Top 5 Most Trainable Dog Breeds (And the Least!) – #3 Will Blow Your Mind!
Nikita Kanyal | Apr 11, 2025, 23:47 IST
( Image credit : Pexels )
Not all dogs are created equal especially when it comes to training! Some breeds are born to follow commands like pros, while others couldn’t care less if you’re holding a treat or doing backflips. In this eye-opening list, we reveal the Top 5 most obedient breeds (spoiler: #3 might surprise you!) and call out the lovable rebels who make training feel like negotiating with a toddler. Whether you're a first-time dog parent or looking for your next four-legged prodigy, this guide is your shortcut to understanding which pups will listen and which ones might drive you deliciously mad.
Ever watched someone’s dog sit, stay, roll over, and even fetch the TV remote while yours pretends you don’t exist? Well, it’s not (entirely) your fault. Some dog breeds are basically born to obey, while others… let’s just say they have creative differences with authority.
So, if you’re thinking about getting a pup or wondering why yours thinks “come” is optional—this list is for you. Let’s dive into the Top 5 Most Trainable Dog Breeds (and the least, just for fun).
If dogs had Ivy League schools, Border Collies would graduate with honors.
These brainiacs are laser-focused, incredibly intelligent, and thrive on mental stimulation. You’ll need to keep them challenged with advanced training and problem-solving games or they’ll start redecorating your home out of boredom.
Best for: Active owners, dog sports, herding
Watch out: They need a lot of exercise and mental work.
Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodles are often underestimated because of their posh looks. But under that curly coat is a super-smart, eager-to-please pup who can learn almost anything.
They’re quick learners and love attention, which makes training feel like a game.
Best for: Families, agility lovers, first-time owners
Watch out: They get bored easily—mix up the routine!
Used by police and military forces around the world, German Shepherds are loyal, fearless, and insanely trainable. They take commands seriously and love having a job.
They’re protective, obedient, and learn commands faster than most kids.
Best for: Experienced owners, working roles, protection
Watch out: They need strong leadership and early socialization.
Goldens are not just the sweethearts of the dog world they’re smart and obedient too. Their eagerness to please makes them easy to train, especially with positive reinforcement.
From therapy work to playing fetch for hours, these dogs just want to make you happy.
Best for: Families, therapy roles, beginners
Watch out: They can be a bit goofy and excitable at times.
Labs are America’s favorite dog for a reason. They’re intelligent, adaptable, and one of the most food-motivated breeds hello, training jackpot! They excel at obedience, hunting, service work, and just about anything you throw at them (literally).
Best for: Anyone and everyone
Watch out: Don’t let their smarts go to waste they need stimulation!
Before we start these dogs aren’t dumb. They’re just independent thinkers with a strong will. Training them is like trying to teach a cat to dance… possible, but it’s going to be on their terms.
This elegant beauty looks like royalty and acts like it too. Afghan Hounds are stubborn, aloof, and fiercely independent. They don’t care what you want… unless you’re offering filet mignon.
Best for: Patient, experienced owners
Training tip: Keep sessions short and make it fun (or bribe with luxury snacks!).
Basenjis are clever… too clever. They’ll learn commands, but then question whether it’s even worth doing. These barkless wonders are also escape artists and love doing things their way.
Best for: Puzzle-loving, persistent owners
Training tip: Turn it into a challenge and reward big wins.
With their lion-like looks and regal vibe, Chow Chows don’t like being told what to do. They’re aloof, stubborn, and often don’t see the point in "sit." That said, they’re fiercely loyal to their chosen people.
Best for: Experienced, assertive owners
Training tip: Use consistency, patience, and early socialization.
Every dog is trainable with the right mix of patience, consistency, and treats. But if you’re looking for a pup who lives to impress, go with a Border Collie, Poodle, or Lab. And if you love a challenge? Well… an Afghan Hound might just keep you on your toes (and humble!). At the end of the day, it’s not just about how easy they are to train it’s about the bond you build along the way.
FAQs
So, if you’re thinking about getting a pup or wondering why yours thinks “come” is optional—this list is for you. Let’s dive into the Top 5 Most Trainable Dog Breeds (and the least, just for fun).
Top 5 Most Trainable Dog Breeds
1. Border Collie – The Einstein of Dogs
These brainiacs are laser-focused, incredibly intelligent, and thrive on mental stimulation. You’ll need to keep them challenged with advanced training and problem-solving games or they’ll start redecorating your home out of boredom.
Best for: Active owners, dog sports, herding
Watch out: They need a lot of exercise and mental work.
2. Poodle – Not Just a Pretty Face
They’re quick learners and love attention, which makes training feel like a game.
Best for: Families, agility lovers, first-time owners
Watch out: They get bored easily—mix up the routine!
3. German Shepherd – The Loyal Prodigy
They’re protective, obedient, and learn commands faster than most kids.
Best for: Experienced owners, working roles, protection
Watch out: They need strong leadership and early socialization.
4. Golden Retriever – The People Pleaser
From therapy work to playing fetch for hours, these dogs just want to make you happy.
Best for: Families, therapy roles, beginners
Watch out: They can be a bit goofy and excitable at times.
5. Labrador Retriever – The Jack-of-All-Trades
Best for: Anyone and everyone
Watch out: Don’t let their smarts go to waste they need stimulation!
And Now… The 3 Least Trainable Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound – The Glamorous Rebel
Best for: Patient, experienced owners
Training tip: Keep sessions short and make it fun (or bribe with luxury snacks!).
2. Basenji – The Barkless Brainiac (with Attitude)
Best for: Puzzle-loving, persistent owners
Training tip: Turn it into a challenge and reward big wins.
3. Chow Chow – The Dignified Diva
Best for: Experienced, assertive owners
Training tip: Use consistency, patience, and early socialization.
Every dog is trainable with the right mix of patience, consistency, and treats. But if you’re looking for a pup who lives to impress, go with a Border Collie, Poodle, or Lab. And if you love a challenge? Well… an Afghan Hound might just keep you on your toes (and humble!). At the end of the day, it’s not just about how easy they are to train it’s about the bond you build along the way.
FAQs
- What is the most trainable dog breed in the world?
The Border Collie is widely considered the most trainable dog breed. Known for its intelligence and laser-sharp focus, this breed excels at everything from agility to advanced obedience. They learn commands fast and love mental stimulation. However, they need lots of exercise and a job to do. - Which dog breeds are the hardest to train?
Breeds like Afghan Hounds, Basenjis, and Chow Chows are known for their independent streaks and stubborn behavior. They’re not “dumb,” but they prefer doing things on their own terms. Training them requires extra patience, creativity, and consistency. They’re better suited for experienced owners. - Are trainable dogs easier for first-time owners?
Yes! Highly trainable breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, and Golden Retrievers are perfect for first-time dog parents. Their eagerness to please and quick learning abilities make training smooth and rewarding. Just be sure to keep them mentally and physically stimulated!