How intelligent is your dog? Yes, the one who slobbers you with kisses, is your running buddy, and gives the best hugs. See if your dog made the list. For more adoptable dogs, by breed, visit our website.
1o. Australian Cattle Dog– This breed needs to be given lots of work to do. Australian cattle dogs are not suited for sitting around in their home all day and better suited for country living versus city apartment/ condo lifestyles. They also excel in dog sports including obedience, agility, flyball and flying disc competitions.
9. Rottweiler– Rottweilers have proven themselves in the world of police, military and customs work over many centuries. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are active, happy and obedient, only wanting to please their master.
8. Papillon– Friendly, intelligent and tougher than they look. They are playful, lively, amusing, animated and charming. They can be easily trained due to a strong love of their owner, a desire to please, and they are affectionate nature.
7. Labrador Retriever– Easy to train, Labradors have a winning personality and are eager to please. The Labrador Retriever is a very active, excitable dog, bred for hunting and swimming and overall energy, making it an excellent family pet.
6. Shetland Sheepdog– Super easy to train, Shetland Sheepdogs are one of the smartest breeds of dogs. Shelties can easily be trained to play Frisbee or fetch with any number of items. They are very good runners and will be happy to run or jog with you for exercise as well.
5. Doberman Pinscher– Super alert and loyal, Dobermans are quick learners who are eager to please their owners. They are energetic, and will be happiest if you give them regular opportunity to run off this energy. Training should be through positive reinforcement and should include the entire family.
4. Golden Retriever– Easy to train and patient Golden Retrievers’ high level of intelligence enables them to excel in obedience training. They are often trained and used as service dogs to the blind and disabled. Their friendly and affectionate personalities also make them ideal visitors for retirement homes and allow them to be effective therapy dogs.
3. German Shepherd– German Shepherds crave a good challenge. It’s important to train them firmly from the very beginning. As they enjoy a mental challenge, they can be trained to do nearly anything.
2. Border Collie– This very ‘active’ high energy breed, Border Collies requires patience in training with their highly instinctive and intensity drive to work alongside their human handler. They can actually manipulate you to do what they want you to do. They love learning new things and can be taught some great stunts.
1. Poodle– Poodles have the largest brain per skull size of all dogs making them the smartest in numerous arenas, including hunting, retrieving and dog sports. As an extremely intelligent and highly trainable dog, Poodles need to be mentally stimulated and taught positive behaviors. They are easy to train and make great watchdogs.
