What Are the Smartest Dog Breeds in the World?

If you are considering bringing a dog into your home, or getting another dog from an animal shelter or pet store, you might want to get a dog that is more intelligent than others.  So what are the smartest dog breeds in the world?  While intelligence does vary by individual dogs, some breeds are known for their brains as well as their brawn.

One of the smartest dogs in the world is the Rottweiler.  Bred for work as well as for guarding, the Rottweiler is actually the ninth smartest breed on the planet.  They are also very protective and make excellent guard dogs.

The Labrador Retriever is another highly intelligent breed.  These dogs are known for their playful, friendly nature, but are also bred as working dogs.  Of course, thanks to their easy going nature, these are great family dogs.

The German Shepherd is the world’s third smartest breed, and they can make excellent guard dogs.  They do require a firm hand in training at a young age, but they can be very good family dogs.  Of course, they’ve been successful as police and drug dogs, as well. 

The common poodle is the world’s second smartest dog breed, and they can also be very affectionate.  They love to be around people and can become very lonely when left alone for long periods of time.  Poodles are good guard dogs, and were actually bred for hunting.

Finally, the world’s smartest breed is the border collie.  These dogs are highly intelligent (legendary, in fact).  However, they do require considerable exercise and should not be kept cooped up for long periods.  They can be destructive if left alone for too long.