Which Dog Breeds Are the Smartest? These Pups Top the List
These super intelligent pups make the perfect companions.
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When it comes to adopting a dog, some potential pet owners make intelligence a priority. A smart dog breed is a great choice, especially if you're looking for a companion you can easily train, or if you're looking for a dog to help protect your family or to join you on hunts.
Dr. Alex Crow, licensed veterinarian and owner of PetHealthGuru.com, says there are different types of intelligence in dogs, including instinctive, adaptive, and working intelligence. He explains, "When it comes to determining intelligence in dogs, I believe it's essential to consider their problem-solving abilities, memory, and adaptability. As I always say, 'Intelligence is not just about obedience; it's about understanding and responding to situations.' Studies have shown that dogs with higher intelligence tend to have a stronger bond with their owners and are more likely to pick up commands quickly."
How Is Intelligence Determined in Dogs?
Dr. Julie Hunt, Veterinary Consultant at Embrace Pet Insurance, says it's important to note the difference between intelligence and trainability. She says, "The willingness and ability to work may actually measure trainability more than intelligence. Is it possible for a very intelligent animal to decide it doesn’t want to work for humans? This is certainly possible. However, it is clear that dogs require at least a moderate level of intelligence to be trained to do a job, so trainability may be the most reasonable proxy measure for intelligence that we have."
She points out that some breeds may excel in empathy or have superior emotional intelligence. She says, "This is much harder to measure, but these breeds and individuals may be more capable as therapy dogs or may be perceived as more emotionally close to their owners. Many different breeds of dogs have been utilized as therapy dogs, without a predilection for any specific breed."
Are Smart Dog Breeds Easier to Train?
Intelligence and trainability go hand-in-hand to an extent. Dr. Hunt says, "At least a reasonable degree of intelligence is required to be trained. How much intelligence may vary based on the specific task being taught. Once a dog is of moderate intelligence, sufficient to perform the task requested, additional intelligence probably doesn’t further improve their trainability. Very intelligent animals can actually be more difficult to train because they may begin to predict what they will be asked to do, and then will perform it without being asked. These dogs may recognize patterns like being asked to do tasks in a certain order or being asked to do a specific task in a certain location. Dogs who attempt to predict what their human is going to ask them to do can often be incorrect, which can result in training challenges."
Do smart dog breeds require more stimulation or enrichment?
According to Dr. Hunt, "Generally, intelligent breeds do require more training, stimulation, and enrichment because they have active minds. Physical activity is critical in helping an intelligent dog remain satisfied with their life. Additionally, these dogs thrive when asked to do a job, however simple. Training them to perform basic tasks like retrieval or teaching them to navigate dog agility obstacles can help to keep their minds busy and satisfied. If very intelligent dogs must be left alone for a number of hours, puzzle toys can be helpful to entertain them."
Dr. Crow adds, "I advise owners to provide their intelligent dogs with puzzle toys, scent work, and agility training to keep them engaged. As I always tell my clients, 'A bored dog is a recipe for disaster, but a stimulated dog is a joy to behold!'"
More Info for Dog Lovers:
Doberman Pinscher
Dr. Alex Crow points out that dobermans have "exceptional intelligence and trainability." The dogs are bred with protection in mind, and thrive at obedience with proper training. Although most well known for their physical attributes, including their distinctive shiny coats and muscular frames, the breed is also highly alert.
- Height: 24-28 inches
- Weight: 60-100 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Belgian Malanois
The distinguished Malanois is famous for its work in the military and on police forces, plus you've probably seen videos of them jumping to incredible heights. Dr. Julie Hunt says, "The Belgian Malinois is commonly trained as a working dog, and they are quite intelligent. However, they generally do not make ideal pets, as they can be hypervigilant and overactive in a home environment."
- Height: 20-26 inches
- Weight: 40-80 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
German Shorthaired Pointer
The highly active German shorthaired is adept at hunting and following commands. The energetic breed requires plenty of activity and stimulation. If you adopt a GSP puppy, plan on beginning training right away—they are highly intelligent but require a positive training environment.
- Height: 21-25 inches
- Weight: 45-70 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Great Pyrenees
Dr. Julie Hunt notes that Great Pyrenees are known for their intelligence. This beautiful breed originated in the Pyrenees Mountains as livestock guard dogs, and they have natural protective instincts. They tend to be good with families and require moderate exercise. As you can imagine by their luxurious white coat, there is some grooming required, and heavy shedding is to be expected.
- Height: 25 to 32 inches
- Weight: 85 to 100 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
St. Bernard
Dr. Hunt also adds the large and lovable St. Bernard to the list of smartest dog breeds. Known for their ability to rescue stranded hikers in the Swiss Alps, St. Bernards are known to be trainable and protective watch dogs, plus they make great family pets.
- Height: 26-30 inches
- Weight: 120-180 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog looks similar to a Collie but comes in a smaller package. While a collie can tip the scales at 60 to 75 pounds, Shetland sheepdogs are closer to 15 to 25. The two breeds were grouped together by the AKC until 1911. Thanks to its trainability and obedience, they tend to do well in agility competitions.
- Height: 13-16 inches
- Weight: 15-25 lbs
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian shepherds are strong-willed working dogs with heightened protective instincts. They're bred to be watchdogs and have a natural instinct to protect their flock. These intelligent dogs require training, socialization, and lots of exercise. Plus, you'll want to make sure your property is secure so they are not able to escape a fenced enclosure.
- Height: 27-29 inches
- Weight: 80-150 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
When it comes to hunting dogs, it's hard to beat the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. They're highly intelligent and adapt well to training, plus they make excellent family pets. Their protective coat also makes them great swimmers.
- Height: 20-24 inches
- Weight: 25-70 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Golden Retriever
Known for being gentle and loving, Golden Retrievers make excellent family dogs. They can be taught to hunt and even perform therapy services for those who have special needs or disabilities, but they're also content with a low-key lifestyle. They're one of the most popular dogs in the U.S. for a good reason!
- Height: 21-24 inches
- Weight: 55-75 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Poodle
Poodles were originally bred as hunting dogs. They're loyal, easy-going, and eager to please their owners. The pups excel at obedience and agility and often beat out the competition in those categories at dog shows. Poodles are bred in standard, miniature, and toy sizes, and they don't shed but do require grooming.
- Height: Over 15 inches (standard)
- Weight: 40-70 pounds (standard)
- Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II, Corgis are members of the herding family and are easily trained, plus, they make great family pets. The energetic breed requires regular activity but are fun-loving and make excellent companions.
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 28-30 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Border Collie
Border Collies can learn all kinds of commands. They're excellent problem solvers and have lots of energy, too, making them perfect for farm or ranch living. You'll want to try puzzles or agility training to keep them engaged and active.
- Height: 18-22 inches
- Weight: 30-55 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are versatile, easy to train, and are born with an innate instinct to protect. These hardworking dogs have a lot of stamina, and perform well in agencies like the military police force, making them one of the best choices for people in search of a guard dog.
- Height: 22-26 inches
- Weight: 50-90 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Papillon
If you're looking for a small breed, the adorable papillon might be a great option for your family. Affectionate, confident, and perceptive, Papillons are as intelligent as they are adorable. They're one of the easiest to train and pick up commands quickly. Marie Antoinette was known to be a fan of this toy breed.
- Height: 8-11 inches
- Weight: 5-10 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
Rottweiler
Known to be exceptional guard dogs, the imposing breed is highly trainable when paired with a skilled trainer. Weighing up to 135 pounds, Rottweilers certainly look imposing, but they're generally calm, confident, and loyal family members. They can also be playful and cuddly, just be sure to provide plenty of socialization and training as Rotties can be territorial.
- Height: 22-27 inches
- Weight: 80-135 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 9-10 years
Labrador Retriever
The lovable Lab had a long stretch as the most popular dog in the U.S. (only recently coming in second to the French bulldog). Super friendly and quick to learn, Labrador Retrievers have a long history of hunting and retrieving. They're the ideal canine companion for first-time pet owners and families.
- Height: 20-25 inches
- Weight: 55-80 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs were bred for herding. If you have a lot of outdoor space, these dogs were made for you as they love to flex their herding and chasing skills as much as possible.
- Height: 17-20 inches
- Weight: 35-50 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Collie
Lassie set the standard for dog intelligence, and for good reason. Although you might not need your pup to find someone in a well, Collies make the perfect problem-solving family dog. They're known to be protective and alert. They excel at herding, obedience, and agility. Collies are bred with two coat types: rough and smooth.
- Height: 22-26 inches
- Weight: 50-75 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Bloodhound
For centuries humans have relied on the Bloodhound's sharp sense of smell for tracking and hunting. Often called upon for search and rescue missions, you'll also love having one at home. They have a keen sense of smell and love to explore, and, while they're good family dogs, they tend to be stubborn, especially when they're on a scent.
- Height: 23-27 inches
- Weight: 80-110 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Miniature Schnauzer
Don't let their cute, bearded faces fool you. Miniature Schnauzers were bred to work on farms and thrive when they have a job to do. They require lots of mental stimulation and physical activity to ensure they don't get bored and misbehave.
- Height: 12-14 inches
- Weight: 11-20 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Nina Derwin is a Brooklyn-based writer with a passion for the art of storytelling. In addition to writing articles for various clients and publications, Nina has written several episodes of scripted television for networks including Starz and Fox.
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