If you’re looking for a dog that is easy to train, you should know that some dogs pick up commands quickly, while others can be a little more stubborn depending on their breed.
“If you’re looking for a dog that is easy to train, the main characteristics to consider include intelligence, a desire to please, and a strong bond with their trainer,” explained Nicole Ellis, a dog trainer and lifestyle expert at Rover, to Country Living.
With that in mind, here is a list of the 20 dog breeds you should prioritize if you want an easy-to-train pup, according to experts consulted by Country Living:
1. Labrador Retriever
One of the most well-known dogs when it comes to “liking to please their owners,” the Labrador tops the list of trainable breeds. “They are ideal for service roles due to their trainable nature,” said Dr. Abel Gonzalez, clinical director at Dutch, to Country Living.
2. Corgi
Both the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi are extremely easy to train, according to experts.
“These cute puppies are intelligent, food-motivated, and bred to work closely with people. Corgis excel in obedience and agility and are super cute swimmers,” explained Ellis.
3. German Shepherd
It’s no surprise that these dogs are commonly chosen for police work: German Shepherds are extremely obedient and easy to train. Outside of the service environment, they also make great protective dogs for families.
4. Border Collie
Of course, the world’s smartest dog couldn’t be left off the list. Due to their exceptional ability to memorize words, the Border Collie will never forget what to do when it hears the word “sit.”
But remember that they are quite energetic, so make sure to provide them with plenty of exercise options, or they may start exhibiting destructive behavior to burn off energy.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese, known as the “mountain dog,” was bred in Switzerland to work on farms. Therefore, they are known for being gentle, obedient, and eager to please.
“[Bernese] respond well to positive reinforcement and thrive in forming strong, unique bonds with their owners,” explained Ellis.
6. Golden Retriever
Like their cousins, the Labradors, these gentle and friendly animals are experts when it comes to obedience. However, Dr. Gonzalez emphasized that leash training is a must.
“Walking well on a leash is more of a necessity than a trick. Training your dog to walk without pulling makes walks more enjoyable for both of you,” he argued.
7. Havanese
If you’re looking for a small and obedient dog, you’ll find a perfect friend in the Havanese. These Cuban dogs are intelligent and extremely adaptable.
“These happy little dogs are highly people-oriented and love to engage in training, especially when it feels like a game. People are often fooled by how intelligent these dogs truly are,” said Ellis.
8. Australian Cattle Dog
As the name suggests, these dogs were bred to work on cattle farms in Australia. “Incredibly intelligent and hardworking, they excel with consistent training and need a lot of mental stimulation to stay engaged,” said Ellis.
But be aware that, like Border Collies, they were bred as working dogs and don’t thrive in environments where they can’t exercise enough. Be sure to provide plenty of mental enrichment for this restless breed.
9. Poodle
In all three sizes—Standard, Miniature, and Toy—the Poodle is highly intelligent and easy to train. “They excel in obedience, agility, and performance,” said Dr. Gonzalez.
10. Rottweiler
These German dogs, known for their loyalty and high trainability, are used as protectors, search-and-rescue dogs, and even guide dogs for the blind.
“It’s best to start their training at a young age. This intelligent dog can also be quite gentle and calm when needed,” emphasized Ellis.
11. Papillon
The Papillon, named for its ears that resemble butterfly wings, is a dog that learns quickly, “loves tricks, and excels in competitive obedience and agility,” according to Ellis.
Since they were bred as companion dogs, these little dogs can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. If you’re away all day, it may be better to choose another dog.
12. Shetland Sheepdog
According to Dr. Gonzalez, Shetland Sheepdogs combine intelligence with a desire to please, making them highly trainable and proficient in obedience.
However, they also need plenty of mental enrichment, he said. “Try puzzle toys that require your dog to solve a problem to earn a treat for an excellent mental workout.”
13. English Springer Spaniel
Bred in England to flush and retrieve birds for hunters, these dogs are energetic and responsive, according to Ellis. “Springers are highly trainable with positive reinforcement and enjoy working closely with their owners,” she added.
14. Doberman Pinscher
These dogs are intelligent, loyal, and capable of learning and following complex commands, according to Dr. Gonzalez, so it’s no surprise that they are on the list.
“Teaching your dog to wait before eating a treat placed in front of him is a great way to practice impulse control,” he added.
15. Bichon Frisé
According to Ellis, they are so good at learning tricks that they can compete for titles at the American Kennel Club tricks competition, which includes things like balancing on a ball, opening doors, and playing shell games.
16. Australian Shepherd
Another herding dog on the list, the Australian Shepherd is known for being work-oriented and intelligent, thriving at learning new tasks and skilled in agility and herding.
“Hide treats around the house or garden and let your dog find them. It’s a fun way to engage their sense of smell and encourage exploratory behavior,” suggested Dr. Gonzalez.
17. Border Terrier
This British fox-hunting dog is known for its independent spirit. But it is also intelligent and food-motivated, according to Ellis.
Therefore, she suggests keeping the training fun and engaging so he feels rewarded for his work, just like his ancestors.
18. Vizsla
Dr. Gonzalez called this breed affectionate, intelligent, eager, and easy to train. “They are known for their loyalty and versatility in sports,” he said.
19. Belgian Malinois
Frequently chosen for police work, the Belgian Malinois is exceptionally trainable and even has an innate desire to protect, according to Dr. Gonzalez.
“Tailor the training to what they enjoy most. For example, a food-motivated dog may excel in tricks involving treats, while an energetic dog may prefer an agility course,” he explained.
20. Miniature Schnauzer
Dr. Gonzalez said that these fast learners can do all kinds of tricks when you teach them, including things that involve agility training.
Photo and video: Unsplash. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
