The 25 Smartest Dog Breeds, According to Science

The 25 Smartest Dog Breeds According to Science

It goes without saying that all dogs are – adorable. – But as anyone who’s spent two minutes with a beagle knows, some breeds are just a little goofier than others. So when it comes to obedience and training, which dogs are the leaders of the pack? Psychologist and’University of British Columbia professor Stanley Coren surveyed 200 dog-obedience judges to find the smartest breeds in his bookThe Intelligence of Dogs. – Here are the 25 dogs that he says are best in show when it comes to working intelligence (i.e., learning commands). Border collie dog running outdoors in a green field

The Border Collie

According to Coren, these dogs are able to learn a new command in under five seconds and follow it at least 95% of the time!   White poodle dog standing on grass in a park

The Poodle

Second place on Coren’s list of smartest pups, these hypoallergenic dogs are also great family pets. Dog sitting on grass in a park with trees in the background

The German Shepherd

There’s a reason why these guys make great crime-fighting pals – they’re obedient and alert (and handsome too!).   Adorable golden retriever puppy running happily in a grassy field perfect for dog lovers and pet en

The Golden Retriever

The ultimate family-friendly dog, these pooches are loyal, whip smart and very patient.   Doberman pinscher known for intelligence and loyalty

The Doberman

Playful and fun-loving, this breed is easy to train and fiercely loyal. Collie dog standing outdoors in a grassy area with trees in the background

The Shetland Sheepdog

Also known as a Shetland Sheepdog, only a highly intelligent breed would be able to raise a pig (if you don’t get this Babe reference, please go rent the movie immediately!).   Dog lying on lush green grass in a park with sunlight filtering through trees

The Labrador

The most popular dog breed in the US is also one of the smartest. – Great with families, these guys are loving and loyal.   Papillon dog in lush green grass known for intelligence and friendly nature

The Papillon

Named after the French word for ‘Butterfly’ (just look at those sweet pointed ears), this toy breed is intelligent, energetic and friendly. Rottweiler dog breed standing in a grassy field highlighting its muscular build and alert expressio

The Rottweiler

Fans of children’s book Good Dog, Carl, won’t be surprised to discover that Rotties are fearless, devoted and confident. (And also very obedient, according to Coren.) Australian cattle dog standing on a rock near water showcasing its alert and energetic nature

The Australian Cattle Dog

No wonder these canines are such excellent working dogs. – But even without cows to herd, this breed makes great companions thanks to their obedience, loyalty and protective nature.   Adorable corgi dog running happily in a park showcasing its playful nature and agility

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

We wouldn’t expect anything less from Her Majesty’s favourite breed. A cute schnauzer lying on green grass outdoors showcasing intelligence and friendly nature

The Miniature Schnauzer

Full of energy, these friendly pups are fast learners and sociable (and they have the best mustaches).   Dog enjoying outdoor scenery on a sunny day

The English Springer Spaniel

Affectionate, athletic and attentive, these tail-waggers were bred as hunting dogs. Dog breed standing on a gravel path with greenery and trees in the background

The Belgian Tervuren

Idea watch dogs, these pooches are highly trainable and have boundless energy. Black finnish spitz dog standing on grass

The Schipperke

From the Belgian region of Flanders, this breed is curious, confident and clever (although these small pups definitely think they’re bigger than they are!). Two intelligent belgian sheepdogs sitting outdoors showcasing their alertness and sleek black coats

The Belgian Sheepdog

Those Belgians really know a thing or two about smart pooches, don’t they!   Dog breed with a fluffy tail and a friendly expression

The Collie

Well duh, have you ever seen Lassie before? Finnish lapphund dog a smart and friendly breed known for its thick coat and alert expression

The Keeshond

Outgoing and playful, this sturdy breed is known for the – markings around their eyes that looks like glasses. Dog lying on grass in a park calm and relaxed

The German Short-Haired Pointer

Co-operative and trainable, these pups are popular hunting dogs so they need plenty of exercise. Dog breed with a shiny black coat standing outdoors in a natural setting

The Flat-Coated Retriever

Great with kids, this friendly breed is also a popular therapy dog.   Adorable golden cocker spaniel puppies sitting outdoors against a clear blue sky

The English Cocker-Spaniel

With their soft and luxurious coat, these guys love being friendly with kids, adults, and even other pups.   Dog lying on grass in a park black coat relaxed pose

The Standard Schnauzer

Devoted, loving and playful, these guys are also hypoallergenic.   Dog sitting on stairs looking curious and alert

The Brittany

Known as sensitive souls who are very clever and attentive.   Dog in a grassy field with yellow flowers sunny day

The Cocker Spaniel

Thanks to a certain fictional female dog, the cocker spaniel has a lot to live up to!   Adorable brown puppy sitting on a rural road with autumn trees in the background

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

If you’re looking for a dog that loves to play fetch, then look no further than this smarty-pants.  

Which breed do you think is the smartest?

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Clare Whitfield Chief Editor
Clare Whitfield is the Editor of Stay at Home Mum and a recognised voice in practical home management for Australian families. Based in the northern suburbs of Sydney, she balances editorial leadership with life as a stay at home mum to two school age children. Her background in home economics and more than a decade of experience in recipe development, family budgeting, and household systems inform her work.

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