10 More Smartest Dog Breeds
Did your dog make the cut in our video of the top ten smartest breeds? No? Well, then, you’re in luck because today, we’re going over ten more smart breeds (11-20)! Think your dog is on the list? Let’s find out!
#20: Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or Toller, is a Canadian breed. They were created to both lure and retrieve waterfowl. Tollers are crosses of various retrievers, estimated as Golden, Chesapeake, Labrador, and Flat-Coat, with speculation of Cocker, Irish Setter, and various small farm collies. They are the smallest of the retrievers' overall size. They love their family and are affectionate, energetic dogs.
#19: Brittany Spaniel
Brittany Spaniels are from their namesake, Brittany, France. The actual development of this breed is unclear, but most experts agree that bird dogs all come from the same common stock. It is also believed that Brittanys are one of the oldest spaniels in France. The Brittany made its first appearance in the US around the 1930s. Some organizations consider the American and French Brittany to be separate breeds. One difference between the American and the French Brittany is the French Brittany has a black coat coloration or black nose.
#18: English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is a jolly dog whose tail wags all the time. They can be traced back to the famous bird dogs of Spain. Originally used to hunt game, they were utilized on estates of wealthy British citizens. English Cocker Spaniels are known for their soft mouths, retrieving game, and hunting even in difficult terrain. They get along with basically everyone and are excited about everything (even bath time!)
#17: German Shorthaired Pointer
Many details of this breed may have been lost in time, but early versions have been traced back to the 17th century. Today’s breed is likely descended from the German Bird Dog, a mix between the Spanish Pointer and Bloodhounds. The GSP has been described as “all business and no-frills.” They are a happy breed whose love for family is deep. In fact, they love all people, and they are wonderful with children.
#16: Keeshond
Also known as “the laughing Dutchman,” the Keeshond is a playful, quick learner who is in tune with his owner. This particular breed almost fell out of existence due to its history. Two opposing parties formed in Holland and formed a revolution. The Dutch Patriots leader, Cornelis “Kees” de Gijselaar, generated the breed’s popularity with Holland’s commoners. However, the Keeshond breed lost recognition after the revolution’s end when the Dutch Patriots were overthrown. Many Keeshonded were destroyed due to their association with the rebel party. Nearly 150 years later, Baroness van Hardenroek took an interest in the breed. After this, there was a renewed interest in the Keeshond. The breed was introduced to the US and England in the 1930s.
#15: Schipperke
The word schipperke is Flemish for “little shepherd.” Schipperkes are quick, energetic, alert, curious, and protective dogs. One downside of the Schipperke is that they tend to think they’re bigger than they actually are. They only stand about 11-13 inches in height. They are tireless watchdogs who challenge intruders and never back down. Schipperke has a history of pest control, herding, and watchdog, and even played an instrumental role in the Belgian Resistance in WWII.
#14: Belgian Sheepdog - Tervuren
Hard-working sheepdogs from Belgium can be traced back to medieval times. In those days, the dog’s ability was more important than looks. However, in 1891, Professor Adolphe Reul of the Belgian School of Veterinary Science cataloged and established breed standards for Belgian Shepherd Dogs. He differentiated them based on the color, length, and texture of the coat. Today, there are four categories: Malinois, the Laekenois, the Tervuren, and the Belgian Sheepdog. The Tervuren got its name from the town of Tervuren, close to where breeder Brewer M. Corbeel helped refine the breed. They are smart (obviously), loyal, and honest dogs. They are happiest when they have a job to do.
#13: English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel breed has a long, rich history. They have roots in both Spain and England. Prior to the 1600s, Spaniels were considered to be any dog that performed the function of flushing out fowl into a net. In 1882, the Kennel Club of England officially recognized the Spaniels into three varieties: the Field Spaniel, the Springer Spaniel, and the Cocker Spaniel. Today, this dog is known as a merry, playful, and all-around loving dog. He is intelligent (again, duh) and a quick learner. They also LOVE to swim and are attracted to water. (Even if it’s a mud puddle)
#12: Miniature Schnauzer
The word Schnauzer comes from the German word for “muzzle” or “schnauze.” This feature on all schnauzers sets them apart from other wire-haired breeds. There are 3 types of schnauzers: Giant Schnauzer, Standard Schnauzer, and Miniature Schnauzer. The miniature schnauzer is a popular and much-loved companion. They have something for everyone! They’re loveable, lively, alert, and make great watchdogs. They are also serious about being a member of the family. They absolutely need to be included in everything that goes on! They love attention and have excellent working abilities.
#11: Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Before memes, vines, and TikToks, corgis were used as herding dogs. They would nip at the heels of cattle to make the herd move. The fact that they’re low to the ground helped them get out of the way to avoid being stepped on. They eventually transitioned into serving as companions. Queen Elizabeth II favored the Pembroke Corgi and owned five at one point. In fact, she’s reportedly owned 30 in her lifetime. They are devoted dogs who take family seriously. They want nothing more than to go everywhere with their family and be included in all the action.
Conclusion
Did your dog make the list? Let us know in the comments! Don’t remember 1-10? Check out that video here! Remember to like, comment, share, and subscribe. Thanks for watching!
