Dogs are mostly prized for their loyalty and companionship, but some dog breeds are also known for their intelligence. Smartest dog breeds are valued for their eagerness to please and ability to learn new tricks.
Their enthusiasm for learning makes training sessions a piece of cake. Intelligent breeds include quick learners who can be highly motivated through positive reinforcement methods. Some of these dogs also have strong work ethics that allow them to respond well to training.
Do you know? On average, dogs can learn around 165 words whereas some “super dogs” can master 250 words, as mentioned by Psychology Today.
These trainable doggos form strong bonds with their handlers. But remember, dog intelligence is determined by various factors, not just trainability. These canines can show their high cognitive abilities through their problem-solving skills, learning how to open a lock, or stealing snacks.
Here are 9 highly trainable dog breeds that live to learn.
Eager Dog Breeds that Live to Learn
1. Border Collie
Border Collie is known as the Einstein of the dog world due to its exceptional intelligence. These smart workaholics learn very fast, and you will soon find them looking at you as if they are asking, “Is that all you wanted?” You might need to upskill yourself to train this pup.
They have a strong desire to please their owners and are very alert. Border Collies are pros at learning complex commands. They excel in obedience training and agility competitions. You can teach your Border Collie to jump over broomsticks or weave through the cones.
Border Collies possess excellent problem-solving abilities. It is an athletic breed with a high drive, as per the American Kennel Club. They require at least two hours of daily exercise.
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds, affectionately called “Aussies,” are hardworking dogs full of heart, energy, and brains. Aussies are work-oriented dogs known for their high intelligence. They are highly responsive to training and thrive on learning new tasks.
Given the proper training and socialization, Aussies turn out to be extremely obedient. Whether you are hiking, training, or just playing in the yard, they don’t just tag along; they commit! Their unwavering loyalty and eagerness to please make them excellent companions.
Aussies shine in competitive obedience training due to their outstanding problem-solving skills and strong herding instincts. They are also skilled in agility.
3. Golden Retriever
Golden Retriever is a breed from Scotland known for its sweet and gentle nature. This friendly dog is highly trainable and eager to please. Golden, a medium-sized dog, silly and fun companion, but do not underestimate its brainpower!
These affectionate and playful dogs are incredibly intelligent and quick learners. They are popular for their excellent problem-solving skills. Golden can learn a new command within 5 to 15 repetitions. According to PDSA, they thrive on tasks given to keep them occupied.
Golden puppies aged 0 to 6 months are full of energy and curiosity. They love exploring their surroundings and learning new tricks.
4. German Shepherd
German Shepherd is a powerful, large dog breed often employed for military and police work. Most people looking for extra protection adopt German Shepherds. This tireless and courageous fellow loves nothing more than pleasing their owners.
GSDs are smart dogs who like learning new tasks. They thrive on taking up tasks that provide mental stimulation, enjoy learning complex tricks, and helping their family members. German Shepherd dogs have boundless energy, and they are always up for adventures.
This loyal and confident pooch is a fast learner who likes to fetch and is highly trainable. German Shepherds excel at dog sports like agility and obedience competitions, herding, tracking, and dock diving.
5. Poodle
All types of Poodles, Standard, Miniature, and Toy, are highly intelligent and easy to train. These eager-to-please dogs will happily learn whatever you teach them. They excel in obedience, agility, and performance.
Due to their intellect and high trainability, they can master everything from basic obedience to tricks. Teach your Poodle to shake hands or give high-fives, and they will steal the show with their endearing antics.
Poodles also do well at agility competitions and therapy work. However, a lack of training and exercise can lead to boredom and mischief.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie,” is a small herding dog known for its sensitive and loving behavior towards its family. These intelligent fellows excel in dog sports like obedience and agility. Shelties make excellent family dogs due to their gentle demeanor and eagerness to please.
This highly trainable dog breed loves engaging in tasks that boost their brainpower and test their critical thinking skills. Puzzle toys can provide plenty of mental stimulation to your Sheltie. These playful and energetic dogs get along well with kids.
Shelties require at least one hour of daily exercise to stay happy and content. Early socialization is important to help with their natural guardian behavior, explains PetMD.
7. Labrador Retriever
The gold standard for eager companionship, Labrador Retrievers are gentle and versatile dogs. Their outgoing personality and eagerness to please their handlers make them well-suited for therapy work. These hunting dogs are fast learners who can easily grip on commands like “sit” and “come.”
Labs are known for their retrieving abilities and love for water. These avid swimmers showcase strong work ethics and an ability to adapt well to various environments. Labradors excel at obedience, agility, and field trials.
These affectionate pooches are the social butterflies who form strong bonds with their owners. According to PetPlan, these gundogs need two hours of exercise every day.
8. Doberman Pinscher
Hailing from Germany, the Doberman Pinscher qualifies as a companion dog as well as a guard dog. Its fearlessness and endurance make it well-suited for military and police work. These enthusiastic workers are highly intelligent and renowned for their ability to learn.
Dobermans are smart canines who like their physical and mental capabilities being challenged. They do well with active owners who are always on the move. They are loyal and obedient to their families, but may become aggressive when they sense danger.
The Doberman Pinscher is an eager-to-please dog that learns quickly, can be trained easily from an early age, and enjoys adding new skills.
9. Papillon
Named after their butterfly-like ears, Papillon is a toy dog known for its curious nature. Papillons are happy and friendly dogs who love spending time with their owners. They enjoy learning new things and excel in agility training and therapy work.
Papillons have also served as service dogs. One of the smartest dog breeds, Papillons are eager to please their humans. They excel at agility and obedience training, but sessions need to be fun, consistent, and positive.
These lively and active fellows are happy with only 30 minutes of daily exercise. They enjoy cuddling sessions but are not couch potatoes.
Conclusion
Some dog breeds are known for their intelligence. Smart dog breeds are generally eager to learn new things and have a strong desire to please their owners. They can learn new commands and tricks fastly as compared to other dogs.
From the Einstein of the dogdom, the Border Collie, to the canine Brainiac, the German Shepherd, several breeds make ideal pets for owners looking for obedient dogs. Remember, adopting proper training methods can help enhance your dog’s skills!
