Most Intelligent and Smartest Dog Breeds
Border Collie The valedictorians of the dog world, these herders took the top spot in Stanley Coren's intelligence rankings, meaning most can learn a new command in under five repetitions and follow it at least 95% of the time. Height: 18-22 inches Weight: 30-55 pounds Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Poodle Nowadays, you can adopt cockapoos, whoodles and goldendoodles, to name a few, but breeders love regular ol' poodles for more than just their hypoallergenic qualities. The curly-coated cuties also took the silver medal for working intelligence in Coren's survey. Height: 10-22 inches Weight: 6-7o pounds (depending on variety) Life expectancy: 12-15 years
German Shepherd German Shepherds happily serve as police dogs, seeing eye dogs, medical assistance dogs and therapy dogs, so it's no surprise that consistent obedience comes standard with this breed. Height: 22-26 inches Weight: 50-90 pounds Life expectancy: 7-10 years
Golden Retriever That's right – one of the nation's most beloved family pets also took home straight A's in this intelligence survey. While the breed was originally intended for hunting, goldens also enjoy acting like straight-up goofballs once in a while (which you already know if you have one of your own). Height: 23-24 inches Weight: 65-75 pounds Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Doberman Pinscher Dobermans got their start in the late 19th century, when a German tax collector named Louis Dobermann wanted a medium-sized pet to act as both a guard dog and companion. Translation: These fearless protectors can hold their own, and hang with kids. Height: 24-28 inches Weight: 60-100 pounds Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Shetland Sheepdog Smaller than collies, these adorable fluff balls hold their own in herding, agility and obedience trials. Consequently, Shelties do tend to bark, chase and herd, but their affectionate nature and love for cuddles will erase any hard feelings. Height: 12-15 inches Weight: 14-20 pounds Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Labrador Retriever Labs love to please, whether they're serving as guide dogs, narcotic detection dogs or just everyday family pets. Americans have accordingly made them the most popular breed in the country for a whopping 27 years in a row. Height: 21-25 inches Weight: 55-80 pounds Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Papillon The first toy breed to crack the top 10, papillons aren't your average lap dogs. The 5-pound wonders often take home top prizes at competitive agility trials, according to the American Kennel Club. Their name — French for "butterfly" — alludes to their tall, pointed ears. Height: 8-11 inches Weight: 4-9 pounds Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Rottweiler Rottweilers likely descended from drover dogs in Ancient Rome, with the rugged, dependable temperament to boot. An engaged Rottweiler owner will take care to train and exercise their pooch thoroughly – with the reward of a loving and loyal friend. Height: 22-27 inches Weight: 85-130 pounds Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Pembroke Welsh Corgi The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is extremely energetic and highly trainable. For most commands, all they need is a treat as an incentive to obey. Getting them not to bark, however, can be more difficult as their high intelligence also makes them a bit stubborn. Height: 10-12 inches Weight: 20 – 30 pounds Life expectancy: 10-12 years