Some small dogs who are easy to train learn faster, retain more of what they learn, and are eager to please their owner by obeying commands. However, dogs who are easier to train are not necessarily smarter than other dogs, they are just more interested in the training lessons and have a greater desire to please their owner. Dogs who do not seem to pick up on training as quickly may show their intelligence through imaginative escape artist maneuvers and their overall problem-solving prowess.
All dogs can be trained; some just take more patience and time, but the results are well worth the effort!
1. Australian Terrier
Here is a small do who is easy to train! He’s definitely a lot of dog in a tiny package, with a typical terrier slant on life: tenacious, independent, hardworking, and lively. Read more about Australian Terriers.
2. Bedlington Terrier
Alert, energetic, and intelligent, the Bedlington is an excellent companion and watchdog. Small and easy to train! Read more about Bedlington Terriers.
3. Bichon Frise
A cheerful attitude is the outstanding trait of the Bichon’s personality. This dog loves to be loved, enjoys being the center of attention, and is adept at charming his family, neighbors, groomer, or veterinarian with his winning personality.
Read more about Bichon Frises.
4. Border Terrier
This alert, good-natured dog was originally bred to assist in foxhunts, driving foxes out of their hiding places and out into the open for the hounds to chase. Small and easy to train, learn more about Border Terriers.
5. Boston Terrier
Known as the American Gentleman, the Boston Terrier is lively, smart, and affectionate with a gentle, even temperament.
Read more about Boston Terriers.
6. Brussels Griffon
Originally bred to hunt and kill rats, this former Belgian street dog is a distinctive and unusual dog breed. Find out more about the Brussels Griffon.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a beautiful small dog that undoubtedly is a contender for the title of “top tail-wagger.” Learn more about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
8. Chinese Crested
Alert and happy, the Crested adores and dotes on his people. Read more about Chinese Crested.
9. Cockapoo
He’s affectionate and accepts everyone — old folks, kids, and other pets. He’s also of an easy size, being small enough to cuddle and big enough to romp with bigger dogs. Learn more about Cockapoos.
10. Coton de Tulear
People who love the Coton praise his intelligence, sociability, and easy-care coat. He’s an observant dog who quickly learns routines and adapts to his person’s needs.
Read more at the Coton de Tulear.
11. Fox Terrier
Fox Terriers were originally bred to flush foxes out of their hiding places during fox hunts. Today they’re primarily family companions and show dogs, although you’ll occasionally find them in the hunt country of the northeastern United States, still performing their traditional role. Find out more about Fox Terriers.
12. Havanese
The Havanese is a gentle and affectionate breed that thrives on human companionship. Read more about Havanese.
13. Jack Russel Terrier
He thrives on structure and routine, but training sessions should be short and sweet to hold his interest. Repetition bores him. A proper Jack is friendly and affectionate, never shy. Learn more about Jack Russell Terriers.
14. Maltese
A dog breed who’s gentle and fearless, the Maltese greets everyone as a friend. Read more about Maltese.
15. Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is a high-spirited, very intelligent, and cunning dog who is eager to learn. He displays the true terrier nature — independent, faithful, lively, sporty, and alert. Find out more about Manchester Terriers.
16. Miniature Schnauzer
A Miniature Schnauzer is full of life. An extrovert, he loves to be in the thick of the family action. He may even run up to you while you’re sitting down and throw his paws around your neck. He wants to touch you and be next to you all the time, and you can bet he’ll want to sleep plastered to your side. Learn more about Miniature Schnauzers.
17. Norfolk Terrier
If you’re seeking a lively canine companion who is fearless, yet affectionate, the Norfolk Terrier may be the breed for you
Read more about Norfolk Terriers.
18. Papillon
The Papillon is happy, alert, and friendly. Find out more about Papillons.
19. Poodle (Toy & Miniature)
Although today’s Poodles seem to epitomize a life of leisure and luxury, make no mistake: These are real dogs bred to do real jobs. Although it hardly seems possible when you look at a primped-up Poodle in the show ring, the breed was originally a water retriever, a job that requires jumping in the water to fetch waterfowl for hunters. Read more about Poodles.
20. Schnoodle (Toy & Miniature)
What a pistol! Smart, active, and adorable, the Schnoodle has become a popular hybrid dog breed. Learn more about Schnoodles.
21. Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier is a friendly, intelligent, spirited, and self-assured. True to his hunting roots, he loves to chase small animals, and won’t back down from a fight. Despite his small size he makes an excellent watchdog, as he’s quick to sound the alarm if something or someone strange enters his turf. Find out more about Silky Terriers.
22. Tibetan Spaniel
Small but active and alert, the Tibetan Spaniel dog breed hails from mountainous Tibet, where he served as a companion and watchdog. He’s known for his intelligence, easy-care coat, and his desire to keep watch over his family from high perches in the house. Read more about Tibetan Spaniels.
This is just a short list of small dogs that are easy to train. There are many dogs who are intelligent and highly trainable, that may not be on this list. If you are interested in adopting a certain breed, please check your area for breed specific rescues.
