The World’s Healthiest Dog Breeds- Is Your Dog On The List?
Deciding to get a dog is a bittersweet choice since we know the joy they bring will not last forever. Dog-lovers wish for their beloved companions to live long, healthy lives. For some breeds, the odds are in greater favor than for others.
For instance, Poodles and Shih Tzus both have life expectancies up to 18 years, which is double that of some breeds. Other dogs, like Dachshunds, need owners who are aware of their strict dietary or exercise needs to ensure their longevity. Read on to discover which dogs are among the healthiest and why.
Poodles Are Typically Low-Risk For Diseases
Regardless of if its a standard poodle or a toy, the American Kennel Club (AKC) reports that this breed can live up to 18 years. All three of their breed sizes have the same lean build and are proportionately comparable; they have the muscular build of a ballerina, and an athletic mindset to match.
The breed is generally very healthy and tends to live a long and prosperous life. They do have a low risk for some diseases and eye disorders, so its recommended to put them through a hip, patella, and ophthalmologist evaluation as a precaution.
An Ear Infection Is The Worst Of It For A Bichon Frise
Bichons have a plush coat that makes them seem almost unreal. AKC notes that they are generally a healthy dog. Typically, they need extra attention given to their teeth and ears to prevent infection, but that's about it.
They recommend putting your Bichon Frise through the same evaluations you would a poodle: hip, patella, and ophthalmologist. So long as you keep up to date with their hygiene and checkups and purchase from a responsible breeder, you can expect to enjoy your Bichon's company for 14 to 15 years.
Chihuahuas From A Responsible Breeder Can Live Long
It is generally noted that smaller dogs tend to live longer than large ones, and the Chihuahua is no exception. Weighing in at fewer than six pounds, these little pups generally live 14-16 years. The main concern with Chihuahuas is who their breeder was.
As with all breeds, a responsible breeder should screen for genetic issues, especially since Chihuahuas can be at risk for heart problems if not properly bred. A cardiac exam, along with an ophthalmologist and patella evaluation, should reveal all you need to know to keep your chihuahua well to the fullest extent.
Australian Shepherds Are Well-Balanced And Full Of Stamina
Australian Shepherds are medium-sized beauties with a strong desire to work. Full of energy and determination, these dogs love performing tasks to please their owner. They have a balanced build that isn't too brawny nor too frail, making them both agile and full of stamina.
AKC notes that Aussies are generally healthy, but do need their ears checked regularly for wax buildup. Being that these dogs love to exert themselves physically, they should receive a hip and elbow evaluation to help ensure that they can comfortably live to their 12 to 15-year life expectancy.
Australian Cattle Dogs Can Live For 16 Years
Australian Cattle Dogs need just as much mental exercise as they do physical. These intelligent dogs are bursting with energy and have enough intelligence to outsmart their owners, so keeping them challenged is a must.
This breed has more tests and evaluations recommended than other breeds we've seen, so it is all the more vital that their breeder is a careful one. At the same time, Australian Cattle Dogs can outlive some smaller dogs, having a life expectancy of up to 16 years!
Basenjis Are Typically Healthy Dogs
Basenjis may not be the most popular breed, but that's no fault of their own. These graceful dogs are known for their independence and poise, and they don't even bark! AKC states that tests can screen the dog for harmful conditions including Fanconi and Progressive retinal atrophy to decrease the odds of this breed inheriting either.
Since breeders have this advantage, Basenjis generally do not fall victim to the ailments of their ancestors and are generally a healthy dog breed. It is recommended they undergo a hip, thyroid, and ophthalmologist evaluation to help ensure 13-14 happy years with these dogs.
Siberian Huskies Live Longer Than You May Think
Siberian Huskies look more brawny than they are thanks to their luscious coat, but they are significantly smaller than their Alaskan Malamute cousin. Weighing in at no more than 60 pounds, these nimble-footed dogs have a life expectancy of up to 14 years.
Their longevity may be partially explained by the strict guidelines set forth by the Siberian Husky Club of America to ensure breeders screen properly. AKC recommends having a vet who is familiar with working dogs and that they receive a hip and ophthalmologist evaluation.
Whippets Are Healthiest When Lean
Whippets are very thin dogs by nature, and as such their weight needs to be watched carefully. Though they may look like they could afford to gain a pound or two, the AKC warns that a Whippet's hipbones "should not appear sunk into dimples of fat."
Additionally, you can expect to see 2-4 vertebrae, though they shouldn't have protruding ribs in adulthood. Their weight constrictions have to do with their body's thin frame, which can only support a lean build. So long as you maintain your Whippet's physique, these non-barking dogs can be expected to live as much as 15 years.
Border Collies Are A Hardy Breed
Border Collies are incredibly agile worker dogs that live to perform. As such, they need a lot of exercise! This also leads to excellent health. AKC recommends a standard hip and ophthalmologist evaluation and ears to be checked for infection.
A Border Collie who is properly cared for should live to be 12 to 15 years of age. Though they love to exert their energy, recovery time is just as important and will bring out their affectionate side.
Beagles Are Sturdy And Happy
The AKC reports that Beagles have spent years as the most popular hound dog in America. Their sweet disposition yet energetic and sturdy build make them wonderful family dogs, and generally as healthy as they are happy.
As with other breeds, their genetic exposure to diseases relies on the breeder taking the necessary precautions. AKC recommends the typical hip and ophthalmologist evaluations along with a MLS DNA Test to ensure that your Beagle is on track to live a solid 15 years.
The Worst Shiba Inus Experience Is Allergies
If you're someone who is plagued with annoying allergies and want a pet who can likely relate, a Shiba Inu may be the one for you. These gorgeous dogs typically live for 13 to 16 years free of health conditions, with the possible exception of some itching due to allergies.
The best breeders are careful not to pass on those allergen-sensitive genes, but even dogs who have them can live long and happy lives. Compared to other health issues it is a minor nuisance that shouldn't impact your Shiba's impressive longevity.
Alaskan Malamute Can Live Long For A Large Dog
As we've mentioned before, larger dog breeds tend to have shorter life expectancies than smaller dogs, which is what makes the Alaskan Malamute so impressive. Though males often weigh as much as 85 pounds, healthy ones can live up to 14 years!
While they aren't the most energetic dogs of all, they are built to work and have incredible endurance, so exercise is vital. They are prone to some diseases making it important that their breeder is responsible. If you notice their hearing has weakened don't fret; it's likely just some ear wax buildup.
English Springer Spaniels Are Tougher Than They Look
English Springer Spaniels have a sweet face and lovable energy that makes them a pleasure to be around. But don't let their looks deceive you; these dogs are natural born hunters with a fair share of energy and a love for hard work.
As such, they need daily exercise to remain healthy and happy, and love working alongside their people. They crave attention and are people-pleasers, so they'll have a blast playing with you and others. Though the breed can be prone to certain diseases, AKC notes that they tend to be healthy dogs and typically live up to 14 years.
Belgian Malinois Have Longevity And Versatility
As with Alaskan Malamutes, Belgian Malinois are a large breed with a lifespan up to 16 years! Like their German Shepherd doppelgängers, they bond deeply with their human companion, who they love to work alongside.
Their long and lean muscles support the Belgian Malinois' high energy level, so it isn't surprising it is recommended they have a hip and elbow evaluation. They need plenty of exercise for both their physical and mental wellbeing, at which point they are likely to live healthy lives.
Bergamascos Are Known For Being Healthy
AKC calls the Bergamasco "robustly healthy" as they aren't prone to health conditions specifically because of their breed. Though it is advised that they receive a hip and elbow evaluation, they are most often healthy dogs.
Bergamascos have plenty of characteristics to match their dreadlock coat as they are fun-loving and leave aggression as a last resort. Their woven hair, called flocks, actually provide them with a layer of warmth and protection, which may contribute to their 15-year life expectancy.
German Pinschers Are One Of Germany's Oldest Breeds
You may have noticed that the German Pinscher looks similar to a Doberman Pinscher. That's because the German Pinscher is the progenitor of the well-known Doberman, obvious in its strong build and squarely face.
The sleek, muscular dogs are keenly intelligent and breeders have had centuries to refine their genes. Though they are prone to some diseases, they are generally very healthy and typically live to long as 14-years-old. It is recommended that the breed undergoes a hip and ophthalmologist evaluation and a cardiac exam.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis Are Packed With Strength
AKC calls the Pembroke Welsh Corgi one of the most agreeable of the small house dogs. These strong dogs are small but compact, standing at only a foot tall at the shoulder and packing in about 30 pounds.
Their dense composition may help to explain their 12-13 year life expectancy, which falls a little shy of some of the other dogs on this list. Still, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are generally healthy dogs who only need to receive hip and ophthalmologist evaluations, as is common in many breeds.
The Pharaoh Hound Is Free Of Disorders
With a name like Pharaoh Hound, you would expect this breed to have a kinglike way about them. The noble dogs, full of speed and grace, live up to their name, but are also affectionate and have an endearing trait whereby they blush when excited.
The chair of the Pharaoh Hound Club of America assures that the Pharaoh Hound "is not plagued with any significant disorders." Screenings and evaluations are still recommended to help ensure these dogs live up to their 14-year life expectancy.
Azawakhs Generally Live Long, Healthy Lives
Azawakhs look like a larger version of the Whippet in that they have the same long, narrow snout and a built that's almost too lean for comfort. AKC assures that this breed's build naturally reveals their bone structure, so owners should rely on professional advice to determine if their Azawakh is at a healthy weight.
Though they are a large breed in terms of height, they only weigh 44 pounds on average, which may help to explain their impressive 15-year life expectancy.
Shetland Sheepdogs Are Healthy With Proper Testing
Shetland Sheepdogs, fondly called Shelties, look strikingly similar to their Collie cousin. The 15-25 pound dogs are almost a miniature version of the Collie and have the same striking, long fur and obedient but intelligent nature.
Shelties are sensitive, bright watchdogs who enjoy staying active but only need moderate exercise. The American Shetland Sheepdog Association has set forth minimum health testing recommendations to help ensure that Shelties are bred to live long. Shelties are generally healthy and have a life expectancy of up to 14 years.
Havanese Are Naturally Adaptable
Havanese are little fluffy balls of joy with adaptability and social skills. This extraverted breed can entertain a crowd with its comical behaviors and a light-hearted attitude. They also take the position of watchdog very seriously, even if they are only 10 pounds.
Though Havanese are prone to multiple conditions, the Havanese Club of America encourages proper breeding by offering awards to those whose dogs can pass health tests. As a result, they generally have happy and long lives, usually between 14 and 16-years long.
The Brittany Has Few Genetic Health Issues
Brittany Dogs, also sometimes called Brittany Spaniels, are bursting with energy and will entertain whatever physical activities you can give them. These athletic family dogs have few genetic health issues, according to AKC.
It is recommended that breeders give Brittanys a hip and ophthalmologist evaluation, which is standard for most active dog breeds. Other than ear and teeth cleanings, these dogs are low maintenance so long as you can keep up with them. Their life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.
Canaan Dogs Have Committed Breeders
Canaan Dogs are one of the oldest breeds and the national dog of Israel. While they seem to always be on the alert, they only need moderate exercise to stay fit and love training with their owners.
AKC prides Canaan breeders for being a small group of committed professionals. This determination combined with the breed's many years of refinement has resulted in Canaans being generally healthy dogs. Even more impressive, the 45-pound dogs are expected to live up to 15 years.
Ibizan Hounds Are From Ancient Times
Ibizan Hounds have the grace and innocence of a deer caught in headlights, but were bred in Ancient Egypt as rabbit hunters. Known for their unmatchable sprinting and leaping ability, these dogs have plenty of energy they need to expel.
That being said, they are also polite and even-tempered but would do best in an open environment where they can work out their long limbs. AKC says that while they are prone to some conditions, they are generally healthy dogs who you can expect to live up to 14 years.
Shih Tzus Can Live For Nearly Two Decades!
The Shih Tzu typically maxes out at 11 inches to the shoulder and 16 pounds and can become buried in their long locks. Not tremendously active, the Shih Tzu's number one dog activity is looking cute. Daily walks and playing around with their owner is enough for these little pups.
Active owners will want to leave their Shih Tzu at home as they are not heat tolerant nor are they good swimmers. As long as you don't push these pups to be more active than they are, you can expect to spend 18 years with these playful snuggle buddies.
Cairn Terriers Are Adaptable Little Companions
Cairn Terriers may be tiny-- standing a maximum of 10 inches tall and weighing in at around 14 pounds-- but they are fearless. These adaptable companions will topple you on the lawn or snuggle on the couch, and they require only moderate exercise.
Whether you live in an urban area or farmland, these little companions will be content with the right amount of attention. They are generally healthy dogs who you can expect to live up to 15 years.
Dachshunds Prosper On A Strict Diet
Dachshunds stand at a mere 5-9 inches, depending on if they are standard or miniature. However, a standard can rack up as many as 32 pounds thanks to its long and stocky body. Their legs are so small that a couple of daily walks can provide the moderate exercise they need.
This modest exercise requirement is vital to ensure their muscles can support their thick back. For the same reason, a healthy diet and moderation is imperative so they don't become overweight. Owners who stay on top of their health routine can expect to spend 16 years with these spunky pals.
Schnauzers Are Research-Approved
Schnauzers come in three sizes, but the standard size has up to a 16-year life expectancy, as opposed to the 15-year expectancy of both the miniature and the giant. The medium-sized Schnauzers are also the only ones included in a survey performed every five years by the Standard Schnauzer Club of America.
Their findings have shown that the Standard Schnauzer is not plagued by the health concerns many other breeds experience. AKC also reports that a new DNA test has helped breeders prevent cardiomyopathy in these dogs.
Pomeranians Thrive With Proper Protection
Pomeranians appear to have the body of a Chihuahua with a coat that's as fluffy as a Sheltie's. They grow to be about half a foot tall to the shoulder and no more than seven pounds. These little fluffballs can be easily mistaken for squirrels and rabbits.
That's why keeping them protected from predatory birds is so imperative, especially since these tiny dogs can manage to squeeze under fences and get loose. Aside from the need to stay in your sight, Poms are typically healthy dogs who you can expect to live for up to 16 years.
English Foxhounds Have Plenty Of Lung Power
English Foxhounds are lesser known for being family pets than noble hunters. Committed to training, these animals have a sturdy, long physique and plenty of lung power to fuel their endurance.
Though they aren't bursting with as much energy as some breeds, they do require a hefty amount of exercise to remain calm indoors and don't enjoy confined spaces. They are prone to some health complications that owners should be aware of but are generally healthy dogs who are expected to live up to 13 years.
Rottweilers Have Been Used For Cattle, Military, and Police
Rottweilers may be notorious for their protectiveness, but that's just because of their long history as a professional working dog. According to Pet Health Network, Rottweilers were first brought to Germany by the ancient Romans.
They were used as herding dogs until the cattle car was invented. Once people stopped breeding them for their farms, Rottweilers almost went extint. Thankfully, police and military saw the intelligence in this dog breed and took them on, keeping the population alive.
Doberman Pinschers Were Bred To Protect The Taxman
Speaking of protective police dogs, the Doberman ranks amongst the highest on the list of intelligent dog breeds. In fact, the Doberman was bred specifically in order to protect taxman and dog breeder Louis Dobermann, hence the name.
The American Kennel Club says in 19th Century Germany the "Tax Collector's Dog" was bred from the Black and Tan Terrier, German Pinscher, and Rottweiler. No wonder the dog has an international reputation with the military.
Golden Retrievers Are Very Trainable Dogs
The Golden Retriever is known as a loyal, life companion. Their gentle temperament may not make for the ideal guard dog but it does help them excel as service dogs for the disabled.
Retrievers have been trained to assist the deaf, blind, hunters, and search and rescue teams. They were originally bred to be a medium-sized bird dog in 1850. Today, according to CBS News, the dog also ranks third in the most popular dog breeds in the US.
Labrador Retrievers Have An Excellent Sense of Smell
The Labrador is an excellent communicator, and can oftentimes assist not only the blind and deaf but those with special needs in getting through the day. Reuters notes that in 2018 they maintained the number 1 breed in the US for the 28th year in a row.
The breed is highly intelligent and has incredible focus if they're motivated to a task. They’re an ideal breed to become a search and rescue dog and to work as a therapy dog.
Dingoes Are Their Own Kind Of Animal
According to Smithsonian, the long-standing notion that Dingoes descend from an East Asian variation of the grey wolf is incorrect. In a new study, Dingoes were found to have anatomical features that separate them from wolves and dogs.
Distinguishing Dingoes from dogs is vital in order to understand their behavior. Unlike most domesticated hounds, these animals require aggressive training. In certain areas, a permit is even required to own the challenging pet.
Poodles Are Surprisingly Good Swimmers
Poodles are well known for being smart. Studies have shown that poodles receive their best scores on memory and obedience, making them overtly responsive to commands.
A lesser-known fact about poodles is that their famous curly coat is liquid-resistant, keeping them dry in wet conditions. In fact, poodles historically love the water and are excellent swimmers, also largely due to their webbed feet. Their athleticism coupled with their intelligence makes them excellent dogs to train.
German Shepherds Are Basically Born To Be Police Officers
While several dogs breeds respond to training, the precision of the German Shepherd makes this breed top dog. German Shepherds can perform tasks after being shown only a handful of times and have a sense of smell that can detect even the smallest differentiation.
Beyond their intelligence, experts also attribute these dogs with a defining amount of courage, confidence, and loyalty, all of which any officer requires. They're also excellent at patrolling, tracking down criminals and detecting when a hostage is being held.
Australian Shepherds Are Obedient, If They're Challenged
Ironic to the name, the Australian Shepherd actually began their herding career in Europe, where they were called the Pyrenean Shepherd. It was in Australia that herders bred the shepherds with Collies and Border Collies amongst other canines.
Once the dogs migrated to California from Australia, ranchers adopted their new name. True to their roots, these dogs will corral anything, even children, and require challenges to their stamina and learning in order to maintain obedience.
Saint Bernards Rescue Those in Need in Harsh Conditions
The Sandlot made this dog a beast not to be reckoned with. Despite their size, these dogs actually aren't aggressive at all. They were bred in Switzerland as mountain dogs and are incredibly sweet with humans.
As workers, these dogs were able to find and rescue travelers who had been swallowed by avalanches, greeting them with their big, happy expressions. Though they are said to have carried casks of brandy, this is a myth.
A Great Dane Is Basically A Giant Lap Dog
The Great Dane may be large, but they're able to adapt to smaller spaces. This is largely due to their tendency to lean, sit, and plop onto the couch and their owners. Their laziness as compared to other dogs is part of what makes them so patient and friendly.
Pictured above is Teddy Keystone, a Great Dane and the first canine superstar in America. On set, the holds child actor Jackie Lucas while he golfs in the water.
Collies Are Great Working Dogs
Anyone who has ever seen the movie Lassie actually has relatively good knowledge of how these animals operate. Highly intelligent, obedient, and high in stamina, Collies are highly motivated, only requiring some gentle training.
Collies can be trained to herd cattle, sheep, and other livestock, oftentimes, they prefer it! This is not a breed of dog that enjoys lying around lazy. Like Retrievers, these dogs are loyal and friendly, making them ideal candidates for family dogs.
Border Collies Love To Perform
The Border Collie is kind of like a Collie that's stuck on fast-forward. Agile and quick-minded, these dogs win prizes at sheepdog trials and dog sports like no other breed. This breed is especially talented at taking specific commands.
Developed in Scottland, this pooch was mostly used for herding sheep. These dogs are affectionate and happy to cuddle with their owners, but they don’t do well with a sedentary lifestyle.
Bearded Collies Are The Grandpas Of The Dog Family
The Bearded Collie looks like an old man for a reason– they are tough, reliable, and independent thinkers. More like a fun grandpa, these dogs are energetic and love to socialize with kids. They are also notorious goofballs, and in order to keep them focused, you have to match their level of interesting.
Illustrated in paintings from the 1700s, the Bearded Collie was a prized member of high society and these dogs have the intelligence to match.
The Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog looks like no other breed. These furry dogs are known for their long, thick, shaggy grey and white coat that is in constant need of taming. Also known as the "Bearded Collie" this dog was mainly a show dog owned by the wealthiest American families in the early 20th century.
They enjoy working on a farm in a rural setting and have high marks for obedience, flyball, tracking, and herding.
The Irish Setter Is A Kid At Heart
Dr. Seuss was more than an inspirational children's book author, he was an Irish Setter lover. The American Kennel Club calls these elegant animals big kids at heart, which definitely explains why Dr. Seuss would have one as his companion. Known for its beauty and grace, these dogs are swift chasers and affectionate snugglers.
However, they’re also very talented gundogs, a perfect companion for hunters looking for a dog to retrieve their ducks and other birds.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi: A Dog Fit For A Queen
The look of surprise on this Corgi's face could be that it just realized its owner is the queen. High-status dogs are nothing new, and this one happens to be royalty sitting next to Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen has owned more than 30 corgis in her reign, making this breed a near necessity in the royal kingdom.
These alert dogs with intimidating barks make for excellent watchdogs. They are loyal to their owner until the end.
The English Springer Spaniel Has A Split Personality
This loyal and affectionate dog is the mellow snuggle companion you've always dreamed of. On the flip side, these animals are born hunters, sharp as a whip and highly trainable. The American Kennel Club notes that they are miserable when alone and crave the company of dogs and people.
This picture shows an English Springer Spaniel working with a military officer to see if there are any items or people in the car that don’t belong.
The Fast and The Furious Jack Russell Terrier
In this photograph, a hunter releases his Jack Russell into a hole to find the badger he hopes to hunt. This pup knows to locate the badger, corner it, then run back as an indication to the owner where his prey is.
Jack Russell Terriers are little balls of energy just bursting to be used in a productive way. Badgers are a walk in the park for these fast and fearless fox hunters.
Alaskan Malamutes Are Horses Of The Snow
These dog's body composition is perfect for physically-exhaustive work in the snow: weatherproof fur, powerful chest, and shoulders, heavy bones. Not only are they perfect sled dogs because of their strength, but also their mentality. These dogs thrive in a pack, and that leader better be you.
Malamutes may own you if you don’t own them, but they’re also big teddy bears. They know their strength and are gentle and safe with kids.
Akita Inus Detect Stranger Danger
These Japanese dogs are wired to protect the ones they love. Their deep and dark eyes may look forgiving, but these dogs are always on alert when it comes to strangers. Though they may be slow to trust, once you've established yourself as family these dogs will reveal their soft side.
Similar in composition to the Malamute, Akita Inus are massive and heavy balls of fluff that will be your knight in shining armor when necessary.
You'll Need To Keep Your German Shorthaired Pointer Busy!
This sporting dog breed is an extremely smart hunter and retriever. German Shorthaired Pointers are friendly and affectionate, making them terrific family companions. Despite this, they can also be independent-minded and tend to want to roam off on their own at times!
Like most intelligent dogs, German Shorthaired Pointers need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They also keep a puppy level of energy throughout their entire lives, so do best with humans who are active and can keep up.
Bernese Mountain Dogs Are Excellent Family Pets
Here's another large breed with above-average intelligence. Although some people perceive Bernese Mountain Dogs to be slow or dim-witted because of their size and lumbering way of getting around, that is not the case. "Berners," as they’re called by fans, can grow to weigh around 100 pounds!
This is a great working breed that excels at herding. They have calm, mellow temperaments and get along with strangers and other animals.
Weimaraners Are Known As "The Dogs With The Human Brains"
Weimaraners are German pups that were bred to hunt in the Black Forest. They're incredibly smart and quick to learn. The breed’s intelligence has led to the nickname "the dog with the human brain."
They’re also quite unique looking and tend to attract attention. This medium breed is known for its friendly, charming personality in addition to its intelligence. Weimaraners are excellent family dogs and even tolerate cats at times (although not usually, since they were bred for the hunt!).
Alaskan Malamutes Love Children
This is one of the oldest dog breeds around. These giant fluffballs were bred to pull sleds in the harsh climate of Alaska. They're super smart and love having a job to do. Although young pups are pretty small, they can grow to weigh up to 100 pounds. They’re social and loving animals that enjoy meeting all kinds of strangers.
Fun fact: George Lucas’ Alaskan Malamute inspired the character Chewbacca from the Star Wars movie franchise!
Chesapeake Bay Retrievers Are Still Used In The Area They Were Originally Bred
These adorable pups are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. They were bred in the 19th century to help retrieve waterfowl for hunters. This is one of the only true American dog breeds, and they're still widely used in the Chesapeake Bay area during hunting season.
Like other smart dogs, these pups can be a bit stubborn when they’re given a command they don’t feel like obeying. But they’re great companions and excellent family pets.
American Leopard Hounds Can Avoid Injury
American Leopard Hounds are known for their intelligence. These all-purpose tree dogs were bred with an innate desire to please their masters, which is why they are easy to train and can learn a lot. When it comes to sport, these dogs are excellent at avoiding injuries and will fiercely protect children.
Treats are essential to training these dogs but must be used sparingly, because American Leopard Hounds are more prone to becoming overweight.
American Staffordshire Terriers Are Great In Show Business
American Staffordshire Terriers love to be challenged both physically and mentally, which is why they are regarded for their intelligence. That's why these dogs are quite easy to train and often end up in show business.
An AmStaff has been the subject of Horatio’s Drive and the 1930s Our Gang comedies. An AmStaff named Sgt. Stubby was America’s most decorated war dog in World War I and was admired by at least three U.S. presidents.
Appenzeller Sennenhunds Are Natural Herders
Intelligence isn't lost on an Appenzeller Sennenhund, which was originally bred in the region of Appenzell, Switzerland. These dogs were bread as cattle dogs and with their high-pitched barking could alert their humans of any oncoming danger.
These smaller dogs are considered rare in North America but are found all over Europe. They could be easily trained if they had a fair but firm "leader" guiding them into their full potential.
Belgian Malinois Are Constantly Using Their Minds
The confident Belgian Malinois was meant to be active with its human companions. These dogs are smart, which is why they constantly need to be using their brains in order to thrive.
With a high prey drive and a keen sense of whatever is moving around them, these dogs need to be trained well in order not to let those traits lead to unfavorable behavior like chasing cars and children. That's why it’s essential to get them socialized and trained as early as possible.
Barbets Are Happy To Show You How Smart They Are
A Barbet is a quintessential French waterdog that is considered very bright and agile. In order to use these traits to the best of their abilities, Barbets need a positive and upbeat training environment. This ostensibly leads to their loyal and friendly nature towards other dogs and people.
These water dogs were initially used to hunt water game and almost went extinct during the World Wars. They are now considered a rare breed.
