Reviewed by: Dr. Robert Menardi, DVM
If you and your family are looking to bring a new dog home, it’s important to consider the attributes in your future dog that are most important to you. While some pet parents prioritize a gentle temperament or a low-maintenance breed, you may be on the lookout for a smart dog. If that sounds like you, our list of the 17 most intelligent dog breeds will be useful for your search.
According to Stanley Coren’s book The Intelligence of Dogs, canine intelligence is measured by trainability, the ability to understand new commands with fewer repetitions, and adaptability.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most intelligent dogs so that you can make an informed decision and find the best dog for you.
Top 17 Smartest Dog Breeds
As we dive into the top breeds of dogs known for their intelligence, it’s important to keep in mind that every dog is distinct. High intelligence can be found in any breed, and this list does not mean that your dog is not intelligent just because their breed is not included (or if your dog is a mix of multiple breeds).
While one breed may be known for being smarter than others, it’s still important to put time and effort into training your dog to make the most of their natural intelligence and strengthen your bond with them.
1. Border Collie
Known for being a certified workaholic, the Border Collie is an energetic, even-tempered herding dog that loves to be outside and explore. Border Collies would be a great choice for a family that’s looking for a dog to bring with them on hikes and various outdoor adventures.
Be ready to take your Border Collie out for a few hours every day because, without adequate time to expend their energy, Border Collies can become problematic at home.
2. Poodle
Poodles make great service dogs because they are usually playful, highly trainable, and loyal to their families. Part of why poodles are often chosen to be service dogs is because they are very sensitive to their human companion’s stress.
That said, if you’re looking for an empathetic and lively dog, a poodle may be the best choice for you. Keep in mind that poodles can develop stubborn and aloof tendencies if they’re not given enough opportunities for exercise. They also have a strong territorial instinct, which can make them wary of strangers.
3. German Shepherd
You’re likely familiar with German Shepherd dogs even if you’ve never met one; they are often used as watchdogs and rescue dogs. German Shepherds are beloved by their parents because they are loyal, confident, and courageous. For families with small children looking for a dog to protect them while still being gentle during playtime, a German Shepherd is an ideal breed.
4. Golden Retriever
Arguably one of the most famous family dogs in America, Golden Retrievers are eager-to-please dogs that bring a combination of playfulness and intelligence to the table. Golden Retrievers are the go-to choice for many families because they are affectionate, play well with other dogs, and tend to be very gentle.
5. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are often chosen to be police dogs because they are so naturally agile, alert, and fearless. As a family dog, Dobermans have a strong desire to please their owners and can be quite affectionate. If you bring home a Doberman, you may notice that they gravitate more toward one person in the family and are more obedient with them than with others.
6. Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
Often referred to as the mini-Lassie, the Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) is another great family dog. Smaller than a full-sized Collie, Shelties are the herding dogs used on the Shetland Islands.
You’ll have no problem with socialization if you adopt a Sheltie because they are known for being sweet, peaceful dogs with a soft temperament with other animals and people. Although they can sometimes be reserved, Shelties are extremely loyal and loving with their families and make excellent therapy dogs.
7. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers were initially raised as working dogs, specifically hunting dogs, because they have a keen sense of smell and are great swimmers. Outgoing, friendly, and warm, Labrador Retrievers are a good choice for people or families looking for a big dog. Their intelligence and temperament make them a great choice for first-time dog owners.
8. Australian Cattle Dog
Another member of the herding dog family, Australian Cattle Dogs, also called Blue Heelers, are extremely intelligent, energetic, and protective dogs. However, given that they are larger and can be wary of strangers, they’re not usually recommended as a first dog because they need ample training.
9. Rottweiler
Although they have a reputation for being used primarily as guard dogs, Rottweilers have a naturally calm and confident demeanor, making them a great choice for families. “Rotties” are known to be gentle and affectionate with their families.
Given their size and strength, it’s important to dedicate lots of time to training them so that you can control them in moments when their protective nature kicks in.
10. Papillon
If you want an intelligent small dog, the Papillon may be the ideal breed for you. They are great at dog sports and obedience training, so you’ll often see Papillons win the small-size category in dog shows. Although they are friendly and make good family pets, Papillons also tend to gravitate more toward one person (usually the person most dedicated to their training).
11. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a highly social, polite dog who will crave lots of time with you. They’re going to happily join in on any family activity you’re doing and will want lots of attention throughout the day. Energetic and great swimmers, this breed is considered relatively high-maintenance due to their high energy levels and tendency toward separation anxiety.
12. Miniature Schnauzer
For future pet parents looking for a dog that is active but small enough to accommodate apartment life, the Miniature Schnauzer may be perfect. These dogs have plenty of energy and are very sociable.
They’ll love taking trips to the dog park and meeting all your family and friends. The only thing to keep in mind with Miniature Schnauzers is that they don’t love being left alone.
13. Belgian Tervuren
A slightly lesser-known breed, the Belgian Tervuren is a large, beautiful dog breed that is considered to be extremely agile and elegant. Because they are so smart, alert, and curious, they will need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Most are easy to train thanks to their desire to please their parents, but they can be possessive with loved ones, making them sometimes difficult to manage with small children.
14. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi (also known as the Queen’s dog) has a strong desire to please their families and is a playful, sensitive breed. That said, the Corgi is known for being one of the more stressed dog breeds. If you adopt a Corgi and notice that they seem stressed at specific times, a product from our ElleVet Sciences CBD + CBDA line may be beneficial.
15. Bloodhound
One of the best search and rescue breeds there is, the Bloodhound is a fantastic breed for families because they are extremely gentle and patient. They need plenty of time outdoors to satisfy their curiosity.
However, once they have had the opportunity to run, they are great with kids and are known to be tolerant of all sorts of play. However, if a Bloodhound doesn’t get adequate time outside, they can become rambunctious and destructive at home.
16. German Shorthaired Pointer
Another hard-working dog breed is the German Shorthaired Pointer. Although they are quite large, they are extremely trainable dogs who will bond quickly with their families.
They are a great choice for pet parents who are active and want a dog that will go running and swimming with them. Despite their energetic disposition, they are affectionate and gentle at home. They do have a natural hunting instinct, so they may be aggressive toward cats, rabbits, and other small animals.
17. Malinois
Malinois are an affectionate dog breed that need plenty of exercise. Given their size and energy-level, this breed needs more exercise than the average big dog, so only adopt a Malinois if you’re looking to spend several hours outdoors with them every day.
Along with physical activity, they’ll also need lots of mental stimulation to keep them engaged. Like other breeds on this list, they tend to form a strong bond with their primary caretaker, so they’re not ideal for large families. That said, they are extremely loyal and make great companions for active, energetic people.
Wrapping Up
You’re officially an expert on smart dogs, and ready to make the best choice in breed for you and your family. Regardless of whether you think a gentle Golden Retriever, an energetic Border Collie, or a sweet mixed breed pup will be best for you, knowing about the attributes of different dog breeds is an important step to take before you bring a new dog home.
Sources:
