If you’re considering getting a dog, you may be wondering which breeds are easiest to train and most capable of following orders. Obedience comes down to a mixture of eagerness to please, intelligence, and training. With that in mind, this article reveals the 17 most obedient dog breeds who aren’t stubborn and are willing to learn.
Border Collie
Known for their exceptional intelligence and understanding of human behavior, Border Collies make great, obedient pets. They are quick learners with a strong work ethic, ideal for completing activities and tasks. Border Collies do, however, require mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors.
German Shepherd
Loyal and intelligent, German Shepherds excel in obedience. As shared by Forbes, “Due to their high level of intelligence and eagerness to please their owners, German Shepherds are highly obedient dogs. They respond well to training and commands.” They are popular as working dogs due to their ability to retain information and skills, and they are often found working as police and service dogs.
Poodle
This highly intelligent and elegant breed is capable of learning complex tricks. Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers, hence their agility and athleticism. As a result, they require lots of mental and physical engagement and respond well to positive training methods.
Golden Retriever
Gentle, playful, and with a loving nature, Golden Retrievers make great family pets. According to Barking Mad, “These dogs are incredibly clever, which makes them easy to train. They are quick learners and are eager to please their owners, making them excellent candidates for obedience training.” They were bred originally as hunting dogs and are determined and responsive to training.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly nature, intelligence, and high trainability. These dogs excel in various activities, including search and rescue and therapy work. They also respond well to positive reinforcement and are eager learners, making them very obedient with the right training.
Doberman Pinscher
Recognized for being great guard dogs and incredibly loyal, the Doberman Pinscher breed is both intelligent and responsive, making it ideal for obedience training. Pinschers are also known for their protective nature and dedication to their owners. Get one, and you’ll have a loyal, obedient companion for life!
Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs, also known as Shelties, are not only gorgeous but loyal and intelligent too—often described as “shadow dogs” due to their undying loyalty. They resemble Border Collies in looks and are skilled in herding and obedience. This breed thrives in environments where they can follow commands and be active.
Vizsla
The Kennel Club states that Vizsla dogs are “lively, intelligent, obedient, sensitive, very affectionate and easily trained.” They are also very enthusiastic, and they can form strong bonds with their owners. This breed requires regular exercise and is responsive to training. Loyal and eager to please, they make great pets.
Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois dogs are often chosen for military and police work due to their intelligence and obedience. They are able to learn complex tasks and respond to hand signals. The breed is also known for winning many obedience titles, though early training and socialization are essential.
English Springer Spaniel
This breed is energetic and always looking for tasks to do. English Springer Spaniels are excellent retrievers with a good nose, perfect for dog sports. They enjoy playing and being helpful, and they respond well to training. They’re also adorable and affectionate!
Papillon
These small, beautiful toy dogs are highly responsive to training. They’re playful, can learn new tricks easily, and are very loving and loyal. However, the PDSA says, “Training, along with socialization, is very important at a young age in order for Papillons to grow up into confident, sociable dogs.”
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are often misunderstood as aggressive, but with training, they can be very obedient and loyal. In fact, by those who know them well, they’re recognized as protective members of the family. This breed is suitable for owners who can provide firm, consistent training.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Originally bred for herding, Pembroke Welsh Corgis showcase high obedience and trainability. They are bold, playful, and adaptable—and, not to mention, absolutely adorable! These dogs excel in competitions due to their enthusiasm for learning new skills and make great additions to families.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are medium-sized dogs with high levels of energy and intelligence. This breed was originally bred as herding dogs, so they are eager to please and learn. They also thrive on mental stimulation and challenges. Early socialization and training are essential for the best obedience results.
Boxer
This breed is medium to large-sized, has a muscular build, and is known for its loyalty. PetPlan states, “An intelligent breed, Boxers love to learn—tap into this from a young age by taking them to puppy obedience classes from around 3 to 6 months old.” Boxers are known to be responsive to commands and are adaptable in challenging environments.
German Shorthaired Pointer
Devoted and powerful, these dogs are excellent in both land and water environments. They’re easily trainable and were once used primarily for hunting. They also make great family pets due to their friendly nature, and they can be very obedient with positive reinforcement training.
Pomeranian
These small-sized, attractive spitz-type dogs are adorable with their heavy coats. They’re easily recognizable by their fox-like faces and prick ears. As shared by Pomeranian.org, “Pomeranians are extremely intelligent and eager to please their owners. Pomeranian dog training is best done in short sessions with plenty of praise and treats.”
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