Plenty of us decided to welcome new four-legged friends into our homes in the last few years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership has soared to record levels, with around one-in-three UK households now including at least one four-legged friend.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
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Those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with allergies will be looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
One thing worth considering before making a decision is that certain breeds of dog are naturally more intelligent than others.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
That’s not to say that the less clever pups don’t make loving and loyal pets, just that if you are looking for a dog that will be easy to train, learn commands, or carry out tasks, then certain breeds should be avoided.
So, here are the 10 breeds of dog that fit at either extreme of the canine intelligence spectrum.
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5. Dobermann
The Dobermann, or Doberman Pinscher, is the fifth smartest breed of dog. They have a particular talent for gauging perceived threats, which makes them a great guard dog. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Afghan Hound
Now onto the less intellectual pups, and Stanley Coren concluded that the beautiful Afghan Hound is the least intelligent breed of dog. Of course this could be largely due to the fact they are also the most stubborn breed of dog - notorious for ignoring their owner's commands. Who's to say they don't understand every word though! | Canva/Getty Images
7. Basenji
The Basenji is reputedly the world's second most stupid dog breed. Given that they are the only type of dog that don't bark, maybe we just aren't hearing all the clever things they want to say. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Borzoi
The Borzoi is a dog with a stunning coat, but a reputation of having little in the way of brains. They are also one of the cleanest breeds though, so perhaps spend so long on their own personal hygiene that they don't have much time for puzzles. | Canva/Getty Images