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Hard to Toilet Train Dogs 2026: These are the 13 breeds of adorable dog that are a real challenge to housebreak
If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes – there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
One of the trickiest prospects for new owners is ensuring their new pet is quickly toilet trained – knowing to go outside to relieve themselves. Some breeds practically train themselves, while others may continue to do their business inside well into adulthood.
Here are the 13 breeds of dog that are notoriously difficult to house train.
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1. Dachshund
Notoriously stubborn, even if a Dachshund knows it’s meant to go outside it might simply not bother. | AFP via Getty Images
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2. Pekingese
Small dogs are often the most difficult to toilet train, particularly since their tiny bladders mean they have to go more often. This is the case with the Pekingese, who are also so full of self-importance that they see most commands as being an affront to their independence. | Canva/Getty Images
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3. Pug
The Pug is another dog that may ignore its housebreaking training when it suits them. These diminutive characters hate the cold and wet weather, so may unilaterally decide to avoid it entirely. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
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4. Beagle
The Beagle is so energetic that it can be difficult to get them to sit still for long enough for toilet training. Treats and praise are the best method for this hyper dog. | Canva/Getty Images
