But let’s be honest: some dogs have longer emotional memories than others. They won’t attack or throw shade like a cat might, but they will let you know that you’ve crossed a line. Whether it’s the cold shoulder, the sulk, or the signature side-eye, these breeds are known for holding grudges — and not letting go until they’ve made their point.
Here are 15 dog breeds who might just be keeping score.
Contents
- 1 1. Shiba Inu
- 2 2. Afghan Hound
- 3 3. Akita
- 4 4. Chihuahua
- 5 5. Dachshund
- 6 6. Basenji
- 7 7. Lhasa Apso
- 8 8. Scottish Terrier
- 9 9. Weimaraner
- 10 10. Pekingese
- 11 11. Border Collie
- 12 12. Cocker Spaniel
- 13 13. Belgian Malinois
- 14 14. Standard Poodle
- 15 15. Chow Chow
- 16 Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend
- 17 Read Next: 10 Myths About Dogs Your Should Stop Believing
- 18 Read Next: 10 Things Your Dog Will Never Forgive
- 19 1. Shiba Inu
- 20 2. Afghan Hound
- 21 3. Akita
- 22 4. Chihuahua
- 23 5. Dachshund
- 24 6. Basenji
- 25 7. Lhasa Apso
- 26 8. Scottish Terrier
- 27 9. Weimaraner
- 28 10. Pekingese
- 29 11. Border Collie
- 30 12. Cocker Spaniel
- 31 13. Belgian Malinois
- 32 14. Standard Poodle
- 33 15. Chow Chow
- 34 Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend
- 35 Read Next: 10 Myths About Dogs Your Should Stop Believing
- 36 Read Next: 10 Things Your Dog Will Never Forgive
1. Shiba Inu

If Shibas had a motto, it would be “I’ll forgive, but I’ll never forget.” These proud, independent dogs are notorious for being emotionally complex. Scold them once and they’ll likely go full aloof-mode — no eye contact, no affection, no interest in you. Step on their paw accidentally? Prepare for hours of icy disdain. Shibas remember everything and expect respect at all times.
2. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are elegant, sensitive, and very aware of when they’ve been slighted. They have a reputation for being a bit emotionally distant, and if they feel disrespected or mishandled, they’ll turn on the silent treatment — like a runway model offended by your lack of manners. These dogs don’t forget quickly, and their grudges come in the form of deliberate detachment.
3. Akita

Akitas are deeply loyal, but they also have a strong sense of pride and emotional awareness. If you raise your voice, ignore them, or embarrass them in front of guests (don’t laugh — they notice), they’ll take it very personally. They won’t lash out, but you’ll get the cold stare, a refusal to come when called, and an unmistakable vibe of “You’ve disappointed me.”
4. Chihuahua

Tiny body, big feelings. Chihuahuas may not look intimidating, but emotionally? They’re full-blown grudge-holders. Ignore their barking, scold them for being yappy, or make the mistake of leaving them alone too long, and they’ll give you the death stare of the century. They might even snub your cuddles for hours — days if they’re really offended.
5. Dachshund

Dachshunds are clever and slightly stubborn — a combo that makes them excellent at remembering both commands and offences. They’re known to sulk if they feel left out, or if you try to make them do something they’ve firmly decided against. Give them a bath against their will? Expect moody glances and ignored recall commands for at least 24 hours.
6. Basenji

Basenjis are already aloof and cat-like in their behaviour. But when they hold a grudge, it’s next-level shade. You won’t get barking or tantrums — just a total lack of engagement. They’ll sit across the room, avoid eye contact, and pretend you’re not even there. It’s passive-aggressive perfection.
7. Lhasa Apso

These little lions were bred to guard Tibetan monasteries — so yeah, they’ve got a regal streak. If you cross them (like trimming their fur too short or not inviting them onto the sofa), they’ll get moody. Lhasas can be incredibly stubborn when slighted, choosing to ignore you completely until they decide you’re forgiven.
8. Scottish Terrier

Scotties have big personalities packed into a small, dignified frame. They’re not outwardly clingy, but they do take offence when they feel mistreated or ignored. If you scold them unfairly or disrupt their routine, they’ll likely turn away, huff, and make you work for their affection all over again. Basically: emotional poker face, holding aces.
9. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are sensitive and emotionally intelligent, and they bond hard with their humans. If they feel slighted — especially if you leave them alone for too long — they’ll take it personally. Instead of exploding, they’ll withdraw, act a little stubborn, or even passive-aggressively misbehave. Think “emotional protest” with a silver coat.
10. Pekingese

With a long history of palace life in ancient China, Pekingese dogs expect a certain level of reverence. If you scold them harshly, skip their usual cuddle time, or forget their routine, they’ll absolutely act like you’ve committed treason. Pekingese hold grudges like tiny royalty — they won’t snap, but they will withhold affection until you’ve grovelled enough.
11. Border Collie

Border Collies are sharp, observant, and remember everything. If they perceive injustice — whether it’s a missed walk, harsh tone, or being left out of the fun — they’ll act out subtly. Maybe they ignore a command. Maybe they sulk near the door. Maybe they stare you down while pretending they’ve forgotten basic obedience. It’s all very strategic.
12. Cocker Spaniel

Soft, sweet, and emotional to the core, Cocker Spaniels wear their hearts on their furry sleeves. If you scold them harshly or leave them out of a family cuddle pile, they’ll let you know they’re hurt — usually through those guilt-inducing eyes and a refusal to engage. They might follow you from room to room… but silently, like a furry ghost of emotional disappointment.
13. Belgian Malinois

These working dogs are laser-focused and highly loyal — but also deeply sensitive. They don’t handle perceived rejection or neglect well. If you break routine, correct them too harshly, or ignore their need for engagement, they’ll go cold. They might shut down temporarily or redirect their energy into ignoring you, just to make a point.
14. Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are intelligent, refined, and emotionally sharp. If you disrupt their routine or don’t give them enough mental stimulation, they’ll start acting out in subtle, moody ways. Don’t be surprised if they skip commands, avoid eye contact, or give you the canine version of the silent treatment. They don’t forget slights — they file them.
15. Chow Chow

Chows are famously aloof and independent. They’re not particularly interested in pleasing humans — and if they feel disrespected, they simply check out. You’ll get cold indifference, slow obedience (if any), and a whole lot of “you’re not worthy of my time right now” energy. They don’t lash out — they just exist in another dimension until you earn your way back in.
Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend

Are you wondering if your furry friend sees you as more than just a provider of food and belly rubs?
As social creatures, dogs form strong bonds with their human companions. And they have unique ways of telling you ILY.
Want to know if you’ve hit BFF status with your pup? Below are 10 signs your dog considers you its best friend!
10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend
Read Next: 10 Myths About Dogs Your Should Stop Believing

Dog owners know what it’s like to be constantly bombarded with advice, tips, and stories from fellow pet parents.
Some of these pieces of information are helpful, while others have been passed down through generations but have little truth to them.
Over the years, I’ve heard countless myths about dogs—some that even I believed until I dug deeper.
Understanding what’s true and what’s simply misinformation can make all the difference in how we care for our dogs.
In this article, I’ll debunk 10 common myths about dogs that you should stop believing right now.
10 Myths about Dogs You Should Stop Believing
Read Next: 10 Things Your Dog Will Never Forgive

Dogs are often praised for their loyalty and endless love, but even the most forgiving dogs have limits!
There are certain things they won’t forget, and understanding these “unforgivable” moments can make all the difference in your bond with them.
You can create a more beautiful life for your furry companion by tuning in to what bothers them most, So, here are 10 things your dog will never forgive—no matter how hard you try to make it up to them!
10 Things Your Dog Will Never Forgive
We love dogs because they’re loyal, forgiving, and always excited to see us — even if we accidentally stepped on their paw five minutes ago. Right? Well… most of the time.
But let’s be honest: some dogs have longer emotional memories than others. They won’t attack or throw shade like a cat might, but they will let you know that you’ve crossed a line. Whether it’s the cold shoulder, the sulk, or the signature side-eye, these breeds are known for holding grudges — and not letting go until they’ve made their point.
Here are 15 dog breeds who might just be keeping score.
1. Shiba Inu

If Shibas had a motto, it would be “I’ll forgive, but I’ll never forget.” These proud, independent dogs are notorious for being emotionally complex. Scold them once and they’ll likely go full aloof-mode — no eye contact, no affection, no interest in you. Step on their paw accidentally? Prepare for hours of icy disdain. Shibas remember everything and expect respect at all times.
2. Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are elegant, sensitive, and very aware of when they’ve been slighted. They have a reputation for being a bit emotionally distant, and if they feel disrespected or mishandled, they’ll turn on the silent treatment — like a runway model offended by your lack of manners. These dogs don’t forget quickly, and their grudges come in the form of deliberate detachment.
3. Akita

Akitas are deeply loyal, but they also have a strong sense of pride and emotional awareness. If you raise your voice, ignore them, or embarrass them in front of guests (don’t laugh — they notice), they’ll take it very personally. They won’t lash out, but you’ll get the cold stare, a refusal to come when called, and an unmistakable vibe of “You’ve disappointed me.”
4. Chihuahua

Tiny body, big feelings. Chihuahuas may not look intimidating, but emotionally? They’re full-blown grudge-holders. Ignore their barking, scold them for being yappy, or make the mistake of leaving them alone too long, and they’ll give you the death stare of the century. They might even snub your cuddles for hours — days if they’re really offended.
5. Dachshund

Dachshunds are clever and slightly stubborn — a combo that makes them excellent at remembering both commands and offences. They’re known to sulk if they feel left out, or if you try to make them do something they’ve firmly decided against. Give them a bath against their will? Expect moody glances and ignored recall commands for at least 24 hours.
6. Basenji

Basenjis are already aloof and cat-like in their behaviour. But when they hold a grudge, it’s next-level shade. You won’t get barking or tantrums — just a total lack of engagement. They’ll sit across the room, avoid eye contact, and pretend you’re not even there. It’s passive-aggressive perfection.
7. Lhasa Apso

These little lions were bred to guard Tibetan monasteries — so yeah, they’ve got a regal streak. If you cross them (like trimming their fur too short or not inviting them onto the sofa), they’ll get moody. Lhasas can be incredibly stubborn when slighted, choosing to ignore you completely until they decide you’re forgiven.
8. Scottish Terrier

Scotties have big personalities packed into a small, dignified frame. They’re not outwardly clingy, but they do take offence when they feel mistreated or ignored. If you scold them unfairly or disrupt their routine, they’ll likely turn away, huff, and make you work for their affection all over again. Basically: emotional poker face, holding aces.
9. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are sensitive and emotionally intelligent, and they bond hard with their humans. If they feel slighted — especially if you leave them alone for too long — they’ll take it personally. Instead of exploding, they’ll withdraw, act a little stubborn, or even passive-aggressively misbehave. Think “emotional protest” with a silver coat.
10. Pekingese

With a long history of palace life in ancient China, Pekingese dogs expect a certain level of reverence. If you scold them harshly, skip their usual cuddle time, or forget their routine, they’ll absolutely act like you’ve committed treason. Pekingese hold grudges like tiny royalty — they won’t snap, but they will withhold affection until you’ve grovelled enough.
11. Border Collie

Border Collies are sharp, observant, and remember everything. If they perceive injustice — whether it’s a missed walk, harsh tone, or being left out of the fun — they’ll act out subtly. Maybe they ignore a command. Maybe they sulk near the door. Maybe they stare you down while pretending they’ve forgotten basic obedience. It’s all very strategic.
12. Cocker Spaniel

Soft, sweet, and emotional to the core, Cocker Spaniels wear their hearts on their furry sleeves. If you scold them harshly or leave them out of a family cuddle pile, they’ll let you know they’re hurt — usually through those guilt-inducing eyes and a refusal to engage. They might follow you from room to room… but silently, like a furry ghost of emotional disappointment.
13. Belgian Malinois

These working dogs are laser-focused and highly loyal — but also deeply sensitive. They don’t handle perceived rejection or neglect well. If you break routine, correct them too harshly, or ignore their need for engagement, they’ll go cold. They might shut down temporarily or redirect their energy into ignoring you, just to make a point.
14. Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are intelligent, refined, and emotionally sharp. If you disrupt their routine or don’t give them enough mental stimulation, they’ll start acting out in subtle, moody ways. Don’t be surprised if they skip commands, avoid eye contact, or give you the canine version of the silent treatment. They don’t forget slights — they file them.
15. Chow Chow

Chows are famously aloof and independent. They’re not particularly interested in pleasing humans — and if they feel disrespected, they simply check out. You’ll get cold indifference, slow obedience (if any), and a whole lot of “you’re not worthy of my time right now” energy. They don’t lash out — they just exist in another dimension until you earn your way back in.
Read Next: 10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend

Are you wondering if your furry friend sees you as more than just a provider of food and belly rubs?
As social creatures, dogs form strong bonds with their human companions. And they have unique ways of telling you ILY.
Want to know if you’ve hit BFF status with your pup? Below are 10 signs your dog considers you its best friend!
10 Signs Your Dog Considers You to be its Best Friend
Read Next: 10 Myths About Dogs Your Should Stop Believing

Dog owners know what it’s like to be constantly bombarded with advice, tips, and stories from fellow pet parents.
Some of these pieces of information are helpful, while others have been passed down through generations but have little truth to them.
Over the years, I’ve heard countless myths about dogs—some that even I believed until I dug deeper.
Understanding what’s true and what’s simply misinformation can make all the difference in how we care for our dogs.
In this article, I’ll debunk 10 common myths about dogs that you should stop believing right now.
10 Myths about Dogs You Should Stop Believing
Read Next: 10 Things Your Dog Will Never Forgive

Dogs are often praised for their loyalty and endless love, but even the most forgiving dogs have limits!
There are certain things they won’t forget, and understanding these “unforgivable” moments can make all the difference in your bond with them.
You can create a more beautiful life for your furry companion by tuning in to what bothers them most, So, here are 10 things your dog will never forgive—no matter how hard you try to make it up to them!

