This Surprising Small Dog Breed Is the Easiest to Train
These pups are both tiny and teachable.
Welcoming a new dog into your home is a major milestone—and you should factor a breed's size and temperament into your decision.
“When it comes to trainability, I tend to focus less on labeling a particular breed as ‘easy’ and more on the individual dog, because there can be a lot of variation within a breed,” Marlena Lopez, DVM, tells Good Housekeeping. “That said, some smaller breeds were specifically selected to work closely with people, and those traits can make them particularly responsive to training.”
Lopez recommends choosing a pup that shows curiosity, food motivation, strong engagement with people, and the ability to bounce back quickly from unfamiliar experiences. “A dog that enjoys interacting with their owner and is interested in their surroundings often gives you a great foundation for training,” she says.
Based on research from the American Kennel Club (AKC) and expert insights, these are the small dog breeds that tend to be easiest to train.
Toy poodle
Toy poodles may be pint-sized—weighing between four and six pounds and standing under 10 inches tall—but they have remarkable capabilities.
“Poodles are highly intelligent and were bred to work alongside people,” says Lopez.
They are eager to learn and naturally outgoing. These dogs thrive when training sessions are kept positive, lighthearted, and fun.
Dachshund
Friendly and spunky, dachshunds are known for being super alert and intelligent. This is a great trait when it comes to trainability.
“Dachshunds were developed to hunt badgers and other animals underground, so their natural tendency to investigate, follow scents, dig, and pursue prey can influence how they approach training,” says Lopez.
Papillon
Quick and naturally inquisitive, Papillons are known for their intelligence.
“Papillons are small but very active and eager to learn,” says Lopez.
While house training smaller breeds can sometimes require additional time, Papillons tend to take to the training process more smoothly, according to the AKC.
Havanese
The sole canine breed originating from Cuba, the Havanese is a cheerful, small dog.
When training these pups, positive reinforcement yields the best results. Because they are a sensitive breed, harsh scolding should always be avoided. Early socialization is equally essential—a practice Lopez emphasizes as crucial for every dog.
"I recommend starting as early as possible, including puppy classes when appropriate, because training is not just about teaching commands. It helps establish communication and builds a positive relationship between the dog and their owner."
Miniature schnauzer
As the smallest member of the schnauzer family, the miniature schnauzer combines athletic good looks, an outgoing demeanor, and a convenient, portable size.
Known for their lively, affectionate nature and desire to please, miniature schnauzers pick up new concepts quickly. Because of their sharp minds, training sessions should remain engaging and varied to keep them from growing bored with repetitive tasks.
Shetland sheepdog
Hailing from Scotland, the Shetland sheepdog is a playful, energetic, and highly intelligent herder weighing between 15 and 25 pounds.
Exceptionally quick and obedient, this dog is eager to please and reaches its full potential as a companion through basic obedience training.
“For basic commands, keep training sessions short, positive, and frequent,” Lopez says. “Use high-value rewards that your dog genuinely finds motivating and practice throughout the day.”
Russell terrier
Russell terriers are lively, upbeat, and inquisitive.
“Terriers were selected for hunting and vermin control, which can contribute to strong prey drive and an independent or persistent nature,” says Lopez.
“These characteristics can sometimes make certain behaviors more challenging, but they can also be channeled into appropriate activities and training.”
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are sweet, gentle, and deeply affectionate dogs that are known to love pleasing their owners.
Lopez notes that a dog does not necessarily need to be naturally eager to please to be trainable.
“The key is figuring out what motivates that individual dog, whether that is food, play, attention, praise, or access to something they enjoy, and using that motivation to reinforce desired behaviors,” she says.
Pomeranian
Known for its magnificent double coat, smiling fox-like expression, and spirited charm, the Pom ranks as one of the world's most beloved toy dogs.
Despite weighing no more than seven pounds, this small dog carries the bold demeanor of a much larger canine, according to the AKC.
Biewer Yorkshire Terrier
Charming and devoted, Biewer Yorkshire terriers are tiny—weighing up to only eight pounds.
Thanks to their high intelligence, they train easily, though potty training might require a bit more patience.
To make potty training easier, Lopez recommends being consistent.
“Establish a predictable routine and take puppies outside frequently, particularly after waking up, eating, drinking, playing, and sleeping,” she says. “When they eliminate in the appropriate place, reward them immediately.”
Coton de Tuléar
Standing between nine and 11 inches tall and weighing from eight to 13 pounds, the Coton de Tuléar is a small and charming dog. Cotons are known for their profuse, white coat that feels soft as cotton.
For optimal training, the AKC recommends keeping sessions lively and engaging. These pups don’t respond well to negative training techniques, so positive reinforcement is key.
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