Dogs are some of the most intelligent animals on Earth. Scientists have found that the intelligence level of the average dog is close to the IQ of a 2-year-old child. Dogs are capable of understanding up to 250 words, as well as performing the simplest mathematical operations with numbers up to 5. In addition, our four-legged friends can feel certain emotions, such as anger, joy, fear, disgust, gratitude and even jealousy.
Undoubtedly, for every owner his dog is the smartest. But scientists from the University of British Columbia, which is located in Vancouver (Canada) conducted a research and named 10 most intelligent dog breeds.
If your pet is not in the top ten – do not worry, because you know how smart he is, and if you still have not decided what breed of dog to get – then this article may help you make the final choice.
5. DOBERMAN
Dobermans were bred in Germany in the 19th century and are named after their “inventor”, Friedrich Louis Dobermann. First and foremost, the Doberman is a service and guard dog. It is often used in the service of guards and police officers. In the early twentieth century, the Doberman was even officially recognized as a police dog.
It is a very nimble, intelligent, strong, and courageous dog. It will easily become a member of your family, but it is not recommended to bring it into homes with young children. Also, the Doberman loves long walks, so it will require you to take long walks.
4. GOLDEN RETRIEVER
The Golden Retriever is a breed of hunting dog bred in the 19th century by the English aristocrat Lord Tweedmouth. They are easy to train, very obedient and intelligent. In addition, retrievers never show aggression to people or other dogs. When you breed one you can be sure of your own safety, which is why they are often adopted by families with children.
Golden Retrievers also work with police and rescue forces, searching for drugs and contraband. Due to their obedience and peaceful nature, Golden Retrievers are also used for therapeutic purposes and for the rehabilitation of the sick.
And thanks to their good looks and intelligence, Golden Retrievers are a favorite breed of filmmakers. The breed’s filmography includes starring roles in such films as: “The Road Home” (USA), “Napoleon” (Australia), “A Dog Named Bouton” (USA), “Marley and Me” (USA), “Life and Purpose of a Dog” (USA).
3. GERMAN SHEPHERD
This popular dog breed was bred in Germany in 1899. These dogs have a good sense of smell and a courageous character, hardy and industrious. The dog does not like to be idle and sleep for a long time. German Shepherds are search and border dogs, bomb-sniffers and customs officers, search-and-rescue dogs, guide dogs for the blind and security guards.
In addition, it is a faithful protector. If the German Shepherd feels that someone wants to physically hurt you, it won’t wait for a command to act, but will start barking at the enemy. And in a situation of extreme danger, it will pounce on him. Although in general it is quite a calm and non-aggressive dog.
It is important that the dog considers only one person to be the master, although it is friendly and attached to all family members. She especially adores children, with whom she can play and frolic for a long time.
2. POODLE
Today, poodles are a breed of decorative dogs, but previously they were used for hunting. This breed is famous for its long, wavy and soft fur – the dogs look like fluffy and light clouds. Dogs come in a variety of colors – white, silver, brown and black.
Poodles have a wonderful character. They are great with all family members and love to play with children. They love to swim and play with a ball. In addition, these dogs are obedient and easy to train.
For centuries, poodles were the favorites of many famous people: statesmen and public figures, writers, artists and musicians. For example, Beethoven wrote a elegy on the death of his pet, and pen A. Kuprin’s touching story “White poodle.
1. BORDER COLLIE
The Border Collie is a herding dog bred on the border of England and Scotland, hence the name “Border”, which means “border” in English.
Border Collies are recognized as the smartest and best dogs in the world and the reason for this is their intelligence, character and unsurpassed herding instinct. It is sometimes said that the Border Collie herds everything that moves: sheep and cats, children and cars. It is a canine “workaholic” who cannot live without work. These dogs are loyal, attentive and sensitive. They love their family, and for their sake, these dogs are willing to obey any command.
And finally, remember, whatever breed your dog is – Labrador, sheepdog or a common mongrel – it needs your love, attention and affection first of all, and in return it will love you like no one else: selflessly, faithfully and until the end of his life.