If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Royal Kennel Club (that’s the new name for the UK Kennel Club) figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels over recent years.
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
A dog’s IQ has a bearing on how easy it is to train - although a brainy pup still has to want to do what it’s told to be considered highly trainable, so it’s not all about intelligence.
Some breeds tend to have a range of attributes that mean it’s pretty easy to get them heading outside for the toilet, sitting, staying and walking to heel. Others, however, tend to be a little trickier.
It should be noted that every dog is an individual so there is no guarantee that any particular animal will have the traits common to its breed.
Having said that, here are the 20 breeds that are generally seen as the easiest and the hardest to train.
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1. Border Collie
We're starting with the dogs who almost seem to train themselves. There's a reason that Border Collies are a favourite for the tricky business of herding sheep - they are incredibly intelligent (in fact research suggests they are the most clever of all the dog breeds) and learn amazingly fast. Once they've been taught something they just fon't forget. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Springer Spaniel
None of the breeds of spaniel are massively difficult to train, but the Springer Spaniel is probably the pick of the bunch. Bred to help hunters by 'springing' prey from vegetation, these pooches are born to learn. | Getty Images
3. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the UK - and in the world - and their quick learning and curious nature makes them perfect for guide dogs or hearing dogs. Being naturally greedy, a few treats as a reward for obeying commands will soon get them trained to do pretty much anything you ask. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
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4. Papillon
If you are looking for a smaller breed of dog that is easy to train, then the Papillon could be for you - they have quick minds and actively enjoy learning new things. An eagerness to please their owners means that they love being told how good they are. | AFP via Getty Images