Most ‘intelligent’ dog breed unleashed in new research

Dog Friendly Retreats have collated information on agility club access, breed intelligence, and competition wins to crown the cleverest canines. Co-owner of Dog Friendly Retreats, Josh Williams said: “As more families choose to travel and holiday with their dogs, we wanted to shine a light on just how intelligent and capable our canine companions really are.

“From agility champions to household favourites, this data celebrates the dogs who don’t just fit into our lives but thrive in them.” Ranking in ninth place as one of the smartest dog breeds out there, amid hundreds, is the Border Terrier. Described to be an “agile learner with great focus and energy”, the Border Terrier is one smart pooch.

Yet the data seemingly shows that the Border Terrier has been outsmarted by a Poodle.

“Not just a showdog, the Poodle is a clever and versatile breed that excels in training and agility,” the research noted.

Landing higher in the rankings is the beloved Golden Retriever, followed closely by the German Shepherd.

“A working dog by nature, the German Shepherd’s intelligence and loyalty make them standouts in service roles,” the research added.

But it’s the Shetland Sheepdog touted as being sharper than the German Shepherd – and the Labrador Retriever that has clinched the higher position from both of them.

But who has made it into the top three smartest dog breeds? There’s a mixture of Border Collie, Cocker Spaniel and Papillon – but who has taken the top spot?

In light of the data, the Cocker Spaniel has been crowned as “the UK’s smartest dog”.

Smartest dog breeds

1. Cocker Spaniel
2. Border Collie
3. Papillon
4. Labrador Retriever
5. Shetland Sheepdog
6. German Shepherd
7. Golden Retriever
8. Poodle
9. Border Terrier