Top 18 Smartest Dog Breeds, Ranked by IQ
Top canine intellects, ordered by smartness
Since the Stone Age, dogs have been loyal companions to humanity, and their appeal goes beyond mere adorability. These animals possess an intelligence well-suited for human needs—a result of deliberate breeding practices spanning thousands of years. Throughout history, the most intelligent dog breeds haven’t merely acted as people’s favorite pets but also functioned as guides, war allies, sleuths, sanitation workers, actors, and much more. security consultants , as noted by esteemed canine researcher and professor Stanley Coren, PhD, in his famous book The Intelligence of Dogs .
"Coren outlines three categories of dog intelligence," which he determines based on how dogs engage with people, as stated by him.
- Instinctive: What humans have bred dogs to do
- Adaptive: To what extent does the dog adapt to its surroundings to tackle challenges?
- Working and obedience: To what extent the dog strives to satisfy its owners and fulfill its tasks.
According to Coren, what ties these together is the dog’s capability and wish to efficiently interact with people. This involves comprehending the signals, behaviors, and instructions from their human companions as well as expressing themselves. expressing itself Through barks, body movements, and actions.
According to Coren, an average dog can grasp about 160 words, with some understanding up to 250 or more. However, perhaps most crucial for effective communication between dogs and humans is that generally speaking, dogs tend to care "Dogs pay close attention to us and react promptly," said Alexandra Horowitz, who leads the Dog Cognition Lab at Columbia University's Barnard College, during an interview with the American Kennel Club (AKC).
While this applies to all dogs, the most intelligent dog breeds possess specific characteristics that elevate their smarts a notch higher. Reader's Digest We consulted seven pet experts to put together this collection of the top 18 intelligent dog breeds. While these dogs might not be prepared for a round of poker with you just yet, they certainly excel at what they do.
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About the experts
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Smartest dog breeds ranked
- Border collie
- Poodle
- German shepherd
- Golden retriever
- Doberman pinscher
- Shetland sheepdog
- Labrador retriever
- Papillon
- Rottweiler
- Australian cattle dog
- Pembroke Welsh corgi
- Miniature schnauzer
- English springer spaniel
- Belgian Tervuren
- Schipperke
- Collie
- Keeshond
- German shorthaired pointer
Coren's study remains the most dependable benchmark for measuring the trainability of different dog breeds. Nonetheless, this work dates back to 1994 when the American Kennel Club acknowledged significantly fewer breeds. As stated by canine authority Dr. Caroline Coile, who has written extensively on dogs, “In today’s context, such a ranking would almost certainly place the Pyrenean Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois towards the pinnacle.” Barron's Book of Dog Breeds.
She notes that dog breeds that are more biddable tend to be those that were bred to perform jobs, like retrieving or herding. For these working dogs, being able to follow commands from a distance was critical. What that means today is that these dog breeds can still have such a strong desire to work that it can present challenges in a living situation, something prospective owners should be aware of before choosing a pup.
1. Border collie
According to The Intelligence of Dogs In a ranking of 131 dog breeds based on their relative intelligence, the Border Collie emerges as the most intelligent canine species according to experts. Want evidence? Chaser, an exceptionally linguistic Border Collie hailing from South Carolina, was capable of understanding more than 1,000 different words.
However, it goes beyond simply having book smarts. Originating from the lineage of European herding dogs that inhabited the rugged terrains at the edges of England, Scotland, and Wales, the Border Collie was developed to possess both cunning and physical prowess necessary for surviving such harsh environments. Additionally, this breed boasts an impressive work ethic. The American Kennel Club, which officially acknowledged the Border Collie in 1995, characterizes the dog as not only “intelligent, loving, and dynamic” but also as a remarkably astute worker who never stops.
According to the AKC, Border Collie owners must ensure their dogs receive ample mental and physical activity. Given how smart this breed is and how well they communicate with people, it’s reasonable to think that many can effectively get what they desire from their owners. Therefore, we declare the Border Collie as such. smartest dog in the world.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 18 to 22 inches |
| Weight: | 30 to 55 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 15 years |
2. Poodle
Even though it is frequently referred to as French The poodle, despite being frequently considered high maintenance due to its curly coat, originates from Germany where it was bred as a water retriever. Do not let this deter you; they are far from simple-minded. This breed excels both emotionally and cognitively. Actually, according to Coren’s rankings, the poodle places second in intelligence among dog breeds, just behind the Border Collie.
And indeed, the dogs might appear somewhat sophisticated, but they have also served during times of war by delivering provisions directly to soldiers on the front lines. This task demanded obedience, unwavering concentration, and sound judgment, with fast-learning poodles being selected as the ideal candidates. Wendy Hauser, DVM , states that poodles are easily trained and like engaging in activities that challenge them, including hunting, tracking, agility events, and obedience tasks.
In addition to everything else, this breed boasts a cheerful sense of humor and enjoys doing tricks and purposely acting adorable. Humans certainly don’t require additional excuses to adore them. Regardless of their size, from miniature to standard, poodles are incredibly entertaining and undeniably cute.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 15 inches or more |
| Weight: | 50 to 70 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 18 years |
3. German shepherd
According to Coren's rankings, the German Shepherd is the second smartest herding dog and ranks as the third most intelligent dog overall. This breed has been developed for its exceptional intellect (as claimed by the AKC, they can grasp a new command after just one attempt), strong concentration levels, eagerness, and capability to follow orders effortlessly, which simplifies their training process. Additionally, these dogs possess an innate protectiveness towards their human pack.
A key attribute of this canine type is their proficiency in assessing complex scenarios and determining the optimal strategy. This capability frequently leads to German Shepherds being employed in policing roles, alongside rescue missions and service duties. service dogs for people with disabilities.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 22 to 26 inches |
| Weight: | 50 to 90 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 7 to 10 years |
4. Golden retriever
The intellect of dogs extends beyond mere cognitive abilities. For Golden Retrievers specifically, their placement at number four stems from their eagerness to follow directives issued by their human caretakers. Their inherent drive to satisfy their owners ensures predictable behavior across different scenarios. Originally developed in Scotland as hunting partners and birds-retrieval aids, they frequently participate in rescue missions due to their nimbleness and robust strides.
Just like how dedicated a worker the golden retriever is, this breed is equally cherished globally for being a reliable and well-behaved companion. Their cheerful temperament combined with their ability to quickly learn up to 200 commands (with most grasped on the initial attempt) makes the golden retriever the favored choice for individuals who have disabilities.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 21.5 to 24 inches |
| Weight: | 55 to 75 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 12 years |
5. Doberman pinscher
The American Kennel Club characterizes the Doberman Pinscher as fearless, loyal, and alert. This highly intelligent dog, easy to train, was developed by a German tax collector with ample free time outside of tax season and a strong desire to create the ideal canine protector. (After all, people tend to be less than welcoming when faced with a visit from a tax official.)
Famous for their courageous demeanor, swiftness, and remarkable endurance, these striking yet powerfully fit animals are considered excellent guard dogs, as stated by Coren. However, despite their daunting appearance, this breed is renowned for its gentleness. Additionally, they rank high in intelligence. canines that excel remarkably well in training .
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 24 to 28 inches |
| Weight: | 60 to 100 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 12 years |
6. Shetland sheepdog
The compact Shetland sheepdog does everything a larger herding dog can do but on considerably less food. That's precisely why they were bred as the "collie's little cousin." Farmers on the UK's Shetland Islands used them to perform herding duties, and not just for sheep. The sheltie, as it is known by some, found work herding ponies and poultry as well.
Keen to satisfy and determined to continue attempting until they achieve success, Shetland Sheepdogs quickly master new commands with only a few repetitions. Due to their notable intelligence, compliance, and agility, these dogs rank sixth on Coren’s list of the most intelligent canine breeds.
Similar to golden retrievers, Shetland sheepdogs are cherished not only for their remarkable intelligence but also for their charming personalities, and they rank among the top breeds due to these qualities. canine varieties suitable for households with kids And even though these little puffballs are small, they excel at being guard dogs because of their natural ability to detect threats. That’s innate intelligence for sure.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 13 to 16 inches |
| Weight: | 15 to 25 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 14 years |
7. Labrador retriever
Created by 16th-century settlers on Canada’s Newfoundland Island, the Labrador retriever traces back to the now-extinct St. John Dog and shares relations with the Newfoundland breed. It was during the 1800s when this canine received its name “Labrador dog,” following visits made by British aristocrats who brought these dogs home from their travels in Canada.
Upon arriving in England, the Labrador retriever’s traits (such as its waterproof coat) were refined even more to excel in duck retrieval during hunting expeditions. According to Stanley Coren, this breed stands as the seventh smartest, underscoring its remarkable olfactory skills and capacity for making sound decisions using those senses.
The Labrador retriever has a knack for self-education—they pick up knowledge by observing and mimicking human actions rather than through formal instruction. Because of such traits, this charming dog has maintained its status as the most beloved breed in the U.S. for longer than any other. Additionally, Labradors are frequently chosen by individuals with disabilities and rank amongst the top choices for service dogs. emotional support dogs .
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 21.5 to 24 inches |
| Weight: | 55 to 80 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 12 years |
8. Papillon
In Coren's rankings, the tiniest breed among the smartest dogs is the Papillon. Among many endearing varieties, big-eared pups The breed’s origins date back nearly 700 years, which significantly contributes to its intelligence, as stated by Caitie Steffen, an expert at the pet activity tracking firm Whistle, along with Dr. Angela Hughes, a veterinary geneticist from the dog DNA testing service Wisdom Panel. Being among the earliest canine breeds, the Papillon has had ample time over generations to develop into one of the most intelligent dogs globally, and its breeders have utilized this extended period effectively.
The papillon, named after the French term for "butterfly" due to its distinctive ear shape resembling wings, was originally kept by aristocrats. As stated by the AKC, this breed has roots in European spaniels but was crossbred with smaller dog varieties to achieve their miniature size. They possess a cheerful and sociable personality along with a strong desire to please their owners and excel at understanding and following instructions, which makes them ideal small-scale companions.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 8 to 11 inches |
| Weight: | 5 to 10 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 14 to 16 years |
9. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler traces its origins back to the times of the Roman Empire, where it served as a herder for livestock. As stated by holistic pet therapist and author Sally Morgan, contemporary Rottwilers are recognized for being amongst the most intelligent canines due to their keen senses, steadfast devotion, and exceptional alertness; this is why they frequently serve roles such as search-and-rescue animals, protectors, and law enforcement companions. According to Stanley Coren’s rankings, Rottweilers stand at number nine in terms of intelligence across various canine breeds, positioning them as one of the top choices for those seeking an astute four-legged friend. biggest dogs in size and smarts.
The strong, durable, sturdy Rottweiler is recognized for its exceptional affection and loyalty, as stated by both Coren and the AKC. These dogs excel not just as outstanding police canines but also as top-notch obedience contestants, assistance animals, therapeutic companions, and regular household pets. Despite believing that Rottweilers may be perceived negatively,(Coren) emphasizes this perception is incorrect. He asserts, “These dogs are not hesitant to protect their owners and loved ones.”
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 22 to 27 inches |
| Weight: | 30 to 135 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 9 to 10 years |
10. Australian cattle dog
These compact yet powerful dogs were developed in Australia (as expected) specifically to manage cattle (logically). They significantly contributed to shaping the nation’s beef sector, according to Coren. Known for being highly driven to perform their duties, the Australian cattle dog poses a considerable challenge for urban residents or those unable to provide constant mental stimulation and activity for this energetic breed.
In simpler terms, if you don’t provide these dogs with engaging activities, they will occupy themselves—and their choices might not be to your liking. The good news, according to Coren, is this Australian dog breed is so intelligent and structured that the dogs “return their items once they’re done with them.” Extremely enthusiastic about learning, the Australian cattle dog proves to be an excellent companion for human activities like playing fetch.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 17 to 20 inches |
| Weight: | 35 to 50 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 16 years |
11. Pembroke Welsh corgi
Loving, intelligent, and vigilant, the Pembroke Welsh corgi has served as the favored canine of the British royal family since 1933. That year, the Duke of York—later known as King George VI—took in two corgis named Dookie and Jane for Princess Elizabeth and her sister, Princess Margaret. Over her 70-year reign, Queen Elizabeth reportedly bred over 30 corgis.
Ranked number 11 in Coren's list of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi might have attracted the interest of the royal family due to its high obedience levels, impressive tracking abilities, and remarkable athleticism. Despite having short legs, this breed boasts strong musculature. Furthermore, their bold demeanor allows them to serve effectively as guard dogs despite their size. As stated by Dr. Hauser, these dogs are notably cheerful, short-legged dog breed feels most satisfied when engaged in tasks. If you avoid giving your dog jobs to do, don’t be shocked if it starts herding family members, especially the younger ones.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 10 to 12 inches |
| Weight: | Up to 30 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 13 years |
12. Miniature schnauzer
This adorably bearded dog The miniature schnauzer, being the smallest of the three schnauzer varieties, was listed as the 12th smartest breed according to the Schnauzer Collective. As stated by Steffen, these swift learners thrive when presented with challenges and frequently distinguish themselves in activities requiring intellect, such as agility competitions and competitive obedience events.
According to Dr. Hauser, "in contrast to numerous other dogs within the terrier category, miniature schnauzers possess a significant inclination to satisfy their owners along with the intelligence required to achieve this." These amiable canines combine friendliness, sharpness, and compliance into one compact package. Despite their smaller stature, they exhibit substantial self-assurance characteristic of larger dog varieties. Originally developed from standard schnauzers to serve as farmhands controlling pests such as rats, these furry geniuses now thrive as ideal companions in urban environments due to both their manageable sizes and friendly dispositions towards kids and tiny creatures alike—rodents being an obvious exception.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 11 to 14 inches |
| Weight: | 10 to 15 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 15 years |
13. English springer spaniel
Blessed with an excellent memory and (when liver-colored) beautiful green eyes The English Springer Spaniel ranks as the 13th most intelligent dog breed according to Coren’s list. Known for being friendly, lively, and well-behaved, this breed has been used for generations to hunt and recover game birds across the hilly regions of Britain. Over time, as the breed evolved, the English Springer Spaniel shared such close similarities with what later became recognized as the English Cocker Spaniel and the English Field Spaniel—both also featuring within the top 50 smartest dogs per Coren's rankings—that they were virtually inseparable.
In recent times, the English Springer Spaniel has emerged as a distinct breed known for being remarkably intelligent, attentive, and keen to satisfy its owners. However, one potential drawback of this breed is its inclination to form such strong bonds with people that it may appear extremely "unhappy" or "distressed," according to the AKC, particularly when left out of activities.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 19 to 20 inches |
| Weight: | 40 to 50 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 14 years |
14. Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren, recognized for its "smart disposition and aptitude for activities including agility, tracking, herding, and sledding," stands out as one of the most intelligent canine varieties, say Steffen and Dr. Hughes. According to Coren’s rankings, this breed holds the spot at number 14, slightly ahead of the Schipperke—a smaller version resembling the Tervuren but with a dark coat instead.
The Belgian Tervuren not only possesses intelligence and excellent organizational abilities, making them valuable herders on numerous Belgian farms in the past but is also an exceptionally observant companion known for their robust protectiveness, remarkable loyalty, and proficiency in performing tricks. They are quite adept in these areas as well. rare dog breed The Belgian Tervuren is somewhat more readily available in the United States compared to some of its counterparts like the Malinois and the Laekenois.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 22 to 26 inches |
| Weight: | 45 to 75 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 14 years |
15. Schipperke
Referred to as the "small skipper," this breed was developed primarily for controlling pests on Flemish canal boats. schip The Flemish term for "boat" refers to the Schipperke, which ranks as number 15 on Coren’s list of smartest dog breeds. This breed boasts a curious, shrewd, and self-assured temperament—after all, how would it otherwise manage to catch rodents onboard? Despite its small stature, it exhibits an unexpected level of courage paired with a distinctive mix of zeal and playfulness. Though developed to possess refined qualities, the Schipperke retains these traits. fox-like face Its robust physique is entirely geared towards activity, despite its compact size. Therefore, if you decide to purchase or adopt one, ensure you have ample room for your new best friend to frolic.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 10 to 13 inches |
| Weight: | 10 to 16 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 14 years |
16. Collie
Well before Queen Elizabeth II developed her fondness for corgis, another royal figure was celebrated for her attachment to various canine companions. This earlier queen was none other than Elizabeth’s great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria. Throughout her lifetime, she owned numerous dogs; however, two particularly beloved ones were collies that resided with her during the latter part of the 1800s.
However, it was not until 1943 that the collie captured global attention. This was due to the release of the film Lassie Come Home debuted, presenting to everyone a caring, faithful dog that wouldn’t hesitate to rescue any child in danger. Put simply, an archetypal collie. However, this breed was undeniably endearing. long-nosed dogs They care for more than just children. These individuals possess an exceptionally high degree of intellect and a strong inclination to help others, making them effective guides for the visually impaired and skilled rescuers, as noted by Steffen and Dr. Hughes.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 22 to 26 inches |
| Weight: | 50 to 75 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 14 years |
16. Keeshond
Another Number 16? Absolutely correct! This charming ball of fluff shares the 16th position with the collie on our list of the most intelligent dog breeds. Formerly called the Dutch Barge Dog, the Keeshond ("KAYZ-hawnd") earned its place on Dr. Stanley Coren’s list due to more than just its cuddly appearance. After all, this ranking focuses on intellect rather than sheer cuteness. The breed’s sharp mind and willingness to please are what truly put them at number sixteen.
Initially developed to serve as guards and companions on commercial barges, Keeshonds gradually became less needed over time due to larger vessels requiring more substantial canine assistance. Despite this shift, these cherished canines maintained an optimistic spirit. Nowadays, they often take up roles such as guide dogs for the visually impaired or therapeutic animals. If you’re considering adopting a Keeshond, remember that these dogs are highly gregarious and form strong attachments to their human families; some even label them as overly dependent. However, when faced with those adorable faces, being somewhat needy could indeed turn into a positive trait.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 17 to 18 inches |
| Weight: | 35 to 45 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 15 years |
17. German shorthaired pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer possesses nearly every desirable trait—and this was primarily intentional. Back in 1861, German Hunters embarked on developing the perfect partner for various hunting scenarios, catering to different types of prey and varying environmental conditions. The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes that they achieved success far greater than anticipated, describing the breed as highly intelligent and eager to satisfy their handlers.
Slender and fit, these dogs have distinctive coats frequently marked with considerable amounts of "tick marks," which is canine speak for "fur spots." The German Shorthaired Pointer is not only easy to train but also devoted and affectionate. Despite their strong resolve and composure during hunting excursions, consistent training significantly aids them in developing into exceptionally well-behaved and intelligent companions.
| Breed overview | |
| Height: | 21 to 25 inches |
| Weight: | 45 to 70 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 12 years |
Why trust us
At Reader’s Digest , we're dedicated to generating top-notch content crafted by authors who possess both expertise and experience in their respective fields, all of which is done in collaboration with pertinent, certified specialists. In the creation of this article, Lauren Cahn drew upon her background in reporting on dog breeds and canine behavior, subsequently Caroline Coile, PhD, a distinguished journalist renowned for her expertise in canine breeds, health, and science, has received awards for her work. conducted an extensive evaluation to confirm that all details are correct and provide the most effective guidance for our audience. We validate every piece of information and support it with reliable sources, then periodically reassess these elements to maintain their accuracy and relevance. Learn more about our process here. team , our contributors and ourselves editorial policies .
Sources:
- Stanley Coren , Ph.D., who specializes in canine research, is a professor at the University of British Columbia and has written several works including "X" book. The Intelligence of Dogs ; interviewed August 2023
- Alexandra Horowitz , who leads the Dog Cognition Lab at Columbia University's Barnard College; interview conducted in August 2023
- American Kennel Club Dog Cognition: Canines Prove They're Smarter Than We Assume
- Wendy Hauser Dr. DVM, a veterinarian and the founder of Peak Veterinary Consulting; interview conducted in August 2023
- Caitie Steffen, an animal specialist with Whistle ; interviewed August 2023
- Angela Hughes DVM, PhD, veterinary geneticist at Wisdom Panel; interview conducted in August 2023
- Sally Morgan , PT, CST, holistic pet therapist; interviewed in August 2023
- Lazhar Ichir, founder of Breeding Business ; interviewed August 2023
- Caroline Coile, PhD, a prize-winning writer who focuses on dog breeds, health, and science, and the author of Barron's Book of Dog Breeds ; interviewed January 2024
The post 18 Most Intelligent Dog Breeds, Ranked by Smarts appeared first on Reader's Digest .
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