Seven dog breeds named as the ‘easiest’ to train and live with at home

Specialist Mark Vette has named the seven dog breeds he considers as the “easiest dog breeds to train“. He clarified: “I’m not looking at the most highly intelligent breeds who would best excel at agility or high-level training challenges.”

Instead, the dog breeds he named “fit most easily into normal family life and are most trainable and manageable within that context”.

In no particular order, Mark revealed the seven dog breeds he considered as ideal family pets that are the easiest to train.

Poodle

“Standard, miniature, and toy poodles are known for their ability to grasp commands quickly, making them excellent family pets,” Mark noted. Mark describes the Poodle dog breed as intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please.

German Shepherd

Another great family dog for the home is a German Shepherd, as Mark highlighted their loyal and protective nature.

Mark added: “They are highly intelligent, loyal and courageous and tend to have a great rapport with their handler, which contributes to their trainability.

“Though smart and trainable, they need a lot of activity and exercise to prevent boredom and frustration, and their guarding nature needs management by a confident owner.”

Golden Retriever

Renowned for their friendly personality, a Golden Retriever is considered to be a “great family dog”. Mark noted: “They are tolerant, devoted to their family and food oriented, which also helps [with training].”

Labrador Retriever

This type of dog breed is “among the easiest dogs to train” as they’re “bred to be people-pleasing, stable and confident”. Mark said the Labrador Retriever has a “strong desire to work and learn with their favourite humans”.

Papillon

Regarded as “quick learners”, Mark said the Papillon is a “delightful companion” that is “relatively easy to train” – and it’s one of his personal favourite dog breeds.

Border Terrier

Mark stated a Border Terrier is “relatively trainable” and is “determined, energetic and loyal”, which some people may find endearing. 

Australian Shepherd

Lastly, Mark said the Australian Shepherd is a highly intelligent dog breed that “loves people”. Mark said the Australian Shepherd “learns new things quickly” but owners should be prepared for ongoing training.