13 Dog Breeds That Are Surprisingly Good at Learning Tricks

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When you think of trainable dogs, breeds like the Border Collie and Poodle likely come to mind. But what about the underdogs of the trick-learning world? Some lesser-known breeds are surprisingly quick learners with the right motivation—often in the form of treats! Whether driven by eagerness to please, curiosity, or a flair for showing off, these dogs can master everything from basic commands to impressive tricks. If you want a four-legged companion full of hidden talents, these breeds are ready to rise to the challenge!

Papillon

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The Papillon may be small, but their intelligence is anything but. These tiny dogs are incredibly eager to learn and want to please their owners. With quick reflexes and sharp minds, they excel in agility training and can pick up tricks like spinning, high-fiving, and even playing dead in no time. Their natural curiosity and love for attention make them excellent trick learners—just ensure you have plenty of treats on hand because they love being rewarded for their hard work.

Australian Cattle Dog

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Australian Cattle Dogs are known for their work ethic but are also surprisingly good at learning fun tricks. These energetic pups are always looking for a challenge; teaching them tricks is a great way to keep their sharp minds engaged. They respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and can master complex tricks, from weaving through legs to retrieving specific objects. If you want a dog that thrives on mental stimulation and loves a challenge, an Australian Cattle Dog will keep you on your toes.

Rottweiler

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Rottweilers may have a reputation for being tough and protective, but they’re also incredibly intelligent and trainable. These dogs form strong bonds with their owners and are eager to learn new skills. With their combination of strength and smarts, Rottweilers can master advanced tricks like opening doors, carrying objects, and even playing hide-and-seek. They excel when training is made fun and interactive, proving that beneath their tough exterior lies a dog that loves to show off their skills.

Shetland Sheepdog

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The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is often overshadowed by the Border Collie regarding intelligence, but they are just as eager to learn. These fluffy little herders love mental challenges and can quickly pick up complex tricks. Their ability to understand commands and their love for performing make them excellent candidates for learning anything from retrieving specific toys to jumping through hoops. If you want a dog that learns fast and loves to show off, a Sheltie will happily impress you.

Bull Terrier

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Bull Terriers may look like class clowns but are surprisingly smart and trainable. These playful pups are known for their stubbornness, but with the right motivation (a.k.a. treats and praise), they can learn various fun tricks. Their goofy personalities make training sessions entertaining, and once they understand a command, they’ll happily repeat it just to earn more rewards. Whether it’s balancing a treat on their nose or mastering a complicated routine, Bull Terriers have the potential to be trick-training superstars.

Belgian Malinois

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The Belgian Malinois is often used in police and military work, but they’re also fantastic at learning tricks. These highly intelligent dogs are always eager to learn and thrive when given a job. Their ability to focus and retain information means they can master advanced tricks like fetching specific items, turning lights on and off, and even performing acrobatic stunts. If you’re looking for a dog that’s up for any training challenge, the Belgian Malinois won’t disappoint.

Miniature Schnauzer

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Miniature Schnauzers are full of personality and love learning new things. These small but mighty dogs strongly desire to please their owners, making them excellent trick learners. They’re quick to pick up on commands and can excel in agility, obedience, and even circus-style tricks like jumping through rings. Their playful nature makes training fun, and with a little patience, they can master just about any trick you throw their way.

Boston Terrier

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Boston Terriers may be known for their goofy expressions, but they’re also surprisingly intelligent and love learning tricks. These compact dogs have a natural enthusiasm for training, especially when there’s food involved. Boston Terriers excel at performing tricks that require balance, like standing on their hind legs, spinning, or even skateboarding. Their eagerness to please and playful energy make them fantastic trick dogs, always up for learning something new.

Cocker Spaniel

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Cocker Spaniels are known for their affectionate nature, but they also have a sharp mind that makes them excellent at learning tricks. These dogs thrive on positive reinforcement and enjoy the challenge of mastering new commands. They do particularly well with retrieving tricks, scent work, and even agility-based skills. Their love for interaction means they’ll happily practice their tricks over and over just to make you smile.

Dalmatian

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Dalmatians are often associated with firehouses and movies but are also intelligent and highly trainable. These energetic dogs need plenty of mental stimulation, and trick training is a great way to keep them engaged. Dalmatians excel at learning high-energy tricks like jumping through hoops, weaving between poles, and even playing dead with dramatic flair. A Dalmatian will steal the show if you’re looking for a dog to turn trick training into a performance.

English Springer Spaniel

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English Springer Spaniels are not only great hunting dogs but also quick learners when it comes to tricks. Their high intelligence and eagerness to please make them fantastic students, and they pick up commands quickly. They’re especially good at tricks involving retrieving, scent detection, and even problem-solving games. With their playful attitude and ability to stay focused, these spaniels are excellent companions for anyone looking to teach their dog various fun tricks.

Greyhound

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Greyhounds might not be the first breed that comes to mind when you think of trick training, but they’re actually quite trainable. Despite their laid-back personalities, they enjoy learning new skills—especially if it means getting extra attention. Greyhounds can master tricks like bowing, shaking paws, and jumping through hoops. Their graceful movements make them natural performers, and they’ll happily show off their hidden talents with the right encouragement.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas may be tiny, but they have big brains and even bigger personalities. These little dogs love attention and are highly trainable when motivated by treats or praise. Chihuahuas are especially good at agility tricks, like weaving between legs or jumping over small obstacles. They may have a sassy attitude, but when it comes to learning tricks, they’re eager to prove they can keep up with the best of them.

The Unexpected Trick Champions

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While some breeds are known for their intelligence, these dogs prove that trainability can come in surprising packages. Whether stubborn but determined, playful yet focused, or just naturally eager to learn, each breed has a special knack for picking up tricks. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, these dogs can turn training sessions into a fun and rewarding experience. So, if you’ve ever doubted whether your dog has what it takes to be a trick-training superstar, give them a chance—you might just be amazed at what they can do!