The 10 trickiest dog breeds to house train (& how to crack it)

Is your pup one of the hardest dog breeds to potty train?

If you’ve been constantly mopping up puddles and wondering if your dog will ever get the message, you’re not alone!

House training can test the patience of a saint!

Especially with certain breeds known for being a bit {stubborn} when it comes to their toilet habits.

But here’s the good news: no dog is truly untrainable.

Even the most independent or strong-willed pups can learn with time, consistency, and heaps of positive reinforcement.

The truth is, some dog breeds hardest to potty train have smaller bladders, sensitive temperaments, or are just a bit set in their ways.

In fact, breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Pugs often top the list of dogs that take a bit longer to get the hang of it.

Not to worry, though - with the right strategy (and a decent sense of humour), even these tricky customers can become house training pros.

Let's crack on!

Why are some dog breeds harder to potty train?

Before we dive into our list of the dog breeds with the biggest house training challenges, it's helpful to understand why some pups struggle more than others.

This isn't about intelligence; many of the hardest dogs to housetrain are actually very clever.

The challenge comes down to a few key factors.

1. Independent temperament

Some breeds were developed to work alone.

They make their own decisions without needing constant human guidance.

Terrier breeds, scent hounds, and stubborn breeds like the Afghan Hound were bred to hunt or work at their own pace.

These independent dogs aren't fussed about your approval the way a Golden Retriever or Labrador might be.

This just means they're less motivated by praise during training sessions.

When a dog thinks they know best, convincing them to follow your bathroom schedule can be hard graft.

2. Small bladder syndrome

Here's a simple fact: smaller dogs have smaller bladders.

Toy breeds and small breed dog varieties physically can't hold their bladder as long as larger breeds.

While a German Shepherd might comfortably wait 6-8 hours between toilet breaks, a Yorkshire Terrier might need to go every 2-3 hours.

This isn't them trying to be awkward; it's biology.

Little dogs also have less bowel control, especially as puppies.

This means more frequent accidents during the house training process.

Small breeds need a more consistent training schedule with more opportunities to succeed.

3. Instinct overload

Scent hounds like the Basset Hound and American Foxhound were bred to follow their noses, sometimes for miles.

When you take them outside for a toilet break, their instincts kick in.

You have to watch out because they'd be more interested in investigating every interesting smell than actually doing their business.

Also, terrier breeds have high energy levels and a short attention span, making it hard for them to focus.

They'd rather chase a leaf or investigate a sound than remember why they're in the garden.

4. Sensitivity to stress

Some smaller breeds and toy breeds are super sensitive to their environment and your mood.

Breeds like the Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu can actually go backwards in their training if they sense stress or frustration.

Telling them off or raising your voice makes these dogs anxious.

And if they're stressed, it can lead to submissive urination or fear-based accidents.

These sensitive souls need positive reinforcement and gentle consistency.

Pressure and punishment backfire with these stubborn dogs.

This would just make the whole house training process take even longer.

5. Medical and age factors

Puppies have less bowel control and need to go potty more often than adult dogs.

But older dogs can also present challenges.

Senior pups may have weakening muscles or medical conditions that affect their ability to hold their pee.

Plus, health issues like urinary tract infections, diabetes, or anxiety disorders can complicate toilet training for any breed.

If you've been working consistently with your pup and still seeing accidents after several months, vet visits should be your first step to rule out medical problems.

Top 10 hardest dog breeds to potty train

1. Dachshund

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If there were a “Most Stubborn Pup” award, the Dachshund would be a front-runner.

These adorable sausage dogs have a mind of their own, and that’s part of their charm!

Why They’re Tough

Originally bred to hunt badgers independently, Dachshunds developed a strong independent streak and real persistence.

Combine that with their dislike for rain and a teeny-tiny bladder, and you’ve got a recipe for house-training challenges.

Common Mistake

Getting frustrated too early.

Dachshunds can sense your tone and will switch off if training feels negative or stressful.

How to Succeed

• Stick to a strict schedule. Take them out after meals, naps, and play.
• Reward instantly. These little hounds respond best to immediate praise (and treats!).
• Weather-proof the loo spot. A small covered area can make a world of difference during a downpour.

Our Tip: Use a special “potty treat” that’s only for successful bathroom breaks. This way, they'd be highly motivated!

2. Jack Russell Terrier

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Imagine trying to potty train a squirrel on espresso. That’s a Jack Russell Terrier!

Why They’re Tough

Jack Russells are incredibly smart, but their energy levels are through the roof.

They get distracted easily and might forget why they went outside in the first place.

Common Mistake

Giving them too much freedom too soon.

They’ll happily run off chasing birds instead of focusing on the task.

How to Succeed

• Exercise first, potty second. A quick play session helps them settle down.
• Short, focused breaks. Keep training sessions brief and upbeat.
• Consistency above all. Same schedule, same cues, every day.

Our Tip: Use a lead even in your garden to help them stay focused on business before playtime.

3. Shih Tzu

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Shih Tzu’s royal attitude means one thing: they’ll potty when they feel like it.

Why They’re Tough

They dislike getting their paws wet or cold and may “hold it” until they’re back inside (and then… surprise!).

Common Mistake

Scolding them for accidents.

Shih Tzus are sensitive and will respond by hiding their messes next time.

How to Succeed

• Keep the potty spot clean and sheltered. These pups like comfort!
• Praise like they’re royalty. Positive reinforcement works wonders.
• Stick to routine. Feed and walk at consistent times.

Our Tip: Many Shih Tzus thrive with indoor potty pads during bad weather - just transition outdoors gradually.

4. Yorkshire Terrier

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Small but mighty, Yorkies are confident, clever, and sometimes just a little too sure of themselves.

Why They’re Tough

Their tiny size means frequent potty breaks — but their big attitude can make them resist routine.

Common Mistake

Letting accidents slide because they’re “so small.”

Even small dogs need a consistent structure.

How to Succeed

• Use crate training to encourage bladder control.
• Supervise constantly until they’re reliable.
• Celebrate every success with lots of praise.

Our Tip: Yorkies love feeling included. Try using verbal praise (“Good job!”) with an excited tone — they live for approval!

5. Chihuahua

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

These tiny drama kings and queens don’t love bad weather — and it definitely affects their potty training.

Why They’re Tough

Their small size means they lose body heat fast, so they often refuse to go outside in the cold or rain.

Common Mistake

Skipping potty breaks on bad-weather days.

That can set back training quickly.

How to Succeed

• Create a sheltered potty zone. A small covered area works great.
• Dress them up! A cosy dog sweater or raincoat helps.
• Take frequent trips outside. Tiny bladders = frequent breaks.

Our Tip: Try timing potty trips right after naps. Chihuahuas usually need to go right when they wake up.

6. Basset Hound

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sweet, soulful, and stubborn, the Basset Hound follows one rule: their nose knows best.

Why They’re Tough

They’re easily distracted by smells and tend to wander off mid-training.

Common Mistake

Letting sniffing time happen before potty time.

You’ll lose their attention straight away.

How to Succeed

• Go straight to the loo area. No sniffing detours!
• Keep praise short and sweet. Overexcited energy distracts them.
• Be consistent and calm. Bassets respond best to steady routines.

Our Tip: Use a verbal cue like “Be quick!”. They’ll eventually learn to associate it with doing their business.

7. Bichon Frise

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

These little clouds of fluff are smart and affectionate, but also sensitive and prone to anxiety.

Why They’re Tough

Bichons don’t handle stress well.

A move, a new pet, or a loud noise can trigger potty “accidents.”

Common Mistake

Changing routines too often or punishing mistakes.

That only increases their anxiety.

How to Succeed

• Keep calm, even after accidents.
• Reward success immediately.
• Use gentle structure. Predictability helps them feel safe.

Our Tip: Make sure your pup has a calm, cosy space, like a soft MrFluffyFriend™ Anxiety Relieving Dog Bed, to reduce stress-related toilet issues.

8. Beagle

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Beagles are loveable detectives, and when they catch a scent, everything else goes out the window.

Why They’re Tough

Their powerful noses make them easily distracted during toilet time.

They may also get stubborn if they're bored.

Common Mistake

Letting them wander off-lead before they’ve gone.

They’ll completely forget why they’re outside.

How to Succeed

• Keep them on a short lead. Guide them to one specific spot.
• Go out frequently. Beagles love a good routine.
• Praise with calm affection. They respond best to gentle consistency.

Our Tip: Choose a low-scent loo area. Fewer smells = fewer distractions!

9. Chow Chow

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Chows are beautiful, independent, and a bit aloof; think of them as the “cats” of the dog world.

Why They’re Tough

They aren't overly bothered about pleasing humans.

If they don’t see the point, they won’t bother.

Common Mistake

Using harsh training methods.

Chows will simply ignore you.

How to Succeed

• Be patient and calm. Earn their respect first.
• Use routine, not pressure.
• Reward calmly. Over-the-top excitement won’t impress them.

Our Tip: Once trained, Chows are naturally very clean — it just takes time and trust to get there.

10. Pug

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Everyone loves a Pug’s goofy personality, but their stubborn streak can make potty training tricky.

Why They’re Tough

They dislike going out in extreme weather and may be lazy about it.

Common Mistake

Expecting quick results.

Pugs need gentle repetition.

How to Succeed

• Keep it upbeat. Pugs love fun, not discipline.
• Stick to consistent potty breaks.
• Use indoor pads as a backup for bad weather.

Our Tip: Watch for “pre-potty” signs (sniffing, circling, whining) and guide them outside right away. Timing is everything!

Related: Be a better dog owner: Guide to responsible pet ownership

The ultimate house training method for stubborn breeds

Even the most difficult dog breeds can learn proper toilet habits with this proven 6-step system.

This method works for stubborn dogs, independent dogs, and even those with short attention spans.

What you'll need:

• Supplies: High-value dog treats (cheese, chicken, special training treats), enzymatic cleaner, properly sized crate, lead and collar, puppy pads for small breeds

• Tools: Notebook for tracking, phone alarms or timer, exercise pen for small breeds

• Time commitment: 4-6 months for most breeds, 6-12 months for stubborn breeds

• Estimated cost: £50-100 for supplies

Step 1: Establish a rock-solid schedule

Consistency is your most powerful tool. Dogs thrive on routine, especially stubborn breeds.

Your daily schedule should include:

• First thing in morning: Toilet break before your cuppa, before your phone, before anything else

• 15-20 minutes after each meal: Watch the clock - this is prime potty time

• Immediately after naps: Puppies especially need to go upon waking

• After a good play session: Exercise stimulates bowel and bladder

• Right before bedtime: Last chance to empty out

Pro tip: Set phone reminders for each toilet break. For puppies, use the "age in months plus one" rule - a 3-month-old puppy needs breaks every 4 hours at most.

Step 2: Pick one spot and one command

Clarity eliminates confusion. Choose and stick with one setup.

Location matters:

• Use the exact same outdoor spot every time

• The accumulating scent will trigger your dog's instinct to go there

• For miserable weather days, have a designated indoor area with puppy pads

Command consistency:

• Pick one phrase: "Go potty," "Be quick," or "Get busy"

• Say it as they're going, not before

• Use the same phrase every single time

Step 3: The silent escort method

This is where most owners come a cropper.

For your pup, it’s too interesting outside.

The process:

1. Lead your dog (even in fenced gardens during training)

2. Walk directly to their loo spot - no detours

3. Stand still and become super boring

4. No talking, no phone, no eye contact

5. Wait silently for up to 10 minutes

If they don't go:

• Calmly return inside

• Place them in a crate or confined area

• Try again in 15-20 minutes

• Repeat until they do their business

Step 4: The jackpot reward system

Timing is everything.

Reward the exact behaviour you want them to repeat.

The 3-second rule:

• The moment they finish (not when you go inside)

• Within 3 seconds, give them high-value treats

• Pair with enthusiastic praise: "Yes! Good dog!"

• Consider a quick happy dance - they love the celebration

Treat strategy:

• Use extra-special treats only for a successful trip

• Gradually reduce to intermittent rewards after 2-3 weeks

• Never stop the verbal praise

Step 5: Handle accidents without the drama

Mistakes are part and parcel of learning!

How you react will help your dog do better next time.

If you catch them in the act:

• Interrupt with a calm "ah-ah" or hand clap

• Immediately rush them to their outdoor spot

• If they finish there, reward normally

• Clean the indoor accident thoroughly

If you find evidence later:

• No reaction - they can't connect punishment to past actions

• Clean thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner

• Regular cleaners won't remove the scent signal

Critical cleaning tip: Only enzymatic cleaners break down urine crystals. Others just cover smells, which invites repeat offences.

Step 6: Crate training as a tool

When used properly, crates can speed up house training no end.

Crate setup:

• Size should allow standing, turning, and lying down comfortably

• Too big = they'll go potty in one corner

• Include comfortable bedding and safe toys

• Never use as punishment - it's their safe den

How to use it:

• Crating when you can't supervise closely

• Direct from crate to loo spot

• Once potty is successful, they earn free time or a nice treat

• Overnight crating helps build bladder control

Bonus step: The 7-day potty journal

For really stubborn cases or stalled progress, track everything for one week:

What to track:

• Exact times of all toilet breaks

• Successes vs. accidents

• What happened before each accident

• Time between eating and potty

This data reveals patterns you'd otherwise miss and lets you tailor your approach.

Troubleshooting common issues

"My dog won't go in bad weather"

Create a covered loo area.

Use puppy pads in a designated indoor spot.

Invest in a doggy raincoat and wellies.

Reward heavily for braving the elements.

"My dog is afraid of the crate"

• Feed all meals in the crate with the door open

• Toss high-value treats randomly inside

• Never force them in - make it their choice

• Start with very short durations (5-10 minutes)

"We have good days then total regression"

• Stick with the programme - this is normal

• Look for routine changes or stressors

• Rule out medical issues with a vet visit

• Return to the basic schedule for a week

This system works because it respects your dog's nature while providing the consistency they need.

The hard work pays off when you finally have a reliably housetrained companion!

Related: The best dog bed for older dogs: your complete 2025 guide

When to seek professional help

Sometimes extra time and consistent training aren't enough - and that's absolutely fine.

Knowing when to ask for help is part of being a responsible dog owner.

Red flags that need attention

Consider reaching out to a professional if:

• Accidents continue after 6+ months of truly consistent training (not occasional consistency, but a daily regular schedule)

• Sudden regression: Your dog was housetrained, but suddenly starts having regular accidents again

• Signs of distress: Straining, crying, frequent small amounts of pee, blood in pee or poop

• Anxiety behaviours: Excessive hiding, submissive urination (a shy dog might pee a little when they feel scared or nervous), and destructive behaviour when you leave

• Complete lack of progress: No improvement despite following all recommended methods

Medical issues to rule out

Many house training problems stem from health issues, not behavioural problems.

Common medical causes include:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Causes frequent, urgent need to pee

• Kidney problems: Lead to increased thirst and urination

• Diabetes: Results in excessive drinking and peeing

• Cushing's disease: Common in older dogs, causes increased potty

• Cognitive decline: Senior dogs may forget their training

• Gastrointestinal issues: Constipation or diarrhoea affects bowel control

• Anxiety disorders: Stress and fear lead to accidents

Who to contact

1. Start with your vet: They'll run tests to rule out medical causes. If your dog gets a clean bill of health, they can refer you to specialists.

2. Certified dog trainer: Look for trainers with certifications from recognised organisations. They should use positive reinforcement methods, especially for sensitive or stubborn breeds.

3. Veterinary behaviourist: For severe cases, especially those involving anxiety or aggression alongside house training issues. These are vets with specialised training in animal behaviour.

This isn't failure

Asking for help doesn't mean you've failed as a pet owner.

Some dogs have complex needs that require professional expertise.

Many first-time dog owners benefit tremendously from working with a dog trainer, especially when dealing with stubborn breeds or toy breeds with unique challenges.

Think of it this way: you wouldn't think twice about hiring a tutor if your child struggled with maths.

Getting professional help for your dog is the same type of responsible decision.

Related: How to train a dog to stop barking

Final Thoughts: Every Dog Can Learn

If you're struggling with one of the dog breeds hardest to house train, take a deep breath.

You're not alone, and you're not failing.

Whether you're a first-time dog owner feeling a bit out of your depth or an experienced dog parent dealing with a particularly stubborn pup, remember that every dog can learn proper toilet habits.

Some just need extra time and the right approach.

Remember: Patience + consistency + positive reinforcement = success. Every time. Even with the most difficult dogs.

After a successful toilet break, reward your good boy or girl with praise, a treat, and maybe some time relaxing on a cosy bed.

They've earned it - and so have you.

Looking for quality pet supplies to support your training journey? MrFluffyFriend has everything you need to help your newly housetrained pup.