1 month ago
23
Shutterstock
When it comes to dogs, size doesn’t always determine intelligence. Some of the largest dogs are gentle giants with impressive mental agility and the ability to learn new tricks quickly. These breeds combine their towering presence with sharp minds, making them ideal companions for owners who enjoy engaging in training sessions and cognitive challenges. Their eagerness to please and quick learning ability make them exceptional at mastering commands and performing tasks. These dogs prove that even the biggest breeds can be remarkably fast learners with the right training.
Border Collie
Shutterstock
While the Border Collie is often regarded as the smartest of all dog breeds, it also happens to be a large and agile dog that thrives on mental stimulation. This breed is naturally driven, which makes them incredibly eager to please their owners and learn new tricks. Their quick learning ability is attributed to their herding instinct, which requires them to make quick decisions and react fast to changes in their environment. Border Collies are known for their ability to master complex tasks in no time, making them ideal for owners who want a dog that learns instantly.
Poodle
Shutterstock
Known for their sophisticated looks and friendly demeanor, Poodles aren’t just pretty faces – they are also incredibly intelligent. Poodles are quick learners and excel in obedience training due to their desire to please their owners. Their intelligence shines through in their ability to solve problems and learn complex tricks quickly. Whether it’s agility courses, retrieving, or learning new commands, Poodles tend to pick up on things fast, making them one of the smartest big dog breeds that will happily show off their skills on command.
German Shepherd
Shutterstock
German Shepherds are legendary for their intelligence and versatility. As one of the most commonly used breeds for police and military work, these dogs have been trained to perform complex tasks, making them stand out in terms of their ability to learn new commands. Their instincts to protect and serve, paired with their strong bond with humans, allow them to learn tricks and commands quickly. The German Shepherd’s high energy and focus help them excel in obedience training, making them an ideal breed for anyone looking for a smart, big dog.
Golden Retriever
Shutterstock
Golden Retrievers are widely known for being friendly, loyal, and affectionate dogs. Their intelligence is often second only to their desire to please their owners. This breed excels in both basic and advanced training, including agility and retrieving tasks. Their quick learning ability makes them one of the best candidates for learning new tricks on the fly. Golden Retrievers are naturally inclined to follow commands and are always eager to engage with their owners, making training sessions not only successful but also fun and rewarding.
Labrador Retriever
Shutterstock
Labrador Retrievers, much like Golden Retrievers, are not only friendly and affectionate but also highly intelligent. These dogs are often used as service dogs due to their quick learning ability and trainability. Their eagerness to please their owners, coupled with their strong work ethic, makes them one of the smartest big dog breeds. Whether it’s fetching, obedience, or learning new tricks, Labs are known to pick up commands almost instantly. Their easy-going nature and willingness to learn make them the perfect companion for active families who enjoy training their dogs.
Doberman Pinscher
Shutterstock
The Doberman Pinscher is a breed known for its alertness, loyalty, and high intelligence. These dogs are incredibly responsive to training and can learn new tricks or commands quickly, often with minimal repetition. Their strong protective instincts and drive to please their owners make them excellent candidates for various types of training. Whether it’s guarding, obedience, or even performing tricks, Dobermans are quick learners who can be taught new tasks in no time. Their sharp minds and physical capabilities make them a powerhouse in the world of intelligent big dogs.
Belgian Malinois
Shutterstock
The Belgian Malinois is a breed that is often compared to the German Shepherd due to its intelligence and versatility. These dogs are known for their work ethic and are often employed in police and military roles. The Belgian Malinois thrives in environments where they are mentally challenged and are known for their ability to learn new tricks and commands quickly. Their keen intelligence and physical stamina allow them to excel in activities such as agility training, tracking, and obedience work. If you’re looking for a big dog that can learn new tricks instantly, this breed is up to the task.
Rottweiler
Shutterstock
Rottweilers are large, powerful dogs known for their intelligence and loyalty. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are quick learners when it comes to training. Rottweilers have a strong desire to please their owners and are eager to work, making them excellent candidates for learning new commands and tricks. Their intelligence, combined with their natural guarding instincts, makes them ideal for tasks that require precision and focus. Whether it’s performing basic tricks or more advanced tasks, Rottweilers are capable of mastering them with ease, especially when training is consistent and rewarding.
Weimaraner
Shutterstock
The Weimaraner is a highly energetic and intelligent breed that quickly catches on to new commands. Known for their hunting and retrieving skills, these dogs are always eager to learn and perform tasks. Their sharp minds and quick reflexes allow them to excel in a variety of training exercises, from retrieving objects to learning new tricks. Weimaraners bond closely with their owners and are highly motivated to please them, which makes them quick learners when it comes to training. Their intelligence and enthusiasm make them stand out as one of the smartest large breeds.
Newfoundland
Shutterstock
Despite their size, Newfoundlands are surprisingly intelligent and quick to learn new tricks. This breed is gentle, calm, and patient, but they also possess a high degree of problem-solving ability. Newfoundlands are often trained for water rescue due to their natural swimming ability and instinct to help others. Their intelligence and eagerness to work alongside their owners make them highly trainable. While their size may intimidate some, Newfoundlands are gentle giants that can quickly learn new tricks and commands, particularly when positive reinforcement is used during training.
Great Dane
Shutterstock
Great Danes, while known for their size and imposing presence, are surprisingly intelligent and trainable. They may not always be as fast as smaller breeds, but they are incredibly responsive to training and can learn new commands with ease. Great Danes thrive on positive reinforcement and enjoy being mentally stimulated. Their calm demeanor and focus during training make them stand out among large breeds. Though they may not be as agile as other breeds, their sharp minds and eagerness to please make them quick learners when it comes to picking up new tricks and commands.
The Big Dogs Who Think They’re Einstein
Shutterstock
It’s always a pleasant surprise when a large dog picks up tricks at lightning speed! These big breeds may seem intimidating, but their quick thinking and sharp minds make them exceptional learners. It’s not just about size – it’s how these dogs think, engage, and bond with their owners. Though some may need a bit of patience and consistent training, once they catch on, they become masters of commands. These breeds prove that size and intelligence go hand in hand, making them ideal companions for any training challenge.
English (US) · 