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Border Collies Top the List of the Smartest Dog Breeds
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Border Collie
The valedictorians of the dog world, these herders took the top spot in Stanley Coren's intelligence rankings, meaning most can learn a new command in under five repetitions and follow it at least 95% of the time.
Height: 18-22 inches
Weight: 30-55 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
RELATED: The 20 Best Dogs for Kids and Families That Will Be Your Pal for Life
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Poodle
Nowadays you can adopt cockapoos, whoodles and goldendoodles, to name a few, but breeders love regular ol' poodles for more than just their hypoallergenic qualities. The curly-coated cuties also took the silver medal for working intelligence in Coren's survey.
Height: 10-22 inches
Weight: 6-7o pounds (depending on variety)
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
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German Shepherd
German Shepherds happily serve as police dogs, seeing eye dogs, medical assistance dogs and therapy dogs, so it's no surprise that consistent obedience comes standard with this breed.
Height: 22-26 inches
Weight: 50-90 pounds
Life expectancy: 7-10 years
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Golden Retriever
That's right – one of the nation's most beloved family pets also took home straight A's in this intelligence survey. While the breed was originally intended for hunting, goldens also enjoy acting like straight-up goofballs once in awhile (which you already know if you have one of your own).
Height: 23-24 inches
Weight: 65-75 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
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Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans got their start in the late 19th century, when a German tax collector named Louis Dobermann wanted a medium-sized pet to act as both a guard dog and companion. Translation: These fearless protectors can hold their own, and hang with kids.
Height: 24-28 inches
Weight: 60-100 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
RELATED: 35 Best Large Dog Breeds for People Who Want Impressive Pets
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Shetland Sheepdog
Smaller than collies, these adorable fluffballs hold their own in herding, agility and obedience trials. Consequently, Shelties do tend to bark, chase and herd, but their affectionate nature and love for cuddles will erase any hard feelings.
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 14-20 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
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Labrador Retriever
Labs love to please, whether they're serving as guide dogs, narcotic detection dogs or just everyday family pets. Americans have accordingly made them the most popular breed in the country for a whopping 27 years in a row.
Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 55-80 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
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Papillon
The first toy breed to crack the top 10, papillons aren't your average lap dogs. The 5-pound wonders often take home top prizes at competitive agility trials, according to the American Kennel Club. Their name — French for "butterfly" — alludes to their tall, pointed ears.
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 4-9 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
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Rottweiler
Rottweilers likely descended from drover dogs in Ancient Rome, with the rugged, dependable temperament to boot. An engaged Rottweiler owner will take care to train and exercise their pooch thoroughly – with the reward of a loving and loyal friend.
Height: 22-27 inches
Weight: 85-130 pounds
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
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Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog sits outside of the top 50 in AKC's popularity rankings, but don't miss out on this smart breed. Alert, curious and pleasant, the high-energy herders do best with a job.
Height: 17-20 inches
Weight: 30-50 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
RELATED: 22 Healthiest Dog Breeds With the Least Health Problems
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