Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

15 Dog Breeds That Are Easy To Train

| Published on May 12, 2015

While all dogs pose different challenges when it comes to training, personality as well as environmental factors playing a part. Still, some breeds are easy to train, whereas others have qualities that can make training more difficult.

If you are a first-time dog owner or looking for your first performance dog, one of these breeds may be a good choice. Unlike most lists of “easy to train” dog breeds, you will not find one herding breed – Border Collie, Aussie, German Shepherd Dog – on this list. That’s because intelligence and work drive does not mean a dog is easy to train. These breeds have a lot of instinct and can actually be quite a challenge to train.

Below you’ll find 15 breeds that made the list, not only because of their intelligence, but because of their willing attitude and desire to please their owners!

#1 – Golden retriever

The Golden is known for its sweet disposition. And while they can be a bit feather-brained during their adolescence, they are very forgiving and easy to train.

Image source: @DirkVorderstrabe via Flickr
Image source: @DirkVorderstrabe via Flickr

#2 – Labrador Retriever

Like the Golden, the Lab is easygoing and one of the most enjoyable breeds I have worked with. If you make a mistake, they don’t usually take advantage of it the way some other breeds will.

Image source: @StateFarm via Flickr
Image source: @StateFarm via Flickr

#3 – Chihuahua

Their small size and intelligence makes them easy to train – no wonder they use so many of them in Hollywood! If you have back problems, however, then you may find a breed this small a bit more difficult to train physically.

Image source: @AndreaArden via Flickr
Image source: @AndreaArden via Flickr

#4 – Flat-Coated Retriever

Like the Golden, this breed is smart and sweet, and loves to work. Their desire to please makes them easy to train.

Image source: @Krysta via Flickr
Image source: @Krysta via Flickr

#5 – Bernese Mountain Dog

On the other end of the size scale is the Berner. This breed is docile in nature and willing to listen, making them easy to train. Size is a factor here too, of course. If you are tiny or worried about being pulled off your feet if he pulls on leash, you may want a smaller dog.

Image source: @bitslammer via Flickr
Image source: @bitslammer via Flickr

#6 – Poodle

Any size Poodle is a smart, willing student, though the miniature and teacup versions may have a bit more attitude than the standard. In all, they are a wonderful and intelligent group of dogs.

Image source: @AndreaArden via Flickr
Image source: @AndreaArden via Flickr

#7 – Norwich Terrier

This cute little breed is known for being a great beginner’s dog. Though he is easy to train, training should be positive and he prefers short sessions (as do most dogs).

Image source: @Jean via Flickr
Image source: @Jean via Flickr

#8 – Bichon Frise

Highly intelligent, this dog loves to be in the spotlight, and that includes showing off the tricks you have taught him. He is a fun, easy to train dog.

Image source: @LlimaOrosa via Flickr
Image source: @LlimaOrosa via Flickr

#9 – Newfoundland

Often outweighing their owners when they are full grown, the Newfie is a sweet-natured and laid-back dog that will be forgiving if you are new to training and trying to figure it out as you go along.

Image source: @EwenRoberts via Flickr
Image source: @EwenRoberts via Flickr

#10 – Brussels Griffon

This small breed is known for being easy to train and a clown around his admirers. In fact, he thrives on training and attention.

Image source: @GerDekker via Flickr
Image source: @GerDekker via Flickr

#11 – Havanese

Because of this plucky little dog’s obedience, he can be seen in performance events at all levels. Despite their look, they are also very athletic, so if you are looking for a first agility dog, they may be a good choice.

Image source: @Hemilt via Flickr
Image source: @Hemilt via Flickr

#12 –St. Bernard

You will find this gentle giant is easy to train because they are laid back and won’t punish you if you make a mistake. They enjoy therapy work and even dog sports such as cart pulling and obedience trials.

Image source: @NickiDuganPogue via Flickr
Image source: @NickiDuganPogue via Flickr

#13 –Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This adorable lap dog is easy to train, but just remember they are a spaniel, so trusting them off-leash takes some work. Otherwise, they are eager to please and make a good first dog.

Image source: @misterb1138 via Flickr
Image source: @misterb1138 via Flickr

#14 –Chinese Crested

Whether you choose the powder-puff or hairless variety, the Crested is a smart, willing dog that’s easy to train and loves sports.

Image source: @JaniceWaltzer via Flickr
Image source: @JaniceWaltzer via Flickr

#15 –French Bulldog

Ranked as the ninth most popular dog in America by the American Kennel Club, the Frenchie is easy to train with proper motivation (usually food). They are cute with a big personality, which makes the training even more enjoyable.

Image source: @JamieMcCaffrey via Flickr
Image source: @JamieMcCaffrey via Flickr

If you’re looking for a serious challenge, consider training one of the dogs that make our list of The 10 Least Obedient Dog Breeds!

Question for a Vet? Chat Online Now

The iHeartDogs Ask a Vet tool gives you access to verified veterinarians 24/7. Get professional help for your pup and feed shelter dogs now.

iHeartDogs is reader supported. Our articles contain affiliate links where we are paid a small commission for linking to a product at no additional cost to the reader.

Recent Articles

Interested in learning even more about all things dogs? Get your paws on more great content from iHeartDogs!

Read the Blog

Leave a Comment