Top 5 Dog Breeds Hardest to House Train in 2025

Teaching a dog where and when to eliminate is often considered one of the most demanding parts of dog ownership, due to the multifaceted nature of house training. This process encompasses more than just linking a command to an action; it requires teaching bladder and bowel control, recognizing appropriate toileting spots, and helping pups communicate their needs to their humans. While many puppies may start to catch on within a couple of weeks, achieving reliable, accident-free house training usually takes around 4 to 6 months.

The duration is influenced by several factors including the dog's age, breed characteristics, personality, bladder capacity, and the owner's consistency and patience. Some breeds pick up these skills quickly, but others tend to be more independent, easily distracted, or willful, thus requiring longer training periods.

This guide highlights five dog breeds that are often considered more challenging to house train in the United States, based on intelligence rankings, temperament, and real-world owner feedback. Understanding these specifics can help American pet owners set realistic goals and structure an effective training approach.

1. Beagle

Beagle puppies are well-loved for their affectionate and lively temperament but can be easily sidetracked due to their keen hunting instincts. Ranking lower in working obedience intelligence, Beagles often take longer to grasp house training commands. Because they follow scent cues rather than commands, continuous reinforcement and steady patience are essential. In urban areas like New York City, where space is limited, leash management is a critical part of their training routine.

2. Afghan Hound

The elegant Afghan Hound puppies are notorious for their independent and dreamy nature. They are ranked on the lower end of obedience intelligence scales, making them slower to pick up house training habits. Owners need to stay observant for subtle signs needing bathroom breaks and maintain a calm, patient consistency, especially in colder northern climates where their high-strung nature can become more pronounced.

3. Pekingese

Pekingese puppies, a popular American small breed, often require frequent restroom breaks due to their diminutive size and tiny bladders. Though moderately intelligent, they can be stubborn and may be overlooked during training because of their charming demeanor. Making use of indoor puppy pads in apartment settings and steady, patient outdoor schedules are especially helpful for these diminutive companions.

4. Dachshund

Dachshund puppies are clever but display a well-known streak of stubbornness and may resist training if they are not interested. Many Dachshunds in the Midwest and northern US tend to dislike cold or wet weather, which can make outdoor training sessions tough. Persistent, positive reinforcement combined with a strong routine will gradually promote successful house training.

5. English Bulldog

English Bulldog puppies are generally slower learners and rank low on obedience intelligence. Their slower-paced approach means that trainers and owners must be especially patient and observant to their subtle needs. Given the breed's breathing challenges, taking them outdoors frequently at short intervals is beneficial to build consistent toileting habits.

Why Are Some Breeds Harder to House Train?

Several factors contribute to why certain breeds struggle more with house training. Intelligence is one factor, but so are temperament types, activity levels, bladder size, and intrinsic motivation. For example, small breeds like Pekingese need more frequent potty breaks, while breeds like the Afghan Hound may simply ignore training commands unless very distinct incentives are used.

Success greatly depends on the owner's commitment to routine, positive reinforcement, and reading their dog's communication cues. Methods such as crate training, scheduled bathroom breaks, and gentle repetition help speed up training time regardless of the breed.

Effective House Training Tips for American Dog Owners

• Create and stick to a consistent potty schedule, especially after meals, naps, and playtime.
• Reward your dog immediately after they eliminate in the proper spot with treats or affection to reinforce positive behavior.
• Look for signals like pacing, whining, or sniffing, and respond without delay.
• Remain patient and expect that some breeds will need longer training periods, requiring repeated gentle reminders.
• Consider crate training, as dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleep area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to house train a puppy?

Short Answer: On average, house training takes about 4 to 6 months to become dependable, with many puppies starting to learn within weeks when trained consistently.

Puppies must build bladder control over time and need recurrent bathroom opportunities paired with positive reinforcement to understand where to go. Starting training the moment they join your family is key to success.

Why are some breeds more difficult to house train?

Short Answer: Dogs with a tendency toward independent thinking, stubbornness, smaller bladders, or lower obedience intelligence often require more tailored training, patience, and structure.

Breeds like the Afghan Hound and English Bulldog may be less motivated or slower to grasp potty cues. Small breeds like the Pekingese additionally require more frequent breaks due to their physical size.

When should you begin house training a puppy?

Short Answer: House training should ideally begin as early as eight weeks old, right when your puppy comes home, using consistent routines and positive reinforcement.

Capitalizing on their high learning ability during this early period fosters lifelong good habits.

Conclusion

House training is a vital but sometimes frustrating step in welcoming a dog into any American home. Recognizing breeds that might demand extra understanding helps owners prepare mentally and practically for the journey. Regardless of your dog's breed, a commitment to gentle, consistent training and positive reinforcement remains the best route to success. With patience, care, and knowledge, even the most challenging breeds can grow into well-trained, dependable family members.