The top ten smartest dog breeds

1. Border Collie

Did you guess right? The Border Collie is peppy, loving, and of course smart, extremely smart actually! The “Scotch sheepdog,” (Border Collie) hails from the highland border of England and Scotland. A genuine working dog excelling in sheep herding, athleticism, agility, and cuddling. Border Collies are also known for their “herding eye,” an intense gaze used to stare down and herd other animals. You may have heard of Chaser, the dog who knows 1,022 toys by name, is an amazing example of her breed.

2. Poodle

More than a foofoo haircut and the latest trend in canine fashion. Originally, Poodles were bred in Germany to hunt birds and have been trained to bring supplies to wounded soldiers in battle, not just a pretty face right?

3. German Shepherd

German Shepherds make great police, military, and security guard dogs. They’re trained to sniff out bombs, drugs, and people, and they’re extremely loyal to and protective of their masters. Belgian Malinois and Belgian Tervuren also fall into this same vein.

4. Golden Retriever

One of the most popular dogs around the world, the Golden Retriever was first bred all the way back in 1865 in Scotland. This sociable doggo still shines in retrieving, agility and obedience, and as service dogs. But their favourite job is being the family pet.

5. Doberman

Believe it or not, the Doberman was first bred by a German tax collector for protection on his rounds. Modern Dobermans are far less aggressive and make wonderful family dogs that love to play and are extremely loyal. They are well known as smart and extremely loyal companions and of course guard dogs (we’ve all seen Mr Burn say ‘realise the hounds!” in the Simpsons).

6. Shetland Sheepdog

They may look a little like fun size collies, but they actually started out as a local variant of the Icelandic sheepdog found in the Shetland Islands. They were then bred with collies to produce this beautiful bread. Their playful and high energy personalities love everything from a home environment to working on a farm.

7. Labrador Retriever

One of the most popular breeds in the UK, US and Canada, the Labrador Retriever is named for the cold waters off Newfoundland where they were first bred. A short thick coat, webbed feet, and a heavy tail help this intelligent dog swim long distances in cold water.

In addition to their hunting prowess, Labs are popular favourites for canine water rescue, therapy work, and assistance dog training. Labs excel in the canine sport of dock jumping. Labs want to please their Pack Leader, they are excellent guide dogs and rescue dogs.

8. Papillon

Also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel (not surprising for an 11inch high pup) is one of the oldest of the toy spaniels, Royal portraiture shows tiny spaniels resembling the papillon all the way back to the 16th century. They’re active, companionable, and very trainable— the smartest of the toy dog breeds!

9. Rottweiler

Let’s face it, Rottweilers have a bit of a bad rep. They are actually super affectionate when they are raised with love and kindness. They are extremely loyal to their families and don’t hesitate to defend them. It is because of this, they’re well suited to being service dogs, police dogs, herders and therapy dogs.

10. Bloodhound

And last, but by no means least, the Bloodhound! Known for its incredibly powerful sense of smell, they can be easily trained to help the police find the bad guys. They are actually believed to be descendants from hounds once kept at the Abbey of Saint-Hubert, Belgium, cool ey?

Don’t worry if your dog isn’t on here, plenty more articles coming soon including dog training! Be sure to take a look at our wide range of cover levels to find coverage that suits you and your pets best.