Best Small Dog Breeds to Train

Not inherently. Many small breeds are intelligent and eager to please. The problems people notice are usually caused by differences in how we treat small dogs. They get carried, allowed to jump on furniture and people, and excused for barking or snapping because it is not as dangerous as it would be from a large dog. Without clear rules, they develop habits that become hard to break.

There are real physical differences too. House-training can be harder for small breeds, since their bladders are small and accidents are harder to see on the floor. They also tire more easily, and may be more sensitive to cold. A good approach takes these differences into account without lowering expectations.

These breeds are frequently praised for trainability, though individuals vary. Choose according to temperament and energy, and meet the dog before committing.

• Miniature and Toy Poodle: highly intelligent, eager, and versatile.
• Papillon: bright, lively, and quick to learn, often excelling in dog sports.
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: gentle and eager to please, with some health concerns.
• Shetland Sheepdog: a small herding dog, very trainable but sensitive and vocal.
• Miniature Schnauzer: smart and alert, with a tendency to bark.
• Pembroke Welsh Corgi: intelligent and active, with herding instincts.
• Bichon Frise: cheerful and responsive, though house-training can take time.
• Havanese: friendly, smart, and good at tricks.

A few issues come up again and again with small dogs, and all can be addressed with early training. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare.

• House-training: small bladders and subtle accidents make it slower, so supervise and be consistent.
• Barking: alert barking at sounds and visitors is common, and needs a quiet cue and rewards.
• Jumping and nipping: needs clear rules, since these are easier to excuse in small dogs.
• Separation anxiety: some small breeds bond closely, and need gradual practice with being alone.
• Fear or reactivity: if a small dog is rarely socialized, they can become anxious or snappy.

Hold the same standards as you would for a large dog. Teach sit, down, stay, recall, and loose-leash walking. Use reward-based methods, and keep sessions short and fun. Use small treats, and count calories, since small dogs gain weight easily.

Socialize your dog well, by exposing them gradually to people, places, and other dogs. Do not pick them up whenever something scares them, which can teach them that they cannot cope. Instead, give them a treat and let them observe from a safe distance. Provide a harness that fits well and protects a delicate neck, particularly for breeds prone to tracheal problems.

1. Start house-training from day one, with frequent trips and rewards.
2. Teach a quiet cue for alert barking, and reward calm behavior.
3. Practice loose-leash walking, and avoid constant carrying.
4. Teach polite greetings: sit for attention, and no jumping.
5. Practice handling and grooming from an early age.
6. Build alone-time skills gradually.

Small does not mean low-energy or quiet. Some small breeds, such as Jack Russell Terriers and Miniature Pinschers, are very active and strong-willed. Others, such as Cavaliers and Havanese, are gentle and adaptable. Think about your lifestyle, how much exercise you can give, your tolerance for barking, and grooming needs.

Visit breeders and rescues, meet adult dogs, and ask about health. Small breeds can be prone to dental problems, luxating patellas, and other issues, so ask about health testing. A well-matched small dog, trained with kindness and consistency, makes a wonderful companion.

Small bodies call for small adjustments.

• Use tiny treats, because small dogs fill up and gain weight easily.
• Train at floor level, or on a table with a non-slip surface, so that you do not hunch over the dog.
• Use a well-fitted harness, not a collar, for walking, especially for breeds prone to tracheal problems.
• Do not carry your dog out of every situation: let them walk, and cope with new things.
• Block off stairs and high furniture, or use ramps, to protect their joints.
• Be patient with house-training, and supervise closely.

Small dogs are often protected from the world, and this can make them nervous. Begin early, introducing them to people, noises, and other dogs in a positive, gradual way. Choose gentle, well-behaved dogs for meetings, and avoid situations where a small dog can be overwhelmed. Reward calm behavior, and let your dog set the pace. Well-socialized small dogs are more confident, and less likely to bark or snap.

Some small breeds are prone to dental disease, kneecap problems, and breathing issues. Pain can cause grumpiness or reluctance to move. If your small dog suddenly resists handling, stops jumping, or becomes irritable, see your vet. Keep up with dental care, since mouth pain can affect behavior and appetite. Adjust exercise for hot or cold weather, since small dogs are vulnerable to temperature changes.