Top 10 Most Trainable Dog Breeds

If you have been thinking about bringing a new dog into your life, you may have been wondering which dog breed might suit you and your lifestyle the best. Part of knowing whether a dog is a good fit or not is knowing if they are going to be easy to train. If you would like to skip the guesswork and choose a breed that is known for their quick learning abilities, take a look at the top 10 most trainable dog breeds according to the AKC.

#1 Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle dog is very smart and highly energetic. They thrive when they are performing tasks. This is why involving an Australian Cattle dog in one or more activities is highly recommended. In addition to obedience training, they are excellent herders and agility performers. Keeping them busy is important so that they don’t become bored and possibly destructive.

#2 Border Collie

Highly trainable, the Border Collie also excels at agility, obedience and herding. They are intelligent, so they require a good amount of mental stimulation to stay happy. Socializing them at an early age is important to ensure that they are exposed to a variety of different individuals and environments. Dedicated to their families, Border Collies hold themselves back a bit when it comes to strangers.

#3 Doberman Pinscher

Sharp as a tack, Doberman Pinschers are quick to learn and respond to you as well. Puppy training classes will be super helpful for these strong-willed dogs. Proper socialization is important at an early age for the Doberman Pinscher. Even though the Doberman may look like an “outside” dog, they belong indoors with their human companions.

#4 English Springer Spaniel

Also known as the American Water Spaniel, English Springer Spaniels are eager to please their owners. Perhaps this is what makes them so easy to train. Training them is both simple and enjoyable. They have high energy, and they are eager to participate in activities such as canine tracking, agility flyball and barn hunting. They can also be taught to retrieve waterfowl. Happy by nature, English Springer Spaniels are a bit standoffish to strangers.

#5 Golden Retriever

Very easy to train, Golden Retrievers respond well to obedience training. However, as always, early socialization is important to these famously friendly dogs. Goldens want nothing more than to make their owners happy. They are extroverted, loyal and ready to do anything you ask them to.

#6 Labrador Retriever

Consistently one of America’s most popular dog breeds, the Labrador Retriever is a friendly dog that is of medium to large size. Physically strong, the Labrador Retriever is famous for having lots of energy. But most of all, labs are known for their intelligence and devotion to their owners. This athletic dog needs lots of exercise such as fetch and swimming to keep them happy.

#7 Miniature Schnauzer

Great with family and young children, the Miniature Schnauzer is also easy to train. This healthy, outgoing dog makes a great companion. Standing only 12 to 14 inches high, Miniature Schnauzers are famous for their bushy beard and eyebrows. Bright and friendly, they are great for both apartment life and life on a farm. Excellent watchdogs, Miniature Schnauzers learn quickly.

#8 Papillon

The Papillon, AKA the butterfly dog, is known as such because of its unusual ear shape. In fact, Papillon means butterfly in French. This beautiful breed is known for being loving, smart and versatile. Small in stature, the Papillon is a natural retriever that has great tracking abilities. Their sweet demeanor makes them ideal for use as a therapy dog.

#9 Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Another type of small house dog that is easy to train is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. It is strong, athletic and affectionate by nature. This herding breed is one of the world’s most popular. Measuring only 10 to 12 inches high, the Pembroke weighs up to 30 pounds. Its short and powerful legs carry its weight around. Bright and sensitive, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi also make excellent watchdogs as they have a nice strong bark.

#10 Poodle

Found in standard, miniature or toy, poodles make great companions no matter the size. They are known best for their non-allergenic curly coat and extreme intelligence. Poodles excel at athletic competitions. Versatile and adaptable, they can be trained at any size. People-oriented, poodles are quick to please.