Ever watched your dog figure out how to open a door, steal a treat from the counter, or manipulate you into an extra walk? If so, you’ve witnessed canine intelligence in action. But when it comes to the smartest dog breeds, some pups are simply operating on another level.
Whether you’re a first-time owner looking for an easy to train dog breed for beginners or a seasoned dog parent curious about the dog intelligence ranking, you’re in the right place. We’ve compiled the definitive list of the top 20 most intelligent dog breeds, backed by decades of research and real-world observations.
But here’s the thing—intelligence in dogs isn’t just about learning tricks quickly. According to Dr. Stanley Coren, a professor of canine psychology at the University of British Columbia and author of the groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs (1994), there are actually three distinct types of canine intelligence. Understanding these will help you find not just a smart dog, but the right smart dog for your lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll break down how dog intelligence is measured, rank the brightest dog breeds from 1 to 20, and help you figure out which clever dog breeds might be the perfect fit for your home—whether you live in a spacious house or a cozy apartment. We’ll cover everything from the smartest large dog breeds to the most intelligent dogs in smaller packages.
Let’s dive in.
How Dog Intelligence is Measured
Before we get to the rankings, it’s important to understand what we actually mean when we talk about intelligent dog breeds. After all, the dog that learns “sit” in five minutes might not be the same one that figures out how to escape your backyard.
The Three Types of Canine Intelligence
Dr. Stanley Coren’s research, which has become the gold standard for measuring dog intelligence ranking, identifies three distinct types of intelligence:
1. Instinctive Intelligence
This refers to what a dog was bred to do. A Border Collie’s ability to herd sheep without training, a Retriever’s natural inclination to fetch, or a Bloodhound’s extraordinary tracking ability—these are all examples of instinctive intelligence. It’s hardwired into their DNA through centuries of selective breeding.
2. Adaptive Intelligence
This is your dog’s ability to solve problems on their own. Can they figure out how to get a treat from under the couch? Do they learn from past experiences? Adaptive intelligence varies not just between breeds, but between individual dogs. It’s the “street smarts” of the canine world.
3. Working and Obedience Intelligence
This is what most people think of when they imagine smart dog breeds—how quickly a dog learns commands and how reliably they obey them. This is also the type of intelligence that Coren’s famous rankings primarily measure.
Stanley Coren’s Methodology
For his research, Coren surveyed 199 obedience trial judges from the American Kennel Club (AKC) and Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)—representing about 50% of all obedience judges working in North America at the time. He asked them to rank breeds based on two key criteria:
- How many repetitions it took for a breed to learn a new command
- Success rate of obeying a known command on the first attempt
The results were remarkably consistent across judges. The most trainable dog breeds ranked at the top could learn new commands in fewer than 5 repetitions and obeyed known commands 95% of the time or better. These highly obedient dog breeds demonstrated an exceptional willingness to follow their handler’s direction.
A Word of Caution
Here’s something crucial to understand: the smartest dogs aren’t always the easiest pets. Highly intelligent breeds often need more mental stimulation, can get bored easily, and may use their brainpower in ways you didn’t anticipate (hello, counter-surfing and escape artistry).
As the AKC notes, some clever pups “show their intelligence in ways that can be frustrating for first-time dog parents.” That Border Collie might learn “sit” in 30 seconds, but they’ll also figure out how to unlock your gate if you don’t keep them mentally engaged.
With that context in mind, let’s get to the rankings.
The Top 20 Most Intelligent Dog Breeds (Ranked)
Based on Dr. Coren’s research, updated observations from breed experts, and data from the American Kennel Club, here are the 20 smartest dog breeds in the world.
#1. Border Collie
The Einstein of Dogs
| Height | 18-22 inches |
| Weight | 30-55 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Active owners, farms, dog sports |
When it comes to the smartest dog breeds, the Border Collie is in a league of its own. This remarkable breed consistently tops every dog intelligence ranking and for good reason.
Border Collies can learn a new command in under 5 repetitions and follow it correctly at least 95% of the time. But the real proof is in the pudding: a Border Collie named Chaser learned over 1,022 words and could identify toys by name, earning her the title of “the world’s smartest dog” from researchers at Wofford College in South Carolina.
Originally bred for herding sheep in the hilly border region between Scotland and England, these dogs have an almost supernatural ability to anticipate what you want. Their intense “eye”—that focused stare they use to control livestock—reflects a mind that’s always working. Among the smartest herding dog breeds, Border Collies set the gold standard.
The catch? Border Collies need a job. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation (think 2+ hours of activity daily), they can become anxious, destructive, or develop obsessive behaviors. They’re not ideal for apartment living or first-time owners unless you’re committed to an extremely active lifestyle.
#2. Poodle
The Elegant Genius
| Height | Standard: 15+ inches; Miniature: 10-15 inches; Toy: under 10 inches |
| Weight | Standard: 40-70 lbs; Miniature: 10-15 lbs; Toy: 4-6 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 10-18 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Families, apartments, allergy sufferers |
Don’t let the fancy haircuts fool you—Poodles are serious athletes and one of the most intelligent dog breeds easy to train. They took the silver medal in Coren’s research and have held that position ever since.
Originally bred as water retrievers in Germany (not France, despite the “French Poodle” nickname), Poodles combine exceptional trainability with emotional intelligence. They’re remarkably attuned to their owners’ moods and respond beautifully to positive reinforcement training.
What makes Poodles particularly versatile is their size variety. Whether you want a Standard Poodle for hiking and dog sports, a Miniature for family life, or a Toy Poodle for apartment living, you’re getting the same brilliant brain in a different package.
Bonus: Poodles are one of the smartest dog breeds that don’t shed, making them excellent for people with allergies. Their curly coat traps dander, though it does require regular grooming.
#3. German Shepherd
The Ultimate Working Dog
| Height | 22-26 inches |
| Weight | 50-90 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 7-10 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Experienced owners, families, protection |
There’s a reason German Shepherds dominate careers in police work, search and rescue, military operations, and service dog roles. This breed combines exceptional intelligence with unwavering loyalty and a strong work ethic.
German Shepherds were specifically bred in the late 1800s by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who wanted to create the perfect working dog. Mission accomplished. They can master a new command on the very first try and have what trainers describe as “laser-sharp focus.”
According to the AKC, German Shepherds are the second most popular breed in America, and their versatility is a big reason why. They excel at virtually any task you give them—from obedience training to agility to protection work.
Consider this: German Shepherds form incredibly strong bonds with their families but can be aloof with strangers. They need consistent training and socialization from puppyhood, making them better suited for owners with some dog experience.
#4. Golden Retriever
The Straight-A Student
| Height | 21.5-24 inches |
| Weight | 55-75 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Families, first-time owners, therapy work |
If Border Collies are the class genius and German Shepherds are the overachievers, Golden Retrievers are the students who get straight A’s while also being everyone’s best friend. They’re one of the best intelligent dog breeds for families and consistently rank among the smartest dog breeds for first-time owners.
What earned Goldens their #4 spot isn’t just their ability to learn—it’s their desire to learn. These dogs live to please their humans. That eagerness, combined with their gentle temperament and patience, makes them exceptional family pets and the go-to breed for service dog organizations.
Research from the University of Arizona’s Canine Cognition Center has shown that Golden Retrievers excel at reading human social cues—they’re not just smart, they’re emotionally intelligent.
Fun fact: Golden Retrievers hold records for having the “softest mouth” of any breed, able to carry a raw egg without breaking it. This gentleness extends to their interactions with children and other pets.
#5. Doberman Pinscher
The Intelligent Guardian
| Height | 24-28 inches |
| Weight | 60-100 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Experienced owners, protection, active families |
Doberman Pinschers often get an unfair reputation as aggressive dogs, but those who know the breed understand they’re actually sensitive, loyal companions with remarkable intelligence.
Developed in Germany in the 1890s by a tax collector named Louis Dobermann (who wanted a protection dog for his rounds), Dobermans combine speed, strength, and smarts in one sleek package. They’re incredibly fast learners with an instinct to protect that makes them naturally alert and focused.
According to Coren’s research, Dobermans are among the dogs that learn commands fast—typically mastering new behaviors in just a few repetitions. They’re also highly attuned to their owner’s emotions and can be surprisingly gentle with family members.
Important note: Dobermans need firm, consistent training and early socialization. Without proper guidance, their intelligence and protective instincts can lead to behavioral issues. They’re best suited for experienced owners who understand working breeds.
#6. Shetland Sheepdog
The Little Herder with Big Brains
| Height | 13-16 inches |
| Weight | 15-25 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Families, apartments, dog sports |
Don’t let their small size fool you—Shetland Sheepdogs (or “Shelties”) pack Border Collie-level intelligence into a more manageable package. They’re one of the smartest small dog breeds and excel at everything from obedience to agility to trick training.
Originally bred on Scotland’s Shetland Islands to herd sheep (and keep them out of gardens), Shelties are quick, agile, and absolutely love mental challenges. They’re often described as “shadows” because of how closely they bond with their owners.
Shelties are particularly notable for their success in competitive dog sports. According to the AKC, they consistently place at the top of agility and obedience trials, often outperforming much larger breeds.
Perfect for: Families looking for a trainable dog breed that’s more apartment-friendly than a Border Collie but just as eager to learn. They do bark more than average, so keep that in mind if you have noise-sensitive neighbors.
#7. Labrador Retriever
America’s Favorite for a Reason
| Height | 21.5-24.5 inches |
| Weight | 55-80 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 11-13 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Families, first-time owners, service work |
Labrador Retrievers have been America’s most popular dog breed for over 30 years running, and their combination of intelligence, friendliness, and adaptability explains why. They’re quintessential quick learner dog breeds that respond enthusiastically to training.
Labs were originally bred in Newfoundland to help fishermen retrieve nets and catch escaped fish. That working heritage shows in their tireless energy and eagerness to have a job—any job. They excel as service dogs, detection dogs, therapy dogs, and beloved family pets.
What makes Labs particularly appealing for first-time owners is their forgiving nature. They’re patient with training mistakes and eager to try again. Combined with their friendly disposition toward strangers and other animals, they’re about as easy-going as a highly intelligent breed gets.
Heads up: Labs are known for their appetites. Without proper portion control and exercise, they can easily become overweight. A 2022 study published in Cell Metabolism found that many Labs have a genetic mutation that affects their ability to feel full.
#8. Papillon
The Butterfly Dog with a Big Brain
| Height | 8-11 inches |
| Weight | 5-10 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 14-16 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Apartments, seniors, first-time owners |
The Papillon (French for “butterfly,” referring to their distinctive ears) proves that great things come in small packages. They’re the only toy breed to crack Coren’s top 10 and one of the smartest dog breeds for apartments.
Don’t mistake their delicate appearance for fragility—Papillons are athletic, hardy little dogs with competitive spirits. They regularly dominate agility competitions, often beating much larger breeds through sheer speed and precision.
According to the AKC, Papillons are “super fast” learners that excel with stimulation and positive reinforcement. They’re also remarkably adaptable, doing well in both city apartments and country homes.
Why they’re great for beginners: Papillons combine high intelligence with a manageable size and moderate exercise needs. They’re one of the best choices for first-time owners who want a smart, trainable companion without the intensity of a Border Collie or German Shepherd.
#9. Rottweiler
The Gentle Giant Scholar
| Height | 22-27 inches |
| Weight | 80-135 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 9-10 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Experienced owners, families, protection |
Rottweilers have one of the most misunderstood reputations in the dog world. Yes, they’re powerful. Yes, they can be protective. But they’re also remarkably intelligent, deeply loyal, and surprisingly gentle with their families.
Descended from Roman drover dogs, Rottweilers spent centuries herding cattle and pulling carts for butchers in the German town of Rottweil. This working heritage gave them both strength and smarts—they needed to think on their feet while managing livestock.
Modern Rottweilers are among the best dogs for obedience training when handled correctly. They respond well to confident, consistent leadership and form incredibly strong bonds with their families. Many Rottweiler owners describe them as “velcro dogs” who want to be near their people at all times.
Critical point: Rottweilers absolutely require proper training and socialization from puppyhood. Their size and strength mean that behavioral issues can have serious consequences. They’re not recommended for first-time owners.
#10. Australian Cattle Dog
The Tireless Thinker
| Height | 17-20 inches |
| Weight | 35-50 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-16 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Active owners, farms, dog sports |
Australian Cattle Dogs (also called Blue Heelers or Queensland Heelers) were developed to herd cattle across Australia’s vast, rugged terrain. The result is one of the most athletic, intelligent, and independent-minded breeds on this list.
These dogs are problem-solvers by nature. They had to be—controlling stubborn cattle required quick thinking and creative solutions. That intelligence translates to impressive trainability, though they can have a stubborn streak if they don’t see the point of what you’re asking.
According to research published in the journal Scientific Reports, Australian Cattle Dogs rank among the smartest working dog breeds in tests of both obedience and problem-solving ability.
Fair warning: ACDs have seemingly endless energy. They’re not suited for apartment living or sedentary households. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they’ll find their own entertainment—and you probably won’t like their choices.
#11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Royal Smarty-Pants
| Height | 10-12 inches |
| Weight | 28-30 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-13 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Families, apartments, active owners |
Made famous by Queen Elizabeth II (who owned more than 30 during her lifetime), Pembroke Welsh Corgis are surprisingly athletic herding dogs packed into a low-to-the-ground frame. Their intelligence is often underestimated because of their cute appearance, but these dogs are serious workers.
Corgis were bred to herd cattle by nipping at their heels—their short stature kept them safely below kicking range. This required quick thinking, agility, and the confidence to boss around animals many times their size.
That boldness and brainpower make Corgis highly trainable dog breeds, though they can be stubborn when they want to be. They excel at obedience, agility, and herding trials, and their moderate size makes them one of the better smartest dog breeds for apartments (though they do need daily exercise).
Bonus: Corgis are known for their expressive personalities and sense of humor. They’re entertaining companions who will keep you laughing with their antics.
#12. Miniature Schnauzer
The Spirited Scholar
| Height | 12-14 inches |
| Weight | 11-20 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Families, apartments, first-time owners |
Miniature Schnauzers combine the intelligence of their larger Schnauzer cousins with a size that’s perfect for apartment living. They’re alert, spirited, and eager to please—a winning combination for training.
Originally bred in Germany as ratters and farm dogs, Mini Schnauzers needed to be quick-thinking and decisive. Today, that translates to dogs who pick up on training quickly and enjoy having tasks to complete.
One standout quality of Mini Schnauzers is their adaptability. They’re equally happy in a city apartment or a suburban home with a yard. They’re also one of the lower-shedding breeds on this list, making them a good choice for people concerned about dog hair.
Great for families: Mini Schnauzers are generally excellent with children and other pets. They’re sturdy enough to handle play with kids but small enough to be manageable. Their alert nature also makes them good watchdogs—they’ll definitely let you know when someone’s at the door.
#13. English Springer Spaniel
The Eager Learner
| Height | 19-20 inches |
| Weight | 40-50 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Active families, hunters, dog sports |
English Springer Spaniels are the athletes of the spaniel world—energetic, enthusiastic, and eager to work. Their name comes from their historical role in “springing” game birds for hunters, and they still excel at field work today.
What puts Springers on this list is their exceptional biddability—the desire to work cooperatively with humans. They’re not just smart; they actively want to follow your lead. This makes them highly responsive to training and excellent partners for dog sports like agility and flyball.
According to the AKC, English Springer Spaniels are also widely used as detection dogs for law enforcement, sniffing out everything from explosives to contraband. Their intelligence, combined with their tireless work ethic, makes them naturals for the job.
Energy consideration: Springers need significant daily exercise—at least an hour of active play or work. They’re not suited for sedentary lifestyles and can become destructive if under-stimulated.
#14. Belgian Tervuren
The Versatile Virtuoso
| Height | 22-26 inches |
| Weight | 45-75 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Experienced owners, dog sports, active families |
The Belgian Tervuren is one of four Belgian shepherd varieties, distinguished by their long, mahogany coat and elegant appearance. But beneath that beauty is a working dog with exceptional intelligence and drive.
Tervurens excel at virtually any task you put before them—herding, obedience, agility, tracking, protection sports. They’re highly attuned to their handlers and respond beautifully to skilled training.
These dogs are popular in competitive obedience circles precisely because of their working and obedience intelligence. They can master complex behaviors and perform them with precision and enthusiasm.
Important: Tervurens form intense bonds with their owners and can be protective. They need early socialization and ongoing mental stimulation. They’re best matched with experienced handlers who understand herding breeds.
#15. Schipperke
The Little Captain
| Height | 10-13 inches |
| Weight | 10-16 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Apartments, active owners, experienced small-dog owners |
The Schipperke (pronounced “SKIP-er-kee”) is a small Belgian breed originally used as a watchdog and ratter on canal boats. Their name means “little captain” in Flemish, and they certainly have the confident personality to match.
These little black dogs are curious, clever, and independent-minded. They’re quick learners but can be stubborn—they’ll definitely learn what you’re teaching, but they might decide whether or not it’s worth doing.
What makes Schipperkes notable is their combination of small size and big-dog personality. They’re fearless, alert, and surprisingly athletic for their compact frame. They excel at agility and make dedicated companions for owners who appreciate their spirited nature.
Consideration: Schipperkes have a strong prey drive and can be escape artists. Secure fencing and careful leash management are essential.
#16. Belgian Sheepdog
The Black Beauty Brain
| Height | 22-26 inches |
| Weight | 45-75 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ |
| Best For | Experienced owners, active families, dog sports |
Also known as the Groenendael, the Belgian Sheepdog shares the intelligence of its Belgian shepherd cousins wrapped in a striking all-black coat. These dogs are serious workers with strong drives and exceptional trainability.
Belgian Sheepdogs served as message carriers, ambulance dogs, and sentry dogs during World War I, demonstrating their versatility and courage under pressure. Today, they excel in police work, search and rescue, and competitive dog sports.
Their intelligence is matched by their sensitivity—Belgian Sheepdogs form deep bonds with their handlers and can be quite attuned to emotional states. This makes them responsive to training but also means they can be affected by household tension.
Best match: Active, experienced owners who can provide consistent training, plenty of exercise, and mental stimulation. Not recommended for first-time dog owners.
#17. Collie
The Lassie Legacy
| Height | 22-26 inches |
| Weight | 50-75 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Families, suburban homes, gentle households |
Collies became famous through the “Lassie” franchise, and while real Collies can’t solve crimes or rescue children from wells, they are genuinely intelligent, devoted dogs.
Originally bred as herding dogs in Scotland, Collies have a natural sensitivity to human emotions and excellent problem-solving abilities. They’re known for being exceptionally gentle with children, which made them popular family dogs long before Hollywood discovered them.
Collies are highly trainable dog breeds that respond well to positive reinforcement. They’re less intense than some other herding breeds, making them better suited for families who want an intelligent dog breed without Border Collie-level energy demands.
Two varieties: Collies come in Rough (long-coated, like Lassie) and Smooth (short-coated) varieties. Both have the same temperament and intelligence; the only difference is grooming requirements.
#18. Keeshond
The Smiling Dutchman
| Height | 17-18 inches |
| Weight | 35-45 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Families, apartments, first-time owners |
The Keeshond (pronounced “KAYZ-hond”) is a Dutch breed originally used as a watchdog on barges and canal boats. They’re known for their spectacular coat, distinctive “spectacles” markings, and outgoing personalities.
Keeshonden are quick learners who enjoy training sessions, especially when treats are involved. They’re less driven than working breeds but more engaged than many companion breeds, hitting a sweet spot for families who want an intelligent dog without intense exercise requirements.
One standout quality is their friendliness. Keeshonden are genuinely people-loving dogs who get along well with strangers, children, and other pets. Combined with their intelligence and moderate needs, they’re excellent for first-time owners.
Note: Their thick double coat requires regular brushing and sheds heavily twice a year. Plan for significant grooming time.
#19. German Shorthaired Pointer
The Athletic Intellectual
| Height | 21-25 inches |
| Weight | 45-70 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Active families, hunters, athletes |
German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) are the triathletes of the dog world—they can point, retrieve, and trail with equal skill. This versatility requires significant intelligence, which GSPs have in abundance.
Bred as all-purpose hunting dogs in 19th-century Germany, GSPs needed to be smart enough to work in multiple capacities and trainable enough to switch between tasks on command. Today, they excel not just as hunting companions but as competitive dogs in virtually every sport.
According to breed experts, GSPs are among the most trainable sporting breeds. They’re eager to please, physically capable, and mentally sharp—a combination that makes them outstanding working partners.
Energy warning: GSPs have boundless energy and need substantial daily exercise. They’re not suited for apartment living or families who can’t commit to at least 1-2 hours of activity daily.
#20. Flat-Coated Retriever
The Forever Puppy
| Height | 22-24.5 inches |
| Weight | 60-70 lbs |
| Life Expectancy | 8-10 years |
| Trainability | ★★★★☆ |
| Best For | Active families, hunters, dog sports |
Rounding out our list is the Flat-Coated Retriever, often called the “Peter Pan” of dogs because they retain their puppy-like enthusiasm well into adulthood. They’re closely related to Golden Retrievers but with their own distinct personality.
Flat-Coats are highly trainable dog breeds with a natural desire to please. They’re particularly talented at field work and water retrieves, thanks to their origins as a gamekeeper’s dog in England.
What distinguishes Flat-Coats is their exuberant, optimistic nature. They approach training with enthusiasm and are forgiving of mistakes. Their happy-go-lucky attitude makes them wonderful family companions.
Health note: Flat-Coated Retrievers unfortunately have higher rates of certain cancers than many breeds, which contributes to their shorter average lifespan. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary care are essential.
Quick Comparison Table: All 20 Breeds at a Glance
| Rank | Breed | Size | Trainability | Best For | Energy Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Border Collie | Medium | ★★★★★ | Active owners, farms | Very High |
| 2 | Poodle | Varies | ★★★★★ | Families, apartments | Moderate-High |
| 3 | German Shepherd | Large | ★★★★★ | Experienced owners | High |
| 4 | Golden Retriever | Large | ★★★★★ | Families, first-timers | Moderate-High |
| 5 | Doberman Pinscher | Large | ★★★★★ | Experienced owners | High |
| 6 | Shetland Sheepdog | Small | ★★★★★ | Families, apartments | Moderate-High |
| 7 | Labrador Retriever | Large | ★★★★★ | Families, first-timers | High |
| 8 | Papillon | Toy | ★★★★★ | Apartments, seniors | Moderate |
| 9 | Rottweiler | Large | ★★★★☆ | Experienced owners | Moderate |
| 10 | Australian Cattle Dog | Medium | ★★★★☆ | Active owners | Very High |
| 11 | Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Small | ★★★★☆ | Families, apartments | Moderate-High |
| 12 | Miniature Schnauzer | Small | ★★★★☆ | Families, apartments | Moderate |
| 13 | English Springer Spaniel | Medium | ★★★★☆ | Active families | High |
| 14 | Belgian Tervuren | Large | ★★★★★ | Experienced owners | High |
| 15 | Schipperke | Small | ★★★★☆ | Active owners | Moderate-High |
| 16 | Belgian Sheepdog | Large | ★★★★★ | Experienced owners | High |
| 17 | Collie | Large | ★★★★☆ | Families | Moderate |
| 18 | Keeshond | Medium | ★★★★☆ | Families, first-timers | Moderate |
| 19 | German Shorthaired Pointer | Large | ★★★★☆ | Active families | Very High |
| 20 | Flat-Coated Retriever | Large | ★★★★☆ | Active families | High |
Choosing the Right Smart Dog for You
Intelligence is great, but it’s not everything. The smartest dog breed for you depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and experience level. Here’s a quick guide:
Best for First-Time Owners
If you’re new to dog ownership, look for breeds that combine intelligence with a forgiving, eager-to-please nature:
- Golden Retriever — Patient, gentle, and highly trainable
- Labrador Retriever — Friendly and adaptable
- Papillon — Smart and manageable size
- Keeshond — Friendly and moderate energy
Best for Families with Kids
For intelligent dog breeds for families, prioritize breeds known for patience and gentleness. These intelligent dogs good with kids combine brainpower with a gentle nature:
- Golden Retriever — The classic family dog
- Labrador Retriever — Great with kids of all ages
- Collie — Naturally protective and gentle
- Poodle — Adaptable to family dynamics
Best for Apartments
Looking for smartest dog breeds for apartments? Focus on moderate energy and manageable size:
- Poodle (Miniature or Toy) — Smart and low-shedding
- Papillon — Small but athletic
- Miniature Schnauzer — Adaptable and alert
- Shetland Sheepdog — Smart herder in a small package
Best for Active Lifestyles
If you run, hike, or want a dog sports partner:
- Border Collie — Unmatched energy and intelligence
- Australian Cattle Dog — Tireless worker
- German Shorthaired Pointer — Athletic all-rounder
- Belgian Tervuren — Excels at everything
Best Low-Shedding Smart Breeds
For those who want smartest dog breeds that don’t shed (or shed minimally):
- Poodle (all sizes) — Classic hypoallergenic choice
- Miniature Schnauzer — Low-shedding wire coat
- Schipperke — Moderate shedding, easy to manage
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Dr. Stanley Coren’s research and virtually every subsequent study, the Border Collie is the most intelligent dog breed. They can learn new commands in fewer than 5 repetitions and obey known commands 95% of the time or more. A Border Collie named Chaser demonstrated this by learning over 1,000 words—more than any other animal in recorded scientific history.
It depends on what you mean by “harder.” Smart dogs learn faster, but that doesn’t always make them easier to live with. Highly intelligent breeds often:
– Need more mental stimulation to stay happy
– Get bored more easily, which can lead to destructive behavior
– May use their intelligence in ways you didn’t intend (like escaping fences or opening cabinets)
The easiest dogs to train are often those that combine intelligence with a strong desire to please, like Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers.
No. Size has no correlation with intelligence. The Papillon, a toy breed, ranks in the top 10 of Coren’s intelligence ranking, outperforming many larger breeds. The Shetland Sheepdog is one of the smartest dogs around despite being relatively small.
What differs is the type of tasks different sizes were bred for. Small dogs were often bred as companions or ratters, while large dogs might have been bred for herding or guarding—but both categories include highly intelligent representatives.
Look for these signs of canine intelligence:
– Quick learning: Picks up new commands or tricks rapidly
– Problem-solving: Figures out how to get treats from puzzle toys
– Memory: Remembers commands, people, and places after long periods
– Reading emotions: Responds appropriately to your mood
– Communication: Finds ways to tell you what they need
– Adaptability: Adjusts behavior based on different situations
Remember that dogs can be intelligent in different ways. A Beagle might not learn “shake” as fast as a Border Collie, but their scent-tracking ability represents a different type of genius.
Often, yes – and sometimes more so. Mixed breed dogs can inherit intelligence from multiple breed backgrounds. A Border Collie mix, for example, might have the intelligence of its Border Collie parent combined with traits from another breed.
Research from the University of Budapest found that mixed breed dogs performed just as well as purebreds on problem-solving tests. What matters more than pedigree is individual variation and how well the dog is trained and stimulated.
Great question! These terms are related but not identical:
Intelligence refers to a dog’s cognitive abilities—their capacity to learn, solve problems, and adapt.
Trainability refers to how easily a dog can be taught and how reliably they follow commands.
A dog can be highly intelligent but not very trainable (like many independent-minded breeds such as Basenjis or Afghan Hounds). Conversely, some moderately intelligent dogs are highly trainable because they’re eager to please.
The most trainable dog breeds combine intelligence with biddability—the desire to work cooperatively with humans. That’s why breeds like Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers often make better pets for most people than the more intelligent but intense Border Collie.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a dog based solely on intelligence rankings would be like choosing a spouse based on IQ scores—you might get a smart partner, but that doesn’t guarantee compatibility. The smartest dog breeds require owners who can meet their needs for mental stimulation, physical exercise, and purposeful activity.
Before you bring home that brilliant Border Collie or eager Golden Retriever, honestly assess your lifestyle. Do you have time for daily training sessions? Can you provide the exercise a high-energy breed needs? Are you prepared for a dog that might outsmart you occasionally?
If your answer is yes, any of these 20 most intelligent dog breeds could become an incredible companion. They’ll learn what you teach them, adapt to your household, and form a bond built on mutual understanding and respect.
And remember—every dog is smart in their own way. The best dog for you isn’t necessarily the one that tops the intelligence charts, but the one whose temperament, energy level, and needs align with your own.
Happy dog hunting!
Sources and References
- Coren, S. (1994, 2006). The Intelligence of Dogs: A Guide to the Thoughts, Emotions, and Inner Lives of Our Canine Companions. Atria Books.
- American Kennel Club. “Measuring Canine Intelligence: These are the Smartest Dog Breeds.” AKC Expert Advice.
- Pilley, J.W., & Reid, A.K. (2011). “Border collie comprehends object names as verbal referents.” Behavioural Processes, 86(2), 184-195.
- Raffan, E., et al. (2016). “A Deletion in the Canine POMC Gene Is Associated with Weight and Appetite in Obesity-Prone Labrador Retriever Dogs.” Cell Metabolism, 23(5), 893-900.
- Fugazza, C., & Miklósi, Á. (2015). “Social learning in dog training: The effectiveness of the Do as I do method compared to shaping/clicker training.” Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 171, 146-151.
- Serpell, J.A., & Hsu, Y.A. (2005). “Development and validation of a novel method for evaluating behavior and temperament in guide dogs.” Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 91(1-2), 95-119.
