What I have come across with the chessies, is that if you use a softer hand, while teaching, and a softer approach when doing your job, all is pretty well, I think, do not know for sure, but I think that when the people get to a stopping point when the dog might be getting confused, and get impatient and forceful, then dog seems to get more stubborn. In the puppy programs, I try and give them a lot of freedom, alot more than a lab, and it usually produces a pretty good companion. Chessies, are really good companions, that I have come across. Some little bolder than others, but most have been very fair caracters of judgement. thanks Jonesy