Dog behaviourist and trainer Mark Vette has revealed the seven dog breeds he considers to be the ‘easiest’ to train and manage at home – and it includes a range of sizes and temperaments
Dog training specialist Mark Vette has dished out his top picks for the “easiest dog breeds to train”.
The expert focussed on the types of canine that “fit most easily into normal family life and are most trainable and manageable within that context” for his research. “I’m not looking at the most highly intelligent breeds who would best excel at agility or high-level training challenges,” he said, highlighting that some super brainy dogs aren’t suitable for first time owners. The Labrador retriever is the most popular dog in the UK, with French bull dogs, cocker spaniels and dachshunds also proving popular. But are they on Mark’s list? From fluffy poodles to loyal shepherds, here are the seven types of dog Mark feels could slot perfectly into family life….
Poodle
“Standard, miniature, and toy poodles are known for their ability to grasp commands quickly, making them excellent family pets,” the trainer observed. He praises the Poodle as a brainy breed that’s simple to train and keen to please, reports the Express.
German Shepherd
Mark also sings the praises of the German Shepherd as an ideal family pet, noting their faithful and protective traits. He elaborated: “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
Famed for their amiable nature, the Golden Retriever is hailed as a “great family dog”. The expert trainer remarked: “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
The expert 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”. The canine expert said the Australian Shepherd “learns new things quickly” but owners should be prepared for ongoing training. Imported to the UK from Down Under in the mid 1980s, these dogs have lots of energy, meaning they are happiest when they’re active.
