The 10 easiest dog breeds to train

This ranking uses the trainability rating (from 1 to 5) given in our breed profiles. Breeds with the same rating are ordered by how well they get along with children, then alphabetically. Every dog learns best with consistent, reward-based training.

No. 1 — Golden RetrieverTrainability: 5/5Gentle, patient and always good-natured, the Golden Retriever is one of the best family dogs, but it copes poorly with strong heat.
No. 2 — Labrador RetrieverTrainability: 5/5Sociable, cheerful and easy to train, the Labrador is the quintessential family dog; it needs exercise and a carefully watched diet.
No. 3 — Hungarian VizslaTrainability: 5/5An elegant, toast-coloured pointing dog, the Vizsla is gentle, sensitive and extremely attached to its family: a true 'velcro dog'.
No. 4 — White Swiss ShepherdTrainability: 5/5A close white-coated cousin of the German Shepherd, the White Swiss Shepherd is gentle, intelligent and particularly well balanced in a family.
No. 5 — Australian ShepherdTrainability: 5/5Clever, playful and tireless, the Australian Shepherd is a herding dog, often with odd-coloured eyes, ideal for very active families.
No. 6 — Belgian GroenendaelTrainability: 5/5An elegant long-haired black Belgian Shepherd, the Groenendael is lively, sensitive and devoted to its family. It needs plenty of activity.
No. 7 — Belgian TervurenTrainability: 5/5A long-haired, fawn Belgian Shepherd with black-tipped coat, the Tervuren combines elegance, intelligence and energy. It thrives with an active family.
No. 8 — Border CollieTrainability: 5/5Often considered the most trainable dog of all, the Border Collie is a tireless herding dog that needs a real job.
No. 9 — BrittanyTrainability: 5/5The smallest French pointing dog is also one of the most popular: the Brittany is lively, affectionate and passionate about hunting.
No. 10 — DobermannTrainability: 5/5Elegant, fast and highly intelligent, the Dobermann is a loyal guardian and a sensitive companion that needs activity and human company.