Introducing a new member to your family requires careful consideration. When choosing a puppy that will be well-suited for your family, there are numerous factors to take into account. Prior to proceeding, it is essential to make a determination regarding whether you like to acquire a youthful puppy or an elderly canine. Next, size is a crucial factor to consider.
Are you seeking a diminutive canine that is suitable for your apartment lifestyle, an affectionate dog of moderate size to snuggle with, or a substantial canine that possesses a kind and docile nature? Additionally, it is important to take into account other elements such as the dog's general well-being, level of upkeep, and tendency to shed.
If you highly value having a puppy companion that will rapidly understand and follow your instructions, it is advisable to explore breeds known for their high level of intelligence.
Top 8 Smartest Dog Breeds
We have curated a roster of the 20 most intelligent dog breeds to assist you in selecting your new addition to the family. What is the basis for our knowledge? Psychologist Stanley Coren classified numerous dog breeds as very intelligent in his renowned book "The Intelligence of Dogs," which remains a significant and enduring work in the field.
Coren suggests that a dog's intelligence can be determined by its proficiency in performing certain activities, its level of compliance, and its overall cognitive abilities. Using his data, in conjunction with additional information sourced from major pet websites, we have compiled this list.
Border Collie
Regarded as the most accomplished individuals in the canine community, these herding dogs have achieved the highest position in Stanley Coren's intelligence rankings. This implies that the majority of them are capable of acquiring a new command after only five repetitions and successfully executing it at least 95% of the time.
The height of the Border Collie is between 18 and 22 inches.
Weight range: 30 to 55 pounds
Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Poodle
In the present day, individuals have the option to acquire cockapoos, whoodles, and goldendoodles, among others. However, breeders have a particular fondness for traditional poodles, not just due to their hypoallergenic characteristics. The curly-coated dogs also achieved second place in terms of working intelligence in Coren's survey.
Its height ranges from 10 to 22 inches.
Weight: 6-7 pounds, varying according to the specific kind.
Average lifespan: 12-15 years
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are commonly employed as police dogs, guide dogs for the visually impaired, medical assistance dogs, and therapy dogs. Therefore, it is not unexpected that this breed is known for its persistent obedience.
The height ranges from 22 to 26 inches.
Weight range: 50 to 90 pounds
Average lifespan: 7-10 years
Golden Retriever
Indeed, one of the country's most adored domestic animals also achieved perfect grades in this intelligence assessment. Although initially bred for hunting purposes, golden retrievers also exhibit a penchant for engaging in playful and silly behavior on occasion, as you are likely aware if you own one.
The height ranges from 23 to 24 inches.
Mass: 65-75 pounds
Average lifespan: 10-12 years
Doberman Pinscher
The origin of Dobermans may be traced back to the late 19th century, when Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector, desired a medium-sized pet that could serve as both a guard dog and a companion. Translation: These courageous guardians are capable of defending themselves and can easily socialize with children.
The height is between 24 and 28 inches.
Weight range: 60 to 100 pounds
Average lifespan: 10-12 years
Shetland Sheepdog
Despite being smaller than collies, these endearing fluffy creatures have exceptional skills in herding, agility, and obedience events. As a result, Shelties have a tendency to bark, pursue, and herd, but their friendly disposition and fondness for cuddling will eliminate any negative emotions.
The height is between 12 and 15 inches.
Mass: 14-20 pounds
Average lifespan: 12-15 years
Labrador Retriever
Laboratory retrievers exhibit a strong inclination to satisfy others, whether they are fulfilling the role of guiding dogs, drug detection dogs, or simply functioning as domestic companions. For an impressive 27 consecutive years, Americans have consistently chosen them as the most favored breed in the country.
The height ranges from 21 to 25 inches.
Weight range: 55 to 80 pounds
Average lifespan: 10-12 years
Papillon
Papillons, the first toy breed to achieve a position in the top 10, are not typical lap dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, the 5-pound marvels frequently win prestigious awards in competitive agility trials. Their name, derived from the French word for "butterfly," refers to their distinctive tall and pointed ears.
The height ranges between 8 and 11 inches.
Mass: 4-9 pounds
Average lifespan: 12-16 years
