By April Saylor
Reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM on 4/4/2023
petmd.com
All dogs are known for their loyalty & companionship, but many breeds are celebrated for their intelligence, too. The smartest dogs can quickly learn & understand new cues, exhibit problem-solving skills, & show their independent side.
But earning a spot on the list of smartest dog breeds is more than just how fast a pup can learn new tricks. Experts say signs of dog intelligence are a combination of various factors, not just how trainable they are. In fact, some smart pups show their intelligence in ways that can be frustrating for first-time dog parents. Clever dogs with high cognitive abilities may be more likely to show off their creative problem-solving skills, like how to steal snacks off the counter or unlock a gate.
Wondering if your pooch makes the list of most intelligent dog breeds? Here are some of the smartest dogs by breed & the features that make them so clever.
1. Border Collie
Border Collies are some of the most talented pups you’ll ever meet & are known to quickly learn & respond to cues during training. Need proof? Just look at Rico, a Border Collie who can respond to more than 200 words.
These pups are superstars in agility & obedience competitions, & they have exceptional problem-solving skills. The uber-trainable Border Collie is part of the herding group, so they are happiest when they have a job to do. Their boundless energy means they can work for extended periods without tiring, so they’re excellent companions for farmers & ranchers. Puzzles & energy outlets like dog sports will help them live fulfilling lives if they’re not rounding up sheep on the farm.
2. Poodle
Originally bred as a hunting dog, Poodles have a long history of working alongside their humans. This strong connection to their people means they’re relatively easy to train—they aim to please. Present-day Poodles might be a more common sight curled up on the couch at home, but these smart pups are still frequently at the top of the winner’s podium at obedience & agility competitions.
3. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are considered one of the smartest dog breeds due to their exceptional intelligence, trainability, & versatility. Their instincts from hundreds of years protecting flocks (hence the “shepherd” name) are still intact today. Because of years spent problem-solving in the field, the adaptable & hard-working German Shepherd still excels in jobs that many humans would find demanding & stressful, like police & military work or on search & rescue missions.
4. Golden Retriever
With training, Golden Retrievers can excel in various tasks such as hunting, retrieving, obedience, & even service & therapy work. These intelligent sporting dogs have a notoriously gentle nature. Their ability to learn quickly & respond well to commands means they’re relatively easy to train with a pocket full of treats to reward their food-motivated minds.
Goldens are known for being very loyal & affectionate family pets, solidifying their stature as one of the most popular dogs in the U.S. Their gentle demeanor & eager-to-please nature make them an ideal breed for first-time dog parents.
5. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are exceptionally intelligent, loyal, & trainable. These versatile dogs excel in obedience competitions as well as police & military work. While they are known for being highly perceptive, they are also very curious pups. To live their best lives, Dobermans should get plenty of exercise & be able to use their brains as well as their bodies. Their intelligence & athleticism make Dobermans well-suited for active families who have plenty of time to train & play.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are known for their high intelligence, trainability, & excellent problem-solving skills. Also known as Shelties, these quick learners excel in herding, agility, obedience, & working as therapy dogs. While considered affectionate & loyal family pets, their energetic nature & intelligence means they’re best suited for active families who enjoy spending time outside.
7. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are some of the friendliest dogs you’ll ever meet, but they’re also super smart! Labs have a long history of working alongside their humans to hunt & retrieve, meaning they’re instinctually perceptive & quick to learn. With adequate training, Labs can become champions in retrieving, obedience, & service & therapy work. They are also loyal & affectionate family pets, making them a popular choice for households with children. Like Golden Retrievers, Labs have a gentle demeanor & eagerness to please that makes them an ideal breed for first-time pet parents.
8. Papillon
Don’t let those cute butterfly ears fool you—Papillons are perceptive little dogs. These tiny balls of energy are quick to learn, making training a breeze. They are also highly active & excel in agility & obedience. Despite their small size, Papillons are confident, energetic, & make loyal family pets. Their affectionate & playful nature also makes them a popular choice for households with children.
9. Rottweiler
Big, burly Rottweilers are known for their loyalty & smarts. With proper training, eager-to-please Rottweilers can excel in obedience competitions & as service dogs. Their intelligence & athleticism make them well-suited for active families who can ensure their Rottweiler gets plenty of mental stimulation, physical exercise, & early socialization. Puzzle toys & enrichment games are a great way to keep your Rottie from getting bored.
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