We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
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.
His fascinating research definitively ranked breeds of dog by IQ.
Here are the 26 breeds that topped the ranking - and those that came dead last (but are still adorable).
9. Rottweiler
A mixture of obedience and keen instinct makes the Rottweiler the ninth most intelligent dog breed. They are also very adaptive and make great guard dogs - as well as gentle and respectful family pets. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Australian Cattle Dog
Still used today to herd animals on Outback ranches, the Australian Cattle Dog may not be a common site in Britain's parks but it has brains to spare. They respond particularly well to structured training, while also have an incredible ability to learn for themselves. They'll be running rings around you in no time. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The second of three smart smaller dogs on this list, the Corgi is another dog whose intelligence has been used to heard animals. These dogs just love to learn new stuff and show off their canine skills. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Miniature Schnauzer
Unusually, the Miniature Schnauzer is more intelligent than its larger cousins - the Standard Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer. Bred to hunt rats, these little characters can easily outsmart even the craftiest rodent. | Canva/Getty Images