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Title: Good Boy! The World’s Ten Smartest Dogs
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URL Source: http://www.divinecaroline.com/artic ... boy--world-s-ten-smartest-dogs
Published: Mar 12, 2009
Author: None
Post Date: 2009-03-12 16:54:03 by richard9151
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Views: 167
Comments: 7
We’ve gathered a wide sample of dog breeds, sharpened their No. 2 pencils (you know, no opposable thumbs), and asked them to fill out a simple intelligence questionnaire. Okay, maybe not. But PetMD did come up a list of the top ten smartest canine breeds in the world. See if your dog’s breed makes the grade. #10 Australian Cattle Dog Yes, that Australian Cattle Dog from Down Under. A working dog that is traditionally occupied with controlling and herding cattle, its qualities are exceptional intelligence, alertness, resourcefulness, and a fiercely protective loyalty over its property and people. They are agile, strong, active dogs, both physically and mentally, which revel in new experiences. The flip side is that they bore easily and will unintentionally find trouble while looking for activities to occupy themselves with. The Cattle Dog is very organized; many are known for putting their own toys away after playing. #9 Rottweiler Another herding dog, the Rottweiler began in Germany as a true work companion. They are still primarily used for work as guard dogs and as police dogs. They are well known for their stoicism, keen perception, courage, and unflagging loyalty. They make an excellent addition to the family. #8 Papillon This deceptively cute, butterfly-eared dog is smarter, tougher, and stronger than it appears (it’s like the bionic dog). Often described as big dogs in little bodies, they have the athletic stamina to keep up on long walks, and the bravura of a canine ten times its size. The Papillon is a true companion and watchdog. Although they can be ferociously protective over what belongs to them, their keen intelligence makes it possible to take them anywhere. Let’s not forget they can be litter trained, a big plus. #7 Labrador Retriever The Lab, as it is affectionately called, is the most popular breed chosen by families. Another member of the working class of dogs, the Lab is best known for its intelligence, affection, patience, and gentility, making them perfect companions for households with kids. They are easily trained, and, in fact, are one of the top dogs chosen for search and rescue, assisting the disabled, and police work. They are also known to self-train, observing behaviors in humans and repeating them—a great asset in emergency situations. #6 Shetland Sheepdog Another herding dog, the Shetland takes this ability into the home, showing the same commitment and protectiveness over its human “herd” as the farm raised version does. Highly intelligent, the Sheltie handles life with great efficiency and diligence, learning new commands with little repetition, and making sure that all of the family is safe, sound, and in place. They show great devotion to their families, and are happy to live just about anywhere. #5 Doberman Pinscher Due to an inborn fearlessness and deep stamina, the Doberman is one of the most popular of guard dogs. Smart and assertive, they can easily be trained for dominance or docility. Because of their past as war and police dogs, they may appear fearsome, but they are actually quite gentle. Their loyalty and acuity make Doberman’s great additions to the family. #4 Golden Retriever A very affectionate and popular breed, the Golden Retriever is highly regarded for its intelligence. They can learn well over 200 commands, making them indispensable companions, both in the home and in the workplace. Loyal, loving, and patient, with a willingness to please and a love of learning, this is a fabulous companion pet to bring into your family. #3 German Shepherd The German Shepherd was originally bred specifically for intelligence. Smart, courageous, and protective, the Shepherd is one of the most dependable of companions. They learn tasks after only a few repetitions, and obey first commands nearly always the first time it is given. They are eager to learn new tasks, as this gives them direction and purpose—very important for a Shepherd. Besides being used for herding animals, they are often used as guard dogs, police dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and have even been trained by the military for parachute jumps. #2 Poodle Easily trainable, steadfast, and sharp-minded, Poodles flourish in human company. Even with the frou-frou hairdos, Poodles are sometimes made to endure and can be quite effective as guard dogs, especially the standard sized Poodles. In fact, the “poodle clip,” was created specifically for the working Poodle, so that it could swim more effectively, while still having fur to protect its organs as it went about the business of hunting and retrieving. The Poodle excels at training and obedience, and also loves creative play time. This is what made them so popular as circus performers. But, this can be a drawback as well. If left alone to boredom, Poodles can be creative about finding ways to amuse themselves, sometimes finding trouble along the way. Yes, I admit it; the above is MY FAVORITE! I have had poodles around me for more than thirty years, and love them. So does my wife -- now. Smart woman! #1 Border Collie The Border Collie comes in at number one. Because of their extraordinary intelligence and high energy, it is essential to give Border Collies an occupation or purpose, or you may well find your home wrecked upon your return from a long day at work. They have an intense connection with humans, making them ideal work and home companions. However, keep this in mind: Border Collies invariably will not do well unless they are with people who are as high energy as they are; they do best with humans who can participate in dog sports with them. Also, because of their background as herding dogs, they may be frustrated by small children, as their inability to herd the children as they deem fit is confounded. For the right human, the Border Collie is well behaved, exceptionally good at learning, and a true-blue companion. Additional info can be found at PetMD.com -- www.petmd.com/
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#1. To: richard9151 (#0)
Strongly disagree with the order of this list. Both the Rotti and German Shepherd, should be way higher on this list. My father was an K-9 Trainer, and they above all others, have the most intelligence, in the dog world.
I see that pugs are not listed.
Incorrect: The Rottweiler originated in ancient Rome as a drover dog. The ancient Roman Empire used this breed around the turn of the century to drive the cattle necessary to feed their massive armies as they crossed such traitorous terrain as the Alps in order to conquer a great part of Europe. As the Roman Legions stopped along the way, the Rottweiler took on another task, that of guarding the camps. The great ability of these dogs to accomplish such drover and guard dog tasks seems obvious due to the success of the Roman Legions they served. p.s. As a side note: Rottis have been known, to have a vocabulary of over 400 words/commands
They're #57. http://petrix.com/dogint/55-69.html
formerly GJones.
Out of what? 60? Funny dogs...but dumb.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, so they're three times smarter than a typical Uhhmerkkin sheeple. So what? O'boingo's still their president too.
My Rotti doesn't do O'boingos.. the Vet told him, it was bad for his health ;-)
#2. To: richard9151 (#0)
No place is better than Turtle Island.
#3. To: All (#1)
(Edited)
Another herding dog, the Rottweiler began in Germany as a true work companion.
#4. To: Turtle (#2)
I see that pugs are not listed.
#5. To: InsideJob (#4)
They're #57.
No place is better than Turtle Island.
#6. To: Refinersfire (#3)
As a side note: Rottis have been known, to have a vocabulary of over 400 words/commands
Mike Flaherty: Yeah, it's been there a long time. I wish I knew which corner.
My Man Godfrey (1936)
#7. To: Esso (#6)
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