The idea that a Chihuahua is the least intelligent dog is a misconception! According to foreign scholars, dog intelligence is ranked based on three traits: instinct, adaptability, and obedience. Being lower on the list doesn't mean a dog is truly "dumb." Instead, it shows that some dogs prefer to do their own thing and are less likely to submit to others. For example, the Husky ranks 50th, but in freezing conditions, it can still find its way home using its instincts.
Looking for your dog's rank?
Is your dog a "Champion" or a "Dumb" one? Scroll down to find out!
Champion Group
The champions are the super smart dogs! Dogs in the top 10 of intelligence rankings can understand and complete new commands within 5 repetitions—very obedient and well-behaved. The top-ranked dogs include:
- Border Collie (1st)
- Poodle (2nd)
- Golden Retriever (4th)
- Doberman Pinscher (8th)
Runner-Up Group
The "second-place" group features dogs with above-average intelligence! Ranks 11–26, these dogs can understand new commands within 5–15 repetitions. They are quite clever but may become destructive if not properly trained. Examples include:
- Corgi (11th)
- Beagle (17th)
- Pomeranian (23rd)
Third Place Group
The third-tier dogs, ranked 27–39, require some motivation like treats or toys to perform well, similar to the runner-up group. Dogs here include:
- Yorkshire Terrier (27th)
- Samoyed (33rd)
- Dalmatian (39th)
The Dullard Group
Dogs in this group (ranked 40–54) tend to forget commands easily over time and may not recognize their owner from a distance. Examples are:
- Bichon Frise (45th)
- Dachshund (49th)
- Husky (50th)
The Distracted Group
Dogs ranked 55–69 are confident and independent, often doing their own thing based on mood. They need gentle and patient training. Examples include:
- Pug (57th)
- Bulldog (58th)
- Maltese (59th)
- Chihuahua (67th)
The Slow Learner Group
The lowest rank, 70–78, includes dogs that appear "dumb" but are often just ignoring commands intentionally. They are seriously doing their own thing and might need hundreds of repetitions to learn a command. Some include:
- Basset Hound (71st)
- Chow Chow (75th)
- Afghan Hound (78th)
Does your dog make the list?
Regardless of their rank, these rankings are statistical results from experts. Every dog is unique and special in its own way—an irreplaceable little treasure.
