10 Hardest Dog Breeds to Potty Train (& How to Succeed)

Is your pup one of the hardest dog breeds to potty train?

If you’ve been mopping up puddles and wondering if your dog will ever get it, you’re not alone!

Potty training can test even the most patient pet parents!

Especially with certain breeds known for being a little stubborn when it comes to bathroom habits.

But here’s the bright side: no dog is truly untrainable.

Even the most independent or strong-willed pups can learn with time, consistency, and lots of positive reinforcement.

The truth is, some dog breeds hardest to potty train have small bladders, sensitive temperaments, or just love doing things their own way.

In fact, breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Pugs often make the list of dogs that take a bit longer to master house training.

Don’t worry, though - with the right strategy (and a good sense of humor), even these tricky pups can become potty pros.

Let's get right to it!

Why Are Some Dog Breeds Harder to Potty Train?

Before we dive into our list of the dog breeds with the biggest potty training challenges, it's important to understand why some pups struggle more than others.

This isn't about intelligence; many of the hardest dogs to housetrain are actually smart dogs.

The challenge comes down to a few key factors.

1. Independent Temperament

Some breeds were developed to work alone.

Those that decide on their own without constant human guidance.

Terrier breeds, scent hounds, and stubborn breeds like the Afghan Hound were bred to hunt or work at their own pace.

These independent dogs don't ask for your approval the way Golden Retrievers or Labrador Retrievers do.

This just means they're less motivated by praise during training sessions.

When a dog thinks they know their own way of doing things, convincing them to follow your bathroom schedule becomes hard work.

2. Small Bladder Syndrome

Here's a simple fact: smaller dogs have smaller bladders.

Toy breeds and small breed dog varieties physically can't hold their bladder as long as larger breeds.

While a German Shepherd might comfortably wait 6-8 hours between potty breaks, a Yorkshire Terrier might need to go every 2-3 hours.

This isn't them wanting to just annoy you; it's biology.

Little dogs also have less bowel control, especially as puppies.

This means more frequent accidents during the house training process.

Small breeds need a more consistent training schedule with more opportunities to succeed.

3. Instinct Overload

Scent hounds like the Basset Hound and American Foxhound were bred to follow their noses, sometimes for miles.

When you take them outside for a potty break, their instincts kick in.

You have to watch out because they'd be more interested in investigating every smell than actually doing their business.

Also, terrier breeds have high energy levels and a short attention span, making it hard for them to focus.

They'd rather chase a leaf or investigate a sound than remember why they're outside.

4. Sensitivity to Stress

Some smaller breeds and toy breeds are super sensitive to their environment and your emotions.

Breeds like the Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu can actually regress in their training if they sense stress or frustration.

Harsh corrections or raised voices make these dogs anxious.

And if they're stressed, it can lead to submissive urination or fear-based accidents.

These sensitive pups need positive reinforcement and gentle consistency.

Pressure and punishment backfire with these stubborn dogs.

This would make the potty training process even longer.

5. Medical and Age Factors

Puppies have less bowel control and need to go potty more often than adult dogs.

But older dogs can also present challenges.

Senior pups may have weakening muscles or medical conditions that affect their ability to hold their pee.

Plus, health issues like urinary tract infections, diabetes, or anxiety disorders can complicate toilet training for any breed.

If you've been working consistently with your pup and still seeing accidents after several months, vet visits should be your first step to rule out medical problems.

Top 10 Hardest Dog Breeds to Potty Train

1. Dachshund

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If there were a “Most Stubborn Pup” award, the Dachshund might take the gold medal.

These adorable sausage dogs have a mind of their own, and that’s part of their charm!

Why They’re Tough

Originally bred to hunt badgers alone, Dachshunds developed strong independence and persistence.

Combine that with their dislike for rain and a teeny-tiny bladder, and you’ve got a recipe for potty-training challenges.

Common Mistake

Getting frustrated too early.

Dachshunds can sense your tone and will shut down if training feels negative or stressful.

How to Succeed

• Stick to a strict schedule. Take them out after meals, naps, and play.
• Reward instantly. These little hounds respond best to immediate praise (and treats!).
• Weather-proof the potty zone. A small covered spot can make a huge difference during rainy days.

Our Tip: Use a special “potty treat” that’s {only} for successful bathroom breaks. This way, they'd be highly motivated!

2. Jack Russell Terrier

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Imagine trying to potty train a squirrel on espresso. That’s a Jack Russell Terrier!

Why They’re Tough

Jack Russells are incredibly smart, but their energy levels are through the roof.

They get distracted easily and might forget why they went outside in the first place.

Common Mistake

Giving them too much freedom too soon.

They’ll happily run off chasing birds instead of focusing on the task.

How to Succeed

• Exercise first, potty second. A quick play session helps them settle down.
• Short, focused breaks. Keep training sessions brief and upbeat.
• Consistency above all. Same schedule, same cues, every day.

Our Tip: Use a leash even in your yard to help them stay focused on business before playtime.

3. Shih Tzu

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Shih Tzu’s royal attitude means one thing: they’ll potty when they feel like it.

Why They’re Tough

They dislike getting their paws wet or cold and may “hold it” until they’re back inside (and then… surprise!).

Common Mistake

Scolding them for accidents.

Shih Tzus are sensitive and will respond by hiding their messes next time.

How to Succeed

• Keep the potty spot clean and sheltered. These pups like comfort!
• Praise like they’re royalty. Positive reinforcement works wonders.
• Stick to routine. Feed and walk at consistent times.

Our Tip: Many Shih Tzus thrive with indoor potty pads during bad weather - just transition outdoors gradually.

4. Yorkshire Terrier

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Small but mighty, Yorkies are confident, clever, and sometimes just a little too sure of themselves.

Why They’re Tough

Their tiny size means frequent potty breaks — but their big attitude can make them resist routine.

Common Mistake

Letting accidents slide because they’re “so small.”

Even small dogs need a consistent structure.

How to Succeed

• Use crate training to encourage bladder control.
• Supervise constantly until they’re reliable.
• Celebrate every success with lots of praise.

Our Tip: Yorkies love feeling included. Try using verbal praise (“Good job!”) with an excited tone — they live for approval!

5. Chihuahua

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

These tiny drama kings and queens don’t love bad weather — and it definitely affects their potty training.

Why They’re Tough

Their small size means they lose body heat fast, so they often refuse to go outside in the cold or rain.

Common Mistake

Skipping potty breaks on bad-weather days.

That can set back training quickly.

How to Succeed

• Create a sheltered potty zone. A small covered area works great.
• Dress them up! A cozy dog sweater or raincoat helps.
• Take frequent trips outside. Tiny bladders = frequent breaks.

Our Tip: Try timing potty trips right after naps. Chihuahuas usually need to go right when they wake up.

6. Basset Hound

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sweet, soulful, and stubborn, the Basset Hound follows one rule: their nose knows best.

Why They’re Tough

They’re easily distracted by smells and tend to wander off mid-training.

Common Mistake

Letting sniffing time happen before potty time.

You’ll lose their attention fast.

How to Succeed

• Go straight to the potty area. No sniffing detours!
• Keep praise short and happy. Overexcited energy distracts them.
• Be consistent and calm. Bassets respond best to steady routines.

Our Tip: Use a verbal cue like “Go potty!”. They’ll eventually learn to associate it with doing their business.

7. Bichon Frise

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

These little clouds of fluff are smart and affectionate, but also sensitive and prone to anxiety.

Why They’re Tough

Bichons don’t handle stress well.

A move, a new pet, or a loud noise can trigger potty “accidents.”

Common Mistake

Changing routines too often or punishing mistakes.

That only increases their anxiety.

How to Succeed

• Keep calm, even after accidents.
• Reward success immediately.
• Use gentle structure. Predictability helps them feel safe.

Our Tip: Make sure your pup has a calm, cozy space, like a soft MrFluffyFriend™ Anxiety Relieving Dog Bed, to reduce stress-related potty issues.

8. Beagle

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Beagles are lovable detectives, and when they catch a scent, everything else disappears.

Why They’re Tough

Their powerful noses make them easily distracted during potty time.

They may also get stubborn if bored.

Common Mistake

Letting them wander off-leash before they’ve gone.

They’ll forget why they’re outside.

How to Succeed

• Keep them on a short leash. Guide them to one specific spot.
• Go out frequently. Beagles love routine.
• Praise with calm affection. They respond best to gentle consistency.

Our Tip: Choose a low-scent potty area. Fewer smells = fewer distractions!

9. Chow Chow

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Chows are beautiful, independent, and a little aloof; think of them as the “cats” of the dog world.

Why They’re Tough

They don’t care much about pleasing humans.

If they don’t see the point, they won’t bother.

Common Mistake

Using harsh training methods.

Chows will simply ignore you.

How to Succeed

• Be patient and calm. Earn their respect first.
• Use routine, not pressure.
• Reward calmly. Over-the-top excitement won’t impress them.

Our Tip: Once trained, Chows are naturally very clean — it just takes time and trust to get there.

10. Pug

📊 Difficulty Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Everyone loves a Pug’s goofy personality, but their stubborn streak can make potty training tricky.

Why They’re Tough

They dislike going out in extreme weather and may be lazy about it.

Common Mistake

Expecting quick results.

Pugs need gentle repetition.

How to Succeed

• Keep it upbeat. Pugs love fun, not discipline.
• Stick to consistent potty breaks.
• Use indoor pads as a backup for bad weather.

Our Tip: Watch for “pre-potty” signs (sniffing, circling, whining) and guide them outside right away. Timing is everything!

Related: Be a Better Dog Owner: A Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership

The Ultimate Potty Training Method for Stubborn Breeds

Even the most difficult dog breeds can learn proper bathroom habits with this proven 6-step system.

This method works for stubborn dogs, independent dogs, and even those with short attention spans.

What You'll Need:

• Supplies: High-value dog treats (cheese, chicken, special training treats), enzymatic cleaner, properly sized crate, leash and collar, puppy pads for small breeds

• Tools: Notebook for tracking, phone alarms or timer, exercise pen for small breeds

• Time Commitment: 4-6 months for most breeds, 6-12 months for stubborn breeds

• Estimated Cost: $50-100 for supplies

Step 1: Establish a Rock-Solid Schedule

Consistency is your most powerful tool. Dogs thrive on routine, especially stubborn breeds.

Your Daily Schedule Should Include:

• First thing in the morning: Potty break before coffee, before phone, before anything else

• 15-20 minutes after each meal: Watch the clock - this is prime potty time

• Immediately after naps: Puppies especially need to go upon waking

• After intense play sessions: Exercise stimulates bowel and bladder

• Right before bedtime: Last chance to empty out

Pro Tip: Set phone reminders for each potty break. For puppies, use the "age in months plus one" rule - a 3-month-old puppy needs breaks every 4 hours at most.

Step 2: Pick One Spot and One Command

Clarity eliminates confusion. Choose and stick with one setup.

Location Matters:

• Use the exact same outdoor spot every time

• The accumulating scent will trigger your dog's instinct to poop or pee there

• For bad weather days, have a designated indoor area with puppy pads

Command Consistency:

• Pick one phrase: "Go potty," "Do your business," or "Get busy"

• Say it as they're eliminating, not before

• Use the same phrase every single time

Step 3: The Silent Escort Method

This is where most owners fail.

For your pup, it’s {too interesting} outside.

The Process:

1. Leash your dog (even in fenced yards during training)

2. Walk directly to their potty spot - no detours

3. Stand still and become super boring

4. No talking, no phone, no eye contact

5. Wait silently for up to 10 minutes

If They Don't Go:

• Calmly return inside

• Place them in a crate or confined area

• Try again in 15-20 minutes

• Repeat until they do their business

Step 4: The Jackpot Reward System

Timing is everything.

Reward the exact behavior you want them to repeat.

The 3-Second Rule:

• The moment they finish their business (not when you go inside)

• Within 3 seconds, give them high-value treats

• Pair with enthusiastic praise: "Yes! Good potty!"

• Consider a quick happy dance - they love the celebration

Treat Strategy:

• Use extra-special treats only for a successful potty

• Gradually reduce to intermittent rewards after 2-3 weeks

• Never stop the verbal praise

Step 5: Handle Accidents Without Drama

Mistakes are part of learning!

How you react will help your dog do better next time.

If You Catch Them in the Act:

• Interrupt with a calm "ah-ah" or hand clap

• Immediately rush them to their outdoor spot

• If they finish there, reward normally

• Clean the indoor accident thoroughly

If You Find Evidence Later:

• No reaction - they can't connect punishment to past actions

• Clean thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner

• Regular cleaners won't remove the scent signal

Critical Cleaning Tip: Only enzymatic cleaners break down urine crystals. Others just cover smells, inviting repeat offenses.

Step 6: Crate Training as a Tool

When used correctly, crates can speed up potty training.

Crate Setup:

• Size should allow standing, turning, and lying down comfortably

• Too big = they'll go potty in one corner

• Include comfortable bedding and safe toys

• Never use as punishment - it's their safe den

How to Use It:

• Crating when you can't supervise closely

• Direct from crate to potty spot

• Once potty is successful, they earn free time or a nice treat

• Overnight crating helps build bladder control

Bonus Step: The 7-Day Potty Journal

For really stubborn cases or stalled progress, track everything for one week:

What to Track:

• Exact times of all potty breaks

• Successes vs. accidents

• What happened before each accident

• Time between eating and potty

This data reveals patterns you'd otherwise miss and lets you customize your approach.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"My Dog Won't Go in Bad Weather"

Create a covered potty area.

Use puppy pads in a designated indoor spot.

Invest in a doggy raincoat and boots.

Reward heavily for braving the elements.

"My Dog is Afraid of the Crate"

• Feed all meals in the crate with the door open

• Toss high-value treats randomly

• Never force them in - make it their choice

• Start with very short durations (5-10 minutes)

"We Have Good Days Then Total Regression"

• Stick with the program - this is normal

• Look for routine changes or stressors

• Rule out medical issues with a vet visit

• Return to the basic schedule for a week

This system works because it respects your dog's nature while providing the consistency they need.

The hard work pays off when you finally have a reliably housetrained companion!

Related: Best Dog Bed For Older Dogs: Complete 2025 Guide

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes extra time and consistent training aren't enough - and that's okay.

Knowing when to ask for help is part of being a responsible dog parent.

Red Flags That Need Attention

Consider reaching out to a professional if:

• Accidents continue after 6+ months of truly consistent training (not occasional consistency, but a daily regular schedule)

• Sudden regression: Your dog was housetrained, but suddenly starts having regular accidents again

• Signs of distress: Straining, crying, frequent small amounts of pee, blood in pee or poop

• Anxiety behaviors: Excessive hiding, submissive urination (a shy dog might pee a little when they feel scared or nervous), and destructive behavior when you leave

• Complete lack of progress: No improvement despite following all recommended methods

Medical Issues to Rule Out

Many house training problems stem from health issues, not behavioral problems.

Common medical causes include:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Causes frequent, urgent need to pee

• Kidney problems: Lead to increased thirst and urination

• Diabetes: Results in excessive drinking and peeing

• Cushing's disease: Common in older dogs, causes increased potty

• Cognitive decline: Senior dogs may forget their training

• Gastrointestinal issues: Constipation or diarrhea affects bowel control

• Anxiety disorders: Stress and fear lead to accidents

Who to Contact

1. Start with your veterinarian: They'll run tests to rule out medical causes. If your dog gets a clean bill of health, they can refer you to specialists.

2. Certified dog trainer: Look for trainers with certifications from recognized organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPCC-KA). They should use positive reinforcement methods, especially for sensitive or stubborn breeds.

3. Veterinary behaviorist: For severe cases, especially those involving anxiety or aggression alongside house training issues. These are veterinarians with specialized training in animal behavior.

This Isn't Failure

Asking for help doesn't mean you've failed as a pet owner.

Some dogs have complex needs that require professional expertise.

Many first-time dog owners benefit tremendously from working with a dog trainer, especially when dealing with stubborn breeds or toy breeds with unique challenges.

Think of it this way: you wouldn't hesitate to hire a tutor if your child struggled with math.

Getting professional help for your dog is the same type of responsible decision.

Related: How To Train a Dog To Stop Barking

Final Thoughts: Every Dog Can Learn

If you're struggling with one of the dog breeds hardest to potty train, take a deep breath.

You're not alone, and you're not failing.

Whether you're a first-time dog owner feeling overwhelmed or an experienced dog parent dealing with a particularly stubborn pup, remember that every dog can learn proper bathroom habits.

Some just need extra time and the right approach.

Remember: Patience + consistency + positive reinforcement = success. Every time. Even with the most difficult dogs.

After a successful potty break, reward your good boy or girl with praise, a treat, and maybe some time relaxing on a cozy bed.

They've earned it - and so have you.

Looking for quality pet supplies to support your training journey? MrFluffyFriend has everything you need to help your newly housetrained pup.