Top 15 Smartest Dog Breeds

1. German Shepherd: Considered as a natural protector, the mental ability of this dog makes

it a leading choice for police and military work. The German Shepherd that is known

today started in 1889, which was standardized with the goal of producing a breed that is

known for its intelligence and utility. They are the top choice for police dogs because

they can be easily trained as their mental capabilities can easily handle what is being fed

to them. Even if it is used as a police dog, such breed will also make affectionate pets.

2. Doberman Pinscher: Known for the characteristics of being noble, courageous, and

athletic, a lot may be unaware, but the Doberman Pinscher is indeed one of the smartest

of all dog breeds. Because of its intelligence, it is a common choice for a police dog or

for canine sports. It is also used as a family guardian, aside from being a constant

companion. Its concentration, decision-making, and intelligence are other characteristics

that make this dog well-loved. It is also extremely easy to train. The modern breed of this

dog are less aggressive, and hence, they are commonly chosen as pets in various

households.

3. Australian Cattle Dog: This breed is known for having high energy and hardworking,

which makes it a nice choice for people who have an active lifestyle. For sure, this dog

will be able to keep up with your energy, whether you are just playing around or training.

Because this is one of the dogs from the working breeds, you can expect that it will

respond well to structured training. This is a dog that is also fierce, loyal, and protective

over a property. However, you should be warned that they easily get bored.

4. Rottweiler: Smart, calm, and loyal – these are some of the things that Rottweilers are

known for. It was originally bred in Germany, specifically in Rottweiler, and hence, it

was named such. During such time, they were primarily functioning as livestock herders

and cart pullers. Because of its solid muscular built, there is no doubt why it is considered

as an exceptional working dog as well. Even in spite of their big size, they are friendly at

home. You might end up being surprised after knowing how loyal and caring they can be,

as long as they are well-trained.

5. Golden Retriever: This affectionate dog has gained reputation for being one of the most

intelligent breeds you will ever find. In fact, they can learn more than 200 commands.

With this, there is no wonder why they are a popular choice for companion at home.

More than their intelligence, they are also loyal and loving, making them excellent pets.

Because these dogs are very easy to please, they can also be easily trained to perform

well in different tasks, such as for being a gun dog. It is also a quick learner. As long as

you are patient in training a Golden Retriever, you can be confident that it can easily pick

up.

6. Bluetick Coonhound: If you are thinking of hunting dogs that are gifted with an easy

pleasing personality, this breed is going to make the perfect choice. They can prove to be

hardworking and energetic dogs. Nonetheless, at times, you can also just see them

relaxing. Because of their fondness for children, this will also be a good choice for a

household pet. Although they are smart and sensible, it is important to make sure that

training is provided in a consistent manner to enjoy more favorable results. Also, they

can be stubborn, so part of their training should deal with the areas of socialization and

instilling discipline.

7. Papillon: Tiny and cute – these are two of the things that make papillon a popular breed.

They are known to be the smallest of the toy breeds. It is also often linked with royalties

because royalties often carry small dogs in their arms. In spite of their size, however, it is

surprising how intelligent they are. With their cute butterfly ears, you would not expect

that they are tough. Its strength is more than what other dogs of the same size could

demonstrate. They can also be trained to use the litterbox and can provide protection to

their owners as they can be generally possessive.

8. Poodle: When you speak of dogs with extreme intelligence, it is pretty much impossible

to not mention poodle. Because they are easy to please, they are also easy to train.

Because of this, there is no wonder why it is one of the high performing breeds. Many

poodles are seen in circus and street shows, which only proves how they can be easily

trained. If you want a poodle at home, you can choose from three sizes – miniature, toy,

and standard. Although they are intelligent, proper guidance is of utmost importance.

They should be trained to stimulate them physically, mentally, and psychologically.

9. Australian Shepherd: Originally a herding dog, this breed originates from the Pyrenees

Mountains. On average, they have a height of 18 to 23 inches and they normally weigh

40 to 65 pounds. Because of the gentleness of this dog, it would make a great choice for

any house where there are children. In spite of being gentle, however it can also be agile.

In fact, when you leave it at home, you can expect it to clean the backyard. It is also very

intelligent, which makes it easy to pick up whatever it is taught during training.

10. Beagle: Beagles are stupid – this is one of the myths that should be debunked. People

who are looking for pets immediately dismiss the idea of having a beagle because there

are many who spread inaccurate information with regards to the claim that it is amongst

the least intelligent of dogs. In one research, experts have studies how many words a dog

can understand, which also finally proves that dogs can indeed comprehend words from

humans. In the said study, it was recorded that beagles can recognize the names of at least

200 dog toys. As long as they are provided with consistent training, they can be as smart

as other breeds.

11. Border Collie: Ask dog experts to give a list of the most intelligent dogs and it is almost

impossible that they will not make a mention of border collie. It originally used to be a

herding dog for sheep in Scotland and England. It is still used in many farms today

because they are very hard-working and intelligent. If you are thinking of having it as a

pet, you must be prepared to take care of it. There are many who are unable to keep up

with its high energy. Also, when it is bored, it can resort into extremely destructive

behaviors, which is why you should always keep an eye.

12. American Foxhound: This is one of the dogs that will be perfect for active users who

have the energy and time to train their pets. When the American foxhound is inactive, it

can resort into destructive behaviors. It can prove to be a stubborn dog as well, which is

why it is important to provide obedience training. It is not the easiest to train of dogs, but

it is not also that difficult. Because it is a hound, you can expect the dog to be musical

and its baying can reach distances.

13. Black Russian Terrier: This breed of dog can pick up training pretty quickly, making it

another good choice if you are looking for the smartest dog breeds. Courageous,

confident, and protective are some of its most common characteristics. They will sleep

with you and will cuddle during your relaxation time. Nonetheless, avoid making them

lonely and bored as this can have a negative impact on their behavior. They are obedient,

excellent jumpers, and can perform well in agility competition.

14. Labrador Retriever: This is the most popular dog breed in the U.S. and there is a reason

for this – because it is a smart dog. Originally, they function as retrievers of fish nets,

which is why they have strong feet and neck. More than being smart, it is known for its

athleticism, making it a favorite amongst dog trainers. Because of their high intelligence,

this is a popular working dog. Nonetheless, just like other working dogs, they need

enough physical and mental stimulation in order to demonstrate the level of intelligence

that is anticipated. For people who thinks of owning a Labrador Retriever, make sure to

never make it bored as it can end up misbehaving, which will be hard to handle.

15. Shetland Sheepdog: Known as one of the largest amongst the breeds of working dogs,

this is one of the most intelligent. They are originally grown to provide protection to

sheep. It is sturdy in appearance and has a double coat. It is one of the dogs that are not

hard to keep as pets. It is easy to please and can be loyal and protective. However, you

should also be cautious as its intelligence can be used against you. If the owner refuses to

obey, the dog can fight back and misbehave. Nonetheless, with proper exercise and

psychological stimulation, it can prove to be a happy dog.