Dogs and cats get all the credit, but there are some surprisingly clever pets out there that you probably haven’t even considered.
Sure, they require a little out-of-the-box thinking (and perhaps a bit of specialist knowledge!), but the relationship you can develop with these animals is truly something special. Here are 10 low-key genius animals you can actually keep at home, and they might just outsmart your current furry best mate.
1. Rats
Forget everything you think you know — domesticated rats are clean, affectionate, and seriously intelligent. They can learn their names, run obstacle courses, and even do tricks with a bit of patience and training. They love human interaction, often forming real bonds with their owners.
They’re also excellent problem-solvers, and many enjoy figuring things out, like how to open a drawer or navigate a maze. If you’re after a smart companion in a small, manageable package, rats are surprisingly brilliant little pets.
2. African grey parrots
These birds are often called the Einsteins of the pet world, and for good reason. African greys don’t just mimic sounds; they actually understand context and can communicate in surprisingly sophisticated ways. Some have vocabularies of over 1,000 words.
They need loads of stimulation, but they thrive on interaction and problem-solving. They can even recognise colours, count, and play memory games. Just be ready for the long haul; these birds can live for decades and will absolutely get bored if not mentally engaged.
3. Mini pigs
Mini pigs are sharp, sassy, and surprisingly trainable. They can learn tricks, walk on a lead, use a litter box, and even solve puzzles. They’re on par with dogs when it comes to intelligence, and possibly even a bit more stubborn, which makes for a lot of personality.
They’re incredibly social and emotionally aware, often bonding strongly with their humans. Just be sure you have the space and the time to keep them stimulated because a bored pig is a mischievous one.
4. Ferrets
Ferrets are tiny escape artists with a curious streak a mile wide. They’re super smart and constantly looking for things to investigate, unlock, or burrow into. That cleverness makes them endlessly entertaining, and occasionally a handful if you’re not watching closely.
With a bit of training, they can come when called, use a litter tray, and even perform little tricks. They’re social creatures too, so they love playtime and thrive when they get attention and stimulation every day.
5. Budgies (budgerigars)
Don’t let their small size fool you — budgies are clever little chatterboxes. They’re capable of learning words, recognising patterns, and solving simple puzzles. Some have even been taught to count or identify colours using basic cues. They’re especially smart when they have company and daily interaction. With enough attention and stimulation, a budgie can become a surprisingly sharp and affectionate little sidekick.
6. Axolotls
Okay, they’re not going to play fetch, but axolotls are fascinating, observant, and often more responsive than you’d expect. These quirky amphibians can recognise feeding cues and learn to respond to their owner’s presence, especially during feeding time. They’re smart in a quiet, watchful way, and incredibly low-maintenance. Their appeal lies in their otherworldly looks and curious behaviour, making them perfect for anyone wanting something unique and low-key clever.
7. Chickens
Turns out chickens aren’t just farm animals — they’re clever, sociable, and can make surprisingly rewarding pets. They can recognise faces (both chicken and human), solve basic problems, and even learn their names. They’re also incredibly food-motivated, which makes training easier than you’d think.
Many owners describe their hens as having distinct personalities, and they often form tight-knit social bonds. With space to roam and a bit of attention, chickens can be brainy little backyard buddies.
8. Pigeons
Pigeons have a bit of an image problem, but they’re actually incredibly smart. Studies show they can recognise themselves in mirrors, understand time-based tasks, and remember hundreds of individual images. They’ve even been used in military communication because of their sharp homing instincts.
As pets, they’re gentle, trainable, and surprisingly affectionate. Plus, they’re not noisy or high-maintenance — just don’t be surprised when they start recognising your face and waiting for you at the window.
9. Hermit crabs
They might be small, but hermit crabs are surprisingly curious. In a well-designed habitat, they’ll explore, problem-solve, and interact with their environment in clever little ways. They enjoy climbing, hiding, and even switching shells with a sense of preference. They’re not cuddly, but they’re far more aware and interactive than people expect. With the right setup, they can be fun to observe and care for, like having your own tiny, slow-moving brainiacs.
10. Goats (yes, really)
If you’ve got the space, goats are incredibly smart, funny, and social animals to have around. They can open gates, solve problems, and even learn their names and come when called. Some goat owners swear they’re as bright as dogs — just with more attitude. They’re playful, emotional, and love routines, which makes them easier to train than you’d expect. Plus, they’re endlessly entertaining. If you’re after a pet with charm, brains, and a bit of chaos, goats deliver all three in spades.
