Some dogs just get it. You know! You say, “Sit,” and they sit. You say “stay” and they are like: “Sure thing, boss!”. Then there are some dogs that look at you like: “You are funny, what’s in it for me?”
Training a dog can be one of the most rewarding things for any pet parent when your little pup is both smart and trainable. That combo makes life so much easier (and way more fun!)
These smart and trainable small dog breeds may be tiny, but they have got brains that can rival even the biggest working dogs out there. They are quick learners, fast thinkers, and eager to please. So, if you are a first-time dog owner or someone looking for a clever little partner for agility training, these puppies are a total joy to have!!
Fun Fact!
Do you know dogs can understand up to 250 words and gestures, count up to five and even perform simple Math? Yes! An average dog is as smart as a 2-year-old child. They can learn words, tricks and even manipulate their owners to get more treats (yep, they are that clever!).
Smart & Trainable Small Dog Breeds
1. Toy Poodle
Graceful. Genius. Genuinely eager to please.
When we talk about intelligence, the Toy Poodle breed is in a league of its own. They are one of the most intelligent dogs (#1 after Border Collie), and they are not just book smart (well, if dogs had books…) They are emotionally smart, too.
Originally bred as working dogs to retrieve items from water, this little toy breed has brains and beauty. They love learning new tricks, performing in dog sports, and impressing their owners with how quickly they can follow commands.
And yes… they love guarding, too. Even if they are just 6 pounds.
Why do families love these small dogs?
Extremely active, extremely intelligent, and easy to train dogs.
Great at obedience and agility training, they genuinely enjoy it.
Hypoallergenic coat (best dog for allergy sufferers)
Perfect trainable companion for families or singles.
Poodles totally love when they are raised on love, praise, and structure. And be it the Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle, one thing is the same. They are all born to learn!!
2. Shetland Sheepdog
Focused. Loyal. A herding genius in a small package and thick double coat.
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately called the “Sheltie”, looks like a mini Collie, and that is because they share similar roots. This herding dog was bred in Scotland to guard and herd sheep on the Shetland Islands.
They are of a small size, but you’d be amazed to learn that the Shetland Sheepdogs have a strong work ethic. They live for training sessions, and they absolutely love a job to do.
Why do families love these small dogs?
Intelligent dogs and eager to please.
Excel in agility, obedience, and canine sports.
Responsive to gentle and positive reinforcement techniques.
Loyal and affectionate nature, great family dogs.
As per Orvis, they score 5/5 on the scale of high energy. So, getting them to daily exercise and vigorous training sessions is the most important factor to keep them happy and balanced. Plus, they need mental stimulation, too. Otherwise, they’d be bored out of their wits.
3. Papillon
Papillons are alert. Graceful. Quick as lightning.
Don’t ever mistake the Papillon’s dainty butterfly ears for softness. This little dog is one of the smartest dog breeds on Earth. They can learn commands quickly, master tricks, and are born competitors in various dog sports.
Originally bred as companions for royalty, these dogs are quick learners with a playful spark. Talking about royalty, they have been favorites of Queen Marie Antoinette. As mentioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC), Queen’s Paps stood outside the prison faithfully when she was being sentenced.
Why do families love these small dogs?
Highly trainable and super intelligent dogs.
Loves positive reinforcement training methods (treats, praise, belly rubs)
Energetic but still makes wonderful lap dogs.
Loves to prevent boredom with puzzle toys, mini training sessions.
In a class of dog training, Papillons are the overachieving pups who always raise their paws first because they are the easiest dogs to train. They love learning and winning competitions, and making their owners happy.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Confident. Clever. Built for teamwork.
Meet the Miniature Schnauzer. A charming mix of smarts, confidence, and sass. This breed was developed in Germany to catch rats on farms. It means they are fearless, sharp-minded, and smart dogs.
These are also one of the best small dog breeds for people who want a loyal dog who trains easily and is also a bit of a comedian.
Why do families love these small dogs?
Smart, quick, and great pets at following commands.
responds well to consistency, solid training methods, and routines.
Needs both mental and physical exercise to prevent boredom.
Miniature Schnauzers are curious and intelligent dogs who are adept at faster learning through training sessions. Give them a puzzle toy or some agility training, and they will be #1. Plus, that wiry breed is unbeatably stylish.
5. Schipperke
Mischievous. Bright. Belgium’s fearless little worker.
The Schipperke might be one of the small dog breeds, but no one should ever underestimate these black, little fox-like dogs. This dog learns fast!! This is a smart and trainable dog who comes from Belgium and was born to guard canal boats. Hence, their nickname is “the little captain”.
They are alert, intelligent, and have endless energy than other pets. Plus, Schipperkes love to train, play, and stay busy.
Idle time? Not in their vocabulary.
Why do families love these small dogs?
Independent but deeply loyal to their owners.
Quick to learn new commands when motivated.
Excellent choice for watchdogs, never get aggressive.
Adaptable to apartment or house living.
These water-loving swimmer dogs have huge personalities; confident, animated, and always curious about what’s going on around them.
6. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Bold. Cheerful with a cheeky smile. Brainy little herder.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the world’s most beloved small breeds, thanks to its adorable looks, clever mind, and happy energy.
These puppies were originally bred in Wales as herding dogs. So, naturally, they love to work and play. That intelligence from their herding roots never left. They are famous for being quick learners who train easily. Mostly when food is involved (they take snacks and dinner table very seriously!)
Why do families love these small dogs?
Highly intelligent and eager to please.
Excitable for first dog owners, because they are easygoing, yet their trainability is good.
Do well with positive reinforcement training and do things at their own pace.
Love routines and being invited to the family life and things.
FUN FACT!! As per AKC, Queen Elizabeth owned more than 30 Corgis in her lifetime. If that is not a royal stamp of approval, then what is?
7. Toy Fox Terrier
Energetic. Sharp. full of attitude.
The Toy Fox Terrier is mighty. (Albeit tiny) A true Terrier through and through. These small dogs were bred to hunt pets and perform tricks, and that clever and playful streak is still very much alive today.
They are famous for being smart, loyal, and a bit bossy (in a cute way). They absolutely thrive on training sessions, and they are happiest when their owners are teaching them new tricks.
Why do families love these small dogs?
Eager to please and learns commands faster than you think.
Great for people who want a smart and trainable house dog.
Love routine and interaction with their humans.
Sociable and devoted.
Toy Fox Terrier breed is also an entertainer. Many were once used in circuses because they love performing and showing off their brains. Smart and fun? Yes, please.
Conclusion
The #1 thing you need when you’re training a new puppy is connection.
And when you have one of these smart, trainable small dog breeds, that connection grows stronger every day.
No matter if you are teaching new tricks, trying agility training, or just practicing “sit” and “stand”, these breeds will surprise you with how quickly they pick things up.
So, if you are thinking about your first dog or just want a little genius running around the house, these clever and trainable puppies are waiting to make life a little brighter (and a whole lot smarter) for you.
