Lockdown saw millions of UK homes welcome a new dog into the family, with plenty of time to teach them a trick or two.
But did you know that some breeds are inherently smarter than others?
From German Shepherds working as police dogs, to Golden Retrievers guiding the blind - some are blessed with brains and beauty.
Many first time owners search for breeds that should be easier to train in a bid to avoid the behavioural challenges many owners face.
If you want a dog you can teach to be the next viral TikTok star, then these are the 10 most intelligent breeds you should take a look at.
1. Border Collie
It comes as no surprise that the Border Collie is at the top of this list.
Described as a "remarkably bright workaholic" by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the energetic herding dog can learn dozens of words, tricks and tasks.
The club added: “The intelligence, athleticism, and trainability of Borders have a perfect outlet in agility training. Having a job to perform, like agility or herding work is key to Border happiness.”
One Border, named Chaser, became the world’s smartest dog, for her ability to remember more than 1,000 proper nouns - including 30 different balls by name and category.
The clever canine passed away in 2019, at the age of 15.
2. Poodle
These beautiful dogs may be known for their pristinely groomed coats, but they are brains just as much as beauty.
"Wickedly smart", the AKC also describe them as "eager and athletic", as well as easily trained.
The AKC said: “They are agile and graceful as well as smart, and they enjoy and excel in a variety of canine sports, including agility, obedience, and tracking.
“They are excellent water-retrievers and also compete in dock diving and retriever hunt tests.”
3. German Shepherd
Often used within the military and police forces, German Shepherds can be trained to sniff out explosives, detect drugs and locate evidence hidden in the strangest of places.
They’re considered "dogkind's finest all-purpose worker", and can understand a new command after hearing it just five times.
The AKC said: “The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent companion and an extraordinary worker. Consistency and positive, reward-based training will yield excellent results. He is extremely bonded to his people, so he is happiest when he lives with his family.”
4. Golden retriever
Goldens make brilliant guide dogs for the blind, and excel in search and rescue work.
These "outgoing and trustworthy" dogs make great family pets, and the AKC suggest they’re relatively easy to train.
The club added: “They are serious workers at hunting and field work, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work.
“They take a joyous and playful approach to life and maintain this puppyish behaviour into adulthood.”
One golden retriever, called Kira, became a hero in 2019 when she assisted her owner in breaking through ice and rescuing two dogs separately stranded in a frozen lake.
She rounded up each animal and guided them safely to shore.
The video of the rescue went viral and gained over 100 million views in just under one week.
5. Doberman
Doberman’s are often bought as protection dogs, and are the breed of choice for England football player Ben Chilwell, and Love Island ’s Scott Thomas.
The AKC said: “Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind's noblemen.
“This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world's finest protection dogs.”
Regular TikTok users will know and love Ruby the Doberman @rubydooby_do, who has mastered tonnes of unusual tricks, like "let’s take a selfie".
The club added: “Dobermans are very intelligent, learn easily, respond quickly and make loving and fun companions.”
6. Shetland Sheepdog
The lovable Sheltie is an extremely smart breed, and can pick up commands quickly.
The American Kennel Club said: “Bright and eager Shelties are easy trainers and world-class competitors in obedience, agility, and herding trials.
"They are sensitive and affectionate family dogs, highly in tune with the mood of the household.”
7. Labrador Retriever
Fabulous family dogs, the Labrador Retriever has been loved by the likes of American President Bill Clinton, Prince Charles and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak.
The AKC said: “Labs are devoted, intelligent, and enthusiastic companions who need to be included in family activities.”
Like goldens, they’re often used as guide dogs, as well as search dogs with the police force and military.
8. Papillon
This breed takes its name from the French for butterfly due to their wing-like ears.
They certainly help them fly through agility courses, often taking the top spot at agility trials.
The AKC said: “They are excellent agility dogs and are consistent winners at the sport's highest levels; less ambitious owners can train them to do all kinds of tricks.”
The tiny dog is around eight to 11 inches tall, and can live to 17-years-old.
9. Rottweiler
Robust, strong and confident, these big, burly dogs are one that is eager to please their humans.
“The breed is intelligent, highly trainable and wants to please, although some may be stubborn,” said the American Kennel Club.
“It is very important that discipline be consistent, fair, and firm, without being rough.”
The guardian breed hasn’t been told about their size, so still consider themselves a lap dog.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
“The ACD is a highly intelligent, energetic breed that is only really happy when on the job,” said the AKC.
Owners of this uncommon breed should take their dog to obedience, herding or agility training to keep their brain occupied.
The club added: “Remember, an intelligent, energetic dog who is not kept occupied will become bored, and a bored, energetic dog can be destructive.”
The cattle dog is said to "routinely outsmart their owners", and can get into mischief if not entertained.
