Training

There are dogs who are very amenable to training because they can rapidly make the link between a cue (such as the word "sit"), an action (such as sitting), and a reward (such as a treat). However, not all dogs learn at the same pace, and some need more time and attention than others throughout training.

Many dog breeds are renowned for their intelligence, but others take a "What's in it for me?" approach to training, requiring you to use techniques like prizes and games to ensure the dog follows your instructions.

Working dogs need mental stimulation just as much as physical exercise because of the cognitive demands of their breed, such as herding cattle. If they have nothing to do, they may come up with destructive behaviours like digging or gnawing as a way to pass the time.

A dog's brain may be stimulated by a variety of activities, including obedience training, interactive dog toys, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.

Puppy mouthiness includes nipping, gnawing, and soft play-biting that does not damage the skin and is prevalent in many breeds, particularly retriever breeds.

Dogs with a tendency to "herd" people with their jaws need to be trained to channel their chewing energy into safe, acceptable chew toys instead than family members. Many dogs, especially those with big mouths, like playing retrieve and chewing on toys stuffed with treats and kibble.

Different dog breeds have different propensities for vocalizations like barking and howling. Consider the dog's vocalization habits while making a breed choice. Consider if the distinctive cries of the hound breeds you're considering would be music to your ears. Think about if your possible watchdog breed would be on high alert in a busy city full of strange noises and people.

Check to see whether the area fauna is likely to provoke your dog into excessive barking. A quieter breed may be preferable if you are constrained by noise ordinances or if you live in close proximity to your neighbors.

Dogs have varying degrees of trainability; some take more time and reinforcement than others. Dogs of intelligent or creative breeds need plenty of mental challenges. Bad canine behavior may be redirected with the use of training and interesting chew toys. You should think about your living situation and your tolerance for the dog's vocalizations before deciding on a breed.