Terrier dogs are full of personality, spunk, and confidence—but let’s be real, training them isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Their sharp minds and independent streak can throw some curveballs your way. Sure, their determination makes them great little problem solvers, but it also means they like doing things on their own terms, at their own pace. Whether you’ve got a bold Scottish Terrier or a lively Jack Russell, getting inside their head is key to progress. Let’s dive into the top training struggles—and how to crush them like a pro, one quirky challenge at a time.
1. Stubbornness Runs Deep
Terriers can be seriously stubborn. Like, “I know what you’re saying but I’m doing my own thing anyway” levels of stubbornness. This trait comes from their roots—these dogs were bred to hunt vermin solo, which meant making decisions without waiting on a human. So yeah, they’re not exactly wired to follow orders. To work around this, keep training short, consistent, and reward-based. Mix things up to beat boredom, and always end on a win. Above all, stay firm (but not mean). Eventually, they’ll start listening—grudgingly, but still.
2. High Energy Levels Disrupt Focus
Let’s talk about that non-stop energy. Terriers have enough zoomies to power a small town, which makes focusing tough. Sitting still? Not their vibe at all. That’s why it’s smart to let them burn off steam first—take them for a brisk walk or toss a ball around. Then, bring in the training. Keep it fun and active, like turning “come” or “fetch” into a game. If it feels like playtime instead of homework, they’ll be way more into it—and way less likely to chase that imaginary squirrel mid-session again and again.
3. Prone to Barking
Get ready for some noise. Terriers bark. A lot. Whether it’s a bird, a leaf, or the wind, they think it’s worth announcing. While it’s totally normal for them, it can get in the way of training big time. Instead of scolding them for barking, try teaching a “quiet” command and reward the calm. You can also work on identifying what’s triggering the noise and minimize it when you can. Over time, with some chill practice, you’ll notice those bark-filled training sessions getting a little more peaceful—and productive.
4. Easily Distracted by Scents
Let’s not forget that nose. Terriers were made to follow scents, and wow, do they commit. If there’s something interesting on the ground, good luck getting their attention back. To handle this, start training in places with fewer distractions, then level up slowly. Strong-smelling treats help you compete with whatever’s on the ground. And make “leave it” or “watch me” part of your regular drill. Eventually, your terrier will learn that staying tuned in to you is just as rewarding—if not more—than whatever mystery smell they’re chasing.
5. Chasing Instincts Interfere
So, you’ve got your terrier focused—and then boom, a squirrel dashes by and it’s game over. That chasing instinct kicks in hard and derails everything. To get ahead of this, work on impulse control with commands like “stay” and “leave it.” Also, practice recall in a safe, fenced area to reinforce safety and control. Oh, and don’t skip leash training—it’s a game-changer during walks. With enough repetition and trust-building, your terrier will eventually realize sticking with you is more rewarding than chasing the neighborhood wildlife.
6. Digging Becomes a Game
Then there’s the digging. Terriers absolutely love it—whether it’s instinct, boredom, or just plain fun. But when it happens mid-training, it’s super distracting. Instead of fighting it, give them a designated digging zone, like a sandbox. When they dig there, throw a party—praise and treat galore. If they start digging somewhere off-limits, gently redirect them to their spot. Over time, they’ll catch on. Focusing on acceptable outlets (and not punishment) makes your training sessions way more enjoyable—for both of you.
7. Dominance Testing
Terriers love testing limits. It’s just part of their bold personality. They might ignore you or push back on commands to see if they’re in charge. The trick? Stay calm, firm, and consistent. Daily basic obedience practice helps remind them who’s boss—in a good way. And seriously, don’t yell. That just makes things worse. Instead, show confidence, reward good behavior, and be patient. Terriers respect strong, steady leadership. Once they realize you’ve got things handled, they’ll start playing by your rules.
8. Short Attention Spans
Let’s talk about attention span—or lack of it. Terriers are smart, but they get bored fast. Long sessions? Nope. Keep it short and sweet—under 10 minutes is ideal. Sprinkle a few of these mini-sessions throughout the day. Use fun stuff like toys, treats, or even a clicker to keep them interested. And always end on a high note to keep motivation up. Variety also helps—switching things up keeps them engaged. With the right rhythm, those short bursts of training will go way further than dragging things out.
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