 80 to 100 repetitions to learn a new cue and obeying reliably only about 20% of the time on first try, per Coren’s rankings. This hard to train, overconfident terrier thrives on independence, making it a poor fit for first-time owners. Early socialization and consistency are key. Positive reinforcement beats punishment-you’ll see better results with treats than tones. Known as a stubborn breed, it’s bred for hunting, not pleasing. Expect low obedience and plan training sessions around its moods.

Skye Terrier: Long Coat, Slow Learner

While it might catch your eye with its floor-length coat and dignified strut, the Skye Terrier comes with a mind of its own, making it a slow learner in the training department. That luxurious long coat? Gorgeous, but it demands daily brushing to prevent mats-plan on 20 minutes minimum with a slicker brush and stainless steel comb. The Skye Terrier’s stubbornness isn’t just anecdotal; bred for hunting small prey underground, it thinks independently, not obediently. You won’t find this breed in Stanley Coren’s rankings-there’s simply not enough data on command learning reps or obedience success rates. Its slow learner status stems from terrier-type persistence, not lack of smarts. Training requires consistency, high-value treats like freeze-dried liver, and plenty of patience. Early socialization and short, focused sessions help. Don’t expect quick recall or off-leash freedom-this dog weighs stubbornness as much as its 25-pound frame. Grooming and willfulness mean only experienced owners need apply.

Norwich Terrier: Energetic but Inattentive

You’ll find the Norwich Terrier bursting with energy and personality, but don’t expect undivided attention when distractions are near-this feisty 12- to 14-pound bundle was bred to hunt rats and bolt foxes, so its focus often lands on scurrying sounds or rustling leaves instead of your recall command. The Norwich Terrier is smart but inattentive, using its problem-solving skills for independence rather than obedience. Its independent streak demands consistent, early training with positive reinforcement-think treats, praise, and short sessions under 10 minutes to hold interest. Without clear rules and socialization, this terrier may ignore commands or test limits. While not low in intelligence, its distractibility affects training outcomes, especially in busy environments. Use high-value rewards like freeze-dried liver bits and structured routines to improve focus. Daily mental and physical activity, including puzzle toys and 30 minutes of play, helps manage impulsivity. Stick with patience and repetition, and you’ll shape a responsive, well-mannered companion.

Norfolk Terrier: Small but Strong-Willed

Meet the Norfolk Terrier, a compact 11- to 12-pound dynamo with a wiry coat, bold attitude, and a knack for doing things on their own terms-sound familiar? This terrier, often listed among the dumbest dog breeds, isn’t slow-just strong-willed. Originally bred to hunt rodents in Britain, the Norfolk Terrier stands 9–10 inches tall and thrives on independence. You’ll need patience: it can take 80 or more repetitions for them to learn new commands. Consistent, reward-based training works best, especially with high-value treats. Their wiry double coat needs brushing twice weekly and hand-stripping twice a year. Lifespan is 12 to 15 years with proper care, quality nutrition, and routine vet checks. They’re energetic, brave, and prone to chasing small animals, so keep them leashed outdoors. A Norfolk Terrier isn’t for beginners-but if you want a feisty, loyal companion who marches to their own beat, they’re worth the effort.

Glen of Imaal Terrier: Muscular and Independent

Stubborn strength defines the Glen of Imaal Terrier, a compact powerhouse from Ireland built for tough work and even tougher minds. You’re dealing with a breed that’s muscular, 14 inches tall, and weighs 32–40 pounds, bred for vermin hunting and badger work. The Glen of Imaal Terrier is fiercely independent, making training a challenge. It typically takes 80–100 repetitions for him to learn a new command, and he obeys the first command less than 25% of the time-proof of low obedience intelligence. Don’t expect willing-to-please energy; this dog is stubborn by nature. Early training with positive reinforcement is key, as harsh methods backfire. His strong prey drive and territorial instincts demand consistency. Use high-value treats, like freeze-dried liver, and short, engaging sessions. A secure yard is essential. This isn’t a pup for novice owners, but with patience, he can learn.

Old English Sheepdog: Fluffy but Unruly

The Glen of Imaal Terrier’s stubborn streak isn’t the only challenge you’ll face in the world of independent dog breeds-enter the Old English Sheepdog, a large, shaggy companion with a mind of his own. You’ll quickly notice its independent thinking isn’t laziness-it’s selective cooperation. This breed has a short attention span, so training sessions longer than 10 minutes often fail. Without early, consistent guidance, its stubborn nature can lead to dominance, like blocking doorways or refusing recall. A firm, patient hand from puppyhood is non-negotiable. Mental stimulation, like treat-release puzzles, and daily 60-minute walks help curb unruly behavior. Its thick double coat needs brushing 4 times weekly to prevent mats. Though ranked low in obedience, it’s not unintelligent-it just won’t jump without a reason. Use high-value rewards, like freeze-dried liver, to boost responsiveness.

Scottish Terrier: Proud and Self-Directed

Though they’ve got a dignified air and a bold stance, Scottish Terriers aren’t dogs who’ll blindly follow every command-you’ll need to earn their cooperation through consistency and respect. Scottish Terriers are often labeled among the dumbest dog breeds due to their low working and obedience intelligence, but their independence reflects selective breeding, not lack of smarts. Bred for hunting rodents, they excel in problem-solving, not compliance. These dogs are notoriously difficult to train, needing 80–100 repetitions to learn a new command and obeying the first request less than 25% of the time. Harsh tactics backfire-use positive reinforcement instead. Patience and routine are essential. Invest in early socialization, high-value treats, and short daily sessions. They respond best to calm, confident leadership. With the right approach, Scottish Terriers can master basic cues and even light agility, proving that intelligence comes in many forms-even when it comes on four stubborn, self-directed paws.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Sweet but Distractible

Ever wonder why your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel seems more interested in sniffing a squirrel than sitting on command? That’s because, while affectionate and willing to please, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is naturally distractible. Their attention pulls easily toward sounds, smells, and your emotions, which can interrupt training fast. Still, don’t mistake focus issues for low intelligence. In Stanley Coren’s rankings, this breed shows moderate obedience intelligence, needing 25–40 repetitions to learn a new command-better than truly low-trainability breeds. They obey the first command about 70% of the time, reflecting decent trainability. Use short, consistent sessions with treats and praise to build focus. Their strong bond with people helps, as positive reinforcement works well. With patience and structure, your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can master basic cues-just expect charm, not instant precision.

Maltese: Delicate Companion, Low Obedience

While you might fall for the Maltese’s luxuriously soft, floor-length white coat and sweet, expressive eyes, don’t expect instant obedience in return-this breed thrives on companionship and often chooses affection over following commands. The Maltese is a companion dog through and through, bred for bonding, not brilliance in obedience. Don’t be fooled by its gentle look; it’s surprisingly stubborn, needing 80–100 repetitions to learn a single command. According to Stanley Coren’s metrics, it obeys the first command less than 25% of the time, placing it high on the low obedience list. Housebreaking can be a real challenge, demanding patience and consistent positive reinforcement. Training works best with small, rewarding treats and short, engaging sessions. This tiny toy breed lives 12–15 years, so plan for long-term commitment. Focus on connection, not control, and you’ll enjoy a loyal, loving friend-even if it ignores your “sit” command.

On a final note

You’ll need patience with these breeds, but consistency, positive reinforcement, and structured routines make a real difference. Feed high-quality kibble like Purina Pro Plan or Royal Canin, stick to portion control-usually 1–2 cups daily, depending on size-and schedule regular vet checks. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys like the Outward Hound Slider helps, too. Training isn’t about smarts-it’s about communication, timing, and persistence, and every dog can succeed with the right approach.