20 Pups That Top the Lists of Smartest Dog Breeds in The World

Can any list do justice to the world’s smartest dogs? Most, if not all dogs are smart if well trained and cared for. Dog intelligence manifests in various forms, from instinctual behavior, such as herding or hunting, to adaptive intelligence, which includes problem-solving abilities and learning from previous experiences. Another important aspect is working intelligence, particularly relevant in training and executing tasks. Compiled from various sources, this comprehensive list delves into the top 20 smartest dog breeds, each celebrated for its unique cognitive abilities.

#1 Border Collie

Border Collies are often considered the most intelligent dog breed. They excel in obedience due to their ability to understand new commands in under five seconds and follow them at least 95% of the time. Originally bred for herding livestock, their intelligence extends into exceptional problem-solving skills and agility performance.

#2 Poodle

Poodles, including all three sizes (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), are not just fashion icons but also sharp as tacks. They are quick learners, excellent at obedience training, and perform well in agility and trick competitions. Their intelligence is complemented by an eagerness to please, making them versatile in both show rings and home environments.

#3 German Shepherd

A breed known for its role in police and military tasks, German Shepherds are highly intelligent and versatile. They are renowned for their courage, confidence, and keen sense of duty, which makes them excellent in search and rescue missions as well as obedient family pets.

#4 Belgian Malinois

Belgian Malinois are renowned for their exceptional intelligence. In 2022, a study by the University of Helsinki assessed over 1,000 dogs from 13 breeds on various cognitive and behavioral tasks. Belgian Malinois excelled, scoring 35 out of 39 points. They were evaluated based on their problem-solving abilities, independence, and their interactions with humans, such as seeking help and understanding human intentions. Some experts regard them as being more intelligent than breeds like Border Collies and Hovawarts. They make excellent K-9 dogs along with German shepherds.

#5 Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans combine intelligence with steadfast loyalty. They are quick to learn and eager to obey, making them ideal for protection roles. Their intelligence is directed primarily towards obedience and protective tasks, where they demonstrate exceptional capabilities.

#6 Shetland Sheepdog

This breed mirrors the intelligence of its larger Collie cousin but in a smaller package. Shetland Sheepdogs are fantastic competitors in obedience and agility trials, known for their quick learning and execution of commands.

#7 Labrador Retriever

Labradors are one of the most popular breeds in the United States, valued for their friendly nature and intellectual capabilities. They are often employed as guide dogs and in other service capacities, thanks to their trainable intelligence and eager-to-please attitude. Labs make excellent sniffer dogs.

#8 Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are beloved for their friendly and tolerant attitude but are also highly trainable. They excel in obedience and are often used as service dogs due to their calm demeanor and sharp intelligence, which makes them quick learners and reliable companions

#9 Rottweiler

Rottweilers are powerful, confident, and highly intelligent. They are known for their guarding instincts but are also highly trainable and eager to take on tasks that require both brains and brawn.

#10 Australian Cattle Dog

This breed is robust and intelligent, bred for herding cattle across vast distances. Australian Cattle Dogs thrive on challenges and are known for their problem-solving skills.

#11 Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Famous for their association with the British royal family, Corgis are smart and vigilant. They excel in obedience and herding, showcasing their intelligence through their responsiveness to training and ability to handle livestock.

#12 Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are alert and spirited, known for their intelligence across a variety of dog sports. They are highly trainable and effective in obedience and agility trials.

#13 English Springer Spaniel

This breed is friendly, eager to please, and quick to learn. English Springer Spaniels are excellent in field trials due to their sharp intelligence and adaptability.

#14 Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervurens known in Belgium as the Chien de Berger Belge are known for their work ethic and high intelligence. Similar to Belgian sheepdogs, they excel in obedience, herding, and protection roles, reflecting their versatile training capacity.

#15 Collie

While not as highly driven as their cousins, the border collie, rough collies are just as intelligent, friendly, and easy to train. They excel in herding and agility and are famously known for their starring roles in film and television, showcasing their trainability and intelligence.

#16 Keeshond

Keeshonds are bright and quick learners. They perform well in obedience and agility trials and are known for their cheerful demeanor and quick responses.

#17 Siberian Husky

Huskies are known for their friendly nature and generally get along well with children and other pets. However, they are also intelligent and have a strong will, requiring ample space and opportunities to run and engage actively with their families. Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, a Husky can become quite challenging to manage.

#18 Belgian Shepherd

Like the Tervuren, the Belgian Shepherd is highly trainable and excels in many canine sports and roles, including herding and protection. They are known for their intelligence and adaptability.

#19 Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are intelligent and work-oriented, thriving in situations that challenge both their minds and bodies. They are excellent at herding and are also popular in dog sports due to their agility and intelligence.

#20 Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are independent and strong, known for their endurance and intelligence. They excel in weight-pulling and agility and are also effective in roles that require significant physical activity and mental adaptability.

While this list has been compiled from several sources including the American Kennel Club, there is always a debate on which dogs are the smartest. All dogs are smart if trained well, showered with affection, and taken care of with mutual respect and understanding.