World’s Top 10 Smartest Dogs

Many pet parents often think that their dog is extremely smart, and they’re probably right. Just like humans, dogs also have different types of intelligence and aptitude for many different skills.

Canine intelligence refers to a dog’s ability to solve problems, think, and learn. There are two significant components of canine intelligence— working/obedience intelligence and adaptive intelligence. Working/obedience intelligence refers to a canine’s capacity to learn commands from their parents/humans and finish those tasks efficiently. This is often measured by how accurately and quickly a breed responds to its training. Similarly, adaptive intelligence refers to a canine’s ability to solve problems by itself, factoring in past experiences to navigate their present challenges. Combined together, these two aspects highlight the versatility of cognitive function in dogs which can vary significantly based on breeds and individual personalities.

Top 10 Smartest Dog Breeds

Border Collies

Border Collies are one of the most talented and smartest dog breeds you’ll ever come across. They are not just quick learners and problem solvers but also superstars in agility. Border Collies were originally bred to be hunting dogs, which is why they at their happiest when they have a job to do. With high energy levels, these dogs can work for long hours and make for excellent companions for farmers and ranchers.

Poodles

Poodles were originally bred as hunting dogs and have been working alongside as humans since a very long time. Because of this long connection to humans, Poodles are very easy to train as compared to other breeds and they love to please their parents. While you may find poodles resting on a couch these days, they are often celebrating at the podium at obedience and agility competitions.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds were bred to protect flocks, which explains their exceptional intelligence, versatility, and trainability. From over hundreds of years, German Shepherds have been protecting flocks and their instincts from those hunting days are still intact today. This is why they excel at hard-working jobs and are the first choice for police and military work like search and rescue missions.

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are extremely easy to train. If you have a pocket full of treats, you can get them to do practically anything. These dogs can excel in versatile tasks, such as retrieving objects and hunting. They also make for great service and therapy dogs. Golden Retrievers are known for being extremely loyal and affectionate pets as they maintain unwavering commitment to their parents. They love to please their parents and are always eager to spend some quality time with them.

Shetland Sheepdogs

Shetland Sheepdogs are famous for their intelligence, trainability, and problem-solving skills. This breed is a regular at obedience and agility competitions. Shetland Sheepdogs are also considered to be extremely loyal family pets who love to use their energetic nature and intelligence to spend some fun filled time with their family outside.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are cute to look at and also one of the smartest dog breeds. Labradors have a long-standing history of helping humans hunt and retreat, which is why they’re so quick to learn new things and can use their instinct to act on instructions. With proper training, this breed also excels in service and therapy work.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers are loyal and intelligent dogs that are easy to train. This breed excels at obedience competitions and is a popular pick for police and military work. Doberman Pinschers are also very curious dogs who love to explore and require plenty of exercise to get by each day. This breed is the perfect blend of athleticism and intelligence, making them a great companion for active families. 

Corgis

Corgis are small herding dogs. This breed only needs their favourite treat as an incentive to get any job done. Their high intelligence makes them a little stubborn, but there’s nothing their favourite treat can’t solve.

Schnauzer

The scruffy faced Schnauzer breed is extremely alert and playful in nature. These dogs were originally bred to work on farms in Germany, which is why they love performing tasks and require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation. If you have a Schnauzer dog, you must train it for agility and obedience, as they are quick learners and love to please their parents. 

Papillon

The Papillon is a centuries-old breed that has spaniel heritage. These dogs possess big, butterfly-shaped ears and are extremely athletic and intelligent. They are curious and always eager to please their parents. While they come off as ideal sporting dogs, they were bred primarily for companionship. That being said, the Papillon does not do so well if left on its own for a long period of time. These dogs are champions at agility sports and pet parents can get them registered for agility and obedience training.

These are some of the smartest dog breeds that can make for wonderful pets and companions at home. Do remember that your pet simply needs good training, a regular routine, plenty of exercise, and mental engagement to grow and develop. Dogs are intelligent and can learn quickly and adjust to their surroundings to create a loving and loyal relationship with their parent.