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).
21. Beagle
Another dog that has been bred to follow its nose - often in packs - the Beagle could more accurately be called single-minded than stupid. | Canva/Getty Images
22. Mastiff
Many Mastiff owners will know that, while their pet will eventually do what's asked of them, they'll take their time over it. It's this ponderous nature that perhaps explains their reputation for a lack of smarts. | Canva/Getty Images
23. Basset Hound
Yet another dog bred to ignore everything else to follow a scent, it's not the Basset Hound's fault that this skill comes at an intellectual cost. They can also be incredibly difficult to house train. | Canva/Getty Images
24. Shih Tzu
If you've ever looked at your adorable Shih Tzu and wondered what they were thinking, the answer is probably 'not very much'. When you are this cute though, brains aren't really required. | Canva/Getty Images