Better Way’s Top 10 Favorite Breeds to Work With
10. Dachshund
Small but mighty, Dachshunds were originally bred to hunt badgers. Today, these feisty little dogs patrol the household and chase critters in the backyard. Their intelligence and sensitivity make them quick learners during training.
9. Corgi
Known as the "fun police" of the dog world, Corgis are natural herders who love to corral humans and animals alike. Their strong work ethic and movement awareness make them excellent candidates for reward-based training, especially with clickers and long leashes.
8. Pit Bull/Bully Breeds
Despite being the most euthanized breed in the U.S., American Pit Bull Terriers are highly sensitive to their handler's emotions and have a strong play drive. These traits make them ideal for positive reinforcement training, helping to build trust and confidence in rescued dogs.
7. Labrador Retriever
Labs are classic working dogs with a zest for life and a high food drive. Without proper stimulation, they can become destructive. With the right training, Labs are eager to learn and thrive on reward-based systems.
6. Poodle/Doodle Breeds
Originally bred for water retrieval, Poodles and their doodle mixes are intelligent and require mental stimulation to thrive. Their high intelligence makes them excellent training partners when engaged with rewards and thoughtful approaches.
5. Australian Cattle Dog
Compact yet energetic, Australian Cattle Dogs excel with active pet parents willing to dedicate time to training. Their natural drive to work makes them ideal for long-leash or off-leash exercises.
4. Australian Shepherd
Recognized as a breed in 1991, Australian Shepherds are energetic dogs that thrive with mental stimulation and exercise. Their herding instincts make them great for agility training, tricks, and other working positions.
3. Border Collie
Known for their exceptional intelligence, Border Collies excel in dog sports like agility, flyball, and dock diving. Their natural ability to understand commands and love for work make them a joy to train.
2.Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a highly athletic and intelligent breed often used in scent detection, personal protection, and search and rescue. While their energy can lead to challenges in suburban homes, they respond exceptionally well to reward-based training with toys like tennis balls or tug ropes.
1. German Shepherd Dog (GSD)
German Shepherds are versatile working dogs used in scent detection, personal protection, and service roles. Their loyalty and ability to learn quickly make them exceptional training partners. While they may bark or chase when unstimulated, GSDs excel in reward-based training using toys, praise, or treats.
Better Way Dogs works closely with these fantastic breeds to bring out their best potential through positive, reward-based training methods.
