Top 67 Smartest Dog Breeds on Earth

Sandra S. Ashley
Last Updated On: May 10, 2020
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There are hundreds of breeds out there in the world today, and new ones still are being born to bring new joy to dog lovers.

But, have you ever wondered what the smartest dog breeds are? Surely some stand above the rest right?

Well I have managed to gather sixty-seven different breeds that are absolutely brilliant. I will of course mention why each one is unique in it’s own way.

You never know, maybe your dog’s breed may be on the list as well.

How Are the Smartest Breeds Determined?

There is a lot that goes into figuring out how smart a dog is.

From instincts to obedience and ability to adapt, each breed goes through tests to determine.

With enough studied done on hundreds of dogs of similar and different breeds, some stood out amongst the others with their intelligence.

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Why Are Smarter Dogs Sought After?

There are many reasons why smarter dogs are in such a high demand.

Working dogs like the ones in the herding class are able to be easier trained, and more responsive than say toy dogs.

Dogs you typically see out doing more than being a pet are needed in our society today, and the smarter the are, the easier it is to get them working their special task.

Top Smartest Dog Breeds So far

#1 – Border Collie

Border Collies come from the herding class, which are known to be able to learn new commands quickly and be able to follow them.

I love Border Collies because of this, every collie I have met is so quick on their feet and receptive to commands.

#2 – Poodle

There are many oodles of Poodle hybrids out there, but the standard poodle is still above the rest.

These dogs are known for having hypoallergenic fur as well as the quickness on their feet most working dogs are known for.

Even with how fancy they appear, they are not all fashion pups.

#3 – German Shepherd

Of course German Shepherd will be on this list, our favorite member of any police force.

They are known for being able to do anything with how obedient their breed is.

From being seeing eye dogs to even bomb finders, they are dogs with a passion to serve.

#4 – Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are the standard suburb house dog with their gorgeous coats and loving personalities.

However, these dogs were once valued hunters and can be very obedient and loyal dogs.

However, they will always still be goofs every once in a while.

#5 – Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher may be portrayed as these real mean dogs in the media, but they are actually real family dogs that adore kids.

However, they are still amazing guard dogs that will protect your home and family from anything.

#6 – Shetland Sheepdog

These dogs are amazingly adorable balls of fluff, but they are still out in the fields working their tails off.

They are brilliant with herding, agility, and even obedience.

This means if you need a dog to herd some animals on the farm, this should be your go to.

#7 – Labrador Retriever

I absolutely adore Labs and many would agree with me. They are dogs that aim to please in everything they do.

This is why they are so often used as guides or drug sniffers.

The way they follow and obey commands without fail is truly amazing.

#8 – Papillon

This little toy breed found its way on the top of the list because of its amazing agility both competitively and on their own.

Papillon’s are both adorable and speedy, it’s no wonder they are named after the agile butterfly.

#9 – Rottweiler

Rottweilers are a very dependable breed and will follow you to the ends of the earth.

They respond well to training, but they will need lots of exercise to keep them happy.

However, it is a price to pay for such a sweet loyal pup.

#10 – Australian Cattle Dog

Aussies are such a great loyal and obedient dog. The ones I have met in my life are so receptive to commands that they stand out for sure.

This alert breed is one of the few I have known that you can walk without a leash with since they will heel at your side the entire way.

After some training of course.

#11 – Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Corgis, especially the Pembroke Welsh, have their roots in hunting in england.

They are very obedient and loyal, making it fairly easy to train them.

It really is no wonder the Queen of Britain adores their company so well within the palace.

#12 – Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are more than their well groomed mustaches and wise stares.

They are always such energetic dogs that adore being around other dogs and people too.

They are one of the fastest learners too, though expect a little bit of back sass.

#13 – English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is an amazing hunting dog and also a pointing breed.

They are also really athletic and quick to respond to command.

Just don’t get them mixed up with the equally adorable, but smaller, Cocker Spaniel.

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#14 – Belgian Tervuren

If you are like me, you likely haven’t heard of this breed before.

However, similar to a German Shepherd, the Belgian Tervuren is an amazing watchdog that is one of the easiest breeds to train.

Not to mention they are an outstandingly adorable dog to have.

#15 – Schipperke

Schipperkes are very clever dogs that can figure out a lot of things on their own.

They are also known to be very confident, meaning they often believe they are larger than their realistically small self.

Belgium sure does bring with it some clever cookies.

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#16 – Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog looks almost like they are directly related to wolves with their fluffy coats and wise eyes.

They are great herding dogs that are work quick on their feet and look fabulous doing it.

#17 – Collie

Similar to the Border Collie and Shetland Sheepdog, the Collie is an amazing herding class dog.

They are known for their amazing loyalty, portrayed famously in Lassie.

I personally adore their gorgeous thick fluffy coats that are just silk against my hands.

#18 – Keeshond

Keeshonds is a very sturdy breed similar to a Malamute in appearance.

However, they are specifically known for their cute markings that make them look like they have glasses over their eyes.

Even though this makes them look super wise, don’t be fooled. This breed is also as playful as a Golden Retriever.

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#19 – German Short-haired Pointer

German Short-haired Pointers are a very loyal and cooperative breed. They were bred for hunting, making them a very easily trainable dog.

Being a pointer breed makes them exceptional at pointing you in the direction of what you trained them to find.

#20 – Flat-coated Retriever

Flat-coated Retrievers are known for their extremely adaptable and friendly natures which means they are great with children and other breeds.

Because of their sweet hearted temperament, they work best as therapy dogs or comfort animals.

I mean look at their face, it’s one that would sure light up my day.

#21 – English Cocker Spaniel

English Cocker Spaniels are very sweet loyal dogs. They are a very obedient breed and easy to train from a young age.

And thanks to a certain movie, they are very popular in many households because of their fashion forward appearance and loveable attitude.

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#22 – Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer, much like the miniature, are very sociable.

They are also great watchdogs and will bark at anything that comes near your home, even if it is just a squirrel.

They are also very easy to train if you are firm but a bit on the gentle side with it.

Though you should know, even though they all seem senior, even the puppies, in appearance, they are very athletic dogs.

#23 – Brittany

Brittanys are amazing hunters with great agility, especially for flyball and even dock diving.

You could train this breed to do almost anything you want, and it will have a great time doing it.

They are very loyal to their owners and will prove to be a sweet teammate for dog sports or hunting.

#24 – Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel are sensational athletes, which is proven often in dog shows when they frequently beat other breeds.

With their high energy levels, it really is no mystery how.

Cockers are also very easy to train and make for great friends, especially with kids.

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#25 – Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, a mouthful I know, is a great dog to play fetch with.

They were bred to fetch ducks that were shot down, meaning their sense of direction, agility, and obedience are impeccable.

Not to mention they are insanely smart – and handsome.

#26 – Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd breed is very active and highly intelligent.

They are still used today as a working breed in America on many farms because of their high trainability.

I honestly believe this is one of the most beautiful herding dog I have seen. Especially the tri color coat some have with different colored eyes.

Adult Belgian Malinois Dog — From: DogNutrition.com

#27 – Belgian Malinois

Another amazing breed that comes from Belgium is the Belgian Malinois.

They are great service dogs that even rival the famous German Shepherd in most regions.

With it’s stronger hindquarters, the Malinois is a sturdy agile dog.

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#28 – Blue Heeler

The Blue Heeler is a different name for the Australian Cattle Dog, though the coloring that comes with the Blue Heeler is what sets them apart.

They are a very tough breed that can handle any conditions year round. They are, shockingly, related to the Dingo as well.

#29 – Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie looks nothing like other Collies I have mentioned so far. It resembles more of a Old English Sheepdog than any other breed.

They still have a thick long coat, but it is more wirey than it is silky.

Regardless of looks though, this dog is a highly trainable breed and severely loyal to its family.

#30 – Briard

The Briard is one of the most handsome sheepdogs I have seen.

Their shaggy coats are very long and will often need clipping since without it, your dog will never be able to see.

Just like most sheep dog breeds, they are very loyal and trainable.

I wouldn’t mind having one of these with their magnificent beards around the house.

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#31 – Beauceron

Beaucerons are a very sturdy breed that appears similar to the Pinscher in color.

They tend to be very dominant dogs, making them a tad harder to train with new dog owners.

Though if you train them right, they are amazing watchdogs and guardians.

They will protect anything they see as family in a heartbeat.

#32 – Bloodhound

This breed is known to be a packhound, meaning the adore company, especially other dogs and even kids.

They are a bit harder to train since they are a sensitive breed.

Bloodhounds are also known for their amazing sense of smell and can sniff out anything you may or may not need.

Including every bush on a walk.

#33 – Weimaraner

Weimaraners are great family dogs with an easy going attitude. They are very easy to train and are amazing with kids.

They are very active dogs and will need lots of activity, both physical and mental, to keep them happy and healthy.

#34 – Bernese Mountain Dog

For such a large breed, Bernese Mountain Dogs are rightfully a family dog. They are very loyal and gentle with children and their special human.

They are rather gentle giants and will stay calm even with strangers around.

I would love one of these big cuddle bugs in my home for sure.

#35 – Pomeranian

Pomeranians are the epitome of purse dogs and cuteness. Though they are extremely intelligent for their small size.

They master tricks and commands with ease and will do them consistently to make you happy.

Poms are also very great watchdogs, but it tends to be a bit yappy.

#36 – Irish Water Spaniel

Irish Water Spaniels are a great playful member of the sporting class. They are also very eager to please, meaning training them is a breeze.

Packed full of energy, they will do any job you train them for with joy.

A bonus is their cute curly coat they strut around with, I mean look at it!

#37 – Vizsla

A talented graceful breed like the Vizsla are fun to have around for more active people. They will happily follow you while jogging or biking all day if you wanted.

Extremely loyal to boot as well, they hate being alone.

It is really recommended to only have this breed if you have the time to fully stimulate your dog mentally.

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#38 – Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a stocky version of the Corgi compared to the Pembroke.

They also feature shorter pointed ears with a longer tail compared to the longer ears and curled tail of other Corgis.

The only issue with this breed is that, with the longer backs, they are more prone to back issues than other breeds.

#39 – Chesapeake Bay Retriever

This retriever breed is an easy to train one, however they love to do their own thing for the most part.

They are also extremely protective of their humans, meaning strangers will get the cold shoulder for a while.

With how active these dogs are, it is best to live where you can take them for runs or even to hunt with.

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#40 – Puli

Sometimes referred more to as a mop than a dog, the adorable dense dreadlocked Puli is a high maintenance breed.

Though even with all that fur, they are incredibly agile and light when trotting around.

This breed is very loyal as well as fast learners, so training wouldn’t be an issue.

But just like Chaspeakes, they are their own down and will do their own thing.

#41 – Yorkshire Terrier

When I think of show dogs in the toy class, I always have the fancy silky Yorkshire Terrier in mind.

Though they are very dainty, don’t let their looks deceive you.

They are hard to train, but they will forever be loyal to you. This means they make great, rather yappy, watch dogs for your home.

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#42 – Giant Schnauzer

Like the other sizes of schnauzer I have mentioned already in this list, the Giant Schnauzer makes a very loyal companion.

With them being extremely intelligent, training them is so easy, especially with their fast learning.

#43 – Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water dogs are very easy to train due to their high intelligence.

They are very high maintenance, needing tons of attention from family and would do well in a pack.

Even though they are easy to train, they do like to branch off on their own and be independent, but will still respond to most commands.

#44 – Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a very clever dog with great spirit and strength. Due to this they have earned the nickname of the King of Terriers from the AKC.

They are very athletic dogs as well, being a great hunter and athlete companion.

One of their best traits is how courageous they can be, giving them the determination to do anything.

#45 – Bouvier Des Flandres

The Bouvier Des Flandres is a very large sheep dog that originated from France.

They are also a very shaggy dog that will need grooming very often with how things get caught up in their fur.

This breed though is such a loyal loving dog that you can’t go wrong having one in your family.

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#46 – Border Terrier

These little guys are tough for their size, being hard working dogs that are easy to train.

They are great farm dogs, adoring the outside and will need decent exercise to remain happy.

Border Terriers are also such great tempered, affectionate dogs that would go from hunting down squirrels to cuddling on the couch.

#47 – Welsh Springer Spaniel

Welsh Springer Spaniels are similar to the other spaniels in temperment, being very friendly and eager to please pups.

The only difference that really distinguishes a Welshie from say the Cocker or English Springer is their tapered head shape and red and white patterns that stand out not just in color but also its waterproof quality.

#48 – Manchester Terrier

Manchester Terriers are often mistaken for Doberman Pinschers with their coloring and similar body build.

However, the Manchester is a very observant dog that will learn fast with positive training.

This dog is up for a challenge with any dog sport you give him, and he will often succeed as well.

# 49 – Samoyed

Samoyeds are very adorable fluff balls with thick white coats that make them immune to the cold.

Another adorable feature they have is their almost constant smile.

Though these smart and social creatures aren’t so cute when left alone. This is often when they become destructive since they crave attention.

#50 – Field Spaniel

Field Spaniels are a very sweet tempered dog with sensitive souls.

They respond very well to positive training and will never respond to negatively to harsher training methods.

Field Spaniels are also very tolerant and friendly to other dogs and even children, being called one of the most tranquil and docile breeds.

# 51 – Newfoundland

This very sweet devoted bear of a dog is a very easy going dog, making them very well mannered towards children.

They are also very easily trained, and will trust you with their life.

Even though these dogs are massive and could quickly become far too heavy to hold, they are very gentle and patient with any challenge that comes its way.

#52 – Australian Terrier

This small plucky breed almost looks like a shaved yorkshire, however they are rather different in temperament.

They have a very easy going attitude and super affectionate.

Australian Terriers come at everything they are thrown with such courage and self-assurance, you would think they could survive anything.

#53 – American Staffordshire Terrier

Staffordshires are often mislabeled as mean spirited pitbulls, however that is quite the opposite to this breed’s good nature attitude.

They are very easy to train and will listen to any command you train them with.

However, always make sure to get your Staffordshire from a respectable breeder because they will listen to bad training, which of course is not their fault.

#54 – Gordon Setter

The Gordon Setter is one of the largest of their kind with such beautiful features. They are a very bold and confident breed that will handle any situation well.

However, they are also very sweet and affectionate and will be happy to cuddle with you on the couch for the night.

#55 – American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo dogs come in standard, miniature, and toy sizes.

Yet they are all very intelligent and are super eager to please when it comes to training.

Not to mention they are very much family dogs, and they will make it very known when they aren’t getting enough attention for their liking.

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#56 – Cairn Terrier

Cairn Terriers may be a small breed, but they are very much full of character. They are known to be an independent but truly loyal dog.

They are close family dogs that adore contact with their humans and of course tons of snuggles.

However this doesn’t mean they are short of energy, adoring romps in the yard from time to time.

#57 – Kerry Blue Terrier

This terrier is very unique with its head shape and blue wirey coat.

However this former bred farm dog is known more for its adaptable and alert nature.

They are also great watchdogs for your home as well as social family oriented dogs.

#58 – Irish Setter

Irish Setters are a very graceful breed with a stunning red coat to match.

They are sweet tempered dogs that have the cuddles and energy for everyone in the family.

This setter is also very active and outgoing, willing to play almost all day, which actually shows how useful they were as hunting dogs in the past.

#59 – Norwegian Elkhound

When looking at the Norwegian Elkhound, I often believe they are a mix of husky and german shepherd.

Though Elkies are much more durable and dependable, great for herding and even as a watchdog.

They are amazingly athletic and trustworthy as well, a dog you can always count on to work with you.

#60 – Affenpinscher

When you hear the name Affenpinscher, you might think of this grand graceful pooch.

However, you are greeted with this adorably funny dog that bring laughs to all his little antics.

They are known for also being strangely human like and stunningly fearless. I mean look at that face, aren’t they so cute?

#61 – Silky Terrier

Silky Terriers are stunningly close to that of the Yorkshire, however this breed is actually slightly larger.

They are a very keen and quick dog, making them easy to train as fast learners.

Silkies are also great friendly companions to have around.

#62 – Miniature Pinscher

Think of a blend of the chihuahua with its fearless above all attitude with the stocky proud body of a Doberman and you get the Miniature Pinscher.

This King of Toys is a very fun-loving breed that can grow into well mannered adult dogs.

Though they are a bit stubborn, they train rather easily from a young age.

#63 – English Setter

Much like the Irish Setter, the English Setter is a very friendly breed.

However, the Irish Settie is a very mellow tempered dog with a merry attitude towards life.

My favorite part of this breed has to be their stunning appearance with the great amount of silky fluff.

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#64 – Pharaoh Hound

The smiling Pharaoh hound is a nobel breed that is known for the dashingly handsome appearance.

Though beyond their looks, they are a super smart breed that are quick to learn and even eager to please.

However, this stunning dog has shown they are not to be trusted without a lead in the open.

They will often run away to do as they wish.

#65 – Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniels are such an amusingly adorable breed. With the small body of a spaniel and the head of a retriever, they look rather dopey.

Though they are such mellow sweetheart with their gentleman nature, it is hard not to absolutely fall in love with them.

#66 – Norwich Terrier

This breed is one of the smallest of the terriers, though they act as big as a doberman at times.

They are very sweet dogs very affectionate and loyal.

However they can be a bit stubborn to learn, but are very receptive to short frequent training sessions.

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#67 – Dalmatian

The Dalmation, a fireman’s best friend in the past, is a very loyal dog. They are a very strong working dog that loves a fast paced environment.

Plus, they are quick learners which makes training them a breeze.

Oh and don’t worry, you will never be stuck with a hundred puppies if they have a litter.

Which Dog Breed Caught your Eye?

Out of the long list, which breed did you find the most interesting or even adorable?

I for one learned a lot just writing this one for you guys.

Do you happen to own any of these smart pooches or are you planning to buy one in the future?

Did we happen to miss any you believe should make it to this list?

Let us know down in the comments and please make sure to share it with friends and family if you enjoyed it. Thank you!