Behavior Challenges: Tackling Stubbornness in Your Hybrid Puppy

When you get a hybrid puppy, there are no guarantees. That much is clear. Hybrid puppies, or mixed-breed dogs, come from two different parent breeds. There is never a guarantee which personality traits your new puppy will inherit. Let’s talk about training your hybrid puppy.

With that in mind, some puppies love to please, while others seem to follow their mind. What we know for sure is that if you have a mixed-breed puppy that doesn’t seem to listen to your commands, you are not alone.

For some designer dogs, listening to commands is optional. These adorable mixes can surprise owners with their unexpected quirks. While their unique blend of traits is often what makes them so lovable, it can also lead to frustrating training hurdles. One of the most common? Stubbornness.

Before you resign yourself to a lifetime of tug-of-war with your headstrong pup, let’s look at what causes stubborn behavior, how to work through it, and why patience is your greatest training tool.

Why are Hybrid Puppies Stubborn?

First and foremost, we have to define what stubborn means. Puppies cannot do something that they haven’t been taught to do. Generally speaking, stubbornness means not responding the way we expect. What looks like defiance is actually a combination of different factors, including. Training a hybrid puppy means overcoming all of these challenges.

Genetics

Hybrid dogs inherit personality traits from two different dog breeds. Some of the parent breeds are naturally more independent or strong-willed. For example, a Chihuahua parent, a Siberian Husky parent, or any terrier dog. Hybrid puppies that come from dogs with bold personalities will have a stubborn streak in them.

Intelligence, not Independence

Another point we have to mention is dog’s intelligence. Smart dogs might seem like stubborn, but they are actually trying to outsmart you. Clever dogs do not make easy students. Yes, they will pick up commands, but they will not obey them every time. They are independent thinkers that will evaluate whether they should follow your lead or not.

Socialization

Puppies that haven’t been exposed to a consistent routine, training, or early socialization struggle with structure later on. In that regard, hybrid puppies that come from less regulated breeding environments may carry unknown behavioral baggage with them.

Common Signs of Stubborn Behavior

Not sure if your hybrid puppy’s just being a puppy, or if you’re dealing with genuine stubbornness? Here are a few signs:

• Ignoring commands they’ve already learned.
• Responding selectively—only when a reward is in sight.
• Dragging or flopping during walks (classic refusal mode).
• Protesting training sessions with barking, whining, or wandering off.
• Deliberately repeating behaviors they know are off-limits.

While these behaviors can be frustrating, they’re often manageable with the right approach.

Dog Breeds with a Stubborn Streak

As we mentioned previously, some dog breeds carry a higher stubborn streak than others. With that in mind, mixes from these dog breeds might be more challenging than others. Let’s take a look.

Poodle

Poodles are among the smartest dog breeds in the canine world. Yet, because of their smarts, they often ignore commands. They are not stubborn, but they evaluate whether your lead benefits them or not.

Labrador Retriever

While some people look at the Labrador Retriever as one of the breeds that is eager to please, this intelligent breed might be one of the most stubborn. Without proper mental stimulation, Labradors can be easily distractible.

Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are strong-minded and stubborn to the bone. They are famously independent, and all mixed breeds with a Husky parent will get that stubborn streak.

Border Collie

The most intelligent dog in the world should be easy to train, right? Wrong! This brilliant dog is work-obsessed. Without a job to do, they will find something else to keep their mind engaged.

Terrier Mixes

Terriers are famous for their stubborn streak. It is what makes them amazing companions. But it is also the reason why many inexperienced owners cannot handle them.

Tips for Training a Stubborn Hybrid Puppy

The good news is that you do not have to be a professional dog trainer to make progress. Here are some tried-and-true techniques that help with training the most stubborn hybrid puppy.

Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun

Stubborn puppies lose interest fast. Aim for 5–10 minute sessions, several times a day. Use a cheerful tone, move quickly between commands, and end on a win.

Use High-Value Treats and Positive Reinforcement

Regular kibble may not cut it for your hybrid pup. Try tiny pieces of chicken, cheese, or a favorite chewy treat. Praise them like they just won an Olympic medal every time they get it right.

Stay Consistent With Commands and Rules

Don’t say “Off” one day and “Down” the next for the same behavior. Consistency builds understanding—and with stubborn dogs, that clarity is critical.

Avoid Harsh Punishment

Yelling or physical corrections often backfire with stubborn pups. They can either tune you out or become fearful. Instead, ignore unwanted behavior and heavily reward the good stuff.

Socialize Your Puppy Early and Often

Exposure to different people, dogs, environments, and situations helps create a confident puppy. A confident pup is often easier to train because they’re less reactive and more adaptable.

Exercise First, Train Later

A wound-up puppy doesn’t want to sit and learn. Take them for a walk or play fetch before your training session. Once the edge is off, their brain will be more receptive.

Should You Seek Professional Help

Some stubborn behaviors are more than just a phase. If your puppy is showing signs of aggression, extreme fear, or complete resistance to training, it’s okay to call in help.

Certified dog trainers or behaviorists can:

• Identify what’s causing the behavior
• Create a customized training plan
• Help you work through frustration without damaging your bond

There’s no shame in asking for support—it can be the fastest path to a calmer, happier home.

Final Words

Your hybrid puppy isn’t broken. They’re a unique blend of genes, instincts, and spirit. Stubborn behavior is just one side of a developing personality, and with time, structure, and love, it becomes manageable.

Remember, the goal isn’t to “break” your puppy’s will. It’s to build a trusting relationship where they want to follow your lead. When you approach training with patience and understanding, even the most stubborn pup can grow into a loyal, well-mannered companion.

And trust us—those breakthrough moments with a strong-willed dog? They’re worth every minute of the struggle.