Looking for a furry friend who’ll follow your commands without a fuss? Some dog breeds are known for their exceptional obedience and willingness to please. Whether you’re looking for a new pet or just curious about canine behavior, this list will help you find the perfect, well-behaved companion, so here are 20 obedient dog breeds that will always listen to you.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever makes an ideal first pet because of its ease of training and friendliness. This is backed by Newsweek, which writes, “No. 1 on the AKC’s popular breeds list, Labrador Retrievers are considered one of the most affectionate breeds of dogs, in addition to being highly obedient by nature.”
English Springer Spaniel
ESSFTA writes, “It does not matter if you want to train just basic household behavior or plan to do competitive obedience at a very high level; Springers have the ability to do it very well.” The Springer Spaniel is an energetic breed of dog that is always looking for tasks to perform.
Poodle
While many may consider them show dogs, Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers because of their intelligence. For example, World Dog Finder writes, “They are among the top 3 most intelligent dog breeds of the world. If they are properly trained, they can be one of the most obedient dogs ever.”
German Shepherd
This breed of dog is specifically bred for responsiveness, loyalty, and obedience. They’re obedient dogs that can easily follow commands, and this has meant they’re used as police dogs, guide dogs, and service dogs. However, you will need to fully train them to manage their protective instincts.
Vizsla
If you’re after a highly enthusiastic dog that’s eager to please its owner, then a Vizsla is your answer. Their love of exercise makes them easy to train, and they’ll enjoy any chance to learn. This breed is well known for its intelligence and attachment to its owners, which makes obedience a breeze.
Golden Retriever
Known for being one of the best family pets, the Golden Retriever is gentle, playful, and loving. They were originally bred as hunting dogs, which means they know how to carry out commands and excel in obedience training. Golden Retrievers will also enjoy the mental stimulation that comes with training sessions.
Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are loyal and protective dogs and can excel in obedience when they’ve been properly trained and socialized. They’re intelligent and quick learners, making them capable of many complex commands. As an owner, you’ll need to be both firm and loving to guide them on the right path.
Shetland Sheepdog
These dogs are known for their loyalty and intelligence and are often described as “shadow dogs.” They excel in agility and obedience, which is mainly due to their herding background. Shetland Sheepdogs will thrive in any environment where they can learn and carry out commands.
Papillon
While these dogs may be small, that doesn’t stop them from being obedient and adapting to any environment. They’re highly trainable dogs and responsive to every command. Papillons are best known for being playful, and they love to learn new tricks. You’ll need to ensure they have plenty of mental stimulation, or you may encounter some behavior issues.
Rottweiler
One of the best breeds for an obedient dog is a Rottweiler. They’re protective pets, and when trained correctly, they become a great option for a family. You’ll find that a Rottweiler responds well to training, as they crave structure and discipline. Nothing beats the loyalty they have toward their family.
Belgian Malinois
This breed of dog is regularly chosen for police and military roles due to its ability to learn obedience and carry out commands. You’ll find that a Belgian Malinois is capable of learning complex tasks and can respond well to hand signals. They will excel at all levels of training and will follow any command.
Border Collie
Border Collies are considered to be the most intelligent dog breed, which means they excel in obedience and agility. They’re known for their ability to perform complex commands and tasks, and this is largely due to their being highly energetic and thriving in engaging environments.
Schnauzer
These dogs are extremely loyal, intelligent, and protective, which makes them great service dogs. Schnauzers are quick learners and are always eager to please their owners, so they’ll be more than happy to carry out commands. It is important to note that they do have territorial instincts, which means they require consistent training.
Pointer
You’ll find that Pointers are independent, calm dogs who are always patient at home, making them great obedience dogs and perfect for families. This breed is a natural hunter, which means they can be easily trained. They excel both outdoors and as gentle household pets.
Cocker Spaniel
Mokai Paws writes that Cocker Spaniels are playful, alert, affectionate, trainable, and friendly, and this makes them great family pets. Because they’re so alert, you’ll easily be able to train a Cocker Spaniel, and they’ll have no problem following every command you give them.
Weimaraner
This breed of dog is active and protective, which makes them great with kids, and they’re also always eager to learn. Weimaraners are known for having high energy levels and being incredibly trainable. They do require regular exercise and mental stimulation, which is important to remember before purchasing.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are incredibly intelligent and responsive to high levels of obedience training. They’re also known for their gentle temperament and strong loyalty, which helps to bond them with their owners. You’ll find that this breed of dog will excel in obedience thanks to their eagerness to please.
Belgian Sheepdog
These dogs have many positive traits, such as being highly trainable, versatile, intelligent, and having protective instincts. Belgian Sheepdogs are devoted to their owners, which means they’ll follow all commands. They also love being around people and excel in roles of obedience and protection.
Havanese
Havanese dogs are considered easy to train. For example, Your Purebred Puppy writes, “They respond well to training that includes food rewards and they especially love learning tricks. Many individuals excel in competitive obedience and agility.” These dogs are both friendly and responsive so you shouldn’t have an issue with obedience.
Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are a highly intelligent and versatile breed of dog that excels in obedience and agility. They’re known for their strong herding instinct and for being incredibly loyal to their owners. This breed of dog does require consistent training and mental stimulation so they can channel all of their energy.
