The author of "The Intelligence of Dogs", Stanley Coren, reports that there are three types of canine
intelligence:
- Adaptive Intelligence (learning and problem-solving
ability). This is specific to the individual animal and is measured by canine IQ tests.
- Instinctive Intelligence. This is specific to the individual
animal and is measured by canine IQ tests.
- Working/Obedience Intelligence. This is breed dependent
Ranking of Purebred
Dogs
for Obedience/Working Intelligence by Breed
(Based on a consortium of trainers,
psychologists, handlers, etc. See
S Coren's Book)
Ranks 1 to 10 - The Brightest Dogs:
Understanding of New Commands: Less than 5 repetitions.
Obey First Command: 95% of the time or better.
|
Ranks 11 to 26-
Excellent Working Dogs
Understanding of New Commands: 5 to 15 repetitions.
Obey First Command: 85% of the time or better.
|
Ranks 27 to 39 - Above
Average Working Dogs
Understanding of New Commands: 15 to 25 repetitions.
Obey First Command: 70% of the time or better
|
Ranks 40 to 54 - Average
Working/Obedience Intelligence
Understanding of New Commands: 25 to 40 repetitions.
Obey First Command: 50% of the time or better.
|
Ranks 55 to 69- Fair
Working/Obedience Intelligence
Understanding of New Commands: 40 to 80 repetitions.
Obey First Command: 30% of the time or better.
|
Ranks 70 to 79 - Lowest
Degree of Working/Obedience Intelligence
Understanding of New Commands: 80 to 100 repetitions or more.
Obey First Command: 25% of the time or worse.
|
Stanley
Coren is a neuropsychologist and professor of psychology at the University of British
Columbia. Dr. Coren has published articles in medical journals including The New England
Journal of Medicine, American Journal of Public Health and Sleep. He has appeared on
numerous television programs including Good Morning America, CNN, The Osgood Files and The
Today Show. Dr. Coren is a fellow of the American Psychology Association, American
Psychology Society and Canadian Psychology Association. He was recently awarded the Killam
Memorial Fellowship.
