Giant dog breeds captivate us with their majestic presence and commanding strength, yet their size often comes with unique training challenges that even seasoned dog owners might find daunting. In “7 Hard-to-Train Giant Dog Breeds: Key Challenges and Tips,” we delve into the intricacies of nurturing these gentle giants into well-behaved companions. From the independent spirit of the Mastiff to the stubborn nature of the Great Dane, we explore the specific obstacles each breed presents. Offering expert tips and practical strategies, this guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge to foster a harmonious relationship with your colossal canine friend.
Training a giant breed requires a different approach than other dogs, as these majestic dogs are not only physically imposing but can be a challenge to train due to their independent streaks, strong personalities, and sheer size.
With patience, consistency, and an understanding of each breed’s distinct traits, owners can train these dogs effectively. However, these breeds often take more time to train, and typical techniques don’t always yield quick results.
In this article, we will explore why certain giant breeds can be difficult to train and provide useful insights on how to navigate training these strong-willed dogs.
Hard to Train Giant Dog Breeds
1. Mastiff
According to the AKC, the Mastiff, a giant dog that typically weighs between 120 to 230 pounds, is known for its gentle yet reserved nature. Despite their size, Mastiffs are often calm, affectionate, and loyal companions.
However, their laid-back personality and slow pace can create significant challenges when it comes to training. Their giant size also means that improper training can lead to safety concerns for both the dog and its owner.
Why They Are Hard to Train
Mastiffs are known for being independent thinkers, which means they may not always respond to commands immediately or with the same enthusiasm as other dogs. Their training requires consistency, as they can become easily distracted, especially if there is little incentive for them to follow through.
Their response to training requires a firm, patient, and confident approach. Due to their size, their handlers need to be in control at all times, as this breed can be difficult to manage without clear boundaries.
Mastiffs are prone to health concerns such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat, which makes their care and exercise regimen crucial to their well-being. It’s important to provide a diet that supports their joints and heart, and exercise should be moderate to avoid putting too much strain on their body.
While they can be slow learners, Mastiffs are incredibly loyal. Once they understand their place in the household, they make reliable and affectionate companions.
Fun Fact: The Mastiff is one of the oldest breeds known to humanity and has been used as a war dog, guard dog, and hunting dog for centuries, all while maintaining its reputation for being a calm giant.
2. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are known for their gigantic size, often weighing between 120 and 180 pounds, and their calm, patient demeanor. Originally bred for rescue work in the Swiss Alps, they are gentle, affectionate, and highly protective.
However, their massive size and calm nature can make training difficult, especially if they are not motivated enough to learn quickly.
Why They Are Hard to Train
Saint Bernards tend to take a laid-back approach to training, making them slow to respond to commands. They are less likely to react with urgency, which can lead to a feeling of disinterest during training sessions.
Furthermore, their protective instincts often mean they will be reluctant to follow commands if they feel something is amiss or if they perceive a threat. Owners need to ensure they have an effective approach that keeps the dog engaged while fostering trust.
This breed has a thick coat that requires regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons. Saint Bernards also have a higher risk of joint problems, such as hip dysplasia, and are prone to bloat, so careful exercise and attention to their health are important.
While they are social and tend to get along well with families and other pets, socialization should begin early to avoid any guarding tendencies or reluctance to follow commands in certain situations.
Fun Fact: Saint Bernards are famous for their historical role as rescue dogs, with some being credited with saving over 2,000 people in the Swiss Alps, thanks to their keen sense of direction and excellent endurance.
3. English Mastiff
English Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds, typically weighing between 110 and 200 pounds. Known for their calm, gentle nature, they are fiercely loyal and affectionate to their families. However, their massive size and slow learning style can present challenges for trainers.
Why They Are Hard to Train
English Mastiffs are generally not motivated by food or praise in the same way that many other dogs are, which makes traditional training methods less effective. Their laid-back nature and lack of urgency mean they often take their time to respond to commands.
They also have a tendency to ignore commands if they don’t see the immediate benefit or if the training is not sufficiently engaging. This can make consistent and persistent training essential to achieving success.
Additionally, their large size means that improper training can lead to control issues, which is a safety concern for both the dog and its owner.
While the breed is generally healthy, they are prone to conditions such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat. Managing their weight and avoiding excessive exercise are important to prevent joint strain. Regular, moderate exercise helps to keep them fit and avoid obesity-related health issues.
Fun Fact: The English Mastiff was once known as the “Molossus” dog and was used as a war dog, guard dog, and hunter in ancient times due to its imposing size and strength.
4. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a truly massive breed, often weighing between 90 to 150 pounds. Originally bred to protect livestock in the Himalayas, these dogs are fiercely independent and protective.
Why They Are Hard to Train
Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their independent mindset and reluctance to obey commands unless they are convinced of the necessity. Their protective instincts often make them hesitant to follow instructions, particularly when they perceive a threat.
This breed requires an owner who can provide firm, consistent training without resorting to forceful methods, as the Tibetan Mastiff will only respect authority if it is earned.
Training this breed requires time and patience, as they are not as food-motivated or eager to please as other dogs. They also tend to become distracted easily, so training sessions need to be engaging and keep the dog’s attention.
Tibetan Mastiffs are well-suited to cooler climates due to their thick coat. Their grooming needs are substantial, as they shed heavily during certain seasons. Owners must also be aware of health concerns like hip dysplasia and cataracts that are common in the breed, as well as providing them with enough mental stimulation to avoid boredom.
Due to their dominant nature, early socialization is essential. This breed can become territorial, which can make them aggressive toward strangers if not properly socialized.
Fun Fact: Tibetan Mastiffs were once highly prized by Tibetan monks and the Dalai Lama for their ability to protect monasteries and sacred sites from intruders.
5. Boerboel
PetMD states that the Boerboel is a large, muscular breed weighing between 110 to 200 pounds, originally bred in South Africa as a farm guardian. Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, Boerboels make excellent watchdogs.
Why They Are Hard to Train
Boerboels are highly independent and possess a dominant nature, meaning they will often challenge commands if they do not fully understand or agree with them. Their powerful personality requires a confident, assertive handler who can take charge without being overly harsh.
These dogs are intelligent but can become stubborn, and their training needs to focus on consistent leadership, clear communication, and positive reinforcement.
Their territorial instincts also make them prone to guarding behaviors, which can interfere with training if not addressed early.
Boerboels need moderate exercise and a balanced diet to maintain their health. They are prone to joint issues due to their size, so it’s important to avoid over-exercising them in their early years to prevent strain on developing joints.
Their coat is relatively low-maintenance, but they do require regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom-driven behavior.
Proper socialization is key for a Boerboel to become a well-rounded pet. Without it, they may develop aggressive tendencies toward strangers or other animals.
Fun Fact: The Boerboel was historically used as a farm protector, able to fend off large predators like lions and baboons, thanks to its strength and size.
6. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound, one of the tallest dog breeds in the world, can weigh between 115 and 180 pounds. These majestic dogs were originally bred for hunting large game like wolves, and their size alone is enough to intimidate anyone.
Despite their imposing stature, they are known for being gentle giants, especially with their families.
Why They Are Hard to Train
Irish Wolfhounds are known for their independent and reserved nature, meaning they tend to think for themselves rather than immediately following commands. Their strong hunting instincts can also complicate training, as they may become distracted by scents or movements, making them prone to ignoring commands during outdoor activities.
They might be slow to trust strangers, making them cautious and stubborn in new situations. Irish Wolfhounds require an experienced handler who can maintain calm leadership and patience throughout their training.
Due to their large size, Irish Wolfhounds are prone to specific health concerns, such as joint issues (especially hip dysplasia) and heart problems. They also have relatively short lifespans, often only living between 6 and 8 years. Proper nutrition and exercise are crucial to help them maintain their health and mobility, while careful monitoring of their joints is needed to avoid further complications.
Training must be approached with consistency, but without harsh techniques. Positive reinforcement works well with this breed, as they respond better to encouragement rather than force.
Fun Fact: Irish Wolfhounds have been part of Irish folklore for centuries, and they were once used in ancient Ireland to hunt wolves, giant elk, and even bears due to their strength and endurance.
7. Spanish Mastiff
The Spanish Mastiff, a giant breed that typically weighs between 120 to 200 pounds, is known for its calm and gentle nature. As per UKC, these dogs were originally bred to guard livestock in Spain’s harsh mountain regions, and their protective instincts remain strong.
Why They Are Hard to Train
They often take their time to respond to commands, and their laid-back attitude means they may not have the same urgency to obey as smaller or more active breeds. Their independent nature can make them resistant to following commands if they don’t see the point or benefit of doing so.
Training them requires a calm and firm approach with plenty of patience, as this breed is more likely to ignore commands unless they understand the reason behind them. Positive reinforcement is key, but trainers need to ensure that the reward system is engaging enough to keep the dog interested in learning.
The Spanish Mastiff’s thick coat requires regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons. They are prone to heat sensitivity due to their size and heavy coat, so proper care and attention to temperature regulation are necessary, particularly in warmer climates. Their size and strength also mean they need a careful exercise routine to avoid stressing their joints, as they are susceptible to hip dysplasia.
Despite their size and strength, they are known for being affectionate with their families and can get along well with children and other animals if socialized early. Their slow, steady nature often makes them a good companion for owners who have the time to provide gentle, consistent training.
Fun Fact: Spanish Mastiffs were used to guard flocks of sheep in Spain, often working in teams with other dogs to defend livestock from wolves and other predators. They are still prized for their guarding skills today.
Conclusion
Training big dogs can be a rewarding, albeit challenging experience, especially when it comes to other giant breeds like the Mastiff, Saint Bernard, or Irish Wolfhound. These large breeds, with their unique temperaments and tendencies, often require a special approach to ensure successful training. Whether it’s the independent nature of a Spanish Mastiff or the strong territorial instincts of a Boerboel, pet parents must be prepared for the task at hand.
While some of these dogs have a laid-back attitude, others may be more stubborn or even distracted by their strong instincts, making consistent leadership essential. For breeds with a thick double coat, like the Tibetan Mastiff, training must also consider the physical needs of the dog, such as regular grooming and proper care in varying climates. Ultimately, pet parents must remember that patience, creativity, and positive reinforcement are key to helping these giants reach their full potential.
With the right approach and a deep understanding of each breed’s needs, big dogs can thrive in a home, bringing loyalty, affection, and protection to their families.
In conclusion, training giant dog breeds presents unique challenges due to their size, strength, and sometimes independent nature. These breeds often require a consistent training regimen, ample space, and understanding of their specific behavioral traits to thrive in a domestic setting. Key challenges include managing their energy levels, ensuring proper socialization, and establishing clear leadership to prevent dominance issues. It’s essential to use positive reinforcement techniques, stay patient, and remain consistent. With proper training and guidance, these majestic dogs can become loving and well-adjusted family members, showcasing their loyalty and protective instincts.