The smartest dog breeds

Dogs from ancient times walked side by side with people and were involved in many areas of their activities. From time immemorial, these amazing animals are considered the most loyal and devoted friends of man and often amaze their owners with a sharp mind, sense of humor and high intelligence. Moreover, many owners are inclined to believe that their pets are able not only to understand a huge number of words, but also to literally read minds.

The question of canine intelligence has been haunted by many scientists for a long time. For example, the famous American psychologist Howard Gardner believed that there are several types of intelligence in dogs. Stanley Coren, a Canadian psychology professor at the University of Vancouver, identified and scientifically substantiated at least three of them.

• Adaptive type of intelligence is responsible for the animal's ability to receive and memorize a certain amount of information and for its ability to solve various kinds of problems using past experience. Thanks to this type of intelligence, the dog adapts to its environment and acquires the ability to survive in the prevailing circumstances.

• Obedience intelligence, often referred to as working intelligence, enables the dog to understand and execute a series of commands. The criterion for assessing this type of intelligence is the duration of the animal's attention and its ability to change the form of behavior if the command is not rewarded, and the handler requires something else from the pet.

• And finally congenital or instinctive type of intelligence, to one degree or another present in all dogs and determines their behavioral features, embedded at the genetic level. An example would be the ability of terriers to climb into holes, shepherds - to accurately track, and collies - to graze sheep.

Koren later proved that all 3 types of intelligence together form the general intelligence of the animal, which determines the dog's ability to learn, perceive and memorize information, as well as for independent brain activity and situational behavior.

Aristotle was also convinced that the mental abilities of the dog represent a more simplified and weak model of human intelligence. The philosopher argued his beliefs by the fact that Dogs, like humans, are capable of learning, remembering information and using previous experience to solve current problems. However, for theological reasons, his theory did not receive proper development, since the clergy did not want to come to terms with the presence of a soul in dogs, as an integral part of the intellect.

Much later, at the beginning of the 20th century, the Russian physiologist I. Pavlov also tried to find an answer to the question of the presence of intelligence in dogs. However, on the basis of experiments, he concluded that many things that are perceived by humans as high mental abilities of a pet are in fact nothing more than automatism. For example, the well-known experience of strengthening conditioned reflexes has shown that the extremely high ability of animals to memorize daily repetitive behavioral programs is often perceived as a result of the higher intellectual activity of dogs.

So, in one of the experiments, the animals were offered food at the same time for several weeks. Then, one day, breakfast was deliberately delayed, however, exactly 20 seconds before the required time, the animals began to salivate abundantly, which is characteristic of them when waiting for food. The scientist ranked this phenomenon as an automatism that has nothing to do with the intellectual abilities of the dog.

A similar explanation is given for the ability of many pets to show joyful anxiety half an hour before the owners return from work, which is also perceived by many owners as a manifestation of intelligence.

However, in the second half of the XX century. Stanley Coren carried out a colossal work on collecting and systematizing information about situational behavior, learning and using the accumulated experience of many breeds of dogs, from which the dog handler made reasoned conclusions about their intelligence. The main reason for his presence was the fact that in many situations, both humans and animals behave in the same way. And if a person needs his own reasoning and consciousness to get out of the current circumstances, then, probably, the dog uses the same methods of brain activity.

While working on the creation of the book, the professor relied on data obtained from experienced trainers and professional dog handlers, after which he systematized them and made logical conclusions. Two criteria were taken as the basis for determining the intelligence of a particular breed: the dog's understanding of the command and the ability to execute it the first time. The scientist sent inquiries to the largest kennel clubs in America and Canada with a request to assess the representatives of different breeds.

Questions were addressed to the judges of dog shows, most of whom willingly responded to requests. They described in detail to Koren the characteristics of the behavior of animals in various situations, and also talked about their ability to act according to ideas about what was happening.

However, it was not possible to achieve complete objectivity in assessing the intelligence of breeds. This is due to the fact that animals were judged on the ability to understand and follow commands, and therefore more stubborn or independent dogs were at the bottom of the ranking.

The author himself was well aware of some imperfection of his research and admitted that the breeds intended for hunting would be on the list obviously lower than service dogs, which does not at all mean their low intelligence and unsuitability for training.

After analyzing the information received, Koren conventionally divided the breeds into 6 categories, each of which determined the degree of the animals' ability to learn and execute commands.

1. Breeds with excellent abilities that even a novice dog breeder can handle. These animals need less than 5 repetitions in order to understand the command, in 95 or more cases out of 100 they execute it the first time.
2. The next category includes breeds with excellent learning ability. To understand a new command, such dogs need to repeat it from 5 to 15 times, and the percentage of execution from the first time reaches 85% and more.
3. Koren included in this category dogs possessing above average learning abilitywho understand the commands after 15-25 repetitions and perform them the first time in 70% of cases and more often.
4. This category is the most numerous and consists of dogs with an average learning ability. Animals can understand the command only after 25-40 repetitions and perform it the first time only in half of the cases.
5. Koren included in this category dogs with a learning ability below average., who understand the command only after 40-80 repetitions and execute it the first time only in 30% of cases.
6. And in the last category, the professor included breeds with poor learning ability... To master the command, these animals needed to hear it from 80 to 100 times, and from the first time they performed it only in 25% of cases.

Artificial breeds were bred with a careful selection of parental characteristics and with the consolidation of the necessary qualities, and individuals with primitive behavior were discarded and were not allowed for breeding.

In addition to the rating of the learning ability of breeds, the book includes sections that consider the general development of dogs, the peculiarities of hunting and the principles of training animals. The general result of the author's many years of work is the conclusion that it is wrong to consider the breeds in terms of comparing their intelligence, since each of them is genetically programmed to solve some specific problems that representatives of other breeds may not be able to solve. Stanley Koren's works have been translated into 26 languages ​​and republished at least 16 times.

Large dogs include breeds whose representatives weigh from 25 to 90 kg and are taller than 45 cm.

• The first place in the ranking of intelligent breeds belongs to German shepherds. Dogs are very loyal, quick-witted, obedient and well-balanced animals, for which they have gained immense popularity among dog breeders all over the world. The pet perfectly understands its place in the home hierarchy and will never fight for leadership with the owner. Shepherd dogs are very lenient towards children, however, they require early training and socialization, which is due to their not too distant relationship with the wolf.

• Second come golden retrievers, whose owners consider them the smartest and kindest dogs in the world. Pets really have great generosity and are very affectionate towards their owners. Dogs unquestioningly carry out commands, are able to cheer up, and, if necessary, bravely defend their owners. What's more, Golden Retrievers are excellent babysitters and are also used as a bloodhound or guide dog. Such pets are absolutely not lazy and are distinguished by special sensitivity and ability to empathize.

• The third place is deservedly occupied by the Labradors, who are distinguished by great good nature and high intelligence. Moreover, the dogs have established themselves as excellent hunters, nannies and guides. By nature, such dogs are active, they treat children well and will never allow them to offend the owner and his family members. Labrador training is not difficult even for beginners, so such dogs may well be taken as the first dogs.

• The fourth place rightfully belongs to Newfoundlands, which are considered wonderful family dogs. Pets are distinguished by good intelligence, and in case of danger, they immediately stand up to protect their owners. Dogs are very attached to household members and rather poorly tolerate even short-term separation from loved ones.

• The fifth place was occupied by balanced, reasonable, calm and understanding handsome St. Bernards. It is almost impossible to anger such a dog, unless its owners are in real danger. In such cases, the dog independently assesses the reality of the threat and rushes headlong to help his household. Dogs are highly trainable and obedient, love to spend time with their owner and are very kind to children.

• The sixth line of the rating belongs to the Dobermans. These are quite serious and wayward dogs that require early socialization and compulsory training. Dogs are smart enough and tend to make independent decisions. They are wary of children and do not show special feelings. Therefore, the child should immediately explain the rules of behavior with such a dog, and make the Doberman himself understand that the child is more important than him.

• In seventh place goes rottweiler - a breed that requires serious education and an experienced trainer. You should start classes with such dogs from 2 months of age, since it will be much more difficult for an older pet to become an authority. Rottweilers need early socialization in relation to children. The dog must immediately make it clear that the child in the family hierarchy is much higher than the dog, otherwise in the future the dog will try to dominate the baby and may offend him.

• The eighth line of the rating is occupied by Akita Inu. Dogs are considered loyal friends and reliable protectors, however, in a calm environment, they do not even vote. Dogs find a common language with children and other pets, learn quickly and easily execute commands. A prerequisite is the earliest possible start of training and constant repetition of the material covered.

• The ninth place, oddly enough, belongs pitbull, the opinions of ordinary people about which are very different.This is due to the large number of their attacks on people, on the one hand, and incredible loyalty and devotion to their masters, on the other. Moreover, pit bulls are considered excellent nannies and excellent companions, but for this you need to seriously study with the dog and constantly refresh the skills in the memory of the dog.

• And the top ten "smartest" German boxerswho, with the right upbringing, are capable of becoming reliable guards, loyal friends and excellent nannies. Most boxers, in the presence of a threat, rush to the protection of their owners, however, there are also very good-natured specimens, which themselves often have to be fenced off from the aggression of other dogs. It should also be borne in mind that boxers are very nasty dogs and continue to misbehave in the apartment until very old age.

Medium breeds include individuals weighing from 12 to 25 kg, up to 45 cm in height.

• First place is taken by Border Collie - extremely obedient pets, recognized as representatives of the smartest breed in the world. Animals are perfectly oriented in life situations and are able to make independent decisions based on the prevailing circumstances. Dogs understand the meaning of up to 1000 words, get along well with children, and their intelligence level is identical to that of a 3-year-old child. The breed is distinguished by its incredible loyalty, kindness, ability to empathize, good memory and excellent obedience.

So, in the course of the experiment, a border collie named Rico, along with his owner, was placed in a room, and in the next room they left 40 toys familiar to the dog. Then the owner asked Rico to bring him one at a time, with which the dog did an excellent job, making only 2 mistakes. Then an unfamiliar toy was placed in the room and the owner asked the dog to bring it exactly. Hearing an unfamiliar word, Rico himself guessed that this was a new subject and chose it unmistakably.

• Second place belongs to the poodle, about whom it is often said that he is not yet a man, but no longer a dog. Dogs easily understand not only clear commands, but also simple requests uttered with a normal intonation. Poodles can help the owner on the hunt, perform in the circus, and the larger species work as lifeguards on the beaches and do an excellent job of guarding.

• The third place is held by the Shelties. Dogs love the attention of their owners and prefer an active lifestyle. This is due to their past as a shepherd, when dogs grazed sheep and helped drive whole flocks. Therefore, the owner of the Sheltie should be an exceptionally active and athletic person, and stay-at-home should choose a calmer breed. Dogs are well trained and are distinguished by intelligence and ingenuity.

• In fourth place is the Australian Shepherd - aussie... He is an excellent shepherd and a reliable friend, which, however, requires serious and painstaking training. Otherwise, instincts will prevail, and the animal will behave like a shepherd: pulling all household things in one pile and biting at the feet of household members, trying to knock them into a “herd”.

• The fifth position in the rating is firmly held by bigley. Dogs are highly mobile and can play with children for a long time. They are very trainable, very brave and can make good guards.

• The sixth line of the rating belongs to the taxes. Dogs are very well trained, however, they require an individual approach. Dachshunds need the owner's company and in his absence they can start to misbehave in the apartment.Given that the breed belongs to burrowing hunting dogs, the dachshund should be regularly taken out into the forest, where it will be able to dig holes.

• In the seventh place were entrenched french bulldogswho get along well with children and dearly love their owners. Despite the fact that dogs lend themselves perfectly to training, they need constant monitoring, since, due to their playful nature, they often forget that they are well-bred dogs and make a mess in the house.

• Eighth place belongs to the welsh corgi, which are considered to be very sociable and obedient dogs, giving their owners a minimum of trouble. Pets are very serious and reasonable, they have a subtle sense of the owner's mood and know how to empathize.

• In ninth place are the American Cocker Spaniels., who are considered to be very intelligent and loyal dogs. Representatives of the breed are quite mobile and companionable, they know how to get along well with other animals and children. The dog is a hunting dog, and therefore prone to independent decision-making and needs movement.

• The tenth line of the rating belongs to the Boston Terrier. This small dog loves noisy games, adores children and is well trained. However, upbringing must begin as early as possible, otherwise the dog will begin to overstep the boundaries of what is permissible and become uncontrollable.

Small breeds include domestic dogs weighing less than 12 kg.

• The first place belongs to the Russian toy, who has proven to be quite friendly and friendly dog. The dog is an unsurpassed companion, very accustomed to its family and has a hard time changing owners.

• In second place is chihuahua. Dogs of this breed are characterized as very kind and agile creatures. Contrary to popular belief that the breed is exclusively decorative, pets are unusually intelligent, obedient and quick-witted. Chihuahuas get along well with children and are ready to entertain them all day long.

• In third place is the Maltese lapdog (maltese), which is quite an intelligent and intelligent dog. Lapdogs are very energetic and strongly attached to their owners.

• The fourth place belongs to toy poodle, which, like the two taller species of this breed, has a sharp mind, beautiful appearance and unprecedented intelligence.

• The fifth place is deservedly held by the Japanese spaniel... The breed is very ancient and has been very popular at all times. Dogs quickly learn 30 or more commands and follow them unconditionally.

• In sixth place are pomeranian, which, despite their too decorative and somewhat "toy" appearance, are actually very developed dogs.

• The seventh place is taken by Yorkshire Terriers. This miniature dog is an excellent companion and sincere companion. Dogs understand their owners at a glance and pick up intonation very subtly. In general, pets are executive, however, they are often lazy or too flirting, ignoring the commands of the owners.

• Eighth go griffons are small "brownies". Dogs are distinguished by their extraordinary appearance, great courage and courage. These are quite calm dogs that do not disturb the peace of the family and always follow commands.

• Ninth place hold french lapdogs, possessing a soft, docile disposition and perfectly feeling the mood of the owner. Dogs of this breed are very sensitive, loyal and understanding. They get along well with other pets and get along with children. However, the owners need to remember that lapdogs cannot stand loneliness, therefore, if possible, it is not recommended to leave them alone.

• And completes the top 10 papillon - a beautiful and docile dog, perfect for families with small children.Pets are very smart and resourceful, they quickly get used to the family, however, in an older age they cannot stand even a short separation from their owners.

When purchasing a pet, you should know that not every dog ​​is suitable for keeping in an apartment. Therefore, before choosing a breed, you should carefully read its characteristics, the necessary conditions of keeping and reviews of the owners.

Also, remember that if there are people in the house who are prone to allergic reactions, or small children, then the range of searches for the desired breed is significantly narrowed. Non-shedding and odorless dog breeds such as the Poodle, Chinese Crested or American Hairless Terrier are suitable for such families. Besides, if the family has children, then it is better to prefer the family companion dog to the service breed and purchase, for example, a golden retriever instead of a Rottweiler or Doberman.

When choosing a dog for a private house, which will be kept on the street or be on it most of the time, it is better to choose a pet with pronounced guarding qualities and a thick undercoat. For example, a Boxer or Great Dane is not suitable for these purposes, but an Alabai or a Caucasian Shepherd Dog will come in handy. As for the choice of a dog in terms of intelligence, then unequivocal advice on this matter cannot be given.

For information on which breed of dogs are the smartest, see the next video.