Definitely among the smartest! In terms of energy for training they are a couple of “clicks” down from a Border Collie. They can be fantastic in competitive obedience, good at heeling with lots of body awareness, and agile. They should be recognized soon as they wonderful agility dogs that they are as well. And if you enjoy scent sports, you’ll find that not only are they smart but they are very adept at using the world class scenting equipment that they have been bred for in order to locate truffles. They can be a lot of fun to train. So if that sounds like something you’re looking for, THIS IS THE BREED FOR YOU!