The cleverest canine: 5 dog breeds known for their intelligence

A pet parent searching for a particularly bright pup might consider these breeds for adoption.

Your future pup might just be one of these intelligent breeds!
Your future pup might just be one of these intelligent breeds! | Matt Cardy/GettyImages

Dogs are known for their intelligence as a species, but who is the brightest barker out of the litter? Could it be the German Shepherd, often used as police or law enforcement canines? Perhaps the Pomeranian makes up for in intelligence what it lacks in size? Maybe the Poodle hides an impressive brain under its head of famously fussy hair?

Many potential pet owners look for intelligence as a quality of the pup of their dreams. Intelligent dogs might be easier to train, or can serve as remarkably capable working dogs. Maybe you already have a pup, and you simply want to see if they made the ranks. Whatever the case, we've compiled a list of some of the dogs most known for their intelligence and ability to learn.

If intelligence is a quality you're looking for in your pup, consider one of these breeds.

1. Border Collie

A border collie mixed breed looks into the camera.
Border Collies are known for their intelligence and quick learning abilities. | Kevin Neri/Statesman Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Border Collies are one of the most recognizable breeds for their intelligence and ability to preform in competitions. As a herding dog, they are naturally hard workers, and quick to pick up on the requirements of the job. They are highly trainable, and are often sought after for their agility and problem-solving minds. One famous case of a bright Border Collie is Rico, who could recognize over 200 words!

2. Poodle

A poodle looks at the camera from between an owner's lower legs.
Poodles may be known for their appearance, but they can solve nearly any puzzle put in front of them. | Anadolu/GettyImages

You may know them for their looks, but did you know that Poodles are renowned for their remarkable brains as well? Poodles are bright, obedient breeds, and are highly receptive to training. In fact, in years past, they were once featured in circus acts due to their highly trainable and clever nature!

3. Papillon

A Papillion rests in their owner's arms.
Those fluffy ears cover a noteworthy noggin. | Shirlaine Forrest/GettyImages

They may be small, but they are mighty--mighty smart, that is! Papillons are one of the smartest of the toy breeds, and like the Poodle and Border Collie, are often sought out for their agility and intelligence. Their energetic and clever nature makes for a playful and highly trainable pup.

4. Golden Retriever

A dog rests at a football game near a cup of water.
Golden Retrievers' intelligence is well deserving of its fame. | Brian Bahr/GettyImages

This one likely won't be a shock to many pet parents, especially those that have experience with this breed. Golden Retrievers are famous for their trainability and astute minds. Boasting gentleness and obedience as famous qualities of this breed, Golden Retrievers have earned their notoriety for sweet and smart additions to the family.

5. Rottweiler

Two Rottweilers, dressed in collars that look like tuxes, look off-camera.
Rottweilers, like these two dapper dogs, are loyal and adept. | Frazer Harrison/GettyImages

Last, but certainly not least, on the list comes this dependable and brainy pup. Rottweilers are known mainly for their loyalty to their families, often being referred to as "Velcro dogs," but they are as sharp as they are steadfast. Rottweilers are energetic and playful, but in between sessions of fetch, they are highly receptive to training.