Top 5 Most Intelligent Dog Breeds

When people talk about intelligent dog breeds, what we really mean is how easy to train a dog might be. Any dog can do some clever tricks, if trained early or long enough. However, some dogs take to training and tricks faster than others. These breeds typically learn a new command in less than five exposures or repetitions and obey at least 95 percent of the time. We list the top dogs that are recognised worldwide as the brightest working dogs.

 

1. Border Collie

   Image: Adobe Stock / otsphoto

   
   These double-coated, fluffy pups were bred to assist in herding sheep, and they have the energy to prove it. They are best suited to country living, but can live comfortably in town, if you have a sizeable backyard for them to expend that manic energy. A border collie is decidedly the easiest dog to train. Because of their natural herding instincts, you’ll find these dogs are protective of their family and territories. This breed has a lifespan of 10-14 years, and is prone to the following health issues:
   • Seizures
   • Progressive retinal atrophy
   • Osteochondritis dissecans
   • Lens luxation
   • Hypothyroidism
   • Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
   • Collie eye anomaly (CEA)
   • Hip dysplasia

 

2. Poodle

   Image: Adobe Stock / Pavla Zakova

   
   Whether you’re fond of the standard, miniature, and toy versions of this loveable furball, poodles come a close second on our list of clever, easy to train dogs. Apart from being hypoallergenic, these adorable rascals are exceptionally smart and energetic, making them an excellent playmate for most children. Being typically smaller in size, they also make amiable flatmates. Poodles can easily be trained to do more than take their business outside; being quick to learn tricks, they can provide hours of entertainment for the whole family. Depending on their size, poodles can live up to 16 years, if given proper care. All ages and sizes of the breed is vulnerable to the following health problems:
   • Hip dysplasia
   • Epilepsy
   • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
   • Sebaceous adenitis
   • Luxating patella
   • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCP disease)

3. German Shepherd

   Image: Adobe Stock / Barb

   
   Despite their reputation as one of the most dangerous dogs in South Africa, German shepherds can be incredibly affectionate and playful. Although protective of their family and territory, this breed is decidedly kid-friendly and gets along well enough with other animals too. Of course, these dogs are easy to train and very obedient. German shepherds are so much more than house pets. These dogs serve well as police dogs, see-eye dogs, medical assistance dogs and therapy dogs. Their lifespans range from 10-14 years and common health issues include:
   • Hip dysplasia
   • Elbow dysplasia
   • Gastric dilation-volvulus
   • Degenerative myelopathy
   • Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
   • Allergies

 

4. Golden Retriever

   Image: Adobe Stock / M

   
   These guys are family favourites for a reason. Golden retrievers are energetic and playful, but are intelligent enough to be trained fairly quickly, especially if trained from very young. Like the German shepherd these faithful pups have found their calling as therapy dogs, see-eye dogs, and in search-and-rescue operations. Golden retrievers can live up to 13 years and they are prone to the following health conditions:
   • Hypothyroidism
   • Sub-aortic stenosis (SAS)
   • Eye disorders
   • Elbow dysplasia
   • Mast cell tumours
   • Seizures

5. Doberman Pinscher

   Image: Adobe Stock / terry

   
   As well as protective and energetic, Dobermans are also whip-smart. However, they remain puppy-like until three or four years old and demand a lot of attention lest they get up to mischief. Early socialisation and training are essential in caring for a Doberman puppy. If you’re good about training and disciplining your Doberman, it can prove a wonderful family dog and can get along perfectly well with other pets. Doberman Pinschers have a lifespan of about 13 years, and they are likely to develop the following health issues:
   • Von Willebrands Disease
   • Hip Dysplasia
   • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
   • Hypothyroidism
   • Wobbler’s Syndrome
   • Cardiomyopathy
   • Albinism
   • Colour Mutant Alopecia
   • Narcolepsy
   • Gastric dilation-volvulus

Before You Sign Up For Puppy Training…

Please keep in mind that, just because these dogs are bright, that doesn’t mean training will be easy. Many hours go into teaching (both young and) old dogs new tricks and the earlier you begin training, the better your clever dog will take to it. As you can see from the above, these breeds – for all their admirable traits – come with a price. Thankfully, pet insurance can cover the cost of a loyal and obedient friend. While you’re signing up for puppy training classes, why not compare some pet insurance quotes with us to get the best pet cover for your pet’s health and your wallet?