We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
So, if you are looking for a dog with both brains and beauty (all dogs are beautiful), then it has been scientifically proven which breeds should top your wish list.
Here are, officially, the 13 cleverest breeds of dog in the world.
9. Rottweiler
A mixture of obedience and keen instinct makes the Rottweiler the ninth most intelligent dog breed. They are also very adaptive and make great guard dogs - as well as gentle and respectful family pets. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Australian Cattle Dog
Still used today to herd animals on Outback ranches, the Australian Cattle Dog may not be a common site in Britain's parks but it has brains to spare. They respond particularly well to structured training, while also have an incredible ability to learn for themselves. They'll be running rings around you in no time. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The second of three smart smaller dogs on this list, the Corgi is another dog whose intelligence has been used to heard animals. These dogs just love to learn new stuff and show off their canine skills. | Canva/Getty Images
12. Miniature Schnauzer
Unusually, the Miniature Schnauzer is more intelligent than its larger cousins - the Standard Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer. Bred to hunt rats, these little characters can easily outsmart even the craftiest rodent. | Canva/Getty Images