The 20 Smartest Dog Breeds: Traits, Tips, and Training Advice

Purple Collar Pet Photography / Getty Images

Dogs vary widely in intelligence, with some breeds excelling at problem-solving, agility, and obedience. Intelligence in dogs typically reflects how quickly they learn commands, solve problems, and adapt to new situations. If you’re considering a highly intelligent breed, keep in mind that they often require mental stimulation and regular training to stay happy and well-behaved. Here’s a list of the 20 smartest dog breeds, along with insights on their unique traits and training tips to keep them engaged.

Border Collie

Traits: Known for exceptional problem-solving skills, Border Collies are often considered the most intelligent breed.

Training Tips: Keep training sessions varied and challenging. Puzzle toys and advanced tricks keep their minds stimulated.

Purple Collar Pet Photography / Getty Images

Poodle

Traits: Poodles (Standard, Miniature, and Toy) are highly adaptable, quick learners, and excel in obedience.

Training Tips: Poodles respond well to positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short and fun, incorporating games and variety.

Mykhaylo_Kozelko | Credit: Shutterstock

German Shepherd

Traits: Known for loyalty and versatility, German Shepherds are commonly used in police and military roles due to their intelligence.

Training Tips: German Shepherds thrive with structured routines. Obedience training from a young age helps harness their focus.

Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH | Credit: Shutterstock

Golden Retriever

Traits: Golden Retrievers are easygoing, friendly, and quick learners, making them popular as service dogs.

Training Tips: They respond well to praise and treats. Consistent positive reinforcement works wonders with this breed.

rustyc, Pixabay

Doberman Pinscher

Traits: Dobermans are intelligent, alert, and fearless, often excelling in obedience and protection training.

Training Tips: Use a firm yet positive approach, with regular exercise and socialization to keep their energy in check.

vidokprzemprun / 500px | Getty Images

Shetland Sheepdog

Traits: Shelties are intelligent and eager to please, often excelling in agility and obedience competitions.

Training Tips: They enjoy training sessions that involve agility exercises. Keep them engaged with interactive activities.

Sarah Bohm, Pixabay

Labrador Retriever

Traits: Labs are friendly, loyal, and quick to learn, often serving as therapy, guide, or rescue dogs.

Training Tips: Labrador Retrievers respond well to reward-based training. They also love water and physical activities.

PARILOV EGENIY | Credit: Parilov – stock.adobe.com

Papillon

Traits: Despite their small size, Papillons are quick learners, especially in agility and obedience.

Training Tips: Socialize Papillons from an early age. They enjoy mental challenges and need consistent, gentle training.

manypets

Rottweiler

Traits: Rottweilers are loyal and dependable, making them excellent guard dogs and service animals.

Training Tips: Rottweilers need early socialization and obedience training. Use firm, consistent, positive reinforcement.

alberto clemares expósito | Getty Images

Australian Cattle Dog

Traits: Known for problem-solving and stamina, Australian Cattle Dogs are quick thinkers with a strong work ethic.

Training Tips: They need physical and mental exercise daily. Herding games and complex commands keep them engaged.

Adriana Jaworska / Getty Images

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Traits: Corgis are intelligent and alert, with a natural instinct for herding.

Training Tips: Corgis need mental stimulation through puzzle games and tricks, especially since they’re prone to barking.

The Spruce / Kevin Norris  

Miniature Schnauzer

Traits: Known for their versatility and adaptability, Miniature Schnauzers are intelligent and affectionate.

Training Tips: Schnauzers do well with obedience and agility training. Positive reinforcement and variety keep them focused.

Mark Nicol / Getty Images

English Springer Spaniel

Traits: These dogs are enthusiastic, playful, and highly trainable, excelling in tasks that involve scent tracking.

Training Tips: English Springer Spaniels respond well to routine and positive feedback. Include scent games for variety.

Даша Швецова / Adobe Stock

Belgian Tervuren

Traits: Highly intelligent and protective, the Belgian Tervuren is often used in police and guard roles.

Training Tips: Tervurens need clear, consistent training and a lot of physical activity to keep them engaged.

AvanHeertum / Getty Images  

Schipperke

Traits: Small but highly alert and energetic, Schipperkes have strong problem-solving abilities.

Training Tips: Schipperkes enjoy variety in training and plenty of exercise to manage their high energy levels.

Machacekcz / Getty Images

Collie

Traits: Collies are known for loyalty, quick learning, and an innate herding instinct.

Training Tips: Collies need positive reinforcement and mental stimulation. Basic obedience mixed with advanced tricks works well.

Sharon Snider, Shutterstock

Keeshond

Traits: Keeshonds are known for being affectionate, alert, and trainable, making them great family pets.

Training Tips: These dogs are sensitive and respond well to gentle, positive reinforcement. Basic obedience is essential.

Daniela Duncan / Moment / Getty Images

Belgian Malinois

Traits: Belgian Malinois are highly energetic and driven, commonly used in military and police work.

Training Tips: They require a lot of structured physical and mental activity. Advanced obedience training is crucial.

Ron Armstrong / Getty Images 

Weimaraner

Traits: Weimaraners are intelligent, energetic, and versatile, excelling in hunting and agility.

Training Tips: They need a lot of exercise and mental challenges. Consider agility or obedience training for engagement.

BONDART | Getty Images

Irish Water Spaniel

Traits: Irish Water Spaniels are known for their independence, curiosity, and intelligence.

Training Tips: Socialize early and keep training fun and varied. They love water-based activities for physical exercise.

britannica

Sign up for Airport Jams Newsletter

Related Posts