Top 15 Smartest Dog Breeds

Below is a list of the smartest dog breeds on earth! OK, while there is no official registry of the most intelligent breeds, the 15 dog breeds below are definitely at the top. Intelligence in dogs is judged by their train-ability, and you will find herding dogs usually do quite well in this category. Click the dog picture to get a more in depth look at their characteristics:

• 1. Border Collie
  Ranked #1 in intelligence, Border Collies are unmatched in their herding ability and skill in communication with their handler.
• 2. German Shepherd
  These dogs are trained in all sorts of service positions, guard dogs, police dogs, search & rescue, as well as guide dogs.
• 3. Labrador Retriever
  Probably the most popular dog in the world, these dogs make great family pets and are easily trainable.
• 4. Australian Shepherd
  Extremely popular show dog, this breed is quiet in nature and is a quick & versatile learner.
• 5. Poodle
  Few breeds are smarter than Poodles, great dog for city life and this breed comes in a variety of sizes.
• 6. Papillon
  Compact size for a highly intelligent dog breed. It's name means butterfly in French, referring to its ears.
• 7. Jack Russell Terrier
  A very lively and active breed, these terriers are a fun addition to the home but can be a bit noisy.
• 8. Collie
  With long or short coats, Collies are very energetic in nature, adaptable and intelligent as both show dogs and regular companions.
• 9. Rottweiler
  Stocky and muscular dog breed, originally a herding dog, they make excellent guard and watch dogs.
• 10. Doberman Pinscher
  Very protective in nature, this is a very bold and assertive dog breed. Its intelligence is unmatched as a guard dog.
• 11. Australian Cattle Dog
  Another herding dog, they are extremely smart and organized in any task they are given.
• 12. Shetland Sheepdog
  Very responsive to training, Shetland Sheepdogs come from the Shetland Islands off the coast of Scotland.
• 13. Airedale Terrier
  One of the smarter terriers, it was used first during WWI as a messenger dog. Grooming can be demanding.
• 14. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  Cousin to the Pit Bull, it is a very intelligent breed. Caveat: Does not do well around other dogs.
• 15. Border Terrier
  Active nature requiring lots of exercise, this is a smart breed. Apartments are not ideal, as they need space to run around.