25 Intelligent dog breeds, small and large [2022]

What are the most intelligent dog breeds among small and large dogs? Today we have gathered here a list of dogs that learns fast and is always aware of its surroundings. A pooch who is curious and always discovering the environment? You better be careful with what you wish for.

Some of the largest and smartest dogs frequently out-wit their owners. They don’t need thumbs to open things such as crates and doors, or reach the highest shelving where you keep your treats.

First, 8 Intelligent Large Dogs!

If you are ready for the joy and challenge of a dog who might outsmart you, then continue reading about the top 8 large intelligent dogs.

1. Border Collie

On top of this list is the Border collie. The Border collie loves to work. Although you might think that it’s only human beings who have a life full of hard work, this pet needs something to do to be jovial. It is one of the best herding dogs and has developed to be one of the most used dogs in the sports world. The Border collie is known for its obedience, speed, and agility. Additionally, it has the ability to understand new tricks faster. These pets love to work next to their owners. They are especially perfect at dog sports competitions. Additionally, you can often see them participating in disc games and flyball. This breed is actually considered to be the smartest dog breeds you can get, mainly because they are able to retain commands and training better than any other breed around. The primary function of this dog breed is for herding and is extremely fast at comprehending new commands. Some state that the Border collie is able to learn something new within five times (commands) or less. Yes, five times saying a command and this dog comprehends the meaning of this command. The Border collie makes a great household pet and may actually dazzle at any dog show you show the dog.

2. German Shepherd

The German shepherd is one breed that you can actually say or classify as being mean and tough. But as we all know “looks can be deceiving” because it is one of the most lovable dogs you can ever interact with. German shepherds can be trained to do stuff that ordinary human beings can’t. Most shepherds are trained to be rescue dogs, police dogs, and some work with the military. They are so intelligent that the Marines and Army have often allowed them to be used in international missions. Additionally, they are quite obedient and very protective. A few years ago, German shepherds were always used as herd dogs but now they are used in more prestigious and higher positions. This is a large breed dog that is one of the smartest dog breeds ever. The German Shepherd is a breed that serves in the U.S. active duty in the police force as well as in the military. The primary task, or job, is to smell out many different scents and smells to help assist police and military staff. This breed has the best nose around and can find even the smallest smells with no problem. In addition to making a great workforce breed, the German Shepherd is a common household pet that can serve as a protector and as a friend. They are large dogs and typically are pretty active and energetic.

3. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman pinscher breeds are fairly intelligent. Just like a German shepherd, this is another breed from Germany to make it on the top 8 large intelligent dogs. In the past, Dobermans were trained to be watch dogs, guard dogs, and police dogs. In the late 1800s, people were searching for a pet that was loyal and loving, as well as ferocious and tough when need be. This is precisely where Doberman fits in. Although you can train them to be ferocious, most of these pets are docile and gentle. Some have been used in clinics and hospitals to assist patients who are undergoing therapy. Although slightly fierce by nature, you can be assured that Doberman will protect you. This dog breed is notorious for being large and scary. However, the breed is actually friendly and skilled. They are highly talented because of their ability to guard and protect and for their ability to detect who is a threat and who is a friend. Many dogs can protect, but often times, breeds cannot differentiate who is good or bad. The Doberman may be the largest breeds you could come across, but they are one of the most loving and caring pets you could have.

4. Poodles

Don’t judge this breed by its pretty face and fancy fur. It has beauty, brains, and a huge sense of humor. They are far from prissy; they are not only loving and caring pets but they also prosper on attention and learning from their masters. Additionally, Poodles are excellent choices for obedience and agility sports. Although they aren’t froufrou show animals, they still require intense grooming. When you consider a dog breed that is talented and smart, one must throw the poodle into the mix. This dog is the seventh most popular dog breed around and they tend to be very active, smart, and friendly dog breed. One reason this dog breed is considered to be talented and smart is due to its ability to excel in obedience and training. This breed is a perfect breed to welcome to the family and one of the most interesting facts about this breed is that it is always one color (there is never a partial colored poodle).

5. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador retriever is among the smartest and most popular dogs in the entire world – maybe second to Border collie. It is a stunning breed of dogs that provide many different services. The Labrador originated from Newfoundland and was often trained to hunt waterfowl. After many years, Labradors are now able to do more and more tasks. Most of these animals are used in different units of police as drug sniffing or bomb sniffing dogs. Any animal that can be trained to sniff drugs and bombs is definitely intelligent. In addition, Labs are used as rescue dogs. Some are trained to assist the blind – they can lead human beings around without paying attention to distractions. The Lab is an obedient, patient, and loving pet that can be educated to do so many tasks. This is by far the most popular and common dog breed around and the reason is due to the talent, skills, intelligence, and socialization the breed is known to have. This dog is usually considered to be on the bigger side of dog breeds and it is designed with powerful jaws and eyes that can sink your heart when they look right at you. Training this breed is super easy and they tend to pick up on cues and commands quickly.

6. Rottweiler

Also known as Rottie, the Rottweiler can be trained or mis-trained to be sweet or a vicious dog that can harm children, adults, and other animals. Speaking of human beings, the average Rottie can weigh as much as a small sized women – about 110lbs. The Rottie originated from Germany but were mostly used in the Roman Kingdom. They are often used as police dogs due to their strong teeth and jaws. Many years ago, the Rottweiler was used to carry heavy goods and wood to the houses. If you desire to train a pet to protect you, your family and all your precious items, a Rottweiler is the way to go.

7. Australian Cattle Dog

You don’t need to be in Australian to see this dog. Australian cattle dogs usually grow to be between 30-50 lbs. They are well known for their intelligence – especially when it comes to herding cattle. Additionally, they can be trained to be biting dogs (don’t be scared, it won’t bite you unless you are training it to). They are trained to bite animals, but not too hard, in order to keep them moving. Australian cattle dogs have been herding animals since the early 19th century and even today they still do this perfectly. They are quite active and love to work.

8. Golden Retriever

Frequently confused with the Lab retriever, the Golden retriever is also a very popular breed of dog that seems to be ideal for a family. Golden retrievers have been man’s best friend and companion for a very long time, especially the hunters. It can be trained to search and bring back game or waterfowl that has been shot. Additionally, its soft mouth allows it to bring unharmed animals to its master. Golden retrievers can also be used as drug-sniffing dogs, guide dogs, as well as rescue dogs. It is quite patient and thus easier to train. If you ever watch dog sports online or on the TV, you’re assured to see these dogs competing. Golden retrievers are a smart and active breed that is one of the most common in the household. They are highly adaptable to training and can make a great skills dog in shows. The golden retriever breed is best known for its socializing and for its hunting ability, thus giving this dog the skill as being a hunting friend and companion. These dogs can be a friend, pet, and in some cases, a seeing-eye or hearing dog for those who are disabled. They make some of the cutest puppies and they can play fetch for hours, hence why this breed is a staple in households all over.

Now, 9 Popular Intelligent Small Dogs

Dogs are certainly known to be the man’s best friend. In fact, some studies show that dogs form a strong emotional attachment to their owner in much the same way human babies do to their mothers. The relationship between a dog and man is said to be so unique that no other domesticated animal can enjoy such a relationship.

Dogs are classified according to their breeds and also classified according to how intelligent they are. Some people have argued that the intelligence of the dog is much dependent on how well the dog was/is trained by the owner. Others believe that there are special genes that affect the intelligence of the dog. The list below shows the 9 popular intelligent small dogs in the world.

1. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is considered an intelligent breed with a bright disposition and lots of energy. If you’re seeking an easier breed to train, this dog will save you some headaches and frustrations. In fact, Pomeranians love learning new tricks and will be able to learn many commands. They also do quite well in competitions, so if you like to compete, this is the right breed for you. They’re also very lovable and friendly, so they make an attractive family pet and your children will them. If you don’t love lots of attention, this breed is not really for you. Also, they tend to bark when strangers arrive, so keep that in mind as well. They think they are quite ferocious and will certainly feel like they are protecting the family with their barking.

2. Skye Terrier

If you’ve got a cat, you might not want to get a Skye Terrier because they don’t really care for them, but they are super smart and tend to like people quite a bit. The Skye Terrier is happy go lucky and loves the outdoors as well. Many people feel it makes a wonderful family pet.

3. Miniature poodle

You should not be surprised to find this dog appearing at number three as the most intelligent dog. These breeds of dogs are absolutely brilliant and though they are rarely seen, they are used as hunting dogs, as well as rescue and watch dogs. They are also used as water dogs. Poodles love to be around people and they are also very protective. The dogs mostly weigh up to eight pounds but you can be very sure that the services they provide are way beyond their weight.

4. West Highland White Terrier

This small breed is much like many of the terrier breeds: small, smart, and friendly. Coming to us from Britain back in the 19th century, this dog was first used to hunt small animals like the fox and mice. This terrier tends to be confident and brave. It is smart and will obey your commands when it feels safe to do so. Some say that some of them can be too aggressive, but normally this is not the case.

5. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels is a toy dog that is quite smart and when you look at its face, it looks a bit like a human. They come with either short or bristle coats and are known for being quite happy with a pleasant temperament. They are great family pets, are curious about new surroundings, and on high alert when it comes to people they don’t know.

6. Pug

Pugs are known to be extremely intelligent, good natured, and great for when there are children around. They are non-aggressive and can be trained to be quite obedient. Pugs make wonderful family pets, as they are quite loving. They can learn many tricks as well. They do not necessarily look the smartest or the most talented, but this breed has great potential when all things are considered. First off, pugs are a very small breed and are great with families, especially children. Second, pugs are a highly trainable dog breed, making the potential endless for these dogs. Lastly, the pug breed was once used as a military dog as part of their spot-on sense of tracking and smell. Never thought this breed was this talented? Consider this dog one of the smartest around the next time your coworkers brag about their pug at home.

7. Papillon

This dog is probably one of the cutest dogs you will ever find and it has shown that cute things can be smart too. They weigh up to eleven pounds and some can weigh to as little as three pounds. They are known to be very charming dogs and have they have always been a symbol of elegance. They have a very good sense of hearing and this allowed them to be used by the royal courts and aristocrats in the ancient times. They are very sensitive to every step you make and thus very protective.

8. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

This is a quite intelligent small breed sometimes called “Pems”. They love people, including children, and will play with them for hours. They have plenty of energy and can learn plenty tricks and commands. Many farm owners will own Pems because they are great herders and the abundance of energy makes them adept at working (or playing) for large parts of the day. They’re quite versatile. If you’re seeking protection, they are great little watchdogs and will bark and bark at strangers and noises. Although they are a bit big to be comfortable lap dogs, they think they are and will jump up on your lap often. More good news is that they housetrain quite easily.

9. Miniature Schnauzer

Last, but not least on this list is the Miniature Schnauzer, as they are very smart and make excellent family pets. Keep in mind though, that all that intelligence and lovability can make for an active dog that keeps you on your toes. You’ll have to be pretty stern when training so that they know who is really the boss. They’re great at agility and they can herd too. Be sure to let them exercise and burn some of that energy off during the day. Though they make great family pets, you might want to monitor them when they are playing with children, as sometimes they will nip them. They don’t do this in a mean-spirited way; they simply don’t think it will hurt and they are just playing.

There really are some incredible small intelligent breeds out there to choose from. Be sure that you take time to check out several before making up your mind as to what you’d like. Enjoy the learning process when it comes to different breeds and be patient. You’ll choose the perfect one for you when the time is right.

Although the number of intelligent pets has been increasing over the years due to better trainers, training a dog requires you to be patient and give your dog the right kind of motivation- be it treats, praise or petting. Having a smart pet is like having an intelligent kid – it is always into something and will often get into trouble if it gets bored.

Next is a list of 8 of the most talented dog breeds!

When you think of a dog, you tend to take notice of the furry friend who greets you at your door when you come from work. Many dog owners tend to believe that their pooch is the smartest and most talented dog around, which is natural. The fact of the matter is there are many dog breeds that are talented and smart; smarter and more talented than many others out there. The next time your friends or coworkers talk about how smart, agile, or how talented their dog is, take note to see if they make the list of smart and talented dog breeds. Listed below are 15 of the most talented dog breeds that owners should cherish.

1. The Dutch Shepherd Dog

Many larger-sized dogs are not usually known for being talented, agile, or smart for that matter. However, this breed definitely makes the list of those that are talented to say the least. The Dutch Shepherd dog breed is a highly agile and active breed, which bodes well for rescues and tricks that other dog breeds cannot learn. In addition to being an agile and talented dog breed, the Dutch Shepherd dog breed is known for being a loyal and affectionate, thus making this breed a great family pet.

2. The American Foxhound

This dog breed has been known to wow and dazzle at dog shows around and for good reasons. The American Foxhound is a shorter breed and shows loyal and dedication to owners. This breed is not necessarily the most socialized and is actually known to be aggressive towards other breeds. The aggressive nature of this dog is nothing to worry about as it is still a talented dog breed and one of the best hunting breeds around. The head on this breed is typically dome shaped and the legs are built for strength.

3. Black Russian Terrier

Just as you guessed this breed originates from Russia and was once used as a military dog. This breed makes a highly talented breed for protection and intelligence because of its strict ability to sense many things due to its impeccable nervous system. This protective quality is a great adaptation that many families enjoy and its instincts make this dog one of the best for protection and defense. The dog breed typically has black curly hair and is about a medium sized, which is ideal as a family pet.

4. The Bloodhound

This is one of the oldest breeds that can hunt many differing scents and smells. The bloodhound breed is known for assisting police and other law enforcement personnel, making this breed a talented and necessary dog breed for the protection of many individuals. This breed is known for helping to solve many difficult police cases and it is an ideal breed for hunting game. These dogs are adorable and make a fine addition to any family dynamic.

5. The Beagle

This is a similar breed as far as its purpose and functionality to the bloodhound. The beagle is a great family dog with an impeccable nose for scents and smells, similar to the bloodhound. This dog breed is also used in many law enforcement cases and they have even been used to detect narcotics, certain agriculture, as well as many differing items at the Customs and Border Patrol. Beagles tend to have a howling bark and they make a great companion for any family.

6. The Weimaraner

Dogs that are active and full of energy tend to be considered dumb and untrainable. The Weimaraner breed is hardly a dumb breed and is a highly talented breed, both physically and mentally. This dog is well socialized and is easily trained, making it one of the most talented mentally. Physically, this breed is better than most. They can guard, fetch, hunt, and point. In addition, teaching this breed tricks for the dog show is something that may seem easy due to its talents and skills.

7. The Boxer

Many consider this dog breed to be dumb due to the energetic nature of the dog, but the truth is the boxer is a loving and talented dog. Known for their athletic ability, the boxer is highly capable dog breed for skills events and agility tricks. The boxer is capable of learning new commands with proper training and it makes a great household pet. This breed needs to burn off a lot of energy on a daily basis and it takes a patient owner to stand by commands and rules in order to help this dog breed around.

8. The Jack Russell Terrier

This dog breed is a common household pet and they are a talented dog breed. This breed is known to be easily trained and with the right trainer, the Jack Russell Terrier makes an ideal fit for skills competitions and obstacles. While many dog breeds that are athletic get labeled as being smart, this breed defies this logic and demonstrates that talent and skills can go with brains.