If you’re looking to adopt a pooch with a lot of smarts about them there are some breeds you should look out for. Most of these breeds were originally bred to retrieve or hunt, which makes them a quick study. Neuropsychologist Stanley Coren, PhD identifies trainability as an identifier of intelligence in his book, “The Intelligence of Dogs.” He also warns that intelligence doesn’t always make for an easy life and a smart dog knows how to manipulate to get their own way. If you think that you can handle the challenge, for this Festive Season you could give an intelligent doggie a place in your home and your heart. Just go along to your local shelter and pick a pooch to love.
We’ve put together a list of 10 of the smartest dogs around, but of course most puppies can be clever when they need to.
1. German Shepherd
These gorgeous looking canines were actually originally bred for their intelligence, and they love, love, love to learn. They pick up instructions really quickly which makes them popular as police dogs or search and rescue animals.
2. Poodle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJ5SBPxNQDg
They make not look it but poodles are steadfast pooches and they can make excellent guard dogs. They’re smart cookies who love you to be creative with their playtime. One word of warning, their need to be occupied can lead to poodles finding interesting ways to occupy themselves, if you don’t do it for them.
3. Doberman Pinscher
Sleek and stunning, Dobermans have always been bred to guard and they make for one of the most savvy guard dogs around. Those of you of a certain age will remember two of the most famous Dobermans, Apollo and Zeus from Magnum PI.
4. Border Colie
If a border collie has an activity to do they’re happy, so be prepared to have to keep this pooch entertained. Popular for herding sheep, border collies are incredibly focused and very easy to train.
5. Australian Shepherd
These impressively intelligent pooches love to be close to their pet parent, so it’s a really good idea to create some commands that get them to ‘help’ you around your home. They love this and you’ll have an extra set of hands, or should we say paws.
6. Jack Russell Terrier
A Jack Russell terrier is guaranteed to keep you busy, as you try and keep them entertained. They love to be engaged for a lot of the time and if you don’t do this you may just find a few holes where you didn’t really want them.
7. Australian Cattle Dog
Also known as Blue Heelers, these canines come with a stubborn and independent streak. They know exactly what you want them to do but that doesn’t mean they will actually do it.
8. The Rottweiler
Known for their courage and loyalty, Rottweilers are very perceptive and are often trained to be excellent guard dogs.
9. The Papillon
You couldn’t get a more different looking dog to a Rottweiler, than a Papillon. Don’t be fooled by their diminutive stature though, these petite pooches are strong, athletic and have a huge intelligence to match.
10. The Collie
Think Lassie and you’ll know how smart these working dogs can be. Okay, so the movies may have exaggerated it a little, but collies do know their stuff and will amaze you with how clever they really can be.
Whether you want a dog that’s really clever, or one that’s just going to give you a whole heap of love, taking a trip to your local shelter and adopting a pooch really is a super smart move.
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