If you’re thinking about becoming a dog owner, chances are that you already have an idea of the kind of dog that you might like. This is a great starting point, but before you take home the next adorable puppy you see, there are a few things to consider. 

Choosing a Breed That Fits Your Lifestyle

While all dogs can be trained, some breeds seem as though they have an easier time learning commands. Choosing a pet by breed is a great way to assure they'll have characteristics you're looking for and behaviors that will align with your lifestyle. 

The best breed for a first-time dog owner is a dog that matches your energy and attention level. If you want a dog that can go running with you, choose an athletic dog with endurance. If you prefer a lazy lap dog, then it's best to avoid high-energy dog breeds. 

Easiest Dog Breeds to Train

Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word "sit"), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training. Fortunately, certain dog breeds have relatively predictable energy levels, sizes, looks, and grooming needs.

Here are some of our favorite dog breed for first time owners:

1. Golden Retriever: A highly intelligent breed, they are also among the most devoutly loyal breeds of dog, and will do anything to please their owners. This means they are very receptive to training. Goldens require daily exercise and make great hunting or service dogs. Their friendly nature makes them prone to distraction, but this is often outweighed by how eager they are to please and how much they enjoy learning.

2. Labrador: Labs are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the U.S. due to their ability to interact well with humans and other dogs. Labrador Retrievers have a natural hard-working attitude and wise demeanor, which makes them simple to teach.  An ideal sporting and family dog, get ready to run, play and laugh with a Lab.

3. Border Collie: The Border Collie is part of the Herding Group breeds, which means that these pups enjoy herding other animals (and maybe even people, too). They are highly intelligent dogs full of energy, which makes them veritable athletes—they can learn tricks and exercises all while eager to please their owners.

4. Bernese mountain dog: The Bernese mountain dog is a friendly breed that takes to training easily. The Bernese Mountain Dog Club reports that “with the training essential for ownership of a large working breed, Berners are generally gentle, easygoing, and tolerant.” But they do need plenty of interaction with people. And the club advises training should always use positive techniques.

5. Poodles:  Very well known for their looks, Poodles are exceptionally smart dogs that are easy to train. They are capable of learning all sorts of tricks and commands. At home they’re incredibly social with both people and animals, mingling well with all ages and species. 

The Bottom Line

Characteristics and natural instincts of dogs always vary and there are many other factors that can shape your dog’s character and temperament.  Dogs who are easy to train often still need lots of your time and energy, the key is knowing what your pooch is built for and how to motivate them.