We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 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.
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 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.
According to his research, these are the 13 dumbest breeds of dog.
5. 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
6. Bloodhound
Scenthounds like the droopy Bloodhound all appear lower down the list of intelligent breeds - largely because once they pick up a scenet they find it very hard to concentrate on anything else. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Pekingese
The Pekingese was bred as a lap dog for the Chinese Imperial Court - and has exactly the right amount of brains to carry out that task. | Canva/Getty Images
8. 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