Top 5 Dog Breeds Hardest to House Train in 2025

House training a dog is often cited as one of the most challenging commands to teach due to the complexity of what dogs need to learn. It involves more than just associating a command with an action; it requires developing bladder and bowel control, understanding appropriate places to eliminate, and communicating needs to owners. Typically, house training takes about 4 to 6 months to become reliable and accident-free, though many puppies start to adapt within weeks.

The time it takes varies widely depending on the dog’s age, breed traits, temperament, bladder size, and an owner’s consistency and patience. While some breeds are quick learners, others can be more independent, easily distracted, or stubborn, resulting in longer training periods.

In this article, we'll explore five dog breeds often reported as harder to house train based on intelligence rankings, temperament, and owner experiences. Knowing what to expect can support managing your own training plan effectively and help you maintain a positive, consistent approach.

1. The Beagle

The Beagle puppies are affectionate, playful, but notorious for being easily distracted and having a short attention span. Their lower rank in working intelligence (131st out of 138 breeds) means they may take longer to associate toileting behaviours with the right command. Consistent reinforcement and patience are crucial when house training a Beagle due to their selective memory and excitable nature.

2. The Afghan Hound

The stunning Afghan Hound puppies are ranked last in canine intelligence traits, often described as lofty daydreamers. They require an observant owner who can watch for subtle cues and maintain calm, patient consistency. Their high-strung nature means they might be slower mastering house training compared to other breeds.

3. The Pekingese

Pekingese puppies, as small toy dogs, are known to need frequent toileting breaks due to their petite size. Their intelligence ranks lower in the canine list, and often their training is overlooked because of their size and cute appearance. Diligent, regular outdoor opportunities and persistent training help them learn where to toilet.

4. The Dachshund

Dachshund puppies are moderately intelligent but known for their stubborn streak and resistance to training when uninterested. They usually grasp house training within a few weeks, but it demands strong consistency and plenty of positive reinforcement to keep them motivated.

5. The English Bulldog

English Bulldog puppies rank near the bottom in canine intelligence and are generally slow learners. Their slower, more ponderous approach requires extra patience during house training. Vigilance and positive reinforcement are key to helping these dogs develop reliable toileting habits.

Why Some Breeds Are Harder to House Train

Understanding why certain breeds take longer can help prospective owners set realistic expectations and prepare better training strategies. Intelligence plays a role, but so do temperament, energy levels, bladder size, and motivation. For example, smaller breeds may need more frequent breaks due to tiny bladders, while highly independent breeds may ignore commands unless motivated correctly.

Importantly, the owner’s consistency, positive reinforcement techniques, and ability to pick up on their dog’s cues heavily impact success. Using routines, crate training, and patient teaching methods can significantly shorten training time regardless of breed.

Tips for Success

• Establish and maintain a consistent toilet schedule, especially after meals and sleep.
• Use positive reinforcement to reward success immediately, making the association strong.
• Watch for signs your dog needs to go out, such as pacing or sniffing, and respond promptly.
• Be patient and understand some breeds will require a longer time with repeated gentle reminders.
• Consider crate training as it encourages a den-like environment where dogs tend not to soil.

FAQs from Search Queries

How long does it take to house train a puppy?

Quick Answer: Generally, house training a puppy takes 4 to 6 months to become fully reliable, but many begin learning within a few weeks with consistent training.

Puppies develop bladder control gradually and require repeated opportunities and positive reinforcement to learn where to toilet. Early and consistent training, starting as soon as you bring them home, is crucial to success.

Why are some breeds harder to house train?

Quick Answer: Breeds with lower intelligence rankings, independent temperaments, or smaller bladders tend to be harder to house train, requiring more time, patience, and tailored training approaches.

For example, breeds like the Afghan Hound and English Bulldog may be less motivated or slower to understand training cues. Smaller breeds need more frequent toilet breaks due to their physical nature.

At what age should you start house training a puppy?

Quick Answer: House training should ideally start from 8 weeks old when the puppy joins your home, using positive reinforcement and establishing a routine.

Starting early capitalises on their natural learning period, helping form good habits that last into adulthood.

Conclusion

House training is a fundamental, though sometimes challenging, part of welcoming a dog into a home. Knowing which breeds might require extra patience can guide owners to better prepare and manage expectations. Importantly, commitment to positive, consistent training strategies is key to success regardless of breed. With care, patience, and knowledge, even the hardest to train breeds can become reliable companions in a household.