I’m a dog trainer – the toughest breeds to train, from the ‘stubborn’ & ‘independent’ to others with ‘high prey drive’
MAN’S best friend isn’t always the best-behaved and a canine expert broke down the reasons why.
The professional dog trainer revealed some of the most challenging breeds she has come across.
Chrissy Joy, who has worked with celebrity pets and trained animals for studio productions, spoke exclusively to The U.S. Sun about some of the toughest breeds.
She explained that the five types of canine she has the most trouble with “have a strong independent nature.”
SUPER STUBBORN
“Breeds that tend to be more independent can be seen as aloof, stubborn, or not motivated easily by toys or treats,” Joy said.
She named the Akita, Chow Chow, Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and some terrier breeds as the main culprits.
The canine pro explained that with these breeds it can be “harder to accomplish” tasks such as teaching new cues or manners.
However, she also pointed out “many breeds that tend to be more independent are also extremely loyal and protective of their family.”
Joy added that not all dogs within a breed will act exactly the same.
She suggested incorporating lots of exercises and games into your pet’s routine to build a strong bond between dog and handler.
“If you have a dog that is independent by nature, you can work with a local positive reinforcement-based dog trainer to help find adequate areas of motivation for your dog,” she said.
ON THE HUNT
“On the flip side, you may have a dog that is challenging to train due to their high prey drive nature.”
She explained that some breeds, including terriers, were bred to hunt small animals such as rats and may have a very sharp and high prey drive.
“This prey drive, which instills their instinct to chase, can
make it extremely difficult to redirect at times of heightened stimulation,” Joy revealed.
However, she reassured dog owners that no specific breed is a lost cause.
“Trainers help to think outside of the box to provide useful methods that will work for your dog’s way of thinking and ideal areas of reward,” she said.
“Where a dog may not be food motivated, he or she may enjoy toys in the element of tug-of-war or chase.
“If your dog is overly stimulated and high drive, a trainer will work on focus exercises for your dog.”
LITTLE CHONKERS
Joy also revealed some of the breeds that often have issues with their weight.
“Obesity can be a common issue for any pets, but some breeds tend to have a little more trouble than others,” she said.
“First and foremost, any highly food-driven dog is at risk of obesity if allowed to free feed or have excessive access to chews and calorie-ridden treats.”
She explained that as well as obesity, over-eating can also cause issues with a dog’s joints and mobility as well as the added risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and osteoarthritis.
“Many times, the shorter and stockier breeds are more prone to obesity such as pugs, Bassett hounds, and bulldogs,” Joy said.
“Even our beloved golden retrievers and labradors are prone as well – as they require added daily exercise to stay trim.”
Like humans, diet isn’t the only factor that affects a dog’s weight with metabolism, hormones, and exercise also playing a role.
“If you feel your dog is starting to look a little robust, be sure to contact your local vet to discuss healthy ways to adjust your dog’s lifestyle and to rule out other health concerns,” Joy advised.
