5 smartest dog breeds named and one is hailed as ‘exceptionally intelligent’ (Image: Getty)
For many, are more than just animals; they are confidants and companions whose playful antics can brighten dull days, while their protective nature fosters a sense of security. However, not all dogs are created equal in their roles as pets. All , but some are particularly well-suited to certain lifestyles or needs.
Temperament, size, energy, and often determine how well a dog or home. But Axel Lagercrantz, dog expert and CEO of the UK’s biggest pet rehoming site, , says intelligence “is not altogether a matter of chance”. He told Express.co.uk: “Different dogs have different levels of intelligence – it’s no different to how we humans do. Some dogs will be great at playing catch and fetch, while others will not understand that they must bring the ball back to continue the game.”
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Border Collies (left) and Golden Retrievers (right) are among the most intelligent breeds (Image: Getty)
Axel explained that dogs’ intelligence is measured by several criteria, including how well they understand new commands.
He said: “This should be within less than five repetitions”. Obeying on first command is another indicator of intelligence: “To be placed in the top rankings a dog should obey a recognised command first time a minimum of 95% of the time”, said the Pets4Homes CEO.
Border Collie
Named the smartest dog in psychologist Stanley Coren’s book The Intelligence of Dogs, Border Collies are world-renowned for their intelligence. Axel agreed: “Border Collies clearly understand what their trainer or owner is telling them to do.”
These gorgeous dogs, often boasting two-tone coloured coats, were originally bred to herd sheep. They excel at the task because of their strength, stamina, intellect, and work ethic.
Border Collies are famous for using “the eye”—staring intensely at flock members to intimidate them. As for their brainpower, most can learn a new command in under five repetitions and follow it at least 95% of the time.
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German Shepherds are loyal and protective (Image: Getty)
Poodles are incredibly intelligent though many overlook their charisma (Image: Getty)
Poodle
According to Axel, “Poodles were originally used as a water-retriever for hunters in Germany and are also exceptionally intelligent.”
Nowadays, Poodles are popular crossbreeds, with cockapoos among the most stylish pets. But breeders love pedigree poodles for more than just their hypoallergenic qualities. In Stanley Coren’s famous book, the iconic curly-coated dogs came in second for their intellect.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are often used in police and military settings as medical assistance dogs and therapy animals. Hence, it’s no surprise they are considered among the smartest breeds.
These dark-coated companions are deemed loyal and dedicated, always ready to learn something new. Also known as the Alsatian dog or GSD, the German Shepherd is a highly intelligent breed originally bred for herding sheep.
This breed is generally large yet agile and can be very muscular, so they are best suited to active households as they need a lot of daily exercise. As for their nature, German Shepherds have instincts from hundreds of years of protecting flocks.
Bassett Hounds are mistaken for being lazy and hard to train (Image: Getty)
Golden Retrievers
Axel said, “Golden Retrievers, used as guide dogs, are also incredibly intelligent.” They are one of the nation’s most beloved family pets and also scored top marks in Stanely Coren’s intelligence survey.
While the gundog breed was originally intended for hunting, goldens also have a playful and, many would agree, goofy side, which makes them excellent canine companions.
Common retriever traits include quick learners, eagerness to please, and excelling at problem-solving tasks like opening doors or finding hidden objects.
Basset Hounds
Bassett Hounds, traditionally hunting dogs, are fairly intelligent dogs, but they can be stubborn and independent. Positive reinforcement, such as treats, can make them easy to train, and their friendly, good nature makes them well-suited to family settings.
According to Basset Hound Rescue, if you train your hound with positive motivation, especially treats, “you’ll see how smart they really are”.
Bassets were bred to exist companionably with other dogs in packs and tend to get along well with each other. However, they also love people and bond very strongly with their people, showing none of the aloofness of some of the other hounds.