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If you’re in the market for a new puppy that will pick up on training and new commands without too much difficulty, it’s a good idea to look into an intelligent breed. Some dog breeds will be more receptive when it comes to training compared to others. So if you’re a first-time dog owner you may benefit from knowing the best dogs to train, which we’ve compiled below.
Why are Some Breeds Easier to Train?
How easy it is to train a dog comes down to a combination of its temperament, history of selective breeding, and any genetic predispositions. Below are a few other factors that may contribute to the trainability of breeds that are considered to be easier to train:
- Breed purpose
- Desire to please
- Personality
- Energy levels
- Intelligence
- Problem-solving abilities
- Environment
- Socialization
- Training Consistency
- Handler’s training skill
- Breed-specific traits
- Reinforcement and Motivation
The Best Dogs to Train
Here are some of the easiest dogs to train all of which are known for their adaptability, willingness to learn, and intelligence.
Corgis
Both the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi are small dogs known for being among the smartest dog breeds in the world. While they’re easy enough to train, you’ll also need to be a firm leader if you want them to follow your commands and instructions. While these dogs won’t need lots of exercise, make sure you incorporate physical activities during their training and reward them for a job well done to help them learn faster and obey your commands.
French Bulldog
Apart from their small size, French Bulldogs are known for their status as the most popular dog breeds in the United States according to the American Kennel Club, but did you also know that they’re ritualistic dogs? Because of this, they’re relatively easy to train; all you need to do is set a routine for them and stick to it. Make sure that you start training your pup as soon as it steps into your home to help it develop good habits.
Border Collie
This energetic breed comes with high intelligence and is perhaps the world’s smartest dog according to many experts. Originally bred to herd livestock, these dogs have an exceptional ability to register and execute commands. However, because they’re bursting with energy, they will need lots of physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from developing destructive habits.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is also among the most popular breeds today and is also one of the easiest dogs to train; because of this, they’re a great choice to add to the family. They’re also known for their gentle and friendly temperament, which is why they’re often candidates to serve as therapy dogs and guide dogs. It’s because of their eagerness to please that makes them so responsive when it comes to training, so make full use of it!
Great Dane
If you’re looking for a dog that’s easy to train among the giant breeds then the Great Dane is the one for you; these gentle giants are good with children, plus they’re moderately affectionate and playful. Generally, these dogs are considered to be easy to train although some enthusiasts say that some individuals can be stubborn when it comes to training. These dogs can be trained to become great guard dogs and will generally get along with other pets in the house.
Labrador Retriever
Much like the Golden Retriever, the Labrador Retriever is known for its eagerness to please and intelligence which is why they’re often put to use as a working dog. They’re celebrated as excellent service dogs but inside the home, they’re gentle and playful with young children, so getting one can be the key to a great family dog. These dogs are highly adaptable, will excel in all kinds of training, and will learn commands quickly.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd dog is renowned for its intelligence and versatility, making them an excellent choice for military work or as an addition to the police force. These quick learners will often be paired with retired police officers and military veterans because of their innate ability to help people with their physical and mental health needs. Their strong work ethics and sharp minds make them a breeze to train compared to other breeds.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are among the smaller dogs on this list, but if you want to keep these intelligent dogs well-behaved, establishing a firm routine is essential. If you don’t have time to train them yourself, make sure to enroll them in training programs that will teach them basic commands. When it comes to these dogs, sticking to a firm routine every day will help them develop good behavior and follow commands they’re familiar with.
Pit Bull
While Pit Bulls have a reputation for being aggressive, this couldn’t be further from the truth; when given training at a young age, they can be gentle with kids and other pets. Providing them with dog training and socialization will help mold them into a great family pet. Many dog owners find their trained adult dogs are happy, sociable, and affectionate and don’t have a shred of aggression in them.
Shetland Sheepdog
Also known as the Sheltie, the Shetland Sheepdog is a small, yet intelligent herding dog that comes with high energy and excels in agility training; it’s also quick to pick up on different commands. It’s considered to be among the most trainable breeds in the world, but their energy level means that you will need to give them hours of exercise per week. Because of their herding instincts, these dogs can be good candidates for obedience and agility trials.
Bernese Mountain Dogs
This sturdy and big dog is as affectionate as they are beautiful; also called Berners by their beloved owners, these dogs love to please their owners which makes them easier to train. However, they can be sensitive to punishment and harsh correction and they won’t like being left alone for too long. This canine doesn’t come with a lot of energy but they will still need moderate physical activity to keep them healthy and happy.
Australian Cattle Dog
Also referred to as Blue Heelers, the Australian Cattle Dog will need early training and socialization from the second it arrives in your home. These herding dogs are talented and intelligent which lets them pick up training efficiently and quickly. But even with their high potential, they can also be stubborn so they will need engaging and consistent training to ensure they understand acceptable behavior.
Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is known for its intelligence and loyalty; they’re also quick learners which helps them excel when it comes to obedience training. When given early socialization and training, they can become obedient and well-behaved pets — be sure to give them positive reinforcement and consistent training to help them develop good habits. These protective dogs will fit right into your home whether you have kids or other pets.
Miniature Schnauzer
These small breeds are some of the most trainable and obedient dogs around, and their petite frame is perfect for city dwellers who live in apartments and smaller homes. Because their small bodies are full of energy, they will need plenty of exercise, so be sure to take them out for walks or spend some quality time playing with them. They can be stubborn at times, so giving them early training and socialization will benefit them greatly.
Australian Shepherd
Aussie Shepherds are highly energetic and intelligent dogs that thrive on physical and mental stimulation, which makes them great for dog sports and other activities. These trainable dogs are part of the herding breed, so they’re great for sheep and cattle control. If you decide that they’re the right breed for you, they can be excellent family dogs that will help out around the farm.
Border Terrier
The Border Terrier can easily learn new things but they will only respond to positive training methods since they can be sensitive to harsh punishment. A fair but firm attitude is a must when it comes to these dogs, and even though they have small bodies, they can come with big personalities.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhaso Apso can be incredibly easy to train but would you believe that they don’t need a lot of training? Generally, these dogs only need 3 days of repetition to teach them something, which is pretty neat — it only takes them a few weeks to polish and master a skill but in as fast as 3 days, they can understand something you show them.
English Springer Spaniel
Pet parents love training this active breed since its quick and agile mind is always eager to please, making them the perfect fit for new owners. Their natural instinct usually tells them to follow their owner’s commands and will be able to learn new skills fairly quickly.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dog to teach new tricks, the list above contains the most trainable dog breeds. Pet owners will also be delighted to know that many of these canines are among the cutest, sweetest, and most lovable dogs in the world! Just make sure to keep their training sessions focused and engaging to get the best results — due to their ease of training, a first-time owner should be able to train these pups without a dog trainer.
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