One of the most frequently asked questions by dog people is which breed is the smartest. Inquiries about canine behavior, including a thorough exploration of their intelligence, can be found in the book, ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’, authored by Stanley Coren, a professor of psychology and neuropsychological researcher.
Many of the smartest dog breeds by Coren are high-energy breeds that are mostly identified as herding and hunting breeds. They are on the high maintenance side, requiring a thorough endeavor of both exercise and socialization.
Discover the top 10 smartest dog breeds according to Stanley Coren as cited on Forbes Advisor.
1. Border Collie
Border Collie is the smartest dog breed in the world with its exceptional learning ability to understand new commands. Coren mentioned that the average dog can learn up to 160 words throughout their span of life. Meanwhile, border collie as the smartest dog breed learns around 250 words.
As an intelligent dog, border collies are seen to bark a lot as their outlet to release the high energy. Additionally, collies are also described as athletic dogs that may excel in sports.
2. Poodle
The distinctive fur of poodles is a charming point that brings people to adopt them. Beneath their curly hairstyle is an intelligence that earns them a place as the second smartest dog breed. No matter what size they are, poodles are considered obedience. They are able to swiftly learn tricks.
3. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is ranked third as the top smartest dog breeds due to their courageous behavior. Given their fame as a K9 member, they are at their happiest when they have a job to do.
Despite being a skilled police buddy, German shepherds need early socialization in order to shape their ability to stay calm during certain circumstances. Otherwise, they are prone to bark at strangers.
4. Golden Retriever
Most people regard a golden retriever as an extrovert dog for their easygoing attitude towards both animals and humans. This reflects the intelligence golden retriever carries as the fourth smartest dog breed. They enjoy playtime and are easy to train, making them a great family pet.
5. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman pinschers are mostly noticeable by their fierce appearance with average height reaching 71 centimeters at most. Other than German shepherds, doberman pinschers are also a famous member of the K9 police unit.
Despite their demeanor, they are sweet and natural guardians to their people. As protective as they may be, Dobermans don’t like spending time far from their humans.
Doberman pinschers need to undergo training exercises. Failure in socialization poses a threat of them becoming difficult to handle.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland sheepdog as the name suggests is classified as a herding breed. They are notable for their ability to read the room and their quick response to their wariness of strangers. If not properly trained, they may bark a lot to express themselves.
7. Labrador Retriever
According to the American Kennel Club, labrador retrievers have been one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. for many years. Coren identified them as the seventh smartest dog breed for their highly advanced sense of smell.
Although they are not the proper breed for guarding, labrador retrievers may do excellent work at the bomb detection and rescue department.
8. Papillon
As many small breeds, papillons are eager to please. They were bred mainly for companionship and therefore papillons are not ones to be left alone for long periods. Papillons have an easygoing personality that makes them amiable to other pets.
9. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are regarded as one of the smartest dog breeds that are cuddly. They show affection to their family by being protective. Even so, rottweilers need constant training to prevent them from being stubborn.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian cattle dogs understand the routine of their owners and due to that behavior, they are best suited as herding dog cattle. Since they have hefty energies by nature, it is advised to plan their exercise accordingly.
The top 10 smartest dog breeds demonstrate their exceptional skill in learning commands and that is what makes them a charmer for most people.
