Making the decision to get a dog is so exciting, but it can also bring a lot of stress. If you’re new to pet ownership, the thought of finally owning one can be daunting, especially when it comes to training them.
Aside from the option of attending training and behaviour classes, you’re pretty much on your own when teaching your dog how to behave. Not putting in the work early can mean they never learn, which is incredibly frustrating for both you and the animal. However, this is where dog experts on social media come in handy – and one of them has recommended some of the easiest breeds to train.
Canine behavioural specialist Will Atherton took to TikTok to inform people of the dog breeds he believes are the simplest to train, naming three as the ‘easiest in the world’.
He said: “When you’re choosing an easy-to-train breed, the main thing that we’re looking for is handler engagement and eagerness to please.
“If they’re driven by food, even better, and that combination creates incredibly easy to train dogs.”
Labrador Retriever
Will named this as one of his personal favourite dog breeds as well as one of the easiest when it comes to training. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the UK, and this could be because how well they respond to training.
According to The Spruce Pets, these cute dogs are very intelligent, patient and playful, and their resilient nature is also a reason why many service dogs are also labradors.
They respond well to rewards and have buckets of energy, so exercise every day is crucial.
Belgian Malinois
You may not have heard of this breed before, but you’ll definitely have come across them at some point. These beautiful dogs were originally bred to herd, but due to their high intelligence, they’re used in the likes of police work, bomb detection and event security, according to PetMD.
Will said: “It’s no surprise that these are used for incredibly high-level working capabilities.”
Again, they’re very high-energy, so daily exercise is needed – but they’re also incredibly loyal and smart, and can make great pets.
Border collie
Another working dog known for its sheep-herding capabilities, this breed is very clever, and they continue to learn all the time.
Will said: “They are one of, if not the most, intelligent dog breeds from an IQ perspective, and again the reason why you’ll see so many of them competing in obedience competitions.”
According to the Collie Consultant, border collies are quick learners, and they’re easily motivated by toys or treats.