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The Kinds Of Toys To Definitely Avoid If Your Dog Is Destructive—& 14 Extra Durable Options To Buy Instead

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Dog owners know that even the sweetest pups can cause total destruction. If you often find dog toy stuffing littered around your home, it's time to upgrade to indestructible options. Durable toys help keep your aggressive chewer entertained and engaged, hopefully not tempted to gnaw on household items. 

Tough chewers should always be supervised with toys. Opt for indestructible balls or extra tough chew bones made of robust materials like rubber or nylon; they'll have the best chance of withstanding your pup's powerful jaw and sharp teeth. Just think: you'll stay sane and your dog will stay safe.

Related story 15 Shopping Editor-Approved Labor Day Sales That'll Score You the Biggest Discounts, From Nordstrom to Coach Outlet Best Indestructible Dog Toys at a Glance

• Best Overall Indestructible Dog Toy: BarkBox SuperChewer, $25+ per month• Best Stuffable Dog Toy: KONG Rubber Toy, $15• Best Tug Toy: Goughnut Pull Toy, $39• Best Balls: Chuckit Ultra Ball Dog Toy, $5• Best Chew Bone: Nylabone Power Chew Original Flavored Dog Chew Toy, $11• Best Flying Disc: West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Flying Disc Dog Toy, $16• Best Floppy Toy: KONG Floppy Knots Bunny, $16• Best for Teeth Cleaning: Petopia Rubber Chew Toy, $13• Best Affordable Toy: Boots & Barkley Wishbone Dog Toy, $9• Best for Fetch: Bark Slingin' Air Rose, $14• Best Flavored Toy: Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy, $10• Best for Solo Play: Jolly Pets Tree Tugger, $22• Best Puzzle Toy: West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy, $26• Best Plush Toy: Tuffy Soft Dog Toy, $32

What Toys to Avoid if Your Dog Is Destructive, According to Vets

Take a close look at the toy's material. "Plush, stuffed, or rope toys in general should be avoided for dogs that tend to have destructive behavior—especially for those dogs that like to eat the aftermath," says Katie Merkatoris, DVM, a Madison, Wisconsin-based licensed veterinarian on JustAnswer Pets. 

Regardless of a toy's material, always supervise your dog when playing with toys. Keep in mind that some dogs will eat toys in their entirety, so make sure their toys aren't a size that they could swallow whole. 

Another no-no for destructive dogs: tennis balls. "Tennis balls can be chewed relatively easily, and as an emergency room doctor, I have seen many dogs with intestinal obstructions from ingesting these," says Dr. Merkatoris.

Related story 15 Shopping Editor-Approved Labor Day Sales That'll Score You the Biggest Discounts, From Nordstrom to Coach Outlet Best Toys for Destructive Dogs, According to Vets

Tough chewers need tougher materials, like heavy-duty rubber or nylon. Whether that's a ball, chewing bone, or fetch toy is highly dependent on your dog. You'll want to be careful that the toys, no matter their material, aren't too small for your dog's mouth though. Small toys have a higher tendency to be swallowed, especially by aggressive chewers.

As always, consult with your primary veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.  

Experts in This Article

Katie Merkatoris, DVM: A Madison, Wisconsin-based licensed veterinarian on JustAnswer Pets

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you'll love as much as we do. BarkBox Superchewer is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

BarkBox SuperChewer

From now until August 26, get your first box for just $5 for National Dog Day!Aggressive chewers are double the trouble and double the fun, so double down on their indestructible dog toys, too. BarkBox's SuperChewer is a monthly subscription box specifically made for tough chewers. Each month, an adorably themed box will arrive on your doorstep filled with two extra tough toys and two full-size bags of treats, which you can customize for allergy and diet preferences. If a toy isn't tough enough for your dog, BarkBox will replace it for free.

Gina Vaynshteyn, our senior commerce director, has been a BarkBox subscriber for over a year, and just recently started getting the Superchewer box for her two 90-pound German Shepherds. "I have been so happy with BarkBox, and now with Superchewer. My dogs destroy *every* toy, no matter how 'indestructible' it markets itself as. Ever since I started subscribing to BarkBox, it takes probably a year for my dogs to wear down their toys, and they have really big jaws and teeth—and a lot of energy," she says.

Material: Rubber and nylonSpecial features: Each month features a new themeLife stage: AdultDimensions: VariesPros:• Each box is a surprise• Treats are customizable • Boxes are themedCons:• Toys may pile up after several months

Gina's dog and her Superchewer toy KONG Rubber Toy

KONG toys are notorious for their toughness. If the standard red version can't withstand your aggressive chewer though, try the black Extreme version. The Extreme KONG comes in five sizes and its hollow interior can be filled with peanut butter for when you want to reward your good boy or girl. Its unpredictable bounce keeps all breeds of dogs entertained, helping solve boredom, digging, barking, and chewing.

Material: RubberSpecial features: Hollow interior for treatsLife stage: All agesDimensions: Five sizes

Pros:• Keeps dogs entertained for an extended time• Allows for rewards with fillings • Dishwasher safe

Cons:• Some dogs still able to chew through

Goughnut Pull Toy

Tug-of-war is no fun for anyone if your dog wins every time. For intense games—ones that don't end in ripped apart toys—try Goughnut's pull toy, which is made of extra tough rubber. Its figure-eight shape allows your dog to bite one end while you grip the other. This separation is key so that your dog doesn't (accidentally!) bite your hand while playing. 

Material: RubberSpecial features: Figure-eight shapeLife stage: AdultDimensions: Two sizes

Pros:• Made of extremely tough rubber• Design decreases chance of accidental nips while playing• Lifetime replacement guarantee

Cons:• Not sized for small dogs

Chuckit Ultra Ball Dog Toy

Go fetch! If your dog has chewed through a tennis ball or two, try these durable rubber balls instead. They're extra bouncy and buoyant, with a thick rubber core and textured surface. While they're extra tough to withstand light chewing, they aren't intended as chew toys. 

Material: RubberSpecial features: Thick rubber coreLife stage: All agesDimensions: Five sizes

Pros:• Ultra thick rubber core• Produces a high bounce• Floats in water

Cons:• Not meant to be a chew toy

Nylabone Power Chew Original Flavored Dog Chew Toy

Want to give your dog something to chew on? Your best bet is a Nylabone Power Chew. The durable design entertains extreme chewers, satisfying a natural urge while discouraging them from chewing on your shoes (or whatever else you find gnawed up). Another benefit of the Nylabone: as they chew, it helps control plaque and tartar, cleaning their teeth and freshening their breath.  

Material: NylonSpecial features: Freshens breath as dog chewsLife stage: AdultDimensions: Five sizes

Pros:• Satisfies urge to chew• Helps control plaque and tartar• Long-lasting

Cons:• Too tough for puppy teeth

West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Flying Disc Dog Toy

Motivate your dog to run off some energy with this flying disc. It's lightweight and easy to throw long distances, but tough and durable, even for destructive dogs. It also doubles as a travel food or water bowl, and since it floats, is great for beach days too. While it's the toughest flying disc on the market, keep it out of reach when not actively playing with it, as it's not intended for chewing.

Material: PlasticSpecial features: Doubles as a travel food or water bowlLife stage: AdultDimensions: Two sizesPros:• Easy to throw long distances• Encourages exercise• Dishwasher safe

Cons:• Intended for play, not chewing

KONG Floppy Knots Bunny

A tough rubber toy may not satisfy your dog's impulse to thrash, but this floppy knot toy from KONG will. It has minimal stuffing, and is instead stuffed with a knotted rope and a variety of textures and squeakers.  Your pup can use it for fetch or solo play, throwing around its floppy design, without leaving behind a trail of stuffing. 

Material: PolyesterSpecial features: Minimal stuffing, many squeakersLife stage: All agesDimensions: Two sizesPros:• Minimal stuffing• Enticing floppy design• Squeakers provide noise stimulation

Cons:• Polyester will likely rip faster than rubber toys

Petopia Rubber Chew Toy

As adorable as puppy breath can be, that charm can wear off as your dog ages. That's where this Petopia pineapple chew toy comes in handy. Not only is it durable for aggressive chewers, but it helps tight tartar and plaque buildup as your dog plays with it. The interior can be coated in peanut butter or stuffed with kibble, keeping them extra engaged. If, somehow, your dog damages the pineapple within 101 days, Petopia will replace it for free. 

Material: RubberSpecial features: Fight tartar and plaque buildupLife stage: All agesDimensions: Three sizesPros:• Cleans dogs' teeth as they chew• Can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter• Doesn't use any paint or glue

Cons:• Even the largest size may be too small for big dogs

Boots & Barkley Rubber Wishbone Dog Toy

Indestructible dog toys often come with a higher price tag, and for good reason. Premium materials are naturally pricier, but a good bargain can still be found. Take this wishbone design, for instance. It's less than $9 and is made of durable rubber that can withstand playing fetch and tug of war. The brand also offers 100 percent guarantee—or your money back.  

Material: RubberSpecial features: Two texturesLife stage: All agesDimensions: 10.2" long x 6" wide

Pros:• Affordable• Textured surface• Has a firm handle

Cons:• Not the toughest rubber

BarkBox Slingin' Air Rose

For the fetch-loving dog, pick up a Bark Slingin' Air Rose. The stem is made of nylon and the rose ball is made of foam, so depending on your dog's tenacity, it's safe to chew on but may not be entirely indestructible. Fingers crossed a few (dozen) rounds of fetch will tire your dog out enough to eliminate destructive activities at home. 

Material: Foam, nylonSpecial features: Two toys in oneLife stage: All agesDimensions: Varies, two sizes

Pros:• Easy for dogs to hold• All parts safe to chew• Encourages exercise

Cons:• Ball may be too soft for some dogs

Benebone Wishbone Chew Toy

Pick your fighter: bacon, chicken, or peanut. This Benebone wishbone is made of just two ingredients—nylon and real flavoring—so your chew-happy dog will love going to town on this toy. What's not to like? It's paw-friendly shape is easy to hold, it tastes almost as good as table scraps, and it stands up to heavy chewing. 

Material: NylonSpecial features: Authentic flavoringLife stage: AdultDimensions: Four sizesPros:• Topped with real flavor• Paw-friendly gripCons:• Generally lasts about a month

Jolly Pets Tree Tugger

When you simply can't throw another ball for your fetch fanatic, try the Tree Tugger. Sit back and relax as your pup jumps, chases after, and pulls at the tugger, which stimulates a game of tug-of-war. The bouncy bungie cord is made of a ballistic nylon that even the toughest of tough chewers will have a hard time destroying. The cord attaches to an included ball with a hollow center, though you can tie any favorite ball or toy to it, and it's especially great for heavy chewers since you can adjust the height so your dog can't constantly gnaw at it.

Material: NylonSpecial features: Interactive bungee materialLife stage: All agesDimensions: Adjustable up to eight feet

Pros:• Great for alone play• Adjustable height• Can be used with any ball or toyCons:• Needs to be hand washed

West Paw Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy

Keeping your dog entertained and enriched takes a toy like the Qwizl, a puzzle chew toy that hides a treat that can be discovered during a play session. It was built for tough chewers, keeping dogs occupied and motivated for prolonged periods. It's also lightweight enough for games of fetch, and for pool-loving pooches, it's designed to float too. 

Material: PlasticSpecial features: Able to hide treats insideLife stage: AdultDimensions: Two sizesPros:• Keeps dogs engaged• Dishwasher safe• Can be returned to brand to be recycled

Cons:• Treats can become lodged inside

Tuffy Soft Dog Toy

Soft materials generally aren't a good match for destructive dogs. Tuffy toys are the, well, toughest you'll find on the market though. They feature four layers of material that are cross-stitched multiple times, and the squeakers inside are sewn inside protective pouches for your dog's safety too. Note that Tuffy toys are intended for interactive play, not chewing. 

Material: PolyesterSpecial features: Four layers of fabricLife stage: AdultDimensions: Varies

Pros:• Multiple layers of fabric • Floats in water• Available in a variety of animal designs

Cons:• Not intended for chewing

32 Ways To Support A Scared Or Anxious Pet

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Credit: Getty Images

Knowing how to support a scared or anxious pet is essential for pet parents whose fur friend is experiencing bouts of anxiety or stress. Any pet parent will agree: we all want our cute companions to live long and happy lives. But just like humans, some pets can suffer from anxiety and stress.

Vet visits that can cause fear in dogs, loud noises like fireworks that frighten your pooch, or rogue cucumbers that cause your cat to leap in the other direction can all be causes of stress for our pets. Unfortunately, in 2024, stress and anxiety in dogs and cats aren't uncommon and there could be lots of reasons why your dog is anxious.

From separation anxiety to social anxiety. To our pets, the big wide world can seem like a scary place. But with you by their side, it doesn't have to be this way. So, to help support a scared or anxious pet during their time of need, stick right here. We've rounded up some of the best tips and tricks to keep their worries at bay.

Ways to support a scared or anxious pet 1. Play music

Dog listening to music with headphones

Music really is the gift that keeps on giving. It might seem unconventional, but research published in the Journal of Animals shows that classical music, like Beethoven, Mozart or Chopin, can help relax dogs in stressful situations.

While another study, published in 2020 in Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgeryshows that playing music for cats can help calm their nerves while going through a stressful vet visit.

2. Avoid doing things that scare them

Cat looking scared into the camera

This one's a no-brainer! Let's face it, you wouldn't want to be confronted with your fear every day, week, or month, right? And the same goes for our loveable fur friends.

So whether it's fireworks they're scared of, cucumbers, or confined spaces, try to keep their stress levels at bay by avoiding things that cause their body to go into fight or flight mode.

3. Introduce new things slowly

Dog sitting on a brown sofa staring down at a cat

Change can be scary. Especially when it comes to welcoming a second feline friend into your home. Cats can be territorial creatures and bringing another four-legged baby home can cause stress and anxiety in cats.

So your best bet? According to a study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, a gradual approach 'significantly reduces' aggression among feline friends and can help keep the peace, while keeping stress levels down.

4. Praise calm behavior

Black and white dog being stroked

Do you want your cat or dog to exhibit more calm behavior? Then let them know that calm behavior is good behavior by rewarding them with some of the best puppy treats or the best kitten treats when they show signs of this warranted act.

5. Try to remain calm

Dalmatian dog sitting on a sofa with two men

Here's a fun fact for you: pets can pick up on your anxieties and worries and they can read your body language. Meaning? The more stressed you are, the more stressed your cat or dog is likely to be.

So if you want to support them during times of worry, stay cool, calm and collected.

6. Try a cat collar

Cat wearing a collar

The best calming cat collars contain a clever combination of essential oils and pheromones which have been shown to be effective in helping some cats feel more zen.

Nowadays you can get many cat collars including waterproof options, reflective designs, and multi-packs that will last you months.

7. Introduce a calming bed

Dog sleeping under a blanket

Heard of calming dog beds? These sleep solutions are typically oval or circular in shape, and have a central deep soft nesting area with raised edges. The best calming dog beds are comfy, and supportive and can help your pooch feel a sense of security.

We all know that having an extra comfortable and stress-free environment to sleep in can promote longer sleep and rest periods — which can be highly beneficial for dogs who experience stress and anxiety.

8. Make sure you're not encouraging fear

Happy dog walking through the woods

Anxiety in cats isn't uncommon. Whether it's illness or pain, anxieties that formed early in their lives due to improper socialization, or separation anxiety, there are many reasons why your fur friend may be feeling anxious.

And the same goes for dogs. From separation anxiety and sound sensitivity anxiety to age anxiety and social anxiety, there are various types of anxiety your pooch may be suffering from. Either way, once you've figured out what the root cause of the trigger is, make sure you're not encouraging this fear.

9. Distraction

White cat playing with string and feather

One of the best ways to help support a scared or anxious pet? Learning the art of distraction. By keeping their mind off the stressful event or situation, this should help them find some calm and keep their anxiety at bay.

To help distract a dog, you might try calling them or start playing with their favorite toy. Treats can also work to lure them away from the point of contention.

10. Make a doggie den

Dog hiding in a den

Wondering why your dog is digging? Or perhaps they are hiding under a table or bed? Well, some dogs might dig if they are feeling anxious as digging can help ease their worries.

Other dogs with separation anxiety may demonstrate destructive behaviors like digging. But digging is also a behavior our cute companions have inherited from their wolf ancestors. Just like sleeping in dens.

So, instead of encouraging this destructive behavior, why not make your own doggie den where your pooch will feel safe and comfortable?

11. Physical contact

Two kids cuddling a dog

Physical touch is important for both pet parents and their pets. Most dogs see petting as a form of affection from humans. While most cats love nothing more than being stroked or fussed over.

Of course, every pet is different, but generally speaking, physical contact can help to reduce anxiety, improve relaxation, and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

12. Exercise

Woman and dog jumping over a brand in the woods

The stress-busting and anxiety-reducing effects exercise can have on humans are well documented. But now the same can be said for dogs too. A 2022 study, published in the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour, investigated the effectiveness of treatments used for dog anxiety across 1,308 pooches. Out of all of the treatments used, like working with a behaviorist, use of medication, and changes to diet, taking part in dog sports scooped the top spot.

13. Give them a quiet space

White dog sitting on an armchair

The big wide world can be a loud place for your four-legged friend. If it's not horns being honked on a busy street, it's the hustle and bustle that comes with living in a city. Or perhaps you have a big family with children running around the house.

Some cats and dogs can find loud noises triggering. So try to give them a quiet space where they can decompress. This could be a quiet corner, room, or spot.

14. Give them a safe space

Cat hiding in cardboard box

This point follows nicely from the previous. If you're unable to give them a quiet space, you could always give them a safe space. From the best cat tree towers for felines who like to climb to the best dog beds filled with loads of their favorite toys and blankets, these safe spaces are places your pet can come to during times of stress or anxiety.

15. Socialize your pet

Two cats socialising

Social anxiety can be one cause for your kitty's anxiousness. But learning how to socialize a kitten is a crucial step in your four-legged friend's development and will be a marker in how they interact with the world as they grow. Therefore, it's important to get it right.

16. Consider training

Woman training dog in the park

Another brilliant way to help destress your dog and calm an anxious pet? By engaging in some training. We know, there's a lot to tick off when you've welcomed a pet into your world. But training your dog or cat will help set them up for skills they need for life — including coping mechanisms they can lean on when they're feeling fearful. If you're wondering where to start, take a look at these practical tips for training a dog on your own. Or discover the basics of cat training, according to an expert.

17. Massage

Cat getting a massage

While more studies are needed in animals, there are studies done by Topics in Companion Animal Medicine to suggest that, if used correctly, massage can have brilliant efficiency on a dog and cat's mental well-being, nervous system, and circulation. So, it's worth considering how to massage a dog and cat — and if you're unable to do this yourself, try consulting with a professional massage therapist.

18. Calming coats

Dog with a pink calming coat on

Also known as a ThunderShirt, these totally natural calming creations work like a 'swaddle' by fitting around your pooch's torso in a bid to help them feel secure, safe, and calm. According to a  2014 study, published in The Journal of Veterinary Behavior, when worn as per the manufacturer's instructions, swaddled dogs' heart rates increased less on average. They also showed fewer stress behaviors.

19. Engage in daily activity

Cat looking out for a laser

As we touched on, exercise is important for most pets, especially those suffering with stress or anxiety. If you've already engaged in some dog agility, why not try other fun games and activities to play with your dog like hide and seek, fetch or scent work?

And if you've got a feline friend on your hands, fun games to play with your cat might include interactive puzzles, a feather and string, and other activities you can do with your cat. You can also try out one of the best laser toys for cats, which can provide endless entertainment.

20. Stick to a similar routine

Dog going for a walk

Just like humans, pets thrive when they're in a good routine. A routine helps them predict what will happen and when, which is important for their well-being. It also helps them feel more in control of what is going on. So try to stick to a similar bedtime, wake time, feed and walk.

21. Stimulate your pet

Dog jumping in the air catching a tennis ball

Whether it's playing interactive games like hide and seek, taking them to the best US dog beaches or rotating some of the best dog toys or the best cat toys. Just like humans, pets need stimulation to lead long and happy lives. And a happy mind is an entertained one!

22. Help soothe an anxious dog with calming treats

Dog being fed a treat

Wondering: do calming treats for dogs work? Well, after speaking to a vet, we bring some good news. Calming dog treats can work. Just like the best long-lasting dog chews, calming dog treats are designed to last for a while, giving your canine something to focus on. This helps keep their thoughts away from whatever it is that is scaring them.

23. Help soothe an anxious cat with calming treats

Cat being fed a calming treat

Just like dogs, calming treats can work on cats too. But how so? Well, most calming treats contain the ingredient alpha-capsazepine, which is a bioactive peptide. Journal of Veterinary Behavior has done a study that has shown this can reduce anxious disorders such as social phobias in cats.

24. Commit to a quality diet

Dog eating and drinking from its water and food bowls

Good nutrition is important to the health and development of your fur friend. Most of our cat and dog's serotonin (the feel-good hormone that helps to regulate mood) comes from the stomach. Therefore a healthy diet is crucial for your companion's wellbeing. So discover the best dry dog foods, the best wet dog foods and the best dry cat food for hungry kitties.

25. Reduce over stimulating activities

Child and dog laying in the garden playing

Maybe you live on a busy street, or perhaps you have children who love playing outside in the garden while shouting and laughing away. Either way, loud noises and high-energy activities can be overstimulating for dogs. If that's the case, drown out noises or limit the amount of time doing overstimulating activities.

26. Enrich their environment

Dragon playing with red car

The best dog enrichment ideas can keep your pooch's mind off their worries and the good times rolling. The same can be said for the best cat enrichment ideas. Or perhaps you have a bearded dragon? If that's the case, when it comes to bearded dragon care, having stimulating objects like crinkle balls and wands, will ensure your bearded dragon stays mentally and physically well.

27. Remove triggers

White and grey cat stretching looking calm on the floor

Maybe your fur friend isn't used to the busyness of the outside world just yet. If that's the case, are there any triggers you can remove? For example, is it social situations? Is it separation from you? Or perhaps it's loud noises? Either way, once you've figured out what their trigger is, see if you can shelter them from it.

28. Get them used to spending time alone

Dog looking out of the window

Any pet parent will know how much their dog or cat enjoys spending time with them. Maybe they always sit on your lap, brush past your feet, or try their very best to sleep in bed with you.

But not all pet parents can spend 24 hours of their day at home. Therefore it's important to get your dog or cat used to spending time alone. This can help reduce separation anxiety in dogs.

29. Work on desensitization

Dog running towards owner

If you do have a scared or anxious pet, consider learning everything you need to know about desensitization. This powerful tool is often used in dog training and behavior modification. It can help our fur friends work to overcome their fears by gradually exposing them to their anxiety triggers in a controlled and positive way. This can help to reduce anxiety in dogs.

30. Give your dog interactive toys

Dog playing puzzle

The best boredom busters to keep their mind off their worries? The best dog puzzle toys, help to keep pooches mentally stimulated and their mind sharp. These interactive toys work by challenging your dog to 'solve' the puzzle in order to be rewarded. For example, most interactive toys require dogs to use their paws or sense of smell to figure out where the best dog treats have been hidden.

31. Contact your vet

Cat being seen by a vet

If you've tried all of the above but are still struggling to support your scared or anxious pet, it's time to get in touch with the professionals. A veterinarian may suggest you work with a behavioral specialist or trainer who can help redirect their anxious behavior and help them reduce their stress.

32. Medicate

Cat receiving medication

Some fur friends may be so anxious, that training and distraction alone won't touch the sides. But after speaking to a vet, your fur friend might prescribe medication along with a good behavior modification training plan.

10 Most Smartest Dog Breeds In The World

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Are you curious about which dog breeds stand out for their exceptional intelligence? Some dogs are not only loving companions but also possess remarkable problem-solving abilities, quick learning skills, and an eagerness to please. These traits make them highly trainable and capable of performing complex tasks.

Whether you're looking for a loyal family pet, a working dog, or simply an impressive companion, understanding which breeds are the smartest can help you choose the perfect furry friend. Read on to discover the smartest dog breeds and what makes them so special!

Smartest Dog Breeds 1. German Shepherd Dog

When it comes to loyalty, few intelligent dog breeds can match a German Shepherd. These intelligent dogs are known for their devotion and protective nature, making them superb therapy dogs. Their intelligence is not to be underestimated – out of 138 breeds, German Shepherds rank in the top three in intelligence tests.

Their natural activeness and ability to think before they act make them ideal for police and military work, including serving as police dogs in search and rescue missions to sniffing out drugs.

To keep them happy and stimulated, they need a mix of mental and physical exercises such as agility training, swimming, and tug-of-war.

2. Papillon

Don't let their small size fool you. Papillons may be tiny, but they are mighty in intelligence and spirit. These happy, alert, and outgoing dogs have been around for over 700 years, captivating people with their unique butterfly-like ears and playful personalities.

Some key characteristics of Papillons include intelligence, playfulness, eagerness to please, agility, and obedience. Their intelligence and happy personality make them excellent at learning and performing tricks. Their love for their handlers and eagerness to perform tasks make them excel in agility and obedience competitions.

Small in size but big in brains, the Papillon proves that intelligence comes in all shapes and sizes.

3. Shetland Sheepdog

Hailing from the Shetland Islands of Scotland, the Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is known for its agility, energy, and keen intelligence. Shelties are small, active, and agile herding dogs, perfect for agility and energetic activities.

Despite their small stature, Shelties are known for their intellect and even temperament. Shelties are quick learners who easily grasp and execute new commands, making them excel in structured training programs that provide consistent guidance and rewards. This intelligence and responsiveness make Shelties popular in dog sports such as agility, obedience, herding, and rallies.

In addition to their intelligence, Shelties have a deeply ingrained herding instinct, so much so that they may even attempt to herd family members. Their loyalty, gentleness, and affectionate nature make them beloved family pets. However, Shelties can become bored if they don't have enough mental stimulation, so it's important to keep them engaged.

4. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler, a breed known for its strength and obedience, has a history dating back to the Roman Empire. Rottweilers are highly regarded for their intelligence, trainability, and eagerness to please, which makes them excellent candidates for roles such as assistance and service dogs, including in police K9 units and search and rescue teams.

Their ability to learn quickly and their loyalty makes them not only effective working dogs but also loving and confident guardians at home. Originally bred as working dogs for farmers and butchers, Rottweilers have a strong instinct to guard and protect, which is why they are naturally protective and often wary of strangers. However, they are also deeply affectionate with their family members.

To ensure Rottweilers reach their full potential, they require firm leadership and early socialization. Additionally, regular mental stimulation is crucial to keep them from becoming bored, which can lead to destructive or anxious behavior.

5. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are unarguably one of the most beloved breeds in the world. Their easy trainability and emotional intelligence are just two of the many reasons why this breed is a favorite among families.

Originally bred as hunting dogs, Golden Retrievers are now often seen as assistance dogs, excelling in tasks that require their keen sense of smell.

Aside from their intelligence, Golden Retrievers are known for their loving and calm temperament. Their empathetic nature allows them to bond with their human family easily, making them not just pets but valued family members.

Their versatile skill set doesn't stop there. Golden Retrievers also excel in search-and-rescue operations. Their trainability and keen senses make them invaluable in missions to rescue people in need.

From family companions to life-saving heroes, Golden Retrievers truly are loving and intelligent companions.

6. Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is a breed that's as sturdy as it is smart. These smart dogs were bred for a specific purpose – to herd cattle in the harsh conditions of Australia. Their intelligence and high energy make them excel in agility competitions and herding tasks.

Australian Cattle Dogs (ACDs) are independent and energetic dogs with active minds that require plenty of exercise, companionship, and mental stimulation. Their sharp intelligence and problem-solving abilities mean they can easily outsmart their owners if not properly engaged.

To keep their minds active and prevent boredom, it's important to challenge ACDs with puzzles, games, and tasks that keep them mentally and physically occupied. Regular activity and a sense of purpose are key to maintaining their well-being and preventing behavioral issues.

7. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher, a breed that exudes strength and fearlessness, was created by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann in the late 19th century for companionship and protection. Known for their intelligence, loyalty, and powerful physique, Dobermans are not just formidable in appearance but also in intelligence.

Their natural inclination to guard makes them excellent protectors, always ready to put their lives on the line for their loved ones. Training a Doberman Pinscher to be more focused and attentive involves positive reinforcement, consistent commands, and a well-behaved mentor.

From their origins as guard dogs to their current roles in police work and family life, Dobermans have shown that they are not just focused and fearless but also loyal and intelligent.

8. Poodle

Poodles are not just about the flashy fur and the extravagant haircuts. This breed is one of the smartest dogs out there, known for problem-solving, fast learning, and loyalty.

Originating from Germany, Poodles were bred for hunting waterfowl, which explains their affinity for water and their excellent swimming abilities.

But their intelligence isn't just used for fetching ducks. Poodles are also popular in cross-breeding programs. Their hypoallergenic low-shedding coat, good looks, and gentle nature make them a favorite among breeders and allergy sufferers alike.

Poodles have certainly proven that they're more than just a pretty face!

9. Border Collie

In the canine world, Border Collies are the ultimate brainiacs. This breed tops the charts when it comes to intelligence, agility, and a knack for herding anything that moves. Their training begins early, and within weeks, they can handle simple tasks.

But what really sets them apart is their natural herding instincts. Their quick learning ability, combined with agility and obedience, make them a force to reckon with in the herding arena. From sheep to children, nothing escapes the watchful eye of a Border Collie.

But a word of caution: these smart dogs aren't for everyone. Their high energy and intelligence mean they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Without it, they can become bored and develop destructive behaviors.

So, if you're considering adding a Border Collie to your family, be prepared for plenty of playtime, ongoing obedience training, and maybe even a few herding games in your backyard!

10. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known for their intelligence, making them easy to train and quick to learn new skills. Ranked as one of the smartest breeds in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs, Corgis excel in activities like agility, obedience, tracking, and herding. Their strong desire to please their owners makes them highly responsive to positive reinforcement during training.

However, their intelligence can also lead to stubbornness. With consistent training, though, Corgis can learn a variety of commands and tricks. They benefit greatly from mental stimulation through activities like puzzle toys, hide and seek, indoor fetch, and frisbee.

Corgis are also protective, playful, affectionate, and loyal, making them great companions for families who can invest time in proper training and bonding. However, they may display herding behaviors such as chasing, nipping, or barking, which can be challenging to manage in a home environment.

Conclusion

Understanding dog intelligence is more than just recognizing the smartest dog breeds; it's about appreciating how each breed's unique abilities can be harnessed and nurtured. Labrador Retriever dogs, though not on this list, are known for their remarkable problem-solving skills and adaptability, making them one of the most intelligent dog breeds. Whether they are assisting in search and rescue missions or providing emotional support, their intelligence shines through in their ability to learn quickly and respond to training.

As we explore the depths of dog intelligence, it's important to remember that a smart dog is not just one that can perform tricks or follow commands but also one that thrives when given the mental stimulation and challenges they need. Working with a certified dog behavior consultant can help ensure that your dog's intelligence is fully realized, fostering a relationship that is both rewarding and enriching. By understanding and nurturing the natural intelligence of these breeds, we can help them reach their full potential as loyal companions and skilled working dogs.

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