Since the Stone Age, canines have been humanity's faithful companion. For centuries, humans purposefully bred dogs to be perfect helpers and friends. Aside from being man's best friend, the smartest dog breeds have been field guides, war buddies, detectives, film stars, and security guards.
As canine researcher Stanley Coren, PhD, points out in his book The Intelligence of Dogs, pups have saved countless human lives during our long association, both physically and mentally.
So, if you're seeking a dog friend who can follow your cues to the letter, or just an agreeable family pet who rolls over for a treat on command, the smarter dogs will probably be easier to train. Their love and devotion are a huge bonus.
Decoding Dog Intelligence: What Makes Them Smart?
Experts say signs of dog intelligence are a combination of various factors, not just how trainable they are. In fact, some of the ways the brightest dog breeds display their intelligence can be frustrating for dog parents. Dogs with high cognitive function are more apt to show off their creativity, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities, like how to unlock the back door and make a break for it or swipe beef jerky out of a grocery bag.
According to Stanley Coren, PhD, of the University of British Columbia,
“There are three types of dog intelligence: instinctive (what the dog is bred to do), adaptive (how well the dog learns from its environment to solve problems) and working and obedience (the equivalent of ‘school learning.’)”
Understanding Canine IQ
Stanley Coren developed the criteria for ranking the most intelligent dogs. Coren contacted obedience trial judges from the AKC and CKC to help evaluate various dog breeds. As a result, he was able to compile useful data and rank most of the popular types of dogs.
Even if some breeds seem brighter than others, trainers say any dog can learn the basics like "sit" and "stay," even if it takes certain pups a bit longer to catch on. The important thing is understanding what your doggo was bred for and how that can help you motivate your pet.
The smartest dog breeds typically have a combination of all four intelligence types. They have a natural ability to learn, remember things quickly, obey commands, and accurately problem-solve.
The Smartest Dog Breeds Ranking Criteria
Measuring a dog's intelligence is based on the following four factors, according to This Old House.
Adaptive intelligence: the dog's problem-solving skills
Instinctive intelligence: the dog's built-in, natural abilities
Obedience intelligence: the dog's ability to consistently obey commands
Work intelligence: the dog's capability to learn new commands and tasks quickly and easily.
The number of repetitions the animal needs to master a new command indicates intelligence. In other words, “smarter” dogs learn new commands with fewer repetitions.
How often your dog obeys a known command on the first attempt denotes how smart a pup is. So, if your dog obeys a known command on the first try 19 out of 20 attempts, they’re a top-10 smarty-pants doggie.
Most Intelligent Dog Breeds
Here is a comprehensive list of the most intelligent pups. Don't let the precious floofs fool you. These dogs are all brilliant.
Border Collie
According to the book The Intelligence of Dogs by Stanley Coren, the Border Collie is the smartest dog breed in the world. The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes the Border Collie not only as “smart, affectionate, and energetic,” but also as a “remarkably bright workaholic.”
These dogs quickly learn complex commands, often mastering new tricks after just a few repetitions. With laser-like focus, they can even read subtle hand signals or body language. Their boundless energy and problem-solving skills make them great for active families but a challenge if left without mental stimulation. Picture a Border Collie in action—whether rounding up sheep or excelling in agility competitions, they thrive on having a job to do.
Poodle
The Poodle is often considered a high-maintenance pet thanks to their bountiful curly hair. They may look fancy but that does not make them less clever. Poodles receive high marks for both their emotional and cognitive intelligence. In fact, the Poodle ranks second among the most intelligent dog breeds, right after the Border Collie. Poodles are versatile pets for a variety of activities, from obedience training to search and rescue. Their keen problem-solving skills and natural alertness give them a "detective-like" quality. Poodles come in various sizes (Standard, Miniature, and Toy). They share a common trait. It is a strong desire to please their owners. This, combined with their quick learning ability, makes them highly trainable. They are eager participants in all kinds of canine sports and activities.
German Shepherd
According to Coren's ranking, the noble German Shepherd is the second most intelligent herding dog and the third most intelligent dog in general. German Shepherds were bred for their superior intelligence and they can master a new command on the first try.
This breed has laser-sharp focus and is easy to train because they possess the will and ability to be obedient. German Shepherds also have a strong protective instinct regarding their fellow “pack” members, meaning you and your family.
Their physical strength, combined with their keen sense of smell and laser-sharp focus, makes them ideal for tasks that require endurance and precision. German Shepherds are quick learners, often picking up new commands on the first try. This breed's ability to stay calm under pressure and their obedience make them a favorite for highly specialized training programs.
Papillon
In Coren’s ranking, the smartest of the small dog breeds is the Papillon. As one of the oldest surviving dog breeds, the Papillon has had plenty of time over the centuries to evolve into one of the smartest dogs in the world. The Papillon has distinctive butterfly-like ears. It is the smartest of the toy breeds. Papillons are incredibly agile and trainable. They often perform in agility and obedience competitions. Their intelligence shines through in their curiosity and eagerness to learn new tricks. Lively and playful, they are quick to pick up on human emotions. They have a surprisingly bold personality for such a small dog. They show no fear when interacting with larger dogs. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living.
Shetland Sheepdog
The relatively compact Shetland Sheepdog can do everything a bigger herding dog can do. But because of their smaller size, this breed tends to require far less food.
These dogs are eager to please and persistent. Shelties can learn new commands in just a few repetitions and keep at a task until they master it. Because of their intelligence, obedience, and agility, they rank sixth on Coren’s list of the smartest dog breeds.
Shetland Sheepdogs, or "Shelties," are smaller versions of the Collie. They are known for their incredible herding skills. They are quick learners, mastering new commands in just a few repetitions. They have a thick double coat, giving them a fluffy appearance. Their sharp mind and keen alertness sets them apart. Highly observant, Shelties are quick to react to any changes in their environment. This makes them excellent watchdogs despite their compact size.
Golden Retriever
As we've learned, canine intelligence isn’t strictly about brainpower. With Golden Retrievers, their willingness to comply with commands or tasks, is what earned them their spot as the fourth most intelligent dog breed. Because their first impulse is to please their humans, these beautiful pups can be depended upon to behave consistently no matter the situation.
Ranked as the fourth smartest breed, it is easy to train them for various roles. These include therapy and service work. Their thick, water-resistant coat and strong build are physical traits that complement their natural athleticism. Goldens are social butterflies. They thrive in family settings and get along well with kids and other pets. Their willingness to follow commands make them dependable in any situation. It may be retrieving game in the field or simply cuddling on the couch.
Barbet
The breed's delightfully chaotic coat and amiable disposition create the impression of a living, breathing, cuddly toy. The Barbet is a solid and strong dog bred over time to be an expert hunter and swimmer. Barbets are very intelligent animals and learn new commands and tasks quickly. These pooches are gentle by nature and are good housemates as long as they can get those zoomies out with regular exercise.
The Barbet is a powerhouse in the water. Originally bred as a hunting dog, the Barbet is known for its swimming skills and sharp intelligence. These dogs are quick learners, adapting well to obedience training and new tasks. Their playful, easygoing nature makes them great family pets. They require regular exercise to burn off their energy. Barbets are gentle and affectionate. They have strong bonds with their families. Despite their relaxed demeanor, they're always ready for an adventure.
Doberman Pinscher
The extremely intelligent and easily trainable Doberman Pinscher was originally bred by a tax collector in Germany. He killed time during the off-season to breed the ultimate canine bodyguard. And who would need this level of protection more than a tax collector?
Doberman Pinschers are known for their sleek, powerful build and keen intelligence. Originally bred for protection, they are highly trainable. They excel in roles like guard dogs, police work and even therapy. Dobermans are quick to learn new commands and have a natural instinct to protect their owners. This makes them excellent watchdogs. Their athleticism and strong build enable them to perform a variety of physical tasks with ease. Despite their intimidating appearance, Dobermans are loyal, affectionate, and gentle with their families. They require consistent training and socialization to channel their energy and intelligence in positive ways.
Bloodhound
The renowned "Sleuth Hound" has one job and they do it very well - find people who are missing or in hiding. An off-the-clock Bloodhound is a docile and even demure creature, but put them on a scent and they are single-minded and relentless, just as they were bred to be.
Bloodhounds are the "detectives" of the dog world. Their long, droopy ears and wrinkled skin help capture scents, making them the top choice for search and rescue operations. Once they pick up a scent, they become single-minded and relentless in tracking it. Despite their serious work skills, Bloodhounds are gentle and patient at home, often displaying a calm, even-tempered demeanor. Their intelligence shines through their dedication to their tasks, and they require regular mental stimulation to stay happy.
Labrador Retriever
Coren ranks the Labrador Retriever as the seventh most intelligent breed of dog. Labs can and want to learn from their humans. Their process is watching and imitating the behavior. This completely lovable and family-oriented floof-ball is the most popular dog breed in the US. This breed is heaven-sent for people with disabilities, and one of the finest emotional support dogs across the board.
Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed in the U.S. They are known for their friendly nature and impressive intelligence. Labs excel in roles like service dogs, search and rescue, and therapy. Their keen sense of smell and ability to learn through observation make them highly effective in various tasks. Labs are playful, affectionate, and great with families, making them ideal companions. Their strong, athletic build and love for water complement their versatile abilities, whether they're retrieving game or providing emotional support.
Chinook
Hailing from Wonalancet, New Hampshire, the Chinook is a spunky and tough working dog. This breed was once on the verge of extinction, and the Chinook is still among the rarest of the AKC breeds. Chinooks are rare but highly intelligent working dogs, originally bred for sledding. These dogs are known for their patient, gentle temperament and eagerness to please. Chinooks have a strong work ethic and excel in activities like obedience training and agility. They are sturdy, muscular dogs, built for endurance and speed. Despite their tough exterior, Chinooks are friendly and great with kids, making them excellent family pets. Their intelligence, combined with their strong desire to work, makes them highly trainable and responsive to commands.
Challenges With the Highly Intelligent Dog Breeds
Highly intelligent dog breeds like Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Poodles are both rewarding and challenging. Their quick learning means they grasp commands fast but need constant mental stimulation. Without it, they easily get bored and may turn to destructive behaviors like chewing or digging. Regular training is a must, as these dogs love learning and need ongoing challenges.
New owners should plan for lots of exercise. These dogs usually need at least an hour of physical activity each day. Mental enrichment is just as important. Use puzzle toys, obedience training, or interactive games like hide and seek to keep their minds busy.
Activities like agility courses or treat-dispensing toys can also help satisfy their mental needs. Socialization is crucial to prevent anxiety or dominance. These dogs require time and effort, but the rewards are huge. With the right training and engagement, they become loyal companions who excel in learning new tasks.
Conclusion
Even if some breeds are more mentally on the ball, trainers say any dog can learn the basics like sitting and staying. It just might take them longer to catch on. The important thing is knowing what your pooch is bred for and therefore how to motivate them.
But keep in mind that the smartest aren't always the best choice as a pet. Your job is to find a breed that suits your lifestyle and to concentrate on bringing out the best in your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How smart are dogs compared to humans?
According to several behavioral measuring tools, a dog’s mental abilities are comparable to that of a 2-2.5-year-old human toddler.
What are the two most intelligent dogs?
Border collies and poodles are generally considered the most intelligent dogs.
What is the smartest dog in the world?
A Border Collie named Chaser could identify more than 1,000 proper nouns throughout her life of 15 years.
