If you one of the growing number of people looking to add a puppy to your family, here are the breeds that come top of the class for intelligence – and those that are likely to flunk their exams.

© There are limits to canine intelligence - but some dog breeds are certainly brighter than others.

Plenty of us decided to welcome new four-legged friends into our homes in the last couple of years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership soared and post-lockdown demand for puppies remains high.

There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.

© The Border Collie is the undisputed top dog when it comes to intelligence. Commonly utilised to herd...

Those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with allergies will be looking for a hypoallergenic dog.

One thing worth considering before making a decision is that certain breeds of dog are naturally more intelligent than others.

There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.

© One of the world's friendliest dogs is also one of the most intelligent. Golden Retrievers are perfe...

That’s not to say that the less clever pups don’t make loving and loyal pets, just that if you are looking for a dog that will be easy to train, learn commands, or carry out tasks, then certain breeds should be avoided.

© Don't let their curly hair and cute demeanor fool you - Poodles have a razor-sharp brain second only...

So, here are the 10 breeds of dog that fit at either extreme of the canine intelligence spectrum.

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© What the Cow Chow lacks in intellect is more than made up for with its loyalty - doing everything th...