Scientists have studied dogs to uncover the smartest breed, but the answer isn’t so simple. Dogs come with different types of intelligence, much like humans. Some are empathetic, some are intimidating, some are gentle, some are super-sniffers, and some are fast learners. But when people discuss dog intelligence, they usually refer to the quality of being obedient and easy to train.
Neuropsychology and cognition researcher Stanley Coren characterized three types of canine intelligence: instinctive, adaptive, and working intelligence. When it comes to working and obedience intelligence, he ranked over 100 dog breeds from smartest to least. Here are the top 10.
The smarter the better?
Bear in mind, the smartest dog breeds may not make easy pets, especially if they excel at problem-solving and pattern-learning, according to Kayla Fratt, certified dog behavior consultant and founder at K9 Conservationists. This may mean they can open cabinets, sneak out of fences, and otherwise do where they shouldn’t. Additionally, border collies and many other top dogs are high energy and require a lot of exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation. This may make them more prone to injuries as well.
“I spend about two hours every single day actively exercising and training my dogs to ensure that they’re happy and satiated at the end of the day,” says Fratt to Forbes. “Most people are better off with low-energy, even-keeled dogs that can be trained on the basics but don’t need constant engagement, training, and enrichment to stay happy.”
Border collies
Border collies are considered the #1 smartest breed of dog. They are very quick learners, and can easily adapt to new words and commands. They are happiest when working, being famous for herding livestock. Being athletic and agile, border collies need a lot of socialization and mental stimulation. Without proper outlets for their boundless energy, they may try to herd children or other pets.
Poodles
Poodles are the “show ponies” of dogs but they aren’t just pretty faces. They are clever, with an affinity for learning new tricks and showing them off. Their knack for performance is well-known but they also make great companions, especially miniature and toy poodles. Despite being eager to please, they need a lot of daily exercise and outlets for their intelligence.
German shepherd
This dog breed is famous for being one of the smartest. Their abilities to adapt, learn quickly, and problem-solve make them ideal for security and military work. But they also make great companions, since they are so loyal. They may appoint themselves as protectors of the family as they are happiest when they are working. And like the previous entries, they need early socialization, lots of exercise, and ongoing obedience training.
Golden retriever
Goldens are often the breed people think of when they think of dogs. Not only are they smart, but they are great with kids. “They are generally excellent family dogs that are even-keeled and go-with-the-flow,” Fratt says. They have a fun-loving, eager-to-please nature while being reliable and easy to train. Early socialization and obedience training is key for these pups.
Doberman pinscher
They may look intimidating but they can be gentle and fun-loving. Because of their versatility, responsiveness, and ability to learn quickly, Dobermans excel as work dogs. That’s why this dog breed is found in police work, search and rescue, as well as therapy. They are high-energy and need a lot of socialization and obedience training to be content. Without proper training and care, they can become maladjusted, destructive, and bossy.
Shetland sheepdog
Like other herding breeds, Shelties are bright, eager, and easy to train. But they are not just one of the smartest dog breeds, they are also sensitive, empathetic, and socially aware. That’s why they thrive as family companions, therapy dogs, as well as herders. Although they are athletic and energetic, they are not as highly strung as German shepherds, and therefore need moderate amounts of daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Labrador retriever
Labs are a popular pet breed because of their devoted and friendly nature. They are intelligent and easy to train because of their ability to observe and imitate. They also have a keen sense of smell, which makes them great at drug and bomb detection as well as search and rescue. They are also good service dogs. Exuberant and sometimes rambunctiousness, Labs need frequent exercise, socialization, and early obedience training.
Papillon
This is the smallest dog on the list so far but don’t let that fool you. Papillons are intelligent, athletic, curious, and eager to please. They tend to be easy to house-train, and bond tightly with their families. Like many of the smartest dogs breeds, papillons need lots of socialization and exercise. But because of their size, they can be satisfied with indoor play and sports.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers may look ferocious but they are sweet and gentle with their companions. They are also adaptable and versatile, working as seeing-eye dogs, or as part of security and protection teams. They love jobs that keep them engaged and active. Although they may act aloof with strangers, they can be playful and even silly with their owners. Early socialization, consistent straining, and firm leadership is key to having happy and well-adjusted Rotties.
Australian cattle dog
As a close relative of wild dingo, Australian cattle dogs are extremely driven and loyal. This dog breed has so much intelligence they “routinely outsmart their owners,” according to the American Kennel Club. They are excellent herders as well as loyal and loving pets. However, they need owners who can handle their energy and motivation, and provide them with enough outlets for their energy and cleverness.