The Most Intelligent Dog Breeds

Searching for a dog that lives up to its reputation as one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world is tough. There are a lot of things to consider as you search for an intelligent, well-behaved dog. While you may find the most intelligent dog in the world, there may still be some drawbacks to it as no dog breed has everything.

Some of the most intelligent dog breeds include:

The Rottweiler

While this dog has a fearsome reputation, it's not as tough as people think it is. Rottweilers are intelligent dogs that make great family dogs, too. They are also courageous and are considered to be one of the best guard dogs you can get.

The Labrador Retriever

This probably comes as no surprise to you as most people know that Labs are among the most intelligent, loving and affectionate of dogs. They are patient with children and extremely good-natured. Without consistent and proper exercise, however, they can develop weight problems. Besides being one of the most intelligent dogs, known for their detection, hunting and tracking abilities, they are also one of the most popular dogs in the United States. They make both excellent companions and working dogs.

The Australian Cattle Dog

Are you wondering what special abilities a cattle dog has? Although they are bred for herding cattle, and other farm animals, they are also extremely resourceful, thoughtful, free-spirited dogs, known for being protective of their territory and the people within it. The Australian Cattle Dog is naturally wary of strangers and, besides herding can make a great guard dog if trained properly.

The Shetland Sheepdog

Many Shetland Sheepdog owners will tell you that they have almost human intelligence. Originally bred to herd sheep and cattle which requires great intelligence and the ability to lead, they are extremely loyal and affectionate family pets. They are very easy to train and do well around children when trained appropriately.

The Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher, known to show assertiveness and fearlessness when taking on another animal or human being, is not a dog you want to mess with. One of the best guard dogs in the world, they are extremely loyal. While some Dobermans are very docile others are excitable. They are extremely intelligent dogs that will protect their family or owner if necessary.

The Golden Retriever

It is not surprising that the Golden Retriever is one of the most intelligent and most popular dog breed in the United States. This dog is everything a great dog is supposed to be: loyal, patient, loving and great with children. A true performer, the Golden Retriever excels in obedience competitions. With such high intelligence what else would be expected?

The German Shepherd

German Shepherds are often the central force behind police K9 units; they are also popular as search and rescue dogs. They are extremely intelligent, courageous dogs who serve a variety of functions. Excellent with children, they are also one of the best, if not the best, guard dog breeds in the world.

The Border Collie

Happiest when it has a task to do, the Border Collie has been ranked as the most intelligent dog in the world. They have legendary intelligence and set the standard for agility and obedience in competitions.

These are some of the most intelligent dog breeds in the United States and throughout the world. However, intelligence doesn't automatically make them a great family dog. You should also take their cost, grooming requirements, activity needs and their personalities into consideration when searching for a dog that will be a great fit for you or your family. It's important to do your own research on what dog breed will fit with your family to be sure that you get the right dog.

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