A List of the Smartest Breeds of Dog

Perhaps you want to peruse a list of the smartest breeds of dogs because you are planning on adopting one and want to have an intelligent breed. Even if that is not the case, it is an interesting study to see which dogs come out on top here.

The following dog breeds have been identified as the ten most intelligent. After we list them, we will explain a little bit about each of these smart canines.

• Border Collie
• Poodle
• German Shepherd
• Golden Retriever
• Doberman Pinscher
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Labrador Retriever
• Papillon
• Rottweiler
• Australian Cattle Dog

About the Smartest Breeds of Dog

Border Collie

This breed comes in at the top of the list. They enjoying being engaged in activities, and they do not like spending their time in meaningless pursuits. Due to their high levels of intelligence, they also come in at the top of the list in terms of obedience.

Poodles

Like the Border Collie, Poodles are also rather easy to train. In general, they are very sensitive and happy as well. Poodles, for the most part, tend to be good guard dogs. They are so willing to be trained that some of them can even be taught to hunt.

German Shepherd

In addition to being intelligent, German Shepherds have strong protective instincts. Some people do not see these dogs as friendly. However, if they are brought up with love, while still being taught to be obedient, they can be incredibly good family dogs.

Golden Retriever

Their intelligence is part of the reason why they are consistently ranked as one of the most popular breeds of dogs. However, they are also loyal, patient, and great with children. Golden Retrievers tend to perform very well in obedience competitions and are great at doing tricks.

Doberman Pinscher

These dogs, also one of the top guard dogs, love to do work and like the Border Collie, do not like to wile away their time. You might picture these dogs as vicious animals; however, they can actually be quite tame. Some of them even work as therapy dogs in hospitals.

Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs were originally bred to herd cattle; therefore, intelligence just seems to be in their blood. They love to have human companionship, although they can be a little bit wary of both strangers and children at times.

Labrador Retriever

Coming in at number seven, we have another popular breed of dog. They absolutely love working, and they require a lot of exercise. If you do not give your Labrador Retriever enough exercise, he or she could develop some health issues.

Papillon

This little guy is actually quite an assertive breed. Papillons are very protective of their homes, and they will let you know if you are invading their space. However, once they get to know you, they are one of the most loving breeds of dogs you will find.

Rottweiler

People tend to fear these large breeds, yet they are only ranked as average in intensity. Indeed, they are a guard dog breed, but they are also very reliable and if trained properly, they can make for wonderful family pets.

Australian Cattle Dog

Rounding off our list is the Australian Cattle Dog. Like the Shetland Sheepdog, they were originally raised as herders, although this breed herded cattle. They enjoy both mental and physical exercise, and they require it on a regular basis.