Training Dogs Of All Breeds In Indiana – Why It’s Not About the Breed

One of the most common questions I hear is, “Have you worked with this breed before?” The truth is, I’ve worked with just about every breed you can think of. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t really matter what breed you have. Sure, different breeds have unique tendencies—they were bred for specific purposes, after all—but every single dog is trainable. Whether you’re in Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Lafayette, Elkhart, or anywhere else in Indiana, what matters most isn’t the breed—it’s the leadership and guidance we provide as owners.

Understanding Breed Tendencies

It’s true that breeds have general traits, and I’ve trained countless dogs across Indiana with these common characteristics:

Beagles are known for their incredible noses, and many owners in Fort Wayne believe Beagles can’t be trained off-leash because they’re so easily distracted by smells. The reality? With proper leadership, even a Beagle can learn to focus and recall.

German Shepherds are often considered a tough or aggressive breed, but they’re actually one of the easiest to train in Indianapolis thanks to their loyalty and eagerness to learn.

Labradors have a reputation as friendly family dogs, but I’ve seen plenty of mischievous Labs in Lafayette that need structure to channel their energy.

Dalmatians are known for their protective nature, but Dalmatians in areas like Elkhart can be trained to be friendly and well-behaved, even if they’d prefer to be reserved.

Small Dog Breeds: More Than Their Size

Small dogs often get labeled as aggressive, but in my experience across Indiana, this has more to do with being spoiled than the breed itself.

For example, Chihuahuas are one of my favorite breeds to train. With the right approach, they’re affectionate, responsive, and just as capable of being well-behaved as any larger breed. I’ve trained Chihuahuas in Fort Wayne, New Haven, and even Angola, and the results speak for themselves.

Pit Bulls: Breaking the Stereotype in Indiana

Pit bulls have an unfortunate reputation because of their strength, but most pit bulls I’ve worked with in Indiana, from Huntertown to Columbia City, are incredibly sweet and docile. Leadership is key, and that’s true no matter where you live.

I even wrote an article called “It’s How You Raise Them—Spoiler: Not Quite!” that goes into more detail about why training and leadership matter more than breed stereotypes.

The Reality of Dog Behavior in Indiana

A dog’s personality is influenced by genetics and environment. While certain breeds might have tendencies—like a Border Collie’s drive to herd or a Husky’s independent streak—these traits don’t define their behavior.

From Auburn to Decatur, I’ve helped train dogs of all breeds by focusing on two things: obedience and leadership. If we want our dogs to behave a certain way, we have to take charge. Dogs look to us for guidance, and without strong leadership, any dog—regardless of breed—will struggle to meet our expectations.

Other Common Breeds and Their Perceptions

Here are more breeds I’ve worked with throughout Indiana and the misconceptions people often have:

Golden Retrievers are known as perfect family dogs, but I’ve trained overly excitable Goldens in Fishers and Carmel that needed structure to calm down.

Boxers have a playful nature that can seem like disobedience, but in Noblesville, they thrive with consistent training.

Huskies are thought to be too independent to train, but while they are strong-willed, they respond well to firm leadership in places like Pendleton and Zionsville.

Rottweilers are seen as intimidating, but most Rotties I’ve trained in Lafayette are loyal and eager to please.

Corgis have herding instincts that can lead to nipping, but they’re highly trainable in places like Delphi and Monticello.

Every Dog in Indiana Is Trainable

No matter where you live in Indiana—whether it’s Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Elkhart, or a smaller town like Ashley or Fremont—every dog is trainable. It’s not about fighting against their instincts; it’s about leading them in a way that builds trust and respect.

Dogs don’t misbehave because of their breed. Their actions are shaped by the leadership (or lack of leadership) we provide. Obedience and desired behavior come down to clear communication, consistency, and being the leader your dog needs.

Get Started Today

If you’re ready to see what your dog is capable of, whether it’s an excitable Lab, a stubborn Dachshund, or a strong-willed Husky, I’m here to help. I provide dog training services throughout Indiana, from Fort Wayne to Indianapolis and beyond. Contact me today to start building the well-behaved companion you’ve always wanted.