Bull Terrier Dog Breed Information & Characteristics

The 18 Smartest Dog Breeds Ranked For Intelligence

Smartest dog breeds, ranked for intelligence

Dogs have been humankind's faithful companion since as far back as the Stone Age, and it's not just because they're so dang cute. They're intelligent in a way that's ideal for humans, a state of affairs that was entirely intentional; over the millennia, humans bred dogs to be perfect canine companions. At any moment in history, the smartest dog breeds have served as more than man's best friend: They've been navigators and field guides, wartime comrades, detectives, garbage collectors, movie stars, and security consultants, as renowned canine researcher and professor Stanley Coren, PhD, points out in his iconic book The Intelligence of Dogs. Dogs are among the few animals that have traveled to space, and they've saved countless lives, both literally and metaphorically.

"There are three types of dog intelligence," says Coren, who defines canine smarts by the way dogs interact with humans. The first is "instinctive" and focuses on what the dog has been bred by humans to do. The second is "adaptive," or how well the dog learns from its environment to solve problems. The third is "working and obedience," or how hard the dog is willing to work to please its people and do its jobs. What underpins all three is the desire and ability to communicate effectively with humans—both by understanding its human's signs, actions, and commands, and by expressing itself via barks, body movements, and actions.

The average dog can understand 160 words, according to Coren, and some dogs comprehend as many as 250 or more. But what may be even more fundamental to effective communication between dogs and humans is that dogs, as a general rule, actually care. "Dogs are very attentive to and responsive to us," Alexandra Horowitz, head of the Dog Cognition Lab at Columbia University's Barnard College, told the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Although this is true for all pooches, the smartest dog breeds have certain traits that put their intelligence a step above. Just as some of our furry friends are known for being the dumbest dog breeds, affectionate dog breeds, small dog breeds, or dogs that don't shed, others are known as the most intelligent dogs, at least according to Coren's rubric. So, how smart are dogs exactly? The pups on our list may not be ready to challenge you to a game of cards, but they do their jobs, and must be treated to a puppuccino every now and then!

Get Reader's Digest's Read Up newsletter for humor, cleaning, travel, tech and fun facts all week long.

1. Border collie

According to The Intelligence of Dogs, which ranks 131 dog breeds in terms of their relative intelligence, the border collie is the smartest dog breed known to man. Need proof? Chaser, a linguistically gifted border collie from South Carolina, could recognize over 1,000 words. But it's not just a matter of being "book smart." A descendant of European herding dogs that lived along the rocky borders of England, Scotland, and Wales, the border collie was bred to be crafty enough and athletic enough to survive the treacherous landscape. It's also blessed with a strong work ethic. The AKC, which recognized the breed in 1995, describes the border collie not only as "smart, affectionate, and energetic," but also as a "remarkably bright workaholic."

Border collie owners should be prepared to provide their doggo with lots of mental and physical stimulation, according to the AKC. The breed is so intelligent and good at communicating with humans that it's not unreasonable to imagine that many are quite adept at getting what they want from their owners. That's why we're proclaiming the border collie the smartest dog in the world.

Breed Overview Smartest dog in the world Height: 18 to 22 inches Weight: 30 to 55 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

ⓘ

The Ultimate Roundup Of The 50 Cutest Dog Breeds As Puppies

50 Cutest Dog Breeds as PuppiesReader's Digest

Skip to main content

1 / 51

Liuhsihsiang/Getty Images Cute puppies to make you smile

If you're looking to get a dog or just enjoy scrolling through pictures of puppies, you're in the right place. Whether you're looking to adopt a small dog breed, big dog breed, or an affectionate dog, these puppy pictures will make you fall in love. Keep reading for the ultimate dose of cuteness.

2 / 51

Cute dog #1: Labrador retriever

The Labrador retriever is a super friendly and easy-going breed and an ideal family dog, which is probably why it topped the American Kennel Club's list of (AKC) most popular dog breeds for the last five years. These puppies, undeniably one of the cutest dog breeds, grow fast and reach adulthood by about six months and crave an active lifestyle to be happy and healthy. The only dilemma is which lab puppy is the cutest—black, yellow, or chocolate? Memorize these etiquette rules if you own a dog.

ⓘ

3 / 51

Cute dog #2: German shepherd

Known for their keen intelligence, high energy, and loyalty, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world. Despite their fearsome reputation, most owners find they are loyal, docile, obedient, and a loving family pet. It is because of their intelligence that German Shepherds are trained for military service, search and rescue, and police dogs. After World War I, returning soldiers spoke so highly of this breed that their popularity exploded in the United States. When it comes to your pup's health, this is when you should consider holding off on neutering.

4 / 51

Jessica Peterson/Getty Images Cute dog #3: Golden retriever

If you relish the puppy stage and never want it to end, the golden retriever is one of the cutest dog breeds—and slowest breeds to mature when it comes to silly playfulness traits. It loves being social and becoming a real member of the family, so it will be much happier with you and not alone in the yard for hours on end. Looking for the perfect name to suit your furbaby? Check out the most popular names for every breed and these adorable Disney dog names.

5 / 51

Angyalosi Beata/Shutterstock Cute dog #4: French bulldog

Look at those cute big ears! That smooshed in face is irresistibly cute, but it can cause some breathing issues. The Frenchie is a brachycephalic breed, which means its shorter snouts make breathing a little more laborious, especially in hot weather or if your Frenchie takes a dip in the lake. But the Frenchie's natural inclination to be a champion couch potato suits it's breathing condition so it won't have issues there. When they do want to cool off and relax they lay with their legs splayed out behind them, earning another nickname, "Frog Dog." These are some important signs of heat stroke in dogs you need to know.

6 / 51

Sandra Schramm/Shutterstock Cute dog #5: Beagle

It's probably one of the cutest dog breeds because the beagle keeps its adorable puppy face for most of its life—until those gray hairs eventually creep in around its face. These pups are motivated by scent and an ever-present curiosity that is driven by their keen sense of smell and the desire to chase down any scent that intrigues them. Roaming and exploring are genetic so they feel their best with a family that loves an active lifestyle outdoors. If your pup is smart, it might get bored easily; these puzzle games will keep them entertained.

7 / 51

Armen Kosyan/Shutterstock Cute dog #6: Poodles

The fluffy and "foo-foo" appearance of poodles hardly conjures up what poodles were originally bred to do—retrieve prey from the water but all that fur (which is actually hair) protects joints from the cold water. Their hair doesn't shed too much or produce too much dander so they're often great companions for allergy sufferers who want a snuggler, which suits the poodle just fine because they assume they are a member of your family and prefer quality time with you. Check out these dogs that look like wolves.

8 / 51

KalypsoWorldPhotography/Shutterstock Cute dog #7: Rottweiler

Oh my goodness… the chunky cuteness of a "Rottie" puppy face is undeniable. Rottie puppies are a solid block of burning love. Their stocky and muscular body tips the scales from 95 to 135 pounds, males on the heavier end. Male Rottweilers are calm and always on duty, watching for threats to their home and human family but females are a little more chill and more affectionate. They require firm and consistent training from the start so if you don't have time to devote to this, the Rottie isn't the dog for you. Find out 15 secrets dog trainers won't tell you for free.

9 / 51

Tatyana Domnicheva/Shutterstock Cute dog #8: Yorkshire terrier

Spunky and sassy these cute little divas are viewed as the pampered breed, but it's origin began far away from the penthouse set. Back in 19th century England, they were bred to chase rats. (They are a terrier after all, and all terriers were bred to chase and kill something.) You probably won't find them chasing rats anymore, but they do love to play and give and receive attention and quite happy to sit pretty as a lapdog. Here are 26 secrets dog groomers want you to know, including some about "show cuts" and "puppy cuts."

10 / 51

Cute dog #9: Mastiffs

Mastiffs tend to be "gassy" dogs, which bothers some people. They also snore, drool, and slobber—big time! It goes without saying, this is not a breed for people who need a tidy household. On the plus side, Mastiffs are gentle, intelligent, and eager to please and want to form strong bonds with their family members. This pup needs to be close to family and should not be an outdoor-only dog. Isolation or long periods of separation can cause anxiety or destructive behaviors. Find out 14 other things you do that your dog hates.

11 / 51

ZullU InFocus/Shutterstock Cute dog #10: German shorthaired pointer

This German dog breed's hunting heritage means these pups love tracking down furred or feathered prey, and you'll know when they spot something like a rabbit because they use their bodies and tail to point and lift one foot off the ground to signal they have something in their sight. Even puppies who have never hunted are known to do this. But if hunting isn't your bag be prepared to make this pup your new running or hiking partner because the high-energy GSP won't be satisfied with brief walks. Next, check out some of the cutest puppy names of the year.

12 / 51

Cute dog #11: Boxer

When they're pups, boxers are all about sowing their wild oats. If you can get past the rambunctious and mischievous puppy stage (that lasts around three years), the boxer will transform from the cutest dog breed into a beautifully graceful and robust dog that's dignified, calm, and courageous. Maybe that's why they were used in Germany for police training years ago. Here's everything you need to know about puppy-proofing your home.

13 / 51

ANURAK PONGPATIMET/Shutterstock Cute dog #12: Siberian husky

Go ahead, try to look away. Nah, forget it. Resistance is futile when your eyes fix their gaze on this fluffy ball of cuteness. The Siberian husky is part of the Spitz family, which is a breed of dogs that have thick furry coats to shield bitter cold, prick ears, and a wedge-shaped face. They don't bark often, but they are vocal and howl, yelp, or "talk." Check out these adorable husky pictures that will make you want one.

14 / 51

Liliya Kulianionak/Shutterstock Cute dog #13: Dachshund

You don't need a Nest cam on your door if you have a Dachshund living in your home. This breed is hyper-aware of any human or animal that moves outside your door (and down the street) and will bark non-stop to let you know, but don't worry, they don't typically do more than bark at an intruder. They love indoor games of fetch, but they still need the mental stimulation of the scents and sounds outdoors. Don't miss these adorable toy dog breeds that you'll want to bring home ASAP.

15 / 51

Cute dog #14: Great Dane

It's a breed of contradictions: Take its size for example. The Great Dane is intimidating for sure (one of the tallest breeds at about 30 inches), but there is nothing scary about this gentle giant—except maybe it's weight when it wants to sit on your lap. Despite its size, the Great Dane thinks it's a lap dog and will nonchalantly plop down on you like you were its human pet bed. It has a deep bark, but doesn't bark much and is a great apartment dog because it's low-energy and has a super friendly demeanor. For even more adorable pups, check out these flat-faced dogs that are just too precious.

16 / 51

Yana Kiselyova/Shutterstock Cute dog #15: Pembroke Welsh Corgi

You may be familiar with two types of Corgi's—the Pembroke Welsh and the Cardigan. The Pembroke is a much newer breed and has a bobbed tail. It's also the breed Queen Elizabeth II chose to be her furry companions until just recently when her beloved Willow died. The Pembroke is intelligent, happy, and loving but also has a streak of independence and stubbornness. Here's the real reason why Queen Elizabeth II loves corgis so much. And if you can't get enough of these cute pups, these corgi pictures will make your day!

17 / 51

Eve Photography/Shutterstock Cute dog #16: Doberman Pinschers

You may experience two entirely different scenarios if you're walking a Doberman puppy versus an adult Doberman. The typical smiles and oohs and ahs associated with a puppy often disappear when your Dobie becomes an adult. Like Rotties, they boast an intimidating presence, but that's because they are in guard mode, protecting their family or home. They also possess a very loving and sensitive side and require socialization at a young age to foster those qualities.

18 / 51

Anne Geier Photography/Shutterstock Cute dog #17: Australian shepherd

With its piercing blue eyes and unique markings, this Aussie is as highly recognizable breed but it's descended from Europe, not Down Under. The mixup came from California ranchers who thought they were called Australian shepherds because they were associated with Basque shepherds that came from Australia to the United States in the 1800s. What you really need to know is that this dog, one of the cutest dog breeds, doesn't get by on its looks alone. It's driven by a need to herd and it's essential for an Aussie to be mentally and physically stimulated—think obstacle courses.

19 / 51

Cute dog #18: Miniature Schnauzer

There's no denying the Schnauzer trademark features—whether its a 20-pound miniature or the giant version at 85 pounds. The arched eyebrows, whiskers, and beard sometimes give off an aloof and pretentious vibe. Since they were bred to chase vermin, a backyard squirrel will quickly get their attention, but they'll rein it in and get back to their other job of being chief watchdog and protector of the family. These are the dog breeds that get stolen the most often.

20 / 51

Waldemar Dabrowski/Shutterstock Cute dog #19: Cavalier King Charles

Commonly known as the "comforter spaniel," this sweet little breed with a heart of gold is an obvious choice for one of the cutest dog breeds. As fast as you fall in love, they do too. Their large expressive eyes really are the window to their sensitive and empathetic soul. But that doesn't mean they're all melancholy and sit on your lap all day long. They are playful, energetic, and relatively easy to train. A lover of people and cat siblings, the CKC prefers to be with humans or furry siblings, so they live their best life in a two-pet home or one with a stay-at-home owner.

21 / 51

Olexandr Taranukhin/Shutterstock Cute dog #20: Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu's are beloved for their chrysanthemum-like appearance with hair that grows up from the nose and around their faces in a variety of color blends. Shih Tzu's are great roomies for homebodies. They're not big fans of nature and like to stay inside to play or clown around by stealing shoes. Once they've had enough, they're content for a short walk around the block and downtime on the couch. Not a dog person? The cutest cat breeds and other adorable animal photos will make you smile.

22 / 51

Cute dog #21: Boston terrier

As you may have guessed, the Boston terrier hails from Beantown with roots tracing back to the 1870s. This dapper breed has a good sense of humor and doesn't mind being the life of the party. They're quick to pick up new tricks and love to please people and do well in competitive canine sports, like flyball, agility, and obedience. Be mindful of those "look at me" eyes when you're playing or taking him for a walk because they protrude, they are prone to get hurt. Watch out for these 10 shockingly common dog dangers in your backyard.

23 / 51

Dorottya Mathe/Shutterstock Cute dog #22: Havanese

If you never want to feel alone again, get a Havanese because they hate being alone too and will never leave your side. You don't even have to leave them when you run errands because they travel well. They were bred in Cuba to be companion animals—unless you go outside, then you're on your own. Except for doing their business, they aren't fans of the great outdoors. In fact, if it's cold or rainy, the only way you're going to get them outside to go potty is to pick them up.

24 / 51

Cute dog #23: Pomeranian

Maybe it's the luxurious puff of fur around their chest and neck that gives them the courage of a lion, but these Poms are famous for thinking they can take on big dogs with their feisty bark. These short-legged dogs' larger-than-life egos extend to humans and they'll relish being the center of attention. They are typically very playful and love to be the center of attention, which isn't hard to do when you're a smart, curious, and feisty breed. Fallen in love with two breeds? Mixed breed dogs give you the best of both worlds.

25 / 51

Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock Cute dog #24: Shetland sheepdogs

Shelties are the smarty pants of the canine world. The AKC regards the Sheltie as one of the most trainable breeds, due to its devotion and high intelligence. This isn't the type of dog who will be happy lounging in the backyard. It needs to exercise its advanced skill sets of herding, obedience, and agility. But that doesn't mean this busybody likes a lot of noise and action from humans; in fact, they prefer calm and order and are not fans of tension, loud voices, or kids climbing all over them.

26 / 51

Cute dog #25: Bernese mountain dog

Big and fluffy and weighing between 80 and 110 pounds (females are on the lighter end), the Bernie is steady-tempered and easygoing. It's content to lay around the house for a bit but going outside is fun, especially when it means it can utilize its thick coat. Bernie's aren't a fan of hot weather climates, after all, they're from the Swedish Alps where their favorite pastime is pulling carts and sleds and socializing with children. They're also one of the best mountain dog breeds that loves adventure!

27 / 51

Cristian Umili/Shutterstock Cute dog #26: Brittany

The Brittany breed has rare honor in that 500 Brittanys have an AKC Dual Champion award, meaning they achieved excellence in both field and show. When it comes to hunting dogs, the Brittany is a first-class retriever from land and water. Pair that with their keen sense of smell and the ability to adapt to all kinds of terrain, and it's easy to see how why they are a favorite of hunters. Families that like to be active outdoors are well matched for this breed.

28 / 51

Cute dog #27: English springer spaniel

Spaniel-type dogs are thought to have originated in Spain many centuries ago and were probably introduced throughout the world and to England by travelers via trading ships. The field type is bred for hunting and field trial work, while the show type is bred for conformation shows. The field type has a higher energy level and needs even more exercise. Water and mud are highly appealing, so plan on having a regular bath time. Given their fetish for bird hunting, a pet bird isn't a great idea. Here are more pet combos that should never be roomies.

29 / 51

Cute dog #28: Vizslas

Pet parents will nod in unison when someone refers to their vizslas as "velcro dog." They need to be with people all the time, or they become depressed and anxious. And when that happens you'll know because they will howl, bark, or start chewing your shoes. Also known as the Hungarian Pointer, they live for field work, agility drills, and advanced obedience training. Even when they're relatively happy, they're a vocal breed and will bark, howl, grunt, whine, and moan throughout the day. If you are looking for a quiet dog, the Vizsla is not for you. Find out the 10 telltale signs your pup is sad.

30 / 51

Cute dog #29: Pugs

Nothing cheers up a dull party more than the presence of a pug. Sure, it is for the most part quiet, alert, and affectionate but the pug knows how to bring out the happy-go-lucky animated side when necessary. They will keep you entertained with their playful antics and boisterous personality. They can be stubborn and strongwilled but rarely aggressive. They're great with families with young children because they're sturdy and can make a quick exit if needed.

31 / 51

Cute dog #30: Chihuahua

A tiny dog with a ginormous terrier-like personality, the Chihuahua is forever soliciting your attention. It craves physical attention and loves to be next to you, snuggled on the couch in a pile of soft blankets. If something disrupts their quiet time, you'll know it. In fact, anyone in earshot will realize it as these tiny pups are exceptional watchdogs and barkers. If the "intruder" is a large dog, it won't back down so you'll have to keep on eye on them to ensure either dog doesn't get hurt. For even more tiny but mighty dogs, check out these teacup dog breeds.

32 / 51

Zocchi Roberto/Shutterstock Cute dog #31: Cocker spaniel

These small spaniels originated in Spain and the Cocker part of the name is from the woodcock, a bird they flush and retrieve. Hunting isn't a prerequisite to being a part of a human family though. This sociable and easy-going pup makes a great addition to your family. They love kids and usually get along with other furry siblings. Be mindful of their long, floppy ears which make them prone to ear infections. Here's how much it costs to own a dog.

33 / 51

LovelyColorPhoto/Shutterstock Cute dog #32: Maltese

The Maltese can look like a supermodel with its long, silky, white hair adorned with a cute topknot on the top of their head. Or when not in show-mode, pet parents often opt for a "puppy" cut that is shorter and takes less time to brush. They don't shed because they don't have an undercoat so they make a cuddly pal for allergy sufferers. Maltese dogs have a magnetic, playful, energetic personality, and make wonderful companion dogs. They love their family and enjoy cuddling, and sleeping in your bed. Here's why dogs follow you into the bathroom.

34 / 51

Monica Martinez Do-Allo/Shutterstock Cute dog #33: Weimaraner

Weimaraners aren't for everyone. Although they're super smart, playful, happy, fearless, curious, and playful, they require a lot of attention to stay in your good graces. They are attached to their primary caregiver and wonderful with kids, but if left to their own devices, they'll unlock fences, escape crates, or steal cookies off the counter. What they do love is being your jogging partner or running alongside your bike—heck, they'll even take a dip in the lake with you, just in case you need a lifesaver.

35 / 51

Ricantimages/Shutterstock Cute dog #34: Chesapeake Bay retriever

The Chessie was developed in Maryland to be a robust retrieving dog, but indoors, it's very loving and friendly and all about bonding with its human family. They are more protective and less friendly toward strangers than other sporting dogs, making them excellent watchdogs. Worthy of the title as the official dog of Maryland in 1964, they are passionate about the water, excellent swimmers and retrievers, and brave and obedient. And like the Newfoundlands who share their bloodline, they are lovely with children.

36 / 51

Katho Menden/Shutterstock Cute dog #35: Miniature American shepherd

The mini American shepherd is a relatively new breed, having only being recognized in July 2015 by the AKC as a member of the herding group. Like all herders, it's highly intelligent, devoted, full of energy, and has a willingness to please. Its distinctive, watchful eyes accentuate its eye-catching markings. One or both eyes may be blue, hazel, brown, amber, or a combination of those colors. Though it's a herding breed, it's happy to call the city or country its home.

37 / 51

Beatrice Foord-St-Laurent/Shutterstock Cute dog #36: Newfoundland

There are plenty of historical accounts of Newfoundlands saving people from shipwrecked boats and hauling supplies and ammunition in blizzard conditions during World War II. It's a large-and-in-charge breed with males around 130 to 150 pounds and 28 inches tall. It excels at water rescues because of its webbed feet and water repellent coats, making swimming second nature. On land, their muscular body effortlessly pulls a wagon of kids. Most pet parents agree the Newfie is akin to having a real nanny when it comes to guarding children.

38 / 51

Akbudak Rimma/Shutterstock Cute dog #37: Cane Corso

This Mastiff breed from Italy is headstrong, large, intelligent, and powerful, yet they have a tender, sweet side and become very attached to their family and the children in the home. They have an innate ability to play cautiously around children, recognizing the child's size and helplessness. The Cane Corso is keenly aware of when to be protective and intuit if a stranger can be trusted, but since they are hard-wired to protect, they don't back down easily from a fight, so it's essential to socialize them as puppies. Make sure you know the 53 mistakes dog owners tend to make.

39 / 51

Bianca Grueneberg/Shutterstock Cute dog #38: Border collie

Don't even try playing "betcha can't wink" with a Border Collie. You'll lose every time. Its hypnotic stare is all it takes to get a wayward sheep to move back to the flock. Border Collie's are all about duty, but they are also super affectionate with their human family but a bit standoffish with strangers. They are protective without barking (they have that stare after all) and good watchdogs, but because herding is in their blood, they might try to herd small children and nip at their feet or bottoms.

40 / 51

MirasWonderland/Shutterstock Cute dog #39: Bassett hound

The Basset hound's long ears and mournful eyes pull at our heartstrings, and some marketing genius in 1958 came us with the Hush Puppy mascot to sell more shoes because back then tired feet were known as "barking dogs." The Basset's bark and howl are well known and can be heard for miles. But pups don't usually howl like that unless they're lonely. Unlike other hounds, you won't have to worry about it running off, and if it does, you can probably catch it because those short legs don't move fast. It's a calm and wonderful family dog, but one story houses are best because they don't manage climbing stairs that well.

41 / 51

Grigorita Ko/Shutterstock Cute dog #40: Collie

If someone falls in the well, call a Collie; Lassie, the star of a popular TV show in the '50s, was known for getting people out of a jam. Before its big-screen stardom, Queen Victoria fell in love with the collie while visiting Scotland in the late 1800s and brought a few dogs back with her to England, making them very popular. The Collie has two unmistakable looks—the long, flowing hair is the Rough Collie (like Lassie), and the Smooth Collie has a short coat. Interestingly, the Rough Collie is much more popular in the United States than the Smooth Collie, however, the Smooth Collie is more popular in Great Britain. They're both sweet, loyal, and fearless and judged the same in the show ring. If you're looking to add another pet to the mix, don't miss these dogs that are good with cats to make the best pair.

42 / 51

nancy dressel/Shutterstock Cute dog #41: Rhodesian Ridgeback

Ridgebacks are also known as the African lion hound. Not every purebred Ridgeback has it, but this breed is the only dog who has a ridge of hair running down the spine in the opposite direction from its coat. It's super fast and weighs around 100 pounds. Their stomach never registers a "full signal" so they will eat non-stop if you let them. They play fast and hard and will vault fences and run into the street without regard to cars. Give them plenty to do so the action outside the fence isn't so tempting. Here's what veterinarians feed their hungry dogs.

43 / 51

Waldemar Dabrowski/Shutterstock Cute dog #42: West Highland white terrier

The West Highland white terrier's delightful face has graced the cans of Cesar pet food for years. If the pet food company had auditions, they must have closed the doors after the WHWTs darling smile wooed them over. It looks super cuddly, but it's not going to lay around on your lap for very long. One of the cutest dog breeds, the Westie, also has a high energy level and loves to run, chase, and pounce on small furry creatures. It is a terrier after all and not about to let something get away. Here are all the secrets to keeping dogs busy while you're at work.

44 / 51

Cute dog #43: Shiba Inu

These dogs just love to run and run away, always looking for a place to let their bold and spirited personalities shine. They're a bit stubborn and not the easiest to train but they sure are playful and funny. Shibas are hands-down one of the cutest dog breeds you will ever encounter. What's not to love about their soft and furry fox-like face, squinty eyes, and that groovy tail that curls over their back? Speaking of tails, do you know what your dog is trying to tell you with its tail?

45 / 51

Medvedev Andrey/Shutterstock Cute dog #44: Bichon Frises

The Bichon is a perennial favorite at dog shows. They command attention and steal the show with their fancy-prancy gait and velvety fluff that you want to sink your face into. They ham it up at home or in a crowd and always keep an eye out for anything going on outside your house. You have to balance all that cuteness with a couple of minor flaws. Its alertness can be a be overwhelming if it learns to bark when something moves. Potty training doesn't come easy with the Bichon, so consistency and crate training is paramount to success. Fun fact: Bichons are also some of the best dogs for seniors to own.

46 / 51

Happy monkey/Shutterstock Cute dog #45: Akita

The Akita originated from the mountainous and cold Akita prefecture, the northernmost area on the island Honshu, Japan. It's considered sacred and a good luck charm in Japan; Akita statutes are given to new parents as a gesture of good health and to sick people as a token for a quick recovery. They're a stocky, big, and powerful dog, tipping the scales between 90 to 110 pounds and about 24 to 28 inches tall. Some Akita's do well in families, but some are aggressive and need supervision with children, especially when they are eating as they are "food aggressive." The Akita is one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world. Can you guess which other breeds made the list?

47 / 51

DTeibe Photography/Shutterstock Cute dog #46: Belgian Malinois

Hailing from the Belgian town of Malines, this is an extremely confident and top-notch watch and guard dog. But why stop there? It also excels at search and rescue, agility, and anything new you want to teach it. It thrives on a job well done, and because of its herding heritage, it moves in big circles, all of which make it an accomplished police dog. If you're into astrology, learn about the zodiac signs as dogs and find out the best one for you.

48 / 51

Grigorita Ko/Shutterstock Cute dog #47: St. Bernard

A 25-pound Saint Bernard puppy is so adorable and cuddly, you'll never want to put it down. But you will eventually because it will grow into a 120 to a 180-pound dog! His colossal size and sweet disposition attract people today, but the love for the St. Bernard started in the early 1800s when artist Edwin Landseer painted a St. Bernard with a brandy keg around its neck with the Alpine Mountains in the background. People immediately became fans of the rescue efforts and tracking ability the St. Bernard used to save lives. Check out the reasons why every kid should grow up with a big dog.

49 / 51

Anna Tronova/Shutterstock Cute dog #48: Wheaten terrier

The Wheaten is a less feisty terrier than some of his terrier cousins, but not necessarily suitable for a family with younger children. A puppy who is raised by the same humans and alongside pet siblings will bond for life. It's a spirited and self-confident breed, but friendly too. They're definitely on the list of "their bark is worse than their bite," so keep that in mind when training or warning guests before they arrive. Don't miss these funny 30 funny dog photos that will brighten your day.

50 / 51

Helen Sushitskaya/Shutterstock Cute dog #49: Bloodhound

Those wrinkles, long ears, and loose skin aren't just cute to look at; they help the pups pick up scents from the ground up to their nose where it stays. Their sniffing abilities are top-notch and evidence found by bloodhounds have been used as testimony in a court of law. And when they're not sniffing out crime, they're lazy porch-dwellers who are pleased as punch to lay at their pet parents' feet. Just make sure you don't leave them on the porch as they are notorious for baying, especially when left alone. If you're getting a new pup and haven't figured out a name yet, check out the most unique dog names.

51 / 51

AkilinaWinner/Getty Images Cute dog #50: Chow Chow

The layers of fluff and the blue tongue are enough to make you melt. Chows are compact and powerful dogs. They're most well known for their lion's mane ruff around their head, blue/black tongue, and deep-set eyes. Their coats can be black, red, blue, cinnamon, or cream. Chow Chows are also known as one of the cleanest dogs. They are easily potty trained, don't smell, and are known for being particular like cats. Next, check out these 50 adorable puppy photos that will make you melt.

Originally Published: January 25, 2021

We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. We recommend our users to update the browser.

Dogs Are Incredible – If Unlikely – Allies In Conservation

Dogs have been working with people for centuries. Think hunting dogs, herding dogs, police dogs or search and rescue dogs. But have you heard of conservation dogs?

Conservation dogs fall mainly into two categories: guardian dogs and sniffer dogs (also called scent, detection or detector dogs).

Guardian dogs protect vulnerable species from predators, while sniffer dogs locate targets of interest using their powerful sense of smell.

In the past 15 years, dogs have begun to play a crucial role in conservation around the world. So let's take a closer look at them, with a focus on their work in Australia.

Read more: Koala-detecting dogs sniff out flaws in Australia's threatened species protection

The nose that knows

Guardian dogs were made famous by the 2015 movie Oddball. The film is based on the true story of Maremma dogs, trained to protect little penguins from foxes on Middle Island near Warrnambool in southwest Victoria. The penguin population had dwindled to fewer than ten before the Maremma dogs got involved. The breed was chosen for its long association with guarding sheep in Europe.

But most conservation dogs are sniffer dogs, because there are so many uses for them. They can be trained to find animals or plants, or "indirect" signs animals have left behind such as poo or feathers.

Dogs can detect anything with an odour – and everything has an odour. Sniffer dogs are trained to detect a target scent and point it out to their human coworker (sometimes referred to as handler or bounder).

During training, sniffer dog Billie Jean drops to the ground when she finds her target odour. Russell Miller, UniSC Detection Dogs for Conservation

Sniffer dogs have been trained for various missions such as:

finding rare and endangered species

detecting invasive animals during eradication or containment such as fire ants or snakes

locating pest plants

supporting wildlife surveys by detecting scats (poo), urine, vomit, nests, carcasses and even diseases.

They have worked in extreme conditions on land (including on sub-Antarctic islands) and at sea, and can even detect scent located underground. Sniffer dogs have also trained to recognise individual animals such as tigers by scent.

Sniffer dog Maya poses with a french copy of a book about the incredible nose of the dog by Frank Rosell. Romane Cristescu, UniSC Detection Dogs for Conservation The ultimate scent detection machine

A dog's nose is estimated to be 100,000 to 100 million times more sensitive than a human nose (depending on the dog breed). A much larger proportion (seven to 40 times larger) of the dog's brain is dedicated to decoding scent.

That means dogs can detect very low scent concentrations – the equivalent of a teaspoon of sugar in five million litres of water (or two Olympic-sized swimming pools). They can also differentiate between very similar odours.

Dogs analyse the air from each of their nostrils independently, detecting tiny variations in scent concentration. This gives them a directional sense of smell that can guide them left or right until they've honed in on the origin of the scent.

Thanks to very sophisticated nostrils, dogs can avoid contaminating an odour with their own breath (exhaling air through the nostrils' sides). They also can analyse odours continuously regardless of whether they are inhaling or exhaling.

Besides being the ultimate scent detection machine, dogs are great ambassadors for conservation – melting hearts all the way to Hollywood.

While reading a tweet about our IFAW / UniSC koala detection dog Bear, Hollywood actor Tom Hanks said: 'This is a Disney movie that must be made', before suggesting a title: 'The story of Bear: The Koala Detection Dog'. 'I like bear!' X/Twitter Finding the right candidate for the job

Some organisations rescue their dogs. They look for the toy-obsessed kind – those dogs that never stop playing.

In many cases these dogs were abandoned for that very reason. They require constant entertainment and become difficult to care for in a normal family setting, where people have to leave for work and devote time to activities other than entertaining their dog.

A sniffer dog gets to be with their handlers almost every day of the week. That work consists of long walks with lots of play.

Trainers use toys and play as a reward, so dogs learn to associate this reward with the target scent.

Learning through association – called classical or pavlovian conditioning – is very easy for dogs. It's so easy that the scent-learning part of the job is usually the quickest. Training a dog to feel confident and be safe in the natural environment is more challenging. And if the dog had a troubled background before being rescued, rehabilitation is the most time-consuming and difficult component of the training.

Sniffer dogs with their handler Russell Miller near Gympie region in Queensland, Australia. Katrin Hohwieler, UniSC Detection Dogs for Conservation What type of dog can become a sniffer dog?

The most important aspect of the association learning process is having the right dog – one with obsessive behaviour. And any breed, sex and age of dog can present this personality type.

Some breeds might tend to have higher proportions of obsessed and toy-focused dogs, but all breeds, including crossbreeds, have been successfully deployed as sniffer dogs.

Some breeds do have better sniffers – the bloodhound is the champion of olfactory performance – but depending on the target scent, most dogs' noses are still extremely efficient and more than capable of the task.

Robust, agile and high-energy breeds are better suited to working outdoors. Medium-sized breeds are usually better able to crawl under and jump over obstacles, while also light enough to be easily carried by their human coworker as needed.

International Fund for Animal Welfare IFAW / UniSC koala detection dog 'Bear' was deployed during the Black Summer fires (2019-20) to find survivors. Pictured here with the author Romane Cristescu at Two Thumbs Wildlife Trust sanctuaries in Cooma, New South Wales. Kye McDonald, UniSC Detection Dogs for Conservation

Read more: Scientists find burnt, starving koalas weeks after the bushfires

Top jobs for conservation dogs

Meet dogs working in conservation around the world:

These are just a few of the dogs making a difference in our fight to protect biodiversity. But we have barely scratched the surface of their potential!

---