18 Dumbest Dog Breeds to Know in Detail
Many people think they know everything about dogs, but it isn’t always true. Have you ever wondered if dogs have different IQ levels, just as humans? Well, for the information, various breeds have different levels of intelligence; hence, some are considered dumb, while others are smart. However, the focus of this article is to make you aware of some of the dumbest dog breeds.
First, be clear that the intelligence mentioned above in dogs isn’t limited to fetching sticks; it’s quite a complex one. What dog is the dumbest or least intelligent is decided based on their characteristics and behavior. Are you curious to know what breeds are included in the list? What if your favorite breed falls in the same category?
Let’s dive in quickly and explore what earns the furries the title of dumbest dog and the possibility of making them behave smart.
What Makes a Dog Dumb or Smart?
Before we dive into the list of dumbest dog breeds, it’s essential to know what factors decide whether a dog is dumb or smart. Here are some points enlightening what makes a dog considered under the category of stupidest dog breeds:
- Genetics: The foremost factor in deciding a dog’s intelligence, but remember, they don’t solely determine it. It may often happen even within a breed; a varying level of intelligence can be found.
- Training: Training is a key aspect of intelligence in dogs. For example, some dogs are quick learners and easily grasp commands, while others might demand more time and repetition.
- Problem-Solving Skills: How a dog responds to a problem helps us know about their IQ level. For example, consider a situation where food is hidden in a puzzle; the one who finds it is smarter.
- Socialization: How well a dog interacts, understands, and communicates with humans and other dogs is a measure of their intelligence. But dogs that easily understand human body language are considered highly intelligent.
- Memory: The ability to remember and apply previously learned information further signifies a dog’s intelligence. Dogs that remember routines and commands are considered sharp-minded.
Top Dumbest Dog Breeds
1. Afghan Hound
Hounds are mostly known for their exceptional beauty and elegance. However, they’re not very active socially but possess amazing intelligence levels. They have great problem-solving abilities and a skill for making decisions. These can be seen clearly when they are catching the prey or in their adaptability to various terrains.
2. Bulldogs
Bulldogs have a tough and wrinkled appearance, but who knows? Well, beneath that lies a clever mind with a sharp intellect. Their intelligence is more about determination and loyalty, contrasting Hounds’ problem-solving abilities. Bulldogs are famous for their tenacity and ability to learn routine, making them good companions.
3. Borzoi
The third name on the dumbest dog breed list is Borzoi, an elegant and intelligent dog with a regal demeanor. They possess a unique type of Intelligence that combines independence with an outstanding hunting capability. Further, their sharpness is clearly noticeable in their quick decision-making behavior during hunting.
4. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are known for their superb smelling ability, and that’s what’s their signature for possessing a good intelligence level. This means their intelligence lies in the olfactory system, which is often considered best regarding dog breeds. Bloodhounds are capable of following or identifying any scent with accuracy.
5. Beagles
These small, energetic dog breeds are often considered among the dumbest dog breeds because of their keenness for food and treats. Thinking, how does this make sense? Well, they are good at problem-solving skills when it comes to food but many times lack the same when they actually need to show up. Apart from that, they are widely renowned for their persistence, which makes them a good tracker and rescue dogs.
6. ShihTzu
While many think Shitzu isn’t among the dumbest dog breeds, it is. No doubt, the charming and loveable breed excels at emotional intelligence but lacks capabilities when it comes to problem-solving skills. Put, their intelligence is shown in their love, empathy, and care. ShihTzu aren’t quick learners but make wonderful family pets.
7. Bullmastiff
A powerful and imposing breed with amazing protective instincts. Bullmastiff intelligence tends towards guarding and protecting their owners or close ones. Their natural ability determines potential threats, hence making them wonderful watchdogs. Unlike many dumbest dog breeds, they may not be agile but are strong, courageous, and loyal.
8. Lhasa Apso
Having their origin in Tibet, Lhasa Apso is small, which often makes them fall under the category of the dumbest dog breeds. However, in reality, they are sharp and independent thinkers who are excellent at alerting their owners of unusual activity. Further, what backs up their intelligence level is their ability to be cautious and attentive.
9. St Bernard
Bernards gained popularity for their impressive size and gentle nature. They are intelligent, which is noticeable in their unique rescue instincts. They are often used in Alpine rescue dogs owing to their ability to find hidden terrains and lost travelers. This indicates their intelligence is in their strength and determination to help those in need.
10. Sky Terrier
Before it seems to you that every small dog is considered among the dumbest dog breeds, let us make it clearly it isn’t. Terriers are included in the list as they lack problem-solving skills. Though they are quick learners but are independent in any task, they aren’t great, i.e. lack some general sense.
11. Pekingese
These dumbest dog breeds are often characterized by their unique look with a lion-like mane and demeanor. Their intelligence is frequently reflected in their regal and proud nature. They are great observers and possess a strong ability to understand emotions. While the Pekingese might not excel at training, what sets them apart is their loyalty and nobility.
12. Pug
Pugs are the only ones in the list of dumbest dog breeds with comical personalities. How good their intelligence is, expressed via their social skills and adaptive nature. They are natural entertainers and can read human body language well. Pugs might lack logical thinking but possess great emotional intelligence.
13. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are strong and confident dogs, mostly known for their loyalty and protective nature. What showcases their intelligence is their amazing intuition power and ability to deal with the same calmly. They are great learners who, when trained in different fields, can surpass many dog breeds.
14. Bull Terrier
Bull Terriers are often included in the category of dumbest dog breeds because of their stubborn nature, which frequently prevents them from obeying commands. However, they are great at accepting and solving challenges at their best. Terriers can be more sharp-minded when provided with proper training and early socialization.
15. Great Pyrenees
These are large and majestic canines with a strong sense of independence and natural guarding instincts. They are of a calm and composed nature, which backs up for making sound decisions even in threatening situations. So, how come they are on the list of dumbest dog breeds? Well, Pyrenees lack when it comes to making quick decisions; further, they aren’t great learners.
16. Akita
Akitas are a Japanese breed whose intelligence is often seen in their loyalty and strong sense. Further, their intelligence lies in their ability to read human emotions. They are greatly renowned for problem-solving skills, which they often utilize during challenges and obstacles.
17. Old English Sheepdog
These dumbest dog breeds are often called Bobtail, known for their long, thick coat and friendly nature. Old English Sheepdogs possess great herding instincts, and their intelligence is portrayed through their ability to understand and respond to difficult commands. Further, they are quick learners and excel in obedience training.
18. Chinese Crested
They are a unique breed mostly renowned because of their hairless and powder puff varieties. The breed is lively and of an alert nature. Further, they are prompt learners and have the potential to excel in various dog sports and activities. But why are they considered among the dumbest dog breeds, then? They lack socialization, which would make them even smarter. Further, in certain cases, they can’t make quick decisions.
Other Dumb Breeds of Dogs
1. English Mastiff
English Mastiffs are big, husky, and loyal dogs. However, they may require some extra time to learn or respond to specific commands than other dumbest dog breeds on the list. This is what makes them counted among less intelligent dog breeds. In case you’re thinking of owning a Mastiff, it’s highly recommended to have some experience with dogs first, as they are quite tall and heavy. This makes it difficult to manage and control them as a newbie.
2. Basenji
- Height: 16-17 inches (41-43 cm)
- Weight: 22-24 pounds (10-11 kg)
- Lifespan: 10-12 yrs
One-of-a-kind dumbest dog breeds with medium height. Though it’s not very well recognized, many people still love to have them. Basenji paves their way to accomplish a task and generally are a moody breed. They enjoy their own space and don’t show much interest in training. Teaching them might be challenging as they don’t remember commands much.
3. Chow Chow
- Height: 17-20 inches (43-51 cm)
- Weight: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg)
- Lifespan: 9-15 yrs
The perfect example of not judging a book by its cover, Chow Chow is adorable with their fluffy look, but at the same time, they are strong-willed and stubborn. Further, they sometimes get jealous of their owners and may show unusual behavior. They are smart, but they don’t respond to training much and hence are categorized under dumbest dog breeds.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Height: 12-13 inches (30-33 cm)
- Weight: 13-18 pounds (6-8 kg)
- Lifespan: 9-14 yrs
A loveable breed, mostly known for serving as an amazing family pet. They hold a history of inbreeding, which leads to the misconception that they aren’t the sharpest. Further, they might have some difficulty grasping new tricks. Cavaliers don’t always come back when you call them, i.e., respond less to commands. This is what makes them entailed under the list of dumbest dog breeds. Training them may take a bit longer.
5. Scottish Terrier
- Height: 10-11 inches (25-28 cm)
- Weight: 18-22 pounds (8-10 kg)
- Lifespan: 11-13 yrs
Scottish are the only dumbest dog breeds that are smaller but have huge personalities. They are full of energy and, hence, very active. However, many times, these energetic breeds come as a bit stubborn, which makes it difficult to train them. Further, they tend towards their ideas and may not pay heed to their owners.
6. Chihuahua
- Height: 6-9 inches (25-28 cm)
- Weight: 2-6 pounds (0.9-2.7 kg)
- Lifespan: 14-17 yrs
They are the world’s smallest breed but are notorious and quite stubborn. They believe to be their owner and, hence, may take charge of your home if you allow them. Further, they are known for barking a lot and being possessive if not trained well. They may respond late to commands but work as great family pets on socialization and proper training.
7. Norfolk Terrier
- Height: 9-10 inches
- Weight: 11-12 pounds (5-5.5 kg)
- Lifespan: 12-15 yrs
A British breed that is confident and energetic. Though they are considered intelligent during obedience tests, they didn’t perform well and hence are categorized as the stupidest dog breeds. Furthermore, they are stubborn; if they don’t feel like it, they will not respond to training.
Conclusion
All in all, it’s essential to know that intelligence levels in dogs can vary greatly with breeds, and there are no accurate methods to find the same. Some breeds are less responsive to training or don’t show interest in learning new commands, and that’s what earns the tag of dumbest dog breeds.
However, each breed has its characteristics and excels at some or the other things. It isn’t recommended to consider only a dog’s intelligence while choosing them; nature, energy, and other aspects do matter. Therefore, the breeds, as mentioned earlier, aren’t really dumb. They respond less or require training.
Further, they may stand out in certain activities or aspects that can be lacking in highly intelligent dogs. If you have any queries, feel free to comment down below, and we’ll resolve them at the earliest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogs Really Dumb, or Is It Just a Stereotype?
Absolutely, it is a stereotype. The word ‘dumb’ is subjective when it comes to dog breeds. It doesn’t accurately define a dog’s intelligence levels. It denotes that a dog may be less trainable in specific tasks or activities. Therefore, the dumbest dog breeds can outstand intelligent dogs in some activities.
What Breeds Are Considered Less Intelligent and Why?
Generally, what makes a dog considered in the category of dumbest dog breeds is their attitude or response towards training or certain tasks. Further, their nature does matter. Breeds like Afghan Hound, Bulldogs, and Akita have features that make them less responsive to training.
Can Dogs Under the Dumbest Dog Breeds Still Be Great Pets?
Yes definitely! A dog’s intelligence can’t merely decide whether or not it’s a loving companion. Breeds like Akita, Pekingese, and Rottweiler are considered dumb or less intelligent. Still, they compensate with their loyalty, affection, and friendly nature, which are required for making deep bonds with their owners.
How to Train Dogs Under the Dumbest Dog Breeds?
When training dogs considered dumb, have patience and maintain positive reinforcement towards them. Try to use suitable training methods that align with your dog’s personality. Further, while training, maintain a supporting and encouraging environment.
How Do You Elevate a Dog’s Intelligence?
While there isn’t a tried and true method, engaging the dumbest dog breeds in playing, mentally challenging puzzles, and training often works. Doing this keeps your dog physically and mentally active, hence increasing their ability to understand, perceive, and respond accurately to commands.
