The 37 Dumbest Dog Breeds: Cute But Stupid? Let’s Find Out

Dogs are definitely one of the most loved pets out there, and while they usually receive a good deal of praise for their various abilities, some doggies just aren’t that lucky. We could say that there could be some pups that lack a bit in the intelligence department.

There are many reasons why they could be tagged “dumb”; for example, some appear like that either because of how they look or the way they act. Certain breeds are quicker to learn some tricks than others, so all of that is taken into account.

However, measuring canine intelligence is not easy, and neither is classifying a certain breed as dumb, so take this with a little pinch of salt.

While there might be some doggies that aren’t just that smart, that doesn’t have to mean that the whole breed is stupid, or vice versa.

Oh well… if you are planning to get a dog, and you’re wondering what some of the bit stupid pups are, check out our list of the 37 dumbest dog breeds in the world.

What Are The Dumbest Dog Breeds?

We all differ greatly when it comes to intelligence, and the same can be said for dogs. No dog is the same, even if they belong to the same breed. Even puppies from the same litter can be completely different in every aspect.

We people usually have a custom of regarding dogs as really smart if they act “humanly” and learn quickly to respond to commands or perform new tricks. But, what happens to those pups that don’t act in that way?

Take a look at our list of the dumbest dog breeds and see why certain dogs are considered not so smart. P.S. This is a completely random order. The level of intelligence does not influence in any way the numeric position in the list!

1. Akita Inu

It is difficult to see why anyone would consider this national treasure of Japan as one of the less intelligent dog breeds. However, while Akitas are extremely intelligent when it comes to problem-solving tasks, instincts, and guarding, they are super independent and stubborn.

This kind of behavior often makes them really difficult to train. Usually, they respond terribly to obedience training, especially if they have trust issues. Because of this, many people regard them as dumb dogs.

Yet, when it comes to loyalty, there is no match for the Akita. If you haven’t seen the movie, Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (based on a true story), I highly recommend it. Maybe after seeing it, you will fall in love with this breed regardless of its stubborn nature.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 26 to 28 inches (male); 24 to 26 inches (female)

Weight: 100 to 130 pounds (male); 70 to 100 pounds (female)

Temperament: composed, loyal, courageous, independent, stubborn

Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years

2. Pug

Continuing with our list, we present you with another one of the world’s favorite dog breeds. The Pug’s silly and outgoing nature, cute looks, and relatively small size make them popular family pets.

But, why again is this breed considered dumb? They didn’t perform well in intelligence testing, and were ranked as below average. Even though they are one of the most loving and affectionate pets, they can be really stubborn.

This is what makes them perform low, in the end. Due to their stubborn nature, they can be difficult to train and to learn new tricks. If you want to make them do something, maybe you’ll have to resort to various motivators, such as delicious food and treats.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 10 to 13 inches

Weight: 14 to 18 pounds

Temperament: charming, sociable, outgoing, affectionate, attentive

Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years

3. French Bulldog

One of the best family dogs that are excellent with children, Frenchies are patient, loving, and definitely big people pleasers. No wonder why they are one of the most popular dog breeds.

However, despite their wonderful family-dog characteristics, they, too, proved to be stubborn and sensitive to training sessions. Most of the time, they will require a bit of positive reinforcement to make them actually listen to you and succeed in the training process.

Try to keep it fun and entertaining and you shouldn’t have a problem. On the other hand, when it comes to reading and understanding human emotions, French Bulldogs are definitely among the best dogs.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 11 to 13 inches

Weight: under 28 pounds

Temperament: lively, sociable, playful, affectionate, patient

Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

4. English Bulldog

The English Bulldog, coming from the Bulldog family, is another one of the stubborn dogs on our list. They are great guard dogs, while at the same time, gentle and loving, making them the perfect choice for a companion dog.

However, there must be a “but” somewhere if they are on this list. As I have already said, they can be really stubborn, which causes headaches while trying to train them. Therefore, this stubborn streak requires a lot of patience if you want to be the one to train them.

Not to judge the book by its cover, but the appearance of English Bulldogs doesn’t exactly do them a favor if we are talking about intelligence. Their dopey face has certainly contributed to their less-intelligent look.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 14 to 15 inches

Weight: 50 pounds (male); 40 pounds (female)

Temperament: sweet, gentle, affectionate, sociable, loving

Life expectancy: 8 to ten years

5. Maltese

Maltese are one of the cutest companion dogs. Not only that, but they’re also one of the best lap dogs that simply enjoy nothing more than cuddling and spending time with their owner. The trait that is hard to resist.

However, from time to time, these pups can also develop a bit of an independent and stubborn streak, which can make things difficult regarding training. They like to have all of the attention on them, and are pretty good at manipulating their owners, but they also can be disobedient.

Even though they are really good and affectionate with their owner, due to the possible difficulties with training, they can be aloof with strangers. But, with patience and positive training sessions, they can be awesome pets.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 7 to 9 inches

Weight: under 7 pounds

Temperament: docile, easy-going, lively, gentle

Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

6. Coton De Tulear

This fluffy, white dog comes from the island of Madagascar, no less! Often also called the “royal dog of Madagascar”, this quite unique breed is known for its happy-go-lucky personality and sweet nature.

In most ways, Coton de Tulears are actually really intelligent dogs, so why would they be on this list? Well, these tiny pooches can also sometimes be a little bit stubborn and difficult to housebreak, which puts them on the list.

Besides that, usually, they are quite reserved and suspicious toward strangers, and most likely will pick one person who is going to be their favorite. However, with proper training skills, you can make this breed the perfect companion dog.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 10 to 11 inches (male); 9 to 10 inches (female)

Weight: 9 to 15 pounds (male); 8 to 13 pounds (female)

Temperament: lively, loving, affectionate, playful, vocal

Life expectancy: 15 to 19 years

7. Bull Terrier

Bull Terriers can be fun and comical to be around, but when it comes to training, they are extremely independent and stubborn. You shouldn’t be surprised if you find your Bull Terrier having long, stubborn episodes.

Especially during their puppy stage, they are mischievous and difficult. Also, if not fully trained, you need to be careful around strangers since they can jump on them, which can cause people to get really scared and create an awful situation.

However, with proper training and positive reinforcement, these dogs can be great companions once you overcome that stubbornness, though.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 21 to 22 inches

Weight: 50 to 70 pounds

Temperament: protective, lively, active, mischievous, stubborn

Life expectancy: 12 to 13 years

8. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds that definitely don’t think of themselves like that. They usually act way too brave and confident, even against much bigger opponents. No wonder why many dog owners ask themselves if these dogs have any brain cells left.

They are a true example of size doesn’t matter, and they make it their life motto. It doesn’t help that Chihuahuas proved to be difficult to potty-train and properly socialize. Usually, they will also have a habit of nipping people and barking a lot, which can be annoying.

All of this adds to their dumb reputation. If you are looking for a small dog that is going to be calm and affectionate, maybe try some other dog breed since Chihuahuas are definitely sprinkled with a lot of attitude.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 5 to 8 inches

Weight: 6 pounds or less

Temperament: lively, quick, alert, courageous, sassy

Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years

9. Lhasa Apso

The cute breed of the Lhasa Apso originates from the Himalayan Mountains, where they served as sentinels in monasteries. While many may be surprised that this breed of dog is actually on this list, there are certain reasons why we included them.

They have an extremely playful nature and like to goof around, which results in a short attention span. If you know anything about dogs, then you might have already guessed that this makes them difficult to train.

This, combined with a little bit of stubbornness, makes training a real challenge. A shorter training session may help you, but you definitely have to arm yourself with patience. However, when it comes to problem-solving, these pups may surprise you.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 10 to 11 inches (male); female — slightly smaller

Weight: 12 to 18 pounds

Temperament: lively, playful, alert, friendly, spirited

Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

10. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are one of the most famous Chinese dog breeds. Their cuteness, large round eyes, and loving “lap dog” nature make them a desirable breed of dog. But, how do they stand on the intelligence aspect?

Obviously, since they are on this list, you can expect that they are not that smart. They are playful and outgoing, but also mischievous, and don’t take training seriously at all. They have a hard time learning new commands as well since originally, they weren’t bred for that.

If you add a little bit of stubborn streak to all of this, it will equal you needing a lot of patience and firmness when it is time to teach them even basic obedience. But, if we were talking about cuteness, they surely won’t lack that.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 9 to 10 inches

Weight: 9 to 16 pounds

Temperament: affectionate, outgoing, playful, friendly

Life expectancy: 10 to 18 years

11. Basset Hound

This is one of the scent hounds with the most amicable expressions ever. There are few people that can resist this cute and loving dog. Just look at him… he has the perfect “good boy” appearance, with puppy eyes, long, droopy ears, and all.

However, their extremely powerful sense of smell proved to be really distracting, causing them to have a short attention span. Their smell is often a lot more interesting toi them than some training session that you’re trying to have.

This makes them seem as not that smart since even basic instructions are sometimes difficult to grasp for Bassets. It doesn’t help that they are also considered lazy.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 15 inches

Weight: 40 to 65 pounds

Temperament: friendly, affectionate, gentle, patient

Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

12. Pekingese

Since formerly, they were royalty under the Chinese Imperial court, these dogs are not used to anything less than luxury. They received all the attention and pampering they could possibly get, and in return, they had the opportunity to simply be lap dogs.

If I describe Pekes as spoiled, it would be an understatement. Not only are they not used to any kind of obedience and training, but they also have a very dominant and stubborn nature. They have a hard time with any kind of training, actually.

The key is to not let them have their way, but to be consistent with socialization and training if you want to have a somewhat obedient dog. However, if you want to enjoy their cuddles, they will be more than happy to oblige.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 6 to 9 inches

Weight: 14 pounds

Temperament: stubborn, affectionate, opinionated, regal

Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

13. Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are one of the best scent hounds in the canine world, and are mostly used as police dogs because of their incredibly powerful sense of smell. This makes them one of the best working dogs that are extremely intelligent in that sense.

So, why are they on this list, then? Their sense of smell makes them really distracted at times. They are highly independent, and often don’t care about their owner; however, they can be friendly, but not overly attached.

Following even simple commands is sometimes difficult for them, or else they simply don’t care about that. Especially, if they catch a scent of something, you can forget about trying anything with them.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 25 to 27 inches (male); 23 to 25 inches (female)

Weight: 90 to 110 pounds (male); 80 to 100 pounds (female)

Temperament: independent, inquisitive, friendly, gentle

Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

14. Borzoi

This elegant breed of dog has something in common with cats, and it is their complete disregard for anything that has to do with training. Their independent and somewhat stubborn nature will definitely make them difficult to train. Needless to say that you’ll need a lot of patience with this pooch.

If you want to try to teach them anything, you have to do it in really short sessions since they will not tolerate anything more. Also, you have to set yourself as the alpha leader and as someone who knows how to control the situation.

Believe me, it is the only way if you want to make this dog seem anything like an obedient and loving companion. But, don’t expect this dog to be eager to please you because, unfortunately, you might get disappointed.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 28 inches (male); 26 inches (female)

Weight: 75 to 105 pounds (male); 60 to 85 pounds (female)

Temperament: independent, athletic, gentle, affectionate, regal

Life expectancy: 9 to 14 years

15. Basenji

Basenjis are yet another breed whose personality is compared to one of cats. Some even call them cats of the canine world. These pups are obsessed with cleanliness and playing like they don’t see anything else as remotely as interesting.

Many dog owners will find their uninterested attitude really frustrating and dumbish, but it is just how they are. Basenjis are really independent and confident, which means that training is not something that they accept easily.

Also, you might want to keep an eye on them. They can either be doing some escape artist thing or causing trouble somewhere, leaving owners thinking if they have anything left in their brain.

Check out the top 12 Basenji breeders in the U.S. if you are perhaps interested in this dog.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 17 inches (male); 16 inches (female)

Weight: 24 pound (male); 22 pound (female)

Temperament: independent, curious, energetic, affectionate, confident

Life expectancy: 13 to 14 years

16. Chow Chow

What is fluffy, cute, and bear-like? A Chow Chow! What is grumpy and stubborn? A Chow Chow also!

These pups unfortunately have also found their place on our list of the dumbest dog breeds. This is because they can be really independent and stubborn to the point that they will refuse to do anything that you are trying to get them to do.

Often, you will find yourself repeating commands in the hope that they will at least pick something up, but their strong-willed nature might be really difficult to break through.

However, when it comes to their job as guard dogs, they perform excellently. They will be aloof with strangers, and even aggressive and territorial, which is an excellent recipe for guarding.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 17 to 20 inches

Weight: 44 to 71 pounds

Temperament: dignified, aloof, loyal, independent, quiet

Life expectancy: 8 to 12 years

17. Afghan Hound

These dogs might be the first thing that pops up in a dog lover’s mind when someone mentions the dumbest dog breeds. Unfortunately, many people consider Afghan Hounds as really dumb. There is a very good reason behind this.

Afghan Hounds are really aloof and disinterested in pretty much anything. If you try to ask them to do something, you can for sure expect them to just stare back at you like they didn’t understand anything.

Their stubbornness makes them really difficult to train; however, there is one thing they are really good at, and that is hunting. If you want a good hunting dog, and you are willing to accept them as they are, even a little bit stupid, they can still be a good choice for you.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 25 to 27 inches

Weight: 50 to 60 pounds

Temperament: independent, happy, sweet, clownish, aloof

Life expectancy: 12 to 18 years

18. Beagle

What do Bloodhounds, Basset Hounds, and Beagles have in common? It is their incredible sense of smell. They were bred for it, and they are pretty amazing at it. Beagles are, as well, great police dogs, if not the best in the world.

However, as it is the case with other scent hounds, Beagles can also become way too distracted by smelling things. This makes them really difficult to train no matter how good of a trainer you are or how much you try to succeed.

This has led to many describing them as “empty-headed”, which, in my opinion, is a bit of a harsh description of this breed; however, the truth is that they are one of the dogs that rank pretty high on the list of the dumbest dog breeds.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 13 to 15 inches

Weight: 20 to 30 pounds

Temperament: friendly, curious, gentle, amiable, determined

Life expectancy: 10 to 15 years

19. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is definitely one of the most loving dogs on our list. For many, they are perfect companion dogs and human’s best friends. These pooches enjoy nothing more than being with their owner or humans that they love.

Being a people pleaser is their really cute trait that everyone loves since who doesn’t want a dog who is eager to please you and be affectionate. However, there is something that ruins this perfect image.

These pups are said to lack intelligence when it comes to learning new commands or following the existing ones. But, if you are new to the dog world and to different breeds, and just want someone that is going to be cute and affectionate, then the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will definitely steal your heart.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 12 to 12 inches

Weight: 13 to 18 pounds

Temperament: graceful, affectionate, gentle, sweet, sociable

Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

20. Rottweiler

We all know Rottweilers as one of the best guard dogs that are usually used as K9 police dogs. There are few dogs out there that can compare to their awesome protection and guarding skills. No intruder can pass by this dog since they will defend what they love with all of their power.

How is it possible then that such a great dog that is made to protect others and is actually pretty good at it is on this list of the dumbest dog breeds.

The reason behind this is simply because they proved to perform awful with obedience training. They get way too distracted, and more often than not, they will forget learned commands, which just makes everything more difficult.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 24 to 27 inches (male); 22 to 25 inches (female)

Weight: 95 to 135 pounds (male); 80 to 100 pounds (female)

Temperament: confident, loyal, loving, obedient, fearless

Life expectancy: 9 to 10 years

21. Japanese Chin

Photo from: @tsunamel

Truth to be told, these dogs don’t exactly look like the smartest cookies out there, but we will not discriminate against the dogs by their looks. If we are going to talk about their qualities, they are definitely one of the best lap dogs that have the most positive and happy approach.

They are often considered dogs with lower intelligence because of their stubbornness and sensitivity. All of this makes them a real challenge to train. If you are up for the challenge, please be my guest; however, if you don’t have the patience, then please consider some other breed.

Japanese Chins are also sweet and loving, but they get attached too much, which can pose problems with separation anxiety and such conditions. All dogs have their pros and cons – it is on you to choose what is more important for you and your lifestyle.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 8 to 11 inches

Weight: 7 to 11 pounds

Temperament: charming, loving, noble, alert, loyal

Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

22. Skye Terrier

Photo from: @alvildedavidandersen

Skye Terriers are usually considered to be the sweetest and calmest among Terriers; however, they are still active dogs that love human company.

The reason why they appear on this list is their stubborn and independent behavior. As with most of the breeds that are mentioned here (you might have noticed a pattern), Skye Terriers also have problems with training.

Without positive reinforcement, a firm tone, and patience, don’t expect to make much progress with these pups. However, if you are consistent, you could make even Skyes obedient.

With these pups, early socialization is also a must since they could have a habit of chasing other animals due to their hunting instincts.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 10 inches (male); 9.5 inches (female)

Weight: 35 to 45 pounds (male); female — slightly less

Temperament: courageous, canny, fearless, friendly, loyal

Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

23. Norfolk Terrier

Photo from: @georgie.the.norfie

Continuing with a couple more Terrier breed dogs, the next one that we are going to talk about is the Norfolk Terrier — a cheerful, high-spirited, and confident British terrier dog.

Due to their stubborn streak and quite independent nature, they perform really low on intelligence tests, which makes them a part of the dumbest dog breeds group.

Dog owners usually have a hard time training these pups, and it doesn’t help that they have a mind of their own. Norfolk Terriers are not known as dogs that will follow their owner or listen to what they are saying.

Other than that, be aware of their adventurous nature since it could happen that because of their curiosity, they also become escape artists.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 9 to 19 inches

Weight: 11 to 12 pounds

Temperament: alert, fearless, loving, spirited, confident

Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years

24. Sealyham Terrier

Photo from: @annarella_szabo

A little bit of a difference in the sea of Terriers. Even though Sealyhams are also a part of the Terrier group, they are a little bit different than their close cousins. Compared to other Terriers that we have mentioned, these pups are really calm and even-tempered.

However, they, too, have a courageous and stubborn side that makes them difficult to train. They wouldn’t be a Terrier if they were easily trainable, would they?

But, if you know what you are doing, and include a bit of food and toys in the training sessions, you could make your Sealyham Terrier also an enthusiast for learning new obedience tricks.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 10 inches

Weight: 24 pounds (male); female — slightly less

Temperament: outgoing, alert, friendly, calm, even-tempered

Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

25. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Photo from: @archie_dandie_dinmont

These confident, loving, and most of all, fun dogs can be perfect companion dogs due to their easy-going nature. But, this also means that this kind of carefree attitude is present on the training field.

They don’t do well with training since they are quite independent and frankly uninterested in things that are not something they love or care about.

However, when it comes to affection, they will be more than likely to show how much they love spending time with you.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 8 to 11 inches

Weight: 18 to 24 pounds

Temperament: independent, proud, lively, affectionate, determined

Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

26. Tibetan Terrier

If you are asking yourself how it is possible that so many Terriers are considered dumb, believe me… you are not alone. Next on our list comes the Tibetan Terrier — a loyal and protective dog that can also be really gentle and sensitive.

They, too, have a stubborn and independent streak that makes them difficult to train. If they don’t actually want to do something, they will not obey — it’s as simple as that.

If you care too much about cleanliness around the house, these pups will not be a good choice for you since they are known for being messy and scattering food and water everywhere.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 14 to 17 inches

Weight: 18 to 30 pounds (male); female — slightly less

Temperament: loyal, sensitive, affectionate, energetic, amiable

Life expectancy: 15 to 16 years

27. Lakeland Terrier

Photo from: @professormunkles

Most dogs are much more intelligent than people think or what the tests show. This can be the case with Lakeland Terriers also; however, we can’t skip the fact that these pups are not considered to be smart dogs.

These lively pooches also have traits such as independence, stubbornness, and a habit for mischief — a recipe for the perfect “stupid” dog.

Since they were bred to be hunting dogs, even today’s Lakeland Terriers have retained those hunting instincts, which will explain their tendencies to chase small dogs or other small animals. If you want to prevent that, I would suggest starting with socialization as soon as possible.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 15 inches (male); female — slightly less

Weight: 17 pounds (male); female — slightly less

Temperament: confident, bold, friendly, independent

Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

28. Scottish Terrier

Photo from: @shelbythescottie

And… here is the last one of the Terrier dog breeds, but not the last one of the dumbest dog breeds. Just like the other Terrier dogs that we have mentioned above, Scottish Terriers also have a bit of a problem with obedience training.

These dignified and serious dogs will show great resilience if they don’t want to do a certain task, and they will think of training as something they can get rid of. Their aloof approach is what prevents them from being some of the smartest dogs, actually.

If you are not a patient person, the best would be to completely not consider this dog as your family pet. Their huge personality and stubbornness will be difficult to bypass if the dog is not properly trained. However, they do make good watchdogs.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 10 inches

Weight: 19 to 22 pounds (male); 18 to 21 pounds (female)

Temperament: confident, independent, spirited, playful, quick

Life expectancy: 12 years

29. Brussels Griffon

Photo from: @greggthegriffon

Not necessarily stupid, but definitely challenging in some aspects, which then many people may consider less intelligent – the Brussels Griffon is a toy dog breed that is incredibly athletic, especially for their small-dog size.

They are very curious and inquisitive animals that often get distracted by pretty much anything in their environment, which then not only gets them in trouble, but also makes obedience training and housebreaking really difficult.

They will not respond well to harsh training methods, but for such a small dog, they are amazing at sports and as guard dogs.

If you are interested in this breed, check out the top three Brussels Griffon breeders in the USA.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 7 to 10 inches

Weight: 8 to 10 pounds

Temperament: curious, alert, loyal, inquisitive, companionable

Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

30. Italian Greyhound

Photo from: @greyhound_ig_lover9

Once again, the case where a dogs’ stubbornness and curious nature make them appear much less intelligent than they actually are. While actually really intelligent in some aspects, Italian Greyhounds are also known to have a bit of a stubborn streak and a mischievous side to them.

Although they are great companion dogs that are loving and affectionate (if they have received their daily exercise), they are also really sensitive, and therefore, will not respond well to harsh training methods.

Needless to say that their stubbornness makes Greyhounds quite challenging when it comes to training. They might also be aloof with strangers, and bark a lot if they don’t know someone or don’t feel at ease with that person.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 13 to 15 inches

Weight: 7 to 14 pounds

Temperament: playful, alert, mischievous, agile, athletic

Life expectancy: 14 to 15 years

31. Chinese Crested Dog

This quite unique dog that definitely has a very specific look that you just can’t find anywhere is a cute mix of a fun and lively dog, and also very loving and affectionate.

However, they also exhibit a stubborn and manipulative streak that can make any kind of training a bit challenging. The fact that they can be difficult to housebreak or to catch up with basic obedience training makes them appear less intelligent.

But, if you are able to break through this personality, a Chinese Crested Dogs can be a good therapy dog or sport dog. One thing is for sure – wherever they go, with their unique looks, they will definitely catch the attention of many passers-by.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 11 to 13 inches

Weight: 8 to 12 pounds

Temperament: lively, alert, affectionate, loving

Life expectancy: 13 to 18 years

32. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

Photo from: @liz_cadmore_pbgv

This is not a very known dog, but definitely one that is able to make you smile. This pup that originally comes from France has a very friendly and cheerful personality.

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV for short, isn’t that stupid, but due to their independent nature, they can be quite difficult to train.

They like to develop a strong bond with a specific person, usually the dog’s owner, which means that they can be aloof to others, especially strangers.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 13 to 15 inches

Weight: 25 to 40 pounds

Temperament: alert, vivacious, stubborn, independent, bold

Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years

33. Old English Sheepdog

Even as their name says, these pups were originally bred to be herding dogs in England. Due to their herding instincts, even today, they have proved to be a bit difficult with children because it is not unusual for them to try to herd them.

They are very high-energy dogs that often require a lot of activity and exercise, and they might get bored with strict commands and training.

It is not impossible to train them, but you have to be really patient and consistent. Finding the right ways to motivate them can help a lot.

Breed Characteristics

Height: around 22 inches (male); around 21 inches (female)

Weight: 60 to 100 pounds

Temperament: gentle, sociable, playful, loving, bubbly

Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

34. The Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is quite a large breed of dog that was originally bred to be a herding dog in the French mountains. This extremely fluffy dog that sheds a lot isn’t stupid, per se, but just lacks a little bit in some aspects of the dog’s life.

Since they were made to be guardians, they are the best at that job; however, when it is time to do some training sessions, they can be a bit stubborn and independent.

It doesn’t help the fact that they also have a short attention span, so trying to teach them anything will require a lot of motivation and patience from both sides.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 27 to 32 inches (male); 25 to 29 inches (female)

Weight: around 100 pounds (male); around 85 pounds (female)

Temperament: patient, calm, independent, stubborn

Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

35. Saint Bernard

One of the biggest dogs yet on our list, Saint Bernards are often regarded as gentle, fluffy giants that get along with children really well.

Unfortunately, these pups don’t perform really well on intelligence tests. Due to their independent streak, they might be somewhat difficult to train, but oh well… you can’t have everything.

They should be manageable, and eventually trained if you take some time to do it.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 25.5 to 27.5 inches

Weight: 140 to 185 pounds (male); 120 to 140 pounds (female)

Temperament: gentle, lively, friendly, watchful, calm

Life expectancy: 8 to 10 years

36. Bullmastiff

The beautiful cross of a Bulldog and a Mastiff, and what do you get — a really powerful, but yet gentle and affectionate pup.

Even though they can be really sweet, Bullmastiffs also are said to have one of the strongest stubborn and independent streaks in the canine world, which can make obedience training a real challenge.

However, when it comes to guarding, they are one of the best guard dogs. This is the place where their athleticism pays off.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 25 to 27 inches (male); 24 to 26 inches (female)

Weight: 110 to 130 pounds (male); 100 to 120 pounds (female)

Temperament: brave, loyal, affectionate, alert, powerful

Life expectancy: 7 to 9 years

37. English Mastiff

Photo from: @tinusthemastiff

And… lastly on our list is the brave, but sweet English Mastiff breed. These are large dogs that don’t listen to just everyone, literally. Usually, they will develop such a strong bond with their owner that they simply don’t listen to anyone except them.

It may seem like such stupid behavior to others, but it is simply how they are. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), they can also be really sensitive, so harsh words are definitely not the way to make them do something.

Breed Characteristics

Height: 30 inches (male); 27 inches (female)

Weight: 200 pounds (male); 150 pounds (female)

Temperament: affectionate, loyal, protective, courageous

Life expectancy: 6 to 12 years

Why Are Some Dog Breeds Considered Stupid?

As many canine psychologists claim, it appears to be that there are several types of canine intelligence, which may significantly influence whether your dog is a part of the smartest dog breeds group or the dumbest dog breeds group.

In 1994 Dr. Stanley Coren wrote the book, The Intelligence of Dogs, where he explained how there are different kinds of intelligence, and just like it is the case with humans, not all smart dogs are actually smart in the same way.

So, what makes intelligent dog breeds, like the Border Collie, the German Shepherd, the Labrador, or the Golden Retriever actually intelligent?

• Adaptive intelligence — refers to whether the dog is able to think independently and solve problems rather than just follow its owner’s commands.

• Instinctive intelligence — refers to the dog’s ability to perform their natural skills – the tasks they were initially bred for, such as herding, protecting, hunting, etc.

• Obedience intelligence — As the name itself implies, this type of intelligence refers to the dog’s ability to be obedient and quickly learn new commands and tricks.

The better the dogs are at exhibiting these various types of intelligence, the more intelligent they are considered. On the other hand, if they lack in any of these tasks, they will be considered less intelligent or dumb.

Final Thoughts

As I have already said in the beginning, canine intelligence is a really difficult and broad subject to discuss. It is quite unfair to judge a whole breed of dog based on just one since we all know that intelligence is really an individual thing.

Two same-breed dogs could be completely different, and this could also be reflected in their level of intelligence.

So, please don’t judge these pups just because they are considered to be the dumbest dog breeds by some. They have a lot to offer, and most of the time, all of them are intelligent, just in their own unique way.