There are some dogs that don’t learn words or commands very well. They may, on the other hand, be very good at reading social cues or tracking scents. So don’t be heartbroken if you don’t see your dog on an internet list of smart dogs. Even if your dog doesn’t make the list, he or she may still excel in other areas. Also, dogs on the smartest dog lists are often breeds that have been used for hunting and herding and require years of socialization and exercise.