Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
A dog’s IQ has a bearing on how easy it is to train - although a brainy pup still has to want to do what it’s told to be considered highly trainable, so it’s not all about intelligence.
Some breeds tend to have a range of attributes that mean it’s pretty easy to get them heading outside for the toilet, sitting, staying and walking to heel. Others, however, tend to be a little trickier.
It should be noted that every dog is an individual so there is no guarantee that any particular animal will have the traits common to its breed.
Having said that, here are the 12 breeds that tend to be the hardest to train.
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1. Beagle
Beagles look like butter wouldn't melt in their mouth, but this as a breed whose sheer naughtiness and independent spirit makes them difficult to train. They'll make you laugh with their antics, but even if they've obeyed a command 10 times in a row, there's every chance they will ignore it the next 10 times. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Fox Terrier
These feisty terriers are alert and independent, often ignoring commands when something more interesting catches their attention. Their energy and tenacity require firm, consistent training methods - otherwise they'll just run rings around their owner (and the park, the garden, the living room...) | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
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3. Afghan Hound
The Afghan hound may be elegant and loving, but it can be a nightmare to train. The American Kennel Club descrives it as "the challenge of training and independent hound" that has a habit of being "aloof". Positive reinforcement (in other words, plenty of treats) is your best chance of getting this breed to sit and stay. | AFP via Getty Images
4. Borzoi
The long-nosed Borzoi will seem to be eager to please but won't necessarily manage to do so. The American Kennel Club's explanation for this is that "in their quiet, catlike way they can be stubborn, and training is best accomplished with patience, consistency, and good humor." | Getty Images