Most pet parents don’t start out as (or become!) expert dog-trainers. But with some practice and a dog who’s easy to train, most of us can have a well-mannered family pet.
In general, dog breeds or mixes of breeds that were developed to work closely with people are easiest to train. Think herding dogs and hunting dogs, as well as some small dogs that were developed specifically to be companions to humans. It’s not that other dogs aren’t smart, but rather, they came from backgrounds where independent thinking and action was prized – hounds and guard dogs, for example.
You can train any dog with consistency and patience, but you’ll have a much easier time with some breeds and mixes. Fortunately, on the Nationwide PetHealthZone, our breed experts have noted those dogs who are generally easier to train. If you’re thinking of adding a new dog to your family, here’s a rundown.
Small dogs with wavy or curly coats, such as Maltipoos or Cavapoos, are typically mixes of toy or small poodles, or related breeds such as the Bichon Frise, Maltese or Havanese. These breeds and mixes of these breeds were developed as companions and are typically bright and eager to please. You’ll also find small spaniels and herding dogs, notably the Cavalier King Charles spaniel and Shetland sheepdog, on this list.
Many of these dogs and mixes are as friendly as they are quick to learn, making them ideal companions for almost any family, but they’re especially good for urban dwellers and empty nesters. For many small dogs, though, you’ll need to train them to stop barking when asked – some of these small breeds and mixes are very vocal!
Among larger dogs, there are some breeds and mixes that learn quickly and easily, but some may be too active and work-driven for many families. Chief among these is the border collie, often touted as the smartest and easiest to train, but a breed that requires a lot of exercise and a “job” of some sort to be happy. Breeds such as the Belgian Malinois and Brittany may also be too high-powered for many homes.
There are, however, some easy-to-train breeds that are more laid back in this size group. Once again, poodles and poodle mixes such as goldendoodles and Labradoodles are usually eager to please and relatively easy to train. Retrievers in general are, too, which is part of the reason why Labradors and goldens are such popular pets.
Want to find out more? Visit the Nationwide Pet Healthzone for information not only about popular dog breeds, crossbreds and mixes, but also on cats. The Pet Healthzone provides specific and unique information on what you can expect from your pet at different ages and stages, along with tips on training, exercise, grooming and more.
Take advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new petTake advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new petTake advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new petTake advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new petTake advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new petTake advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new petTake advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new petTake advantage of your multi-pet discount when you add a pet to your policy. When covering two or three pets, you can receive a 5% discount. When covering four or more pets, you'll save 10% on your base premium. Visit the member portal to add a pet.
Enroll a new pet