Ultimate List of the Smartest Breeds of Dogs

There's a general perception that certain Dog breeds are smarter than others. For example, Labrador Retrievers are smarter than Cocker Spaniels or Border Collies are smarter than German Shepherds. But how do we really know that one Dog is smarter than another? What exactly does it mean to be an intelligent dog?

Stanley Coren, a professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia asked himself these same questions and set-out to find the answers. He compiled his research and theories in a book titled The Intelligence of Dogs, published in 1994.

Following is a list of top 10 smartest dogs as defined in The Intelligence of Dogs.

1. Lhasa Apso - The Lhasa Apso was originally bred by Tibetan Monks and was used to alert the monks of intruders in the monasteries. The breed is displayed prominently in the Tibetan flag.

2. Border Collie - The Border Collie was bred in the United Kingdom and was used by farmers to herd sheep.

3. German Shepherd - The German Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog, having only been around since 1899. It was originally bred to be a sheep herder

4. Golden Retriever - The Golden Retriever was originally bred in Scotland to retrieve waterfowl and game for hunters.

5. Doberman Pinscher - The Doberman was originally bred to be a ferocious guard dog. As a result of years of careful breading the modern Doberman Pinscher is now an energetic and lively breed suitable for companionship and family life.

6. Shetland Sheepdog - Although the Shetland Sheepdog closely resembles a miniature Rough Collie it's true parent breed is the Border Collie. It is small in stature and a good family dog.

7. Labrador Retriever - The Labrador Retriever is ironically most commonly known to be from Newfoundland. Originally, Labradors assisted fisherman by dragging in heavy fishing nets. The Labrador is currently the most popular breed of dog (by registered ownership) in the world, and is by a large margin the most popular breed by registration in the United States (since 1991), and the United Kingdom.

8. Papillion - Papillons were a favorite of the Spanish aristocracy and today make excellent watch dogs.

9. Rottweiler -The Rottweiler (which mean the Butcher Dog in German) was bred in Germany to be a herder and because of its intelligence and strength were eventually used as draught dogs, pulling carts to carry meat and other products to market.

10. Australian Cattle Dog - The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Queensland Heeler, Blue Heeler and Red Heeler is a breed of herding dog developed in Australia for droving cattle. It is a medium-sized short-coated dog with a lot of energy, intelligence and an independent streak.

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Best Dog Breeds for Young Children - Your Ultimate Guide

Finally, after much nagging and pulling on your sleeve, you have finally decided to have it their way and give the kids a canine playmate. Aside from providing them with an exciting new playmate, having a Dog around can also teach them to grow up into responsible and nature-loving adults. The cause is good, but to achieve this, you have to be careful about the Dog breed that you will ultimately take home to your tots. You need to know the best Dog breeds young children will love and like to grow up with.

Following are some of the timeless family favorites:

o The Shih-Tzu. The Shih-Tzu is a very outgoing and enthusiastic breed. It has a lithe and sprightly personality that fits children perfectly. Aside from that, they can't help but be smart, too. Best of all, they are low-maintenance because once they have been trained or used to the rules of the house; you can pretty much leave them alone.

o The Pug. The Pug is probably one of the most congenial breeds. Pugs are also warm and rather demonstrative. They can irksome when the weather is or humid, though. Unlike other toy breeds, pugs are also able to maintain their calm. They are also low-maintenance and require little brushing or exercise.

o The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This breed is one of the best playmates that your child can ever get from the pet shop. Aside from being sprightly, the breed is also affectionate. They don't have trouble adjusting to the lifestyle of their owners, and can therefore be trained with ease. The disadvantages include high maintenance, which requires regular brushing of its coat, and special attention to the heart, which are known to be the common cause of illness.

o The Border Terrier. This breed is small but packed with so much vigor, which makes them a great companion for the whole family, especially the playful kids. It has a short coat, which means maintenance is on the low end. They are typically dependable as watchDogs, but they may exhibit some of the annoying characteristics of terriers, like digging.

o The Beagle. Beagles are by nature a cheerful breed. They also love being around people and interacting with them, making them the perfect canine companion for the entire family. Training beagles could be a challenge though. They are primarily scent hounds-a characteristic that may become destructive during training. So be prepared to restrain a beagle the moment it picks up a familiar scent because it will likely shut down and pursue the scent to the end.

o The Staffordshire Bull Terrier. This breed is characterized by a good, muscular build, which gives it the energy that it is most famous for. While they can be very active, Staffordshire bull terriers can be patient and loving around children, and has been known to be a loyal canine companion for the family. They are a smart and brave breed, and as such, can be rather confrontational or aggressive around other dogs.

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List of Small Dog Breeds - Your Ultimate Guide

Some people prefer to adopt a small breed of Dog. They find them more adorable and cute to have. Those small Dog breeds can also be trainable although they could also require some of your time in grooming them. In case you want a small Dog breed for yourself, you have to get acquainted to the characteristics and dog requirements of these cute small animals before you refer to a list of small dog breeds.

Though dogs are considered to be easy-learners, there are still some of them who may ignore your effort in training. Take for instance the Shih Tzu- a two-colored or sometimes tri-colored 11 inches dog with double coat. Although regarded as sweet and friendly dog, this adorable pet may not want the idea of being trained due to its stubborn attitude. However, its gentleness will give you no worry at all.

A shih tzu loves to play but doesn't need a lot of exercise. It needs companionship and won't agree to be left alone inside or outside the house. It enjoys being with you as it sleeps on a soft couch and would also love the idea of traveling with you. Despite being adorably sweet, it is sill a good watchdog who barks at strangers. But if it sees you welcoming the stranger, it welcomes that person as well and befriend with the unknown visitor.

Some of these dogs are trainable but it will not that be easy for you because you may be required to exert more patience and you need to be a little strict and firm. A wire fox terrier does not have an innate passion to obey every training instruction given to it but if you will be stiff with it in a nice manner, the dog will turn to be an obedient pet.

This 16 inches dog that could weigh up to 20 pounds does bark but only to warn you or call your attention. It is a very good watchdog and will truly protect you. On the other hand, this fearless pet remains a loving, friendly, and playful dog towards you. It does not really become crabby towards other people but on other pets especially dogs, unless it grew up with them inside your house. It does not like being alone and you may want to bring it with you on a morning jog. If left alone, you will be surprised of its mischievous behavior.

Furthermore, if your choice of a small dog breeds is highly trainable, you may want to get an American Eskimo miniature dog. This white cute dog responds very well to its training and would also love to play a lot due to its athletic attitude. You have to make it feel loved otherwise it will show up its other side such as barking or chewing anything it desires around your house.

All of these dogs need to be brushed to look well-groomed. They could also be approachable and kind to children but they dislike being roughly bothered. This list of small dog breeds gives you the basic idea on what to expect from your desired pet.

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