Dachshunds are a breed that is difficult to potty train (Masarik/Shutterstock)
Potty training a puppy is one of the most challenging tasks every pet parent faces. While it always requires time, patience, and consistency, some breeds can be particularly stubborn. Whether it’s due to their independent nature or small size these dogs can turn the process into a true test of willpower. If you’re planning to bring one of these breeds into your home, it’s important to be prepared for a potentially longer and more difficult journey to a fully house-trained pup. Which dog breeds made our list of the toughest to potty train? We consulted experts across 10 websites to identify the worst dogs to potty train that are more challenging than others. Think we missed a breed that’s testing your patience? Let us know below!
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The 5 Hardest Dog Breeds to Potty Train, Ranked
1. American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is notoriously independent, often displaying a stubborn streak making it one of the most challenging breeds to potty train. Their wayward nature means they require extra patience and consistency. Life With Dogs agrees training an American Foxhound can be a true test of perseverance.
These dogs are also easily distracted, making it tough for them to focus on tasks like potty training. According to Mr. Fluffy Friend, their strong urge to sniff everything and boundless energy can challenge even the most seasoned pet parent.
According to Newsweek, even the American Kennel Club admits that American Foxhounds aren’t the easiest to potty train. The AKC describes them as “independent souls” who can turn housebreaking into a steep challenge, especially for first-time dog owners. If you’re new to the dog world, you might need extra patience with this breed!
2. Beagle
They can sniff out contraband and win any game of hide and seek, but potty training? That’s a challenge for Beagles with their one-track hound minds. However, with patience and the right training, Bark Post is confident your beagle will conquer the bathroom!
While Beagles are affectionate and lovable, they aren’t considered the smartest dogs on the planet. that’s why Pets4Homes believes they are hard to potty train. Their excitable nature, short attention span, and selective memory make it tough for them to focus on the different aspects of house training.
Life With Dogs notes patience is the key if you are trying to house-train a Beagle. They may be working dogs but they are stubborn and may not remember their last successful attempt to pee outside.
3. Dachshund
Getting a Dachshund to potty in bad weather? Nearly impossible! These smart but stubborn pups hate the rain and snow. Stay firm, use positive reinforcement, and be consistent. Nom Nom Now says these tactics ensure your Dachshund will get the hang of it.
According to Best Life Online, Dachshunds are tough to train but respond well to positive, reward-based methods. AKC experts caution against harsh commands due to their sensitivity. Pets4Homes notes that while Dachshunds can learn quickly, consistency is key to making it stick.
4. Bichon Frise
According to PetPads, Bichon Frises are playful yet independent and sassy, which makes them tricky to train. Consistency and patience are essential to keep them from messing up your floors. They can be sneaky and might choose a corner for their business!
These tiny dogs have tiny bladders, so they need more frequent potty breaks than bigger breeds. They’re also clever and might try to outsmart you! According to Mr. Fluffy Pet, they often don’t listen and do what they want.
These pups thrive on being with their family, so leaving them alone too often can lead to bad behavior. While Bichon’s are tough to housebreak, Best Life Online says they’re easy to train in other ways.
5. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound rounds out our list because training one takes patience and plenty of treats. These sensitive and independent dogs don’t respond well to intimidation and may shy away from firm commands. Instead, they thrive on positive reinforcement and rewards to build consistent habits, says Nom Nom Now.
They may be stunning, but Afghan Hounds are slow learners and take a long time to housebreak. According to Pets4Homes, these lofty daydreamers need extra time, patience, and consistent training to catch on. Stay observant of their subtle cues, and you’ll get there!
Pets Pads suggests hiring a dog trainer to potty train an Afghan Hound. Once the potty-training foundation is stable, you can take over.
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