Smartest Dog Breeds To Rescue

#15. Schipperke

They may not be ready to beat you in a game of chess, but these brainy dogs are easy to train and generally anxious to please you. Here are 15 breeds with notable brilliance.

Schipperkes are, as the AKC says, small dogs built for hard work. Stealthy hunters, the little schipperke is a natural born ratter and even in a modern, urban setting he'll live for the hunt. Schipperkes are highly intelligent dogs for whom early obedience training is a must. Their prey drives are so high and their curiosity so overwhelming that they're innate explorers and will chase anything that catches their eye. So it's a good thing that, once properly trained, they learn commands quickly and will happily come when called. While their size makes them ideally suited to apartment living, be aware that their inborn guarding tendencies will make them enthusiastic barkers. Additionally, their high intelligence will sometimes lead to them getting bored and becoming headstrong if they aren't kept stimulated with games and toys.

Life expectancy: 13 - 15 years

Temperament: Curious, Fearless, Agile, Independent, Faithful, Confident

Height: Male: 28-33 cm, Female: 25-30 cm