Like humans, some dogs are naturally smarter than others. While it’s hard to say that any one pup is guaranteed to be brilliant, there are certain dog breeds that are known to be geniuses in the dog world. These highly intelligent dog breeds are usually quick learners, intuitive, clever problem-solvers and great at reading cues from humans and other animals. They also tend to be easy to train because they pick up commands fast and thieve when given tasks that stimulate their minds.

Owning a smart dog breed can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to be aware that they can be challenging dog breeds. Why? Intelligent dogs tend to be more likely to get into mischief if they’re not mentally stimulated, and these clever pets are also excellent at getting to things they want, like a loaf of bread on the counter or escaping a closed room. They have to put those big brains to good use, after all.

On the positive side, highly intelligent dogs can form deep connections with their owners, learn tricks, follow commands quickly, and make for engaging, interactive companions. Sound like a partnership you can get behind? If you’re ready for a mentally sharp dog that can challenge you and entertain you at the same time, these are seven of the smartest dog breeds in the world, according to pet experts. Discover why these intelligent dog breeds are ideal family pets, how to know if your dog is secretly smart and get expert tips for training and bonding with smart dogs.

Related: 10 Sweet and Silly Ways Your Dog Asks You for Attention, According to a Dog Trainer

6 Smartest Dog Breeds

Appenzeller Sennenhund

Meet one of the world’s smartest dog breed, the Appenzeller Sennenhund! You may have never heard of it, as this beautiful dog is considered a rare breed outside of its native Switzerland. “The breed was developed in the Swiss Alps as a working farm dog, and their intelligence is rooted in that,” says Amber Batteiger, a veterinary nurse with Embrace Pet Insurance.

Instead of having smarts that revolve around learning tricks, this breed’s intelligence shows up in independent decision-making, problem-solving and reading the cues of humans and other animals, Batteiger says. “They can also be very headstrong and thrive when given a job to do,” she says. This pup does best when it’s given consistent training and stimulation, according to Batteiger.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Versatile, agile, lively

Border Collie

This clever dog breed has a big reputation for its smarts. “Border Collies are widely considered the most intelligent dog breed and the gold standard of canine intelligence,” Batteiger says. “They’re extremely fast at picking up commands and can learn complex sequences easily.”

Batteiger also calls out this breed’s “intense focus and eagerness to please.” That makes them  ideal for obedience, agility and herding work, she says. “However, they’re not just great at following commands, but can also think, problem-solve, and anticipate in ways few other breeds can,” Batteiger says, adding that this breed tends to do best with an experienced owner. It’s no wonder this is an expert-recommended smart dog.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Energetic, affectionate, smart

Doberman Pinscher

Speaking of dogs that are intelligent, Dobermans have versatile intelligence, making them easy to train and emotionally tuned in to people. “They read their humans like pros,” says Abel Gonzalez, DVM, clinical director at Dutch.

“Originally bred as guard dogs, they’re sharp problem-solvers who excel when they have a clear role or job,” Gonzalez says. He just notes that Dobermans need to be mentally stimulated. “Boredom can lead to mischief,” Gonzalez warns. But keeping your Doberman active and putting in plenty of obedience work and mental enrichment will keep this smart breed happy.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Alert, loyal, fearless

Related: 7 of the Prettiest Dog Breeds You’ll Ever Meet, According to Experts

Papillon

These small dogs are “brilliant little strategists,” according to Gonzalez. “Consistently ranked among the most intelligent toy breeds, they pick up cues quickly and love learning tricks or agility routines,” he says. “They thrive on mental engagement and positive reinforcement.”

When it comes to this dog’s behaviors, just be aware that Papillons can get vocal if they’re bored, making it important to have dog puzzles and other mentally-stimulating games around. But these little cuties love to climb into laps and are always down for a cuddle.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Alert, friendly, happy

Australian Shepherd

According to pet experts, Australian Shepherds and Border Collies are related, and both share a similar level of intelligence. “Australian Shepherds are Einstein-level smart,” Gonzalez says. “Give them a job, and they’ll give you their heart.”

These herding dogs love to stay busy and spend time outdoors. Australian Shepherds are also easy to train and can pick up new tricks quickly. These dogs have gorgeous eyes, too.  Those are just some of the reasons they are one of the smartest dog breeds for families to have as pets.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Smart, work-oriented, exuberant

German Shepherd

There’s a reason why German Shepherds are often used for police and military work: They’re loyal and one of the smartest dog breeds around. Liza Cahn, DVM, veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, describes this breed as “highly intelligent,” noting that they need significant mental stimulation on a daily basis.

Because of their high level of smarts, German Shepherds often need an experienced owner who can give them a job to do. Once they’re given an assignment, German Shepherds have a “relentless drive” to get the job done, Cahn says. But while this breed is incredibly smart and focused, German Shepherds also have a softer side—they’re very affectionate with family members and kids.

Breed Stats

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This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Nov 8, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.