The Smartest Dog Breeds to Consider Getting
Dogs are fiercely loyal and intelligent animals that have been man’s companions for several decades. Their presence in the lives of many people has made them stronger, healthier, and more responsible. For many dog parents, there are very few pleasures on earth like owning and caring for a dog. When getting a dog, you’ll most likely consider many factors like the friendliest dogs or which dogs are most effective as guard dogs.
However, there are so many breeds that choosing the right one for you can be a little unsettling. Your reason for owning or adopting a dog should determine which dog you eventually pick. If you’re looking for a way to know which of man’s best friends are the smartest, then stick around and learn a thing or two. You’ll also be able to test how well you know your canine friends.
Dog intelligence isn’t measured in the same way human intelligence is measured. Rather, most canine psychologists and kennel operators define dog intelligence by their instincts, ability to obey commands, and the speed at which they adapt to routine.
Border Collies
Border collies seem to be leading the pack as the smartest dog breeds yet. They were originally shepherd dogs but are now pets in many homes. They excel at learning new tricks and can be easily trained to understand and adapt to routines. They can also be physically and mentally stimulating. As a result, owning one would involve devoting quite a lot of time to training them. They have an intense stare which makes them appear intimidating but are really loving and loyal pets. Not to mention that once trained, they are able to handle tasks fairly well without supervision and perform well at obedience competitions.
German Shepherds
These ‘police dogs’ are so lovable. German Shepherds rank high in the intelligence department because they are able to learn new skills quickly and retain them consistently. Apart from being bonafide members of the police force, they are also excellent guard dogs and blend in well with families.
Poodles
Talk about beauty and brains- the poodle breed has it all. Beneath all the wonderful fluffy hair are dogs that can learn new tricks easily and are also highly intelligent. They tend to excel at competitions.
Golden Retrievers
Loved by a lot of people, these hunting dogs are also the best performers in the intelligence department. Of course, they have a playful side that pops up every so often.
Gordon Setters
Royal pedigree aside, did you know this breed is named after a duke called Gordon? These dogs are also very intelligent and are well known for their physical stamina, outstanding memory, and their reliability.
Australian Cattle
Count on this breed for one thing- their high level of alertness. They are herder dogs with great instincts and can influence the behavior of other animals. This is no doubt due to their sharp ears, which they use to protect other animals.
Bloodhound
This breed is famous for one thing- having a pretty terrific nose. And not just aesthetically, they actually possess a great sense of smell. They are hunting dogs who keep hard at their trials and refuse to take no for an answer. They don’t stop until they get whatever it is they are searching for. You have to train them properly if not they may seem a little tough to control.
Shetland Sheepdog
To most people, they are just smaller versions of border collies. This breed is an adorable, working dog that can serve as both a friend to your kids and a guard dog Why? They aren’t easily taken with strangers and will most likely bark at people from time to time. If you’re looking for a dog the kids can play with who can also serve as a guard, you’re in safe paws with the Shetland Sheepdogs.
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is another dog that makes the list. Rottweilers are loving, work dogs who can serve as work dogs, herd dogs, police dogs, and therapy dogs. They have a little rough side which means they have to be trained early and consistently. However, they are dogs that need a little love and bonding time.