The Easiest Dog Breeds To Train: A Guide To Happy Companionship

Dog training not only results in a happy and obedient addition to the family, but the practice is also the perfect way to bond with man's best friend. It fosters a connection that enhances the relationship between pet and owner. Training sessions can be a joyful experience, not just a chore, and they can lead to a lifelong friendship built on trust and understanding.

Interestingly, while many might assume that a dog's size or intelligence determines how easy they are to train, this isn't always the case. In fact, the most significant factors that contribute to successful training are the enjoyment level of the training sessions and the dog's eagerness to please its owner. This means that even smaller breeds, often seen as less trainable, can excel with the right approach.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), there are certain dog breeds at the smaller end of the size spectrum that are considered the easiest to train. These breeds not only respond well to training but also bring joy and companionship to their owners. Here’s a closer look at these breeds and what makes them stand out in the training world.

What You Will Learn

The importance of bonding during dog training.
Why size and intelligence don't define trainability.
Specific dog breeds that are easier to train.
Tips for making training enjoyable for both dog and owner.

1. Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher, a small breed weighing between 7-10 pounds, is known for its courageous and feisty nature. Despite their independent and sometimes stubborn personality, these dogs are intelligent and generally eager to please their owners. According to Gina DiNardo, executive secretary of the AKC, developing a strong bond with an Affenpinscher can significantly enhance training success.

Affectionately called “Monkey Terrier,” the Affenpinscher has a unique appearance that captivates many dog lovers. Their playful demeanor and lively spirit make training sessions not only productive but also fun. Owners are encouraged to focus on building trust and a connection with their Affenpinscher, which will lead to a fulfilling training experience.

2. American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard, weighing between 6 to 25 pounds. This breed is known for being clever, alert, and friendly, making them excellent companions for families. They are social dogs that enjoy being around people and typically respond well to training due to their eagerness to please.

DiNardo explains that the American Eskimo Dog is not shy or aggressive, often showing a friendly disposition towards strangers. Their intelligence allows them to excel in various activities, including obedience training and tricks. With proper guidance and socialization, they can become well-mannered and adaptable pets.

3. American Hairless Terrier

This unique breed, weighing between 12 to 16 pounds, is known for its energetic and curious nature. The American Hairless Terrier, as the name suggests, can be found in both hairless and coated varieties, making it a suitable choice for allergy sufferers. They are intelligent, eager to please, and generally enjoy training sessions.

According to the AKC, the American Hairless Terrier’s alertness and energy levels make them not just good companions but also great partners in training. Their ability to learn quickly and their desire to please their owners makes them a joy to train. This breed thrives on positive reinforcement, making training an enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner.

4. Australian Terrier

Weighing approximately 15 to 20 pounds, the Australian Terrier is known for its spirited, courageous, and affectionate personality. They are part of the terrier group and can easily become bored with routine. Therefore, short and engaging training sessions are often recommended.

DiNardo emphasizes the importance of early socialization and obedience training for the Australian Terrier to help them grow into well-mannered adults. These dogs are known for their intelligence and adaptability, making them great companions in any household.

5. Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier is a toy breed that weighs only 4 to 8 pounds, making it a delightful family pet. Known for their amusing and intelligent nature, they are also relatively easy to train. DiNardo notes that their affectionate demeanor and eagerness to please make them ideal candidates for training.

This breed’s playful and devoted personality ensures that training sessions are enjoyable and rewarding. Their adaptability and small size make them suitable for various living situations, further enhancing their appeal as family companions.

6. Border Terrier

Border Terriers are typically between 11.5 to 14 pounds and are known for being hardworking and affectionate. DiNardo describes them as even-tempered and trainable, making them excellent pets for both city and rural settings. Their friendly disposition and intelligence make them responsive to training.

These terriers thrive on companionship and activity, so it is essential to keep training sessions engaging and varied. Their natural curiosity and eagerness to learn can lead to a fulfilling training experience for both the dog and the owner.

7. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers, also known as “The American Gentleman,” weigh between 12 to 25 pounds. They are friendly, bright, and known for their impeccable manners. The AKC emphasizes the importance of socialization to help Boston Terriers grow into well-adjusted adults, and training should be a positive experience.

Due to their sensitive nature, Boston Terriers respond best to gentle corrections paired with warmth and praise. This breed’s eagerness to please makes them a joy to train, and their friendly demeanor ensures they fit seamlessly into family life.

8. Brussels Griffon

Weighing only 8 to 10 pounds, the Brussels Griffon is recognized for its alert and curious nature. This breed is known to be sensitive and devoted to its humans, making it easily trainable. DiNardo states that they are sociable dogs, and their charming personality makes them endearing companions.

The Brussels Griffon thrives on human interaction, and their eagerness to please makes training sessions productive and enjoyable. Their small size and affectionate nature add to their appeal as great family pets.

9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels belong to the Toy group and typically weigh between 13 to 18 pounds. These small dogs are known for being affectionate and gentle, and their sweet demeanor makes them a favorite among families. The American Kennel Club highlights their intelligence and ease of training, making them ideal for various canine sports.

With their friendly nature and love for human companionship, these spaniels are keen learners who excel with positive reinforcement. Their adaptability and eagerness to bond with their owners make them wonderful therapy dogs.

10. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a charming breed that weighs between 8 to 15 pounds and is known for its bright and happy-go-lucky personality. As a member of the non-sporting group, these dogs are naturally territorial and should be socialized from an early age. DiNardo notes that they often develop strong bonds with their humans.

Training sessions for Coton de Tulears should be lively and entertaining to keep their interest piqued. Their affectionate nature and intelligence contribute to their success in training, ensuring they remain delightful companions.

11. Havanese

The Havanese is a small breed, weighing between 7 and 13 pounds, known for its outgoing and intelligent personality. The AKC highlights that they are eager to please their owners, making them highly trainable. This breed responds well to positive reinforcement, which is essential for effective training.

Gentle and patient training techniques will yield the best results with Havanese dogs. Their affectionate nature ensures they bond easily with their families, making them wonderful companions.

12. Miniature American Shepherd

The Mini American Shepherd is a member of the herding group, weighing between 20 to 40 pounds. This breed is described as good-natured, devoted, and intelligent. DiNardo states that Mini American Shepherds are highly trainable and eager to please, making them ideal candidates for consistent obedience training.

These dogs thrive with positive reinforcement and are known for their adaptability and affectionate nature, making them suitable family pets.

13. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers weigh between 11 and 20 pounds and are known for their friendly and intelligent demeanor. DiNardo describes them as bright and trainable companions, making them popular among families. Their playful nature ensures that training sessions are enjoyable and productive.

This breed benefits from socialization and training, which helps them grow into well-rounded adults. Their affectionate personality and eagerness to please make them great companions for families.