If you’re the proud best friend of a furry canine, then you already understand how incredible they actually are. Dogs not only provide their owners with love, affection, and companionship, but they also have amazing characteristics and temperaments. It all depends on the breed of dog. For example, some canines are meant to be working dogs, while others just want to sit on your lap and look pretty. Also, there are some dog breeds that are far more intelligent than others. If you’re looking to adopt a clever dog, keep reading to check out the 20 smartest dogs breeds in the world according to canine psychologist Stanley Coren.Border Collies are absolutely adorable, and they’re also undeniably intelligent. The border collie was bred to figure out complex problems without the help of a human. Honestly, there’s almost nothing that they can’t figure out how to do!
Poodles are the national dog of France and they’re one of the smartest canines out there. Because of their intelligence, poodles were used by circuses during the 1800s. Luckily, they’re not used for acting out scenes for humans anymore.
The German shepherd is not only loving, but they also enjoy being challenged with new tasks and tricks to learn. If you’re looking for a dog that will grab your morning paper for you, then a German shepherd might just be the dog for you.
Golden Retrievers are so intelligent that they can often be seen helping police and emergency rescue teams. This is because Golden Retrievers have an uncanny ability to track and locate people, objects, or other animals!
Doberman Pinschers tend to look quite intimidating to people, but that’s because it’s actually a part of their job. Because of their keen sense of smell, Dobermans were bred to work as guard dogs. But as long as their socialized with the person, your Doberman will be loving to anyone that you introduce them to as a friend.
Every dog needs to get plenty of physical exercises to ensure that they live a long, healthy life. And while Shetland Sheepdogs need physical exercise, they need mental exercise, as well. Shetland Sheepdogs enjoy doing puzzles and playing games, so make sure that you’re equipped to stimulate this intelligent dog’s mind!
Labrador Retrievers originally descended from the St. John’s water dog. This means that Labrador retrievers are highly intelligent fishing dogs and they’re still used all over the world to help with different water-based activities.
This dog may look fancy, but the Papillon is actually extremely intelligent. In fact, they’re a favorite competitor for intelligence competitions, especially in the area of demonstrating how obedient they are!
Rottweilers are well-known for their great eyebrows, but they’re also extremely intelligent! These beautiful dogs not only make great pets, but they also serve in the military and as police dogs. Because of how smart they are, trainers really enjoy working with this breed of dog.
Australian cattle dogs are so smart that it can be quite difficult to live with them unless you’re prepared to put in the work. This type of dog requires plenty of stimulation for them to remain happy and healthy, so staying on top of their training is imperative with this breed.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis may look tiny, but they make up for that with their big attitude. These dogs absolutely enjoy making sure that their families are protected, and they take that job very seriously. In fact, they’re much happier when they’re given a task to do, instead of sitting around looking cute all day.
Miniature Schnauzers are not only intelligent, but they also run extremely fast! If you’re thinking about adopting a dog that would do well in competitions, then check out Miniature Schnauzers because they thrive from obedience training and they love to go on long runs.
The great thing about English Springer Spaniels is the fact that their intelligence mixes very well with their personable nature. They absolutely love to learn new things and they enjoy showing off their skills to new people even more.
Belgian Tervurens may be intelligent, but they’re also highly protective of their families. Unfortunately, they’re also talented escape artists, so you have to be a bit more vigilant with them. They especially don’t do well with strangers, so if they get out, you better run fast or you could have some trouble on your hands.
Schipperkes are an intelligent breed of dog, but they’re also very curious and active. Because of how intensely they bond with their owners, they do not care for being put into a kennel. So if you’re planning on getting a Schipperke, don’t put them in a kennel or prepare to meet a stubborn dog who’s determined to figure out how to get himself out!
Keeshonds are quick-witted, alert, and affectionate. Because of this, they often pick up on things that humans are missing. Because of how closely they pay attention to the things that are around them, it can be quite difficult to grab and hold their attention, so prepare to be patient with this beautiful breed.
The German Short-haired Pointer is just as loving as they are intelligent. If you get one of these dogs then prepare to spend most of your time with them because they want to know everything that you’re doing at all times. They don’t really understand personal space, but that’s okay because they’re super easy to love.
Because of their keen sense of smell, Brittany Spaniels were bred to be quite efficient hunting dogs. Despite the fact that they can smell out their prey from a great distance, these dogs are happy, loyal, and sweet.
Weimaraners are known as the “dog with the human brain.” They may not be as smart as Einstein, but their intelligence stands out above the rest. It also helps that some have shockingly beautiful blue eyes.
Belgian Malinois are very intelligent, but they’re also known for being quite intense. If you plan on adopting a Belgian Malinois, then you should be prepared for a massive amount of socialization, training and physical stimulation. This breed needs many hours of daily activity that most people can’t keep up with.
