List of Small, Easily Trainable Dog Breeds
Small dog breeds can sometimes be difficult to train and are prone to behavioral problems if not properly raised. One common problem is small-dog syndrome whereby dogs become aggressive because owners think the dog's behavior is cute and do not correct bad behavior. This is not true of all breeds, as some are naturally intelligent and have loyal instincts that, with the right training methods, can make a well-behaved dog.
-
Papillon
-
The papillon is a small breed classed in the toy dog group. It grows to 11 inches at the shoulder and weighs around 10 lbs. It is a delicately built breed with a long, straight coat and large ears. The breed is friendly, intelligent and easy to train as long as you establish dominance. Firm training and socializing make papillons into a good family dog.
Poodle
-
The toy and miniature poodles are both small breeds. The miniature stands at about 15 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 17 lbs. The toy stands at 10 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 9 lbs. Both types are highly intelligent and are among the easiest breeds to train. Firm training and socializing will quickly make the dogs obedient and calm.
-
Shetland Sheepdog
-
The Shetland sheepdog is essentially a miniature version of the rough-coated collie. The breed grows to 16 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 27 lbs. They have the loyalty and intelligence of the bigger breed along with a docile nature. The breed is often eager to please so they will pick up training quickly and, as long as you follow firm training and socialization, they make good companion dogs.
Schipperke
-
The schipperke is a small dog with a fox-like body and face. It grows to 13 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 18 lbs. The breed is by nature loyal and devoted to its owners and rarely aggressive. It has a lot of energy and high intelligence, so it enjoys to learn, making it easily trained.
Pomeranian
-
Classed as a toy dog, the pomeranian grows to 12 inches at the shoulder and weighs up to 7 lbs. They have a thick, fluffy coat and a short muzzle. It is an active breed with high intelligence. The dogs enjoy learning new things and are inquisitive. The breed also has an independent streak, which makes them less clingy than other small dogs.
-
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images