List of Intelligent Dog Breeds

All dog breeds have the ability to be trained, but it may take longer to train some dogs than others. The most intelligent dogs obey commands faster and obey them at least 95 percent of the time. Many of the most intelligent breeds are dogs that are bred to retrieve, herd or hunt. These breeds will learn faster because they are quicker on their feet, willing to learn and eager to please.

  1. Border Collie

    • Border collies rank No. 1 for intelligence.

      The exceptionally intelligent border collie has a background as a herding dog. These high-energy dogs have an astonishing instinct and ability to reason. Enthusiastic to learn, this breed loves to be challenged with difficult tasks and tricks.

    Poodle

    • Poodles are often trained as circus performers.

      Poodles, both standard and miniature, are classified as a non-sporting breed. These loyal dogs are obedient, eager to please and have a sharp mind. This loyal breed makes excellent guard dogs, but they also enjoy play time. Poodles love to swim, hunt and retrieve, and they are easy to train.

    German Shepherd

    • German shepherds are trained in the military for parachute jumping.

      The German shepherd belongs to the herding group of working dogs. These large-sized dogs were originally bred for intelligence and are commonly trained as police dogs, search-and-rescue dogs and guide dogs. German shepherds are eager to learn, dependable, protective, smart, courageous and devoted to family and home.

    Golden Retriever

    • Golden retrievers were originally bred to hunt waterfowl.

      Golden retrievers belong to the working group of dogs and were initially bred to be hunting dogs. These obedient and intelligent dogs have the ability to learn more than 200 commands. They are one of the easiest breeds to train because they are eager to learn and quickly pick up on new commands.

    Doberman Pinscher

    • The first Doberman was introduced to the United States in 1908.

      Evolving in Germany as a guard dog, the fearless doberman pinscher can learn to be dominant or docile. Dobermans respond well to commands, are clever and prepared for mental challenges. They are an obedient and loyal breed of dog.

    Shetland Sheepdog

    • Shetland sheepdogs originated in Scotland.

      Shetland sheepdogs are a member of the working class of herding dogs and are extremely intelligent. This breed of dog has the ability to learn new commands in less than five repetitions. Shetland sheepdogs desire to please and are obedient learners.

    Labrador Retriever

    • Black is the most popular color of Labrador retrievers.

      The Labrador retriever, or Lab, belongs to the working class of dogs and are intelligent and patient. Labs are easy to train and are often used for search and rescue, police work and helping the disabled. These dogs are known to train themselves by watching the actions of humans and duplicating them.

    Papillon

    • A unique characteristic of the papillon is its butterfly ears.

      Descendants of the miniature spaniel, papillons are a member of the toy group of dogs. These small dogs are known for their intelligence. Among the most responsive and obedient of the toy breeds, papillons have the ability to be litter box trained.

    Rottweiler

    • Rottweilers are always colored black with rust to mahogany markings.

      Descending from Rome as military dogs and established in Germany as working dogs, rottweilers are primarily used today as police dogs and guard dogs. Rottweilers are calm, courageous and have a devoted perception.

    Australian Cattle Dog

    • Australian cattle dogs will often put their toys away after playing.

      A native to Australia, Australian cattle dogs, commonly called Australian heelers are a working breed with a high level of intelligence. These dogs have sharp minds and exceptional problem-solving skills. Australian heelers become bored if they do not have regular mental and physical exercises for stimulation.