Dogs are amazing creatures that can do incredible things, from saving lives to traveling to space. But some dogs are especially gifted with high levels of intelligence that make them stand out from the rest. How do we measure dog intelligence? According to renowned canine researcher Stanley Coren, PhD, there are three types of dog intelligence: instinctive, adaptive, and working and obedience1. Instinctive intelligence refers to what the dog has been bred to do, such as herding or hunting. Adaptive intelligence is how well the dog learns from its environment and solves problems. Working and obedience intelligence is how hard the dog works to please its human and follow commands.
Based on these criteria, here are the top 10 smartest dog breeds in the world, along with some facts and characteristics that make them so smart.
1. Border Collie
The border collie is widely considered the smartest dog breed in the world12. Originally bred as a herding dog, the border collie can perform any task you give it, from agility to obedience to tricks. The border collie is extremely energetic, athletic, and driven, and needs lots of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and frustration. The border collie can learn over 1,000 words, as demonstrated by Chaser, a famous border collie from South Carolina2.
2. Poodle
The poodle is not only a beautiful and elegant dog, but also a very intelligent one. The poodle originated as a hunting dog and continues to be a diligent worker and a loyal companion. The poodle can easily learn complex tricks and commands, and is very adaptable to different situations. The poodle is also known for its hypoallergenic coat, which requires regular grooming and maintenance.
3. German Shepherd
The German shepherd is a versatile and powerful dog that excels in many fields, such as police work, military service, search and rescue, and protection. The German shepherd is loyal, courageous, and confident, and has a strong sense of duty and responsibility. The German shepherd is very responsive to training and can learn new skills quickly and efficiently.
4. Golden Retriever
The golden retriever is one of the most popular and beloved dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. The golden retriever is friendly, cheerful, and affectionate, and makes a great family pet. The golden retriever is also very smart and eager to please, and can learn various tasks and commands with ease. The golden retriever is often used as a service dog, a therapy dog, or a guide dog, thanks to its gentle temperament and high intelligence.
5. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman pinscher is a sleek and muscular dog that combines strength, speed, and stamina. The Doberman pinscher was originally bred as a guard dog and a personal protector, and still retains its fearless and alert personality. The Doberman pinscher is very loyal and devoted to its owner, and will defend them from any threat. The Doberman pinscher is also very smart and trainable, and can master complex skills and commands with minimal repetition.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland sheepdog, or Sheltie, is a small but mighty dog that resembles a miniature collie. The Sheltie was bred to herd sheep and other livestock on the Shetland Islands, and has a strong instinct to work and obey. The Sheltie is very intelligent and responsive, and can learn new tricks and commands with ease. The Sheltie is also very affectionate and loyal, and loves to be around its human family.
7. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever is another very popular and loved dog breed, and is often considered the best all-around dog. The Labrador retriever is friendly, outgoing, and playful, and gets along well with everyone, including children and other animals. The Labrador retriever is also very intelligent and trainable, and can perform various tasks and roles, such as hunting, retrieving, service, therapy, and detection. The Labrador retriever is always eager to learn and have fun, and is a joy to be around.
8. Papillon
The papillon is a small and dainty dog that has a distinctive butterfly-like appearance, thanks to its large and fringed ears. The papillon may look delicate, but it is actually very lively and energetic, and loves to play and explore. The papillon is also very smart and alert, and can learn new tricks and commands quickly and easily. The papillon is very loyal and affectionate, and enjoys being with its human companions.
9. Rottweiler
The rottweiler is a large and powerful dog that has a reputation for being fierce and aggressive, but in reality, it is a very loyal and loving dog that bonds strongly with its owner. The rottweiler was originally bred as a cattle drover and a cart puller, and has a natural instinct to guard and protect. The rottweiler is very intelligent and obedient, and can be trained to perform various tasks and roles, such as police work, military service, search and rescue, and protection.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian cattle dog, or blue heeler, is a medium-sized dog that was bred to herd cattle and other livestock in the harsh Australian outback. The Australian cattle dog is very energetic, hardworking, and independent, and can handle any challenge or obstacle. The Australian cattle dog is also very intelligent and trainable, and can learn new skills and commands with ease. The Australian cattle dog is very loyal and devoted to its owner, and will follow them anywhere.
