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, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
A dog’s IQ has a bearing on how easy it is to train - although a brainy pup still has to want to do what it’s told to be considered highly trainable, so it’s not all about intelligence.
Some breeds tend to have a range of attributes that mean it’s pretty easy to get them heading outside for the toilet, sitting, staying and walking to heel. Others, however, tend to be a little trickier.
It should be noted that every dog is an individual so there is no guarantee that any particular animal will have the traits common to its breed.
Having said that, here are the 26 breeds that tend to be the easiest - and hardest - to train.
5. German Shepherd
A favourite of the police and army, the German Shepherd is one of the most useful dogs out there and picks up new things quickly. Sitting, staying and walking to heel is easy for these amazing animals who can be used for everything from sniffing out drugs to catching criminals. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Springer Spaniel
None of the breeds of spaniel are massively difficult to train, but the Springer Spaniel is probably the pick of the bunch. Bred to help hunters by 'springing' prey from vegetation, these pooches are born to learn. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the UK - and in the world - and their quick learning and curious nature makes them perfect for guide dogs or hearing dogs. Being naturally greedy, a few treats as a reward for obeying commands will soon get them trained to fo pretty much anything you ask. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Poodle
They may look high-maintenance, but Poodles are very eager to please and keen to learn. Not just a pretty face, these curly cutesters are as brainy as they are beautiful. | Canva/Getty Images