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.
9. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher constantly comes in the top five of studies into the most intelligent breed of dog, but being clever doesn't necessarily mean a dog is easy to train. They are also known for the way they retain information and their obedient nature. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Havanese
Many smaller dogs can be stubbornly resilient to training - just ask any Dachshund owner - but the tiny Havanese is one of the exceptions to the rule. They are attentive and receptive to positive reinforcement meaning they should be giving you a paw in no time. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Australian Shepherd
Weirdly enough there's nothing particularly Australian about the Australian Shepherd, which was originally bred in America to herd animals. As is the case with most herding specialists, it's pretty easy to train - just make sure they have enough exercise and stimulation so they don't become frustrated and misbehave. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Golden Retriever
What is true of the Labrador Retriever also tends to be true of their shaggier cousin the Golden Retriever - and that's the case when it comes to training. Adorable and brainy, this breed is the complete package. | Canva/Getty Images