There’s no doubt some dogs might be the real simple happy go-lucky type and they don’t do much thinking at all but then there’s the really smart ones that may be smarter than we are. After a some research on the interweb here’s our list of the top 10 smartest dogs:
10. Australian Cattle Dog
A breed that needs to be excercised frequently both mentally and physically the Australian Cattle Dog was bred to herd hundreds of cattle at any given time. It takes a smart little fella to outsmart hundreds of cows and convince them to stay in formation. Australian Cattle Dogs are also very protective of property or his family so you better stay in line if you want this pups blessing.
9. Rottweiler
Wrongfully given a bad wrap, Rottweilers are a very loyal and intelligent breed. Always portrayed as the viscous guard dog and even a monster in movies like the Sandlot, Rottweiler’s are courageous and good family dogs.
8. Papillon
Very smart and easy to train, Papillon’s may come across as grouchy with a bad case of “little guy” syndrome but they are very protective of their home and family. If you own a Papillon you know they are also one of the most affectionate dogs and willing to bark at anything that’s out of place.
7. Labrador Retreiver
Highly motivated by food and hands down one of the most popular dog breeds in America the Labrador Retriever is smart, patient and very affectionate. They are easy to train and make a great family pet. They are often trained to retrieve waterfowl, assist the handicapped and even used as bomb sniffing dogs in military and police applications.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
Aww, it’s Lassie and some of us older folks remember how smart she was. Shelties have proven to be scary smart and are often used to heard cattle and sheep back to the homestead.
5. Doberman Pinscher
Regarded as one of the top 10 guard dogs, Dobermans are fearless protectors and their aggressive personalities must be tamed early on if you plan on having them as a playful family pet. There’s one thing this breed knows well and that’s where his domain boundaries lie and if you’re smart you don’t cross that boundary unless his master gives the OK.
4. Golden Retreiver
Another American favorite, the Golden Retriever is commonly awarded medals and ribbons in obedience competitions because well, they’re smart! Often chosen as the perfect family dog, the Golden Retriever is smart, affectionate and calm around children.
3. German Shepard
Take every dog above and the German Shepard can be just about any of them. They are considered one of the most intelligent dogs in the world and often used for military and police applications as drug or bomb sniffing dogs. In fact, German Shepard’s aren’t happy unless they have a purpose or job to do.
2. Poodle
Surprisingly, the Poodle is very smart and simple to train. They love being around people and do not like being left alone.
1. Border Collie
Another breed who needs something to do all the time. If you pay attention to any type of dog competition Border Collies are usually the top performers.
