Intelligent dog breeds
Some categories of dog breeds don't have the most rigorous testing. The cutest dog breeds aren't necessarily subjective. However, the most intelligent dog breeds have been looked into by various dog experts such as the canine behaviorist Stanley Coren. He lists dog breeds which meet certain parameters and have proved to be very clever in their ability to complete tasks, show initiative and respond to intelligence games.
It is certainly not as simple as saying the most intelligent dog breed is the biggest. Being large in size doesn't necessarily correspond to intelligence. Small dog breeds and medium sized dogs are often also incredibly intelligent. Here we bring you some that are recognized and renowned for their cognitive abilities.
It is certainly not as simple as saying the most intelligent dog breed is the biggest. Being large in size doesn't necessarily correspond to intelligence. Small dog breeds and medium sized dogs are often also incredibly intelligent. Here we bring you some that are recognized and renowned for their cognitive abilities.
91 breeds
As their name indicates, Polish hounds are an ancient dog breed from Poland. They are also known as Ogar Polski. This is another of the hound dog breeds that were developed in different countries to accompany humans in hunting activities. This does not mean they cannot be excellent companion dogs. If...
Bred in the 19th century to catch rats and mice on farms and other commercial properties, the Manchester Terrier is a relentless hunter. They have a lot of energy and are very brave, but also have an affable character and become close to their human family, including the little ones. If you like small...
The best designer dogs combine two of the best dog breeds in the world into one magnificent super dog that offers the best of both words. The Shepadoodle is one of those perfect hybrid pups, and you can probably guess its parentage from the name alone. Inherently smart, easy to train, and eager to please,...
The Schapendoes, is a dog native to the Netherlands that was traditionally used as a herding dog and general farm dog due to its agility and intelligence. Over the years, the Schapendoes has become an excellent family dog thanks to its cheerful and affectionate nature. They also have a strong desire...
The Swedish Lapphund is a Spitz dog breed from Sweden, one of three Lapphund breeds that evolved from a type of dog used by the Sámi to herd and guard their reindeer. Its thick coat and cunning appearance give this dog a very sweet and peculiar look. It stands out as an exceptional working dog that is...
The Mudi is a dog breed native to Hungary that has traditionally been used for herding cattle. Their great intelligence and ability to adapt have allowed these dogs to be used in different tasks and disciplines over the years. However, their populations in the world are scarce and they are a difficult...
The Pharaoh Hound or Kelb tal-Fenek is a medium-sized, short-haired dog breed characterized by its elegant and athletic stance. It is a hunting dog that originally came from the island of Malta. Today, it is even considered the Maltese national breed. In spite of its lack of widespread distribution, the...
The Pumi is a dog breed originally from Hungary and has the general characteristics of the Terrier. Originally it was used as a sheepdog, although they have been used for various working-dog tasks throughout their history. It is an intelligent, restless and very bold breed with their family. At the same time,...
Otterhounds are dogs with two very special characteristics: they are excellent swimmers and have an exceptional sense of smell. Because of these peculiarities, they were originally used as dogs for hunting otters. Nowadays, however, this activity is prohibited, so their numbers have decreased to the point...
The Irish Water Spaniel is a very peculiar dog breed that stands out for two unique characteristics. Firstly its distinct curly hair and secondly idiosyncratic ‘rat tail’. They are very resilient and hard-working dogs which have traditionally been used as retrievers and hunting dogs. However, they are also...
The Gordon Setter is characterized by being a medium to large dog and is a member of the Sporting or Gundog groups. They have tan or light brown spots on the muzzle, chest, lower edge of the legs and the eyes. They have long ears and a well-balanced muscular body. It is a noble and affectionate dog, which...
If you love dogs that look like wolves, then you will be fascinated by the Tamaskan breed. The Tamaskan dog is a great working dog and, as such, has an athletic appearance. Tamaskans are often confused with other dogs such as the Northern Inuit and the Czechoslovakian Wolfhound, but they are completely different...
The Black Mouth Cur, also known as the Southern Cur, Southern Black Mouth cur or Yellow Black Mouth Cur, is a breed of dog from the southeastern United States. Since their origin, they have been used as a hunting and guard dog, although they are becoming increasingly kept as companion animals. They can become...
Despite their name, the Northern Inuit Dog is a breed originating in Great Britain. It was bred in order to obtain a dog with the appearance of a wolf, but with the character of domestic dogs. Despite not being an officially recognized breed by the International Canine Federation, their popularity is...
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a breed of dog native to Iceland, where it is considered a popular national symbol. Due to its hardiness, agility and intelligence, it has been used to herd cattle and sheep throughout history. However, in addition to its role as a shepherd and protector of the herds, it is...
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the Sheltie, is a small, but elegant dog breed. Similar in appearance to a rough Collie, their small size doesn't prevent them from being a tireless worker. Currently the Shetland sheepdog is more commonly found as a companion animal due to their beauty and...
Irish Wolfhounds is one of the most loved and appreciated Irish breeds. Its history is ancient yet well-known as it was already mentioned by Julius Caesar in the comments on the Gallic War. At that time they were valued for their combat skills, especially for the ferocity with which they attacked their...
The Old English Sheepdog, also known as the English Bobtail, is a large dog with a square-shaped body and with a long and abundant coat that covers the entire body. If you're thinking of adopting an Old English Sheepdog, this breed sheet is perfect for you!
In this AnimalWised breed sheet, we're going...
The Finnish Spitz is a lively nordic dog breed with a curled up tail and a fox-like faced. These dogs make great companion dogs thanks to their intelligence and friendly character.
In this AnimalWised breed sheet we're going to tell you everything you need to know about the Finnish Spitz breed. You'll...
Dandie Dinmont Terriers are cute, small and friendly dogs. They're part of the Terrier family as they are a mix from the Bedlington Terrier and Skye Terrier. If you're thinking of adopting one of these dogs, you've come to the perfect place!
In this AnimalWised breed sheet, we're going to tell you...
What do you get when you cross a Yorkshire Terrier with a Chihuahua? You get this adorable dog breed called Chorkie. They are not only small and cute dogs but also very easy to care for.
Are you thinking of adopting a Chorkie? Read this AnimalWised breed sheet to learn about this breed. We'll go through...
The Leonberger is a giant dog breed originally from Germany. These dogs are calm, quiet and a little stubborn. Nevertheless, thanks to their great intelligence, they are also easy to train. These dogs were originally working dogs, however, nowadays they make great companion dogs for active people.
Are...
The Belgian Malinois is a large-sized dog from Mechelan, Beligium. Although they were originally working dogs, they are now used as companion dogs thanks to their strong loyalty and intelligence. If you're thinking of adopting a Belgian Malinois, this is the perfect breed sheet for you.
In this AnimalWised...
The Australian Shepherd breed is a medium-sizes, agile and intelligent dog. Due to its energetic and hard-working character, They make great working and companion dogs. These dogs need a large space to meet their energetic needs and a loving family as they are also very affectionate and loyal.
In this...
The Billy dog breed is a large scent-hound with Western French origins. Although they were originally used as hunting dogs, they are now adopted by families as a companion dog. Their high intelligence makes them easy to train, and their active personality makes them a great companion to active families.
If...
The Brittany Spaniel is a french dog from Brittany, France. They were originally hunting dogs but nowadays they make a loving dog companion for active families. They are also considered excellent in canine sports.
In this AnimalWised breed file, we are going to go through this breed so that you can...
Hovawart dogs are known for being energetic, well-tempered, loyal dogs that are perfect for families with children. These medium-large dogs even get along with other pets and make great watchdogs.
If you're interested in adopting a Hovawart dog, keep reading this AnimalWised breed sheet where we go...
The Toy Poodle is one of the most popular, appreciated and loved types of poodle in the world. The FCI recognizes 4 types of poodles according to their size and in this breed file we will talk about the smallest of them, considered the "miniature" poodle.
These little ones have become the most widespread...
Tosa Inu, also called Japanese Mastiff, is an imposing, beautiful and faithful dog. This large dog can be reserved with strangers but they are very tender and loyal to their human companion.
If you are thinking of adopting a Tosa Inu dog, it will be essential that you inform yourself about their character,...
The Bedlington terrier is one of the oldest breeds in all of Britain. They are charismatic and highly valued by English hunters and miners centuries ago. This dog breed is a mix between Poodles and Whippets, as well as Dandies Dinmont terriers. Some say that Bedlington terriers are like miniature sheep, as their...
In the most rural environments of the Spanish countryside we find the historical breed, the Spanish Mastiff. Considered the largest dog in Spain, they are known for their incredible physique. They're also known for their guarding skills. However, nowadays the Spanish Mastiff makes an excellent animal companion,...
Elegant and colorful, the Chinese Crested Dog comes in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff. They usually appear in the same litter. Hairless dogs only have a crest of silky fur on the head and patches of fur on the feet and tail. Powderpuff dogs have fur all over their body. Their hair is known for being...
The Shih Tzu is one of the most sociable and playful company dogs. That coupled with its beautiful coat and sweet appearance explains why it is one of the most preferred breeds today. These dogs are affectionate and intelligent, and need constant attention from their owners. It is not recommended that...
The Chihuahua is a small breed of dog, very popular for its size. Besides being an adorable pet, they are intelligent, restless and curious companions. And will offer all their love to whoever takes care of them.
They - unsurprisingly - get their name from Chihuahua, Mexico, the state they were first...
The Xoloitzcuinti dog, also known as the Mexican hairless dog or Xolo, is originally from Mexico. In Mexico, the Xolo is highly valued and even considered somewhat of a living archaeological jewel, since this dog breed was a companion of the Aztecs more than 7,000 years ago. This dog is also known worldwide...
The Italian greyhound is the smallest of all greyhounds, and one of the oldest companion dogs.
Although occasionally used for hunting small animals, its main use was always as a companion dog. It was also used (and is still used) in dog races, but never as much as its older relative, the greyhound.
The Irish red setter, also known simply as an Irish setter, is considered one of the most beautiful and glamorous dogs. This is mainly due to its slender figure and its silky reddish fur.
Although originally a hunting dog, its undeniable beauty has gained it popularity among dog shows and canine enthusiasts.
Are...
A Rough Collie, also know as the long-haired Collie, is a very well-known shepherd dog. Due to its beauty and good character, this dog has become one of the most appreciated breeds among show dogs and pets. It is also known in simple as a Collie (although there are varieties) or, erroneously, as Lassie.
In...
The Bichon Frise, also known as curly-haired bichon, is a small white dog: with long and corkscrew-curly hair. This breed is incredibly popular for its: cheerful, jovial and lively character. It is also known as one of the smallest dogs in the world.
Do you want to adopt this cute little pup? If so, take...
The Cardigan welsh corgi is a small dog that used to be used to help shepherds in Whales. This breed is a close relative to the Pembroke welsh corgi. This breed is very loyal to its family. They are very intelligent and easy to train.
If you want to know more about the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, take a look...
Coton de Tuléar is a beautiful Malagasy companion dog. Its main characteristic is its white, soft and cotton textured coat, hence its name. This breed can adapt to any situation. It is affectionate, sociable and ideal for families, as well as single or elderly people, provided they have the time that...
The beauceron, also known as the french shorthaired sheperd, shepherd of Beauce or Berger de Beauce is a sheepdog of French origin. There is very little information about this breed in Europe and the rest of the world. It is an intelligent and active dog, capable of developing all kinds of exercises,...
The smooth-haired fox terrier is an active and energetic dog. It is a hunter of small stature with enormous personality. This dog is considered to be a great pet. However, it is also a special dog that needs a lot of physical activity, therefore it is not suitable for any type of family.
This dog originated...
The short-haired collie, or smooth collie, is practically the same as the long-haired collie, the only difference being the length of the coat. This dog is not as well known as its longhair counterpart.
The difference in the coat presents a perfect adoption option for people who love Collies but don’t...
The Vizsla, or hungarian pointer, is a dog that has excelled in hunting for years. Fortunately, nowadays, it is a dog that stands out for all kinds of activities and exercises. Its fine nose and great fondness for water makes this dog an excellent companion for dynamic and active people.
Are you wanting...
The Maltese Bichon is a toy-sized breed, with origins linked to the Mediterranean, Italy being the patronage of the breed. The origins of this breed are associated with Italy, Malta and the island of Mljet (Croatia). Despite this, however, its origin is somewhat uncertain. It was the Phoenicians who brought...
The Alaskan Malamute, is a breed of dog native to the Arctic and is considered one of the longest-living breeds in the history of sled dogs. Its imposing and demanding presence gives off a mistaken impression of its real character.
Its appearance is similar to that of a wolf. For this reason, this breed...
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Their adorable appearance and the fact that they are Queen Elizabeth II's favorite dogs have turned these hard-working herding dogs into canine royalty. Although their cute looks may make you believe they are easy-going family dogs,...
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world, and also one of the most popular in numbers. It's also known as "Labrador" or simply "Lab". This breed originated in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, in Canada. These dogs are noble, beautiful and highly intelligent, and they...
The Norfolk terrier is a small, friendly and very active dog. This breed is a hunter by nature. The Norfolk terrier is a close relative of the Norwich terrier. This breed used to be a worker dog but is now known as an excellent companion dog.