Every breed is trainable.

One of the most common questions I hear is, “Have you worked with this breed?” I’ve worked with just about every breed you can name. But the breed doesn’t really matter.

Breeds have tendencies. They were bred for specific jobs, after all. But every dog is trainable. What matters most is the leadership and guidance we give them.

Breed tendencies, and the truth

• Beagles have incredible noses, and many owners believe they can never be off leash. With real leadership, a Beagle can learn to focus and come when called.
• German Shepherds get labeled as tough or aggressive. In my experience they’re one of the easiest breeds to train, thanks to their loyalty and eagerness.
• Labradors are known as friendly family dogs, but plenty of mischievous Labs need structure to channel all that energy.
• Dalmatians are known for being protective. They can be friendly and well behaved, even if they’d rather keep to themselves. My own Dalmatian, Remy, taught me that.
• Golden Retrievers are “perfect family dogs,” but many are overexcited and need structure to calm down.
• Boxers are playful in a way that can look like disobedience. They thrive with consistency.
• Huskies are called too independent to train. They’re strong-willed, and they respond well to firm leadership.
• Rottweilers look intimidating. Most I’ve trained are loyal and eager to please.
• Corgis have herding instincts that can turn into nipping. They’re highly trainable.

Small dogs

Small dogs often get called aggressive. In my experience that’s usually about being spoiled, not about size or breed.

Chihuahuas are one of my favorite breeds to train. With the right approach they’re affectionate, responsive, and every bit as capable of good behavior as a big dog.

Pit bulls

Pit bulls have a rough reputation because of their strength. Most of the pit bulls I’ve worked with are sweet and gentle. Leadership is what makes the difference, for them and for every other breed.

What really shapes behavior

A dog’s personality comes from genetics and environment. A Border Collie’s drive to herd and a Husky’s independent streak are real, but they don’t define the dog.

I focus on two things: obedience and leadership. Dogs look to us for guidance. Without strong leadership, any dog, of any breed, will struggle to meet our expectations.

Every dog is trainable

It isn’t about fighting a dog’s instincts. It’s about leading in a way that builds trust and respect. Dogs don’t misbehave because of their breed. They behave the way our leadership, or lack of it, shapes them.

Excitable Lab, stubborn Dachshund, strong-willed Husky: tell me about your dog.