We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts the ability to adapt.
That study also ranked dog breeds by how obedient they are. So, if it’s important to you that your dog is likely to follow commands there’s guidance on the breeds that should top your list - and those that you should consider steering clear of.
Here are the 20 most and least obedient breeds of dog - scientifically speaking.
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13. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is well known for being very difficult to train. Even when they are though, there's no way of knowing if they will bother putting their training into practice. | Canva/Getty Images
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14. Chihuahua
The smallest dog in the world is also one of the most stubborn when it comes to its owners wishes - be it sitting, staying, or not chewing the sofa. The Chihuahua needs plenty of patience - or just an acceptance that stubborness is part of this breed's charm. | Canva/Getty Images
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15. Bulldog
Some Bulldogs can actually be fairly well behaved and respond to commands well. If you don't get their training right early in life though they can be incredibly stubborn and show their owner little in the way of respect or obedience. | Canva/Getty Images
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16. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell is a small dog with a big personality whose love of fun and games comes before sitting, staying or walking to heel. | Canva/Getty Images