We all love a cute dog, but where should you start looking if you want one with the brains to match? In this article, we’ll list the ten dog breeds that are so smart they ALMOST understand what you’re saying.
Dog intelligence comes in a wide variety of forms, but the ability to learn new patterns is high on the list when determining intelligence. Many working dogs like retrievers, herders, and hunting dogs were bred to have above average intelligence so they could perform their job effectively. Intelligent dogs are often easy to train if handled correctly, but their minds also need to be kept active or they may resort to destructive behaviors.
1. Border Collie
Bred as herders, Border Collies are one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are very quick on their feet and are known for being workaholics. They love having a job and are eager to please their owners. They do best if they have a job they can put all their mental energy into, but if kept active enough make good family dogs.
2. Standard Poodle
Poodles were bred to retrieve things out of the water, and are known for being active and eager to please. Besides retrieving, poodles can be trained to track, hunt and obey a wide variety of commands.
3. German Shepherd
A very popular breed, the German Shepherd is known for being smart, confident and extremely loyal. Because of their intelligence, they have been trained in a wide variety of working positions. From police work to service dogs, the German Shepherd has done it all.
4. Golden Retriever
Arguably the most popular breed of dog for families, the Golden Retriever is just as intelligent and affectionate as it is beautiful. They are extremely eager to please and were bred as hunting companions. Today they are often used as search-and-rescue dogs or service companions.
5. Doberman
The Doberman is in high demand as a police and war dog because of its trainability, strength, and speed. This popularity with law enforcement can make them intimidating to some people, but they are known for their loyalty to their families and people.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
The “Sheltie” is a miniature working collie bred for herding. Along with being intelligent, the Sheltie is very playful and loves to play with children. They are always up for learning new tricks and are very affectionate with their families.
7. Labrador Retriever
Another extremely popular breed, the Labrador is known for being very affectionate and gentle with a desire to please their pack’s leader. These qualities, in addition to their intelligence, make them top picks for search-and-rescue and guide dogs.
8. Papillon
Although small in size, the Papillon is big in personality. They are very smart, happy dogs with lots of energy. “Papillon” means butterfly in French and refers to their large, triangular ears that look like butterfly wings. They have speed and confidence down, making them able to learn new tricks very easily.
9. Bloodhound
Probably known best for its tracking skills, which date back all the way to the 3rd century, the Bloodhound is a friendly and inquisitive dog. Their endearing droopy ears and wrinkled faces capture many people and they make great companions. They are also known for their independence and determination when tracking.
10. Rottweiler
Another popular guard and police dog, the Rottweiler can have an intimidating appearance, given its size and stature. Rottweilers are very loving, loyal and have a strong desire to work. They are best suited to being therapy dogs, obedience competitors, herders or guard dogs. Anything that requires a specific job suits the Rottweiler just fine.
Although your dog may not be one of the smartest breeds known to man, any dog can be trained with enough patience and follow-through. Research your own breed’s characteristics to learn how to motivate and inspire them to follow you, their pack leader. If you’re thinking of buying or rescuing one of these intelligent dog breeds, remember to make sure they have plenty of mental stimulation and put the time in towards training properly so that their clever mind doesn’t turn towards more destructive tendencies out of boredom.