The smartest dog breeds

Despite the fact that the most intelligent dogs were determined almost unanimously by two hundred professionals, Coren’s classification cannot be considered 100% correct. It must be understood that there is no easy way to assess the intelligence of a pet, since each dog has its own unique characteristics, and a caring owner can help their development.

Top 10 smartest dog breeds in the world

Border Collie

Country of origin: United Kingdom

Size: average

Growth: 50-56 cm at the withers

The weight: 25 – 30 kg

Age 12 – 14 years

The Border Collie is the smartest dog breed in the world. Representatives of this breed are considered the smartest for unprecedented intelligence, high levels of energy and efficiency, extraordinary instinct and workaholic character. They are incredibly fast learners. These shepherd dogs, who used to watch herds of sheep, have retained their powers of observation and agility. Thanks to highly developed speed and concentration, these dogs achieve high sports results in agility. And they are unpretentious pets that are suitable for families with children.

Poodle

Country of origin: France

Size: average

Growth

Standard: 37-39 cm

Petite: 28-30cm

Toy: 25-28cm

The weight

Standard: 20,5-30 kg

Petite: 12-14 kg

He: 6,5–7,5 kg

Age 12 – 18 years

Cute curly four-legged take the second place of honor among the smartest dogs. In wartime, dogs of this breed performed an important mission – they delivered supplies to soldiers. No wonder poodles are called persistent and intelligent animals. And they are also easily trained: it is a pleasure to train such a dog! Poodles’ inherent intelligence allows them to easily cope with various tasks, so they can often be found in the circus arena. Formerly bird hunters, today they are smart and obedient companions. They are very sociable and love their owners.

German Shepherd

Country of origin: Germany

Size: large

Growth: 55-68 cm

The weight: 25 – 40 kg

Age 8 – 10 years

It is no secret that the German Shepherd is attracted to work in the police and the army. Representatives of one of the smartest breeds of dogs, they are considered intellectuals and prove their abilities in practice: they are trained to find drugs, bombs and perform other important missions. These are strong, smart and courageous dogs that are easy to train and are able to learn the command the first time. German Shepherds are recognized not only as excellent service dogs, but also as devoted protectors of the family in which they live. It is noteworthy that this breed was bred precisely on the basis of intellectual abilities.

Golden retriever

Country of origin: United Kingdom

Size: large

Growth: 51-61 cm

The weight: 27 – 40 kg

Age 11 – 13 years

Large and friendly retrievers are able to learn more than two hundred commands! No wonder they are in the top five smart dog breeds. Dogs of this breed are reliable helpers, so they are often chosen as companions for people with disabilities. With high intelligence, golden retrievers are even used for search and rescue operations. In addition to their friendly nature, agility and obedience make them excellent service dogs. They are unpretentious in care and very obedient in training, and they also skillfully perform various tasks. Great pets and friends for the whole family.

Doberman

Country of origin: Germany

Size: large

Growth: 65-69 cm

The weight: 30 – 40 kg

Age to 14 years

This smart dog was once brought out by a tax collector from Germany for the purpose of protection. Dobermans are very smart, assertive and easy to train. Despite their muscularity and seemingly formidable appearance, they are quite gentle and loyal pets. They make excellent watchdogs due to their fearless nature, fast movement speed, and high levels of stamina.

All of the above qualities they showed during the Second World War, guarding troops and leading soldiers through dense forests. Dobermans are often trained in police and military affairs. They are obedient and well trained, so they make excellent watchdogs.

Sheltie

Country of origin: Scotland

Size: average

Growth: 35-37 cm

The weight: 6 – 7 kg

Age to 16 years

Dogs of this shepherd breed are distinguished by special intelligence and quick wit. Shetland Sheepdogs are easy to train, agile and obedient, often placing high in agility competitions. Thanks to perseverance and the ability to grasp everything on the fly, these dogs quickly learn new commands. And they are also wonderful watchmen, sensing danger and warning about it with loud barking. High intelligence allows the Sheltie to easily perform almost all tasks, and a kind and caring character – to become an excellent companion for the whole family.

Labrador retriever

Country of origin: Canada

Size: large

Growth: 55-57 cm at the withers

The weight: 30 – 45 kg

Age 12 – 15 years

Labrador Retrievers are famous all over the world as loyal, kind and active pets, they are distinguished by their high intelligence and amazing sense of smell. With the help of these qualities, they perform very important tasks: for example, they play the role of guides, help the police, look for drugs, and even participate in search and rescue operations. The thick coat and heavy tail allow Labrador Retrievers to swim long distances in cold water. Representatives of this intelligent breed of dogs are known for their patience, ingenuity and gentle nature. They can learn a lot on their own, they can observe, study and repeat human behavior.

Papillon

Country of origin: France

Size: small

Growth: 20-28 cm

The weight: 2 – 3 kg

Age to 16 years

Papillons are the only miniature quadrupeds to make it into the top ten intelligent dog breeds. Small dogs with ears in the form of butterfly wings are very smart and agile. Frequent winners of agility competitions, because they love to train and lend themselves well to training. At the same time, papillons are much stronger than they seem at first glance: they are hardy and able to walk for a long time without slowing down. Obedient and caring extrovert pets are not averse to participating in various activities.

Rottweiler

Country of origin: Germany

Size: large

Growth: 56-68 cm

The weight: 42 – 50 kg

Age to 12 years

Powerful and strong dogs of the Rottweiler breed have a number of advantages – they are smart, affectionate, obedient, loyal dogs. Their inherent high intelligence is manifested in police work, the performance of service and guard tasks, and is even used in therapy. These dogs were among the first to become guide dogs. Despite their power and size, Rottweilers are playful and cheerful, and also distinguished by patience, courage and insight. Wonderful companions, love and protect their owners.

Australian cattle dog

Country of origin: Australia

Size: average

Growth: 43-51 cm

The weight: 13 – 28 kg

Age 12 – 15 years

Australian Cattle Dogs are bred to herd cattle and are always happy to do their job. Dogs of this breed are unique: they are not only extremely mobile, energetic and hardy, but also very smart. Their extraordinary intelligence and organization are amazing: the dogs themselves put things in their place. They are very smart and able to outwit the owners, while protecting family members with special zeal. They perfectly understand human commands, because of their activity and high efficiency, they need constant physical exertion.

Other breeds in the ranking of the smartest dogs

Welsh Corgi Pembroke

Country of origin: United Kingdom

Size: average

Age 12 – 15 years

Growth: 25-30 cm

The weight: 9 – 12 kg

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the smallest breed in the group of herding dogs. Its representatives are distinguished by an elongated body on short legs and a highly developed intellect. Thanks to him, Corgis are considered excellent companions, as well as service and watchdogs. These intelligent dogs are highly trainable, handling a wide variety of exercises with ease.

Miniature schnauzer

Country of origin: Germany

Size: small

Growth: 30,5-35,5 cm

The weight: 6 – 7 kg

Age to 15 years

Little Schnauzers are independent thinkers. They are smart and can show the highest professional level in obedience competitions. But, despite their high ability to learn, they must be properly educated from childhood. Like most of these dogs, miniature schnauzers require a lot of exercise and activity to keep them from getting bored and causing harm. In the past, rat-catchers, today these dogs are charming companions and constant winners at dog shows.

English Springer Spaniel

Country of origin: United Kingdom

Size: average

Growth: 43-51 cm

The weight: 20 – 25 kg

Age to 12 years

These strong, muscular and highly intelligent dogs are bred specifically for hunting and cooperating with humans. Therefore, their mental abilities are estimated quite highly. They perfectly understand the owners, they are easy to train, trying to please them. They are excellent babysitters. English Springer Spaniels are hunters by nature, so they need physical activity and many hours of walks with mandatory sports elements.

Belgian Tervueren

Country of origin: Belgium

Size: average

Growth: 56-66 cm

The weight: 20 – 30 kg

Age 12 – 14 years

One of the four breeds of Belgian Shepherds, bred for grazing. Like other herding dogs, the Belgian Tervuren is intelligent, obedient and highly trainable. They require a lot of exercise, training and attention to live a healthy life. The development of the breed, as a versatile helper and attentive companion, went in parallel with the physical development of these balanced dogs, possessing strength and endurance. Today they work as military and police officers, in search and rescue services, help the disabled, act in films and win dog shows and agility.

Schipperke

Country of origin: Belgium

Size: small

Growth: 28-33 cm

The weight: 5,4 – 7,3 kg

Age to 14 years

Schipperke means “little captain” in Flemish. They are very active and constantly need exercise, and so that the Schipperke does not get bored, classes must be diversified. These sensitive and quick-witted dogs are excellent watchmen and faithful four-legged friends. At one time, their abilities were appreciated by shoemakers and other craftsmen.

Belgian Shepherd

Country of origin: Belgium

Size: large

Growth: 56-66 cm

The weight: 25 – 35 kg

Age 12 – 15 years

Representatives of this intelligent breed are shepherd dogs with a very developed intellect, easily trained and very hardworking. The versatility and intelligence of Belgian Shepherds are legendary. This breed was bred to perform heavy long-term work. At the same time, Belgian dogs are very sensitive and crave human communication. Belgian Shepherds need an individual approach: the owner, who has established a relationship with a dog of this breed, will easily train him. In addition, these dogs have a wonderful memory, quick wit and curiosity.

Collie

Country of origin: Scotland

Size: medium, large

Growth: 46-60 cm

The weight: 22 – 35 kg

Age 12 – 16 years

These beautiful Scottish Sheepdogs were bred for grazing. Collies, whether shorthaired, longhaired or bearded, are known for exemplary indoor demeanor. These dogs are easy to train, smart, loyal and affectionate. A prime example of this is Border Collies, who respond well to consistent reward training and enjoy attention during their performances. They are smart in everything: whether it is performing tricks, competitions, agility, obedience or herding work, therefore they occupy a worthy place in the top dogs with high intelligence.

Keeshond

Country of origin: Germany

Size: average

Growth: 43-55 cm

The weight: 25 – 30 kg

Age 14 – 16 years

Unlike most intelligent dogs, the Keeshond is not a herding or hunting breed. These fluffy Spitz are devoted companions, seeking to please the owner. German Wolfspitz (another name for the breed) are lively, active dogs with a pronounced personality. Thanks to their intelligence, they participate in obedience and agility competitions. In the 18th century they were famous as vigilant watchdogs.

Kurtshaar

Country of origin: Germany

Size: large

Growth: 58-66 cm

The weight: 20 – 32 kg

Age 12 – 14 years

These hunting dogs have great strength, speed, agility and endurance. The Kurzhaar breed was bred for long hours of work in the field or river, so they are excellent at following the trail and bringing prey. German Shorthaired Pointers are easy to train and can be excellent companions for active families, the main thing is to take into account their tendency to dominate and immediately show who is the boss in the house.

Flatcoated retriever

Country of origin: United Kingdom

Size: medium, large

Growth: 56-62 cm

The weight: 25 – 36 kg

Age 12 – 14 years

Hunting dogs of the Flat-Coated Retriever breed are very smart and strive to please their master. They were bred to hunt game on land and from water, and are still used for this purpose. These are capable dogs, excellent competitors in obedience and agility. However, they are also used as therapy dogs. Like other hunting dogs, they are active and require a lot of exercise to develop.

English Cocker Spaniel

Country of origin: England

Size: average

Growth: from 38 to 41 cm

The weight: 14 – 15 kg

Age 14–16 years

The adorable English Cocker Spaniel is ranked 21st on the list of smart dogs. The breed belongs to the sports group and was intended for hunting game birds. These easily trainable quadrupeds, when properly trained, make excellent pets. They perfectly understand the owner, quickly learn commands and share their cheerfulness with all family members.

Mittelschnauzer

Country of origin: Germany

Size: average

Growth: average

The weight: 14,5 – 15,5 kg

Age 12 – 14 years

A former German farm dog, the Standard Schnauzer today excels in agility, tracking and herding due to its agility, agility and athleticism. They are excellent hunters on land and in water. Like all service dogs, they need a lot of activity to be happy. So that dogs do not get bored, you need to regularly come up with new activities for them.

Breton Spaniel

Country of origin: France

Size: average

Growth: 43-53 cm

The weight: 14 – 18 kg

Age 12 – 15 years

Another breed of spaniels in the ranking of dogs with high intelligence. Great companions for an active family. Smart, well-trained dogs that lead an active lifestyle in the fresh air. Initially, Breton Spaniels were general workers in the countryside. These cheerful dogs are reliable hunting companions, valued for their endurance and excellent scent for birds.

American cocker spaniel

Country of origin: USA

Size: average

Growth: 33-39 cm

The weight: 10 – 15 kg

Age 12–14 years

American Cocker Spaniels are the smallest of all spaniels. Like their English relatives, they were used for hunting game. Now these smart dogs are very popular as pets that love to please the owner and are ready to go camping with him. Easily memorize new teams, capable and obedient students. For many years this breed was the most popular in America.

weimaraner

Country of origin: Germany

Size: large

Growth: 57-70 cm

The weight: 25 – 40 kg

Age about 12 years

Bred in Germany, Weimaraners are highly intelligent and trainable animals. For intelligence, they receive the highest score, as well as for performing various exercises. They are playful, have high energy and need a lot of movement. They used to be hunting dogs, but now with enough exercise they make happy pets.

Belgian Shepherd Malinois

Country of origin: Belgium

Size: average

Growth: 56-66 cm

The weight: 20 – 30 kg

Age 10 – 14 years

One of the four varieties of the Belgian Shepherd dog breed. Belgian Malinois are smart, well-trained and hard-working dogs. They excel in police work, search and rescue, and maneuverability. They definitely need suitable exercise, so they are suitable as pets for experienced dog breeders. These dogs, bred as helpers for shepherds and herdsmen, have impeccable working abilities.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Country of origin: Switzerland

Size: large

Growth: 60-70 cm

The weight: 35 – 50 kg

Age 12 – 14 years

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, calm and intelligent dogs. Despite the fact that the representatives of this breed are powerful and built for hard work, they are very sweet and have an affectionate nature. Berners, in general, are calm and peaceful dogs, although sometimes they are not averse to misbehaving. They are distinguished by a highly developed intellect, they are able not only to work tirelessly, but also to guard and protect the family.

Pomeranian Spitz

Country of origin: Germany

Size: miniature

Growth: 22-30 cm at the withers

The weight: from 2 to 3 kg

Age 12 – 15 years

The list of the smartest dogs includes two miniatures, and one of them is a charming Pomeranian. Pomeranians are distinguished by a developed intellect, a pronounced personality and high activity. These Spitz are very cunning and quick-witted, well trained and can compete in agility and obedience, participating in agility competitions. Loving and cheerful companions for their owners.

Irish Water Spaniel

Country of origin: Ireland

Size: large

Growth: 51-58 cm

The weight: 20 – 30 kg

Age 10 – 12 years

Another spaniel among the leaders in mental abilities. The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the oldest breeds, the largest of which is quite rare these days. Very alert and intelligent dogs that love to run, hunt, swim and play. They are valued as excellent athletes due to their courage, courage, exceptional endurance and excellent character.

hungarian vizsla

Country of origin: Hungary

Size: large

Growth: up to 64 cm

The weight: up to 27 kg

Age 12 – 14 years

Initially, these smart Hungarian cops were bred to be used for hunting. Like other hunting dogs, today representatives of this breed are considered excellent companions for active families. They show all their mental and physical abilities during all kinds of exercises and try to please the owners.

Which smart dog is right for you – tips for choosing

1. smart little dogs

   For those who live in a small apartment and want to have a small smart dog, you should pay attention to the following three breeds: poodle (miniature), papillon and pomeranian. These intelligent dog breeds are in the top 30 smartest.

2. Medium size dogs

   Future owners, whose dwelling is of medium size, in addition to small smart four-legged animals, can be advised to have a medium-sized pet. You can choose, for example, such smart dogs as the Border Collie, Standard Poodle, Sheltie, Australian Cattle Dog or Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

3. smart big dogs

   Anyone who wants to make a huge and intelligent dog friend and owns enough living space for his comfortable living should take a closer look at the following breeds: German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Doberman, Labrador Retriever and Rottweiler. They are in the top ten smartest dog breeds.

4. Dogs for allergy sufferers

   First of all, people prone to wool allergies are advised to choose a smart pet of one of the following breeds: Irish Water Spaniel, Poodle, Miniature Schnauzer and Standard Schnauzer.

5. Smart guard dogs

   Dobermans, Shelties and Rottweilers, which are among the ten smart dog breeds, have excellent watchdog qualities. In the second ten are Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Schipperke and Bernese Mountain Dogs.

6. Dogs for families with children

   Only a few representatives of intelligent dog breeds are very fond of children and get along well with them: Border Collie, Poodle, English Cocker Spaniel, Sheltie, Collie, Golden Retriever, Labrador, Weimaraner, German Shepherd and Vienna Mountain Dog.

Advice to all future owners of a four-legged pet: before you get a dog, get to know the main characteristics of its breed and needs. Most intelligent breeds are hunters and hard workers by nature, requiring long periods of active exercise and training. And you also need to understand exactly what kind of dog you would like to see next to you and how much time you are ready to devote to it. The choice of the breed of the future pet and your joint happy coexistence depend on this.

Answers to frequently asked questions