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July 21, 2008 - Top Seven Most Intelligent Dog Breeds

Top Seven Most Intelligent Dog Breeds

We understand that your dog is not only "smartest" but also "most lovable"!

As a proud dog owner, your car might sport one of those funny bumper stickers that says, "My [insert dog breed] is smarter than your honor student." While dogs are not known to equate to an Einstein or a Shakespeare, or even your fourth grader, dog behaviorists agree that certain breeds are, as a group, generally more intelligent than others.

According to Stanley Coren, neuropsychologist and professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia and author of The Intelligence of Dogs: A Guide to the Thoughts, Emotions, and Inner Lives of Our Canine Companions, there are three types of dog intelligence:

• Adaptive Intelligence (learning and problem-solving ability) is specific to the individual animal and is measured by canine IQ tests,

• Instinctive Intelligence also specific to the individual animal and measured by canine IQ tests, and

• Working/Obedience Intelligence, which is breed dependent.

The following is a list of dog breeds that are generally agreed upon as the brightest.

These breeds were rated according to the two test criteria: understanding of new commands (less than 5 repetitions) and obeying the command the first command (95% of the time or better).

Border Collie
Border collies are happiest when they have a job to do. Bred along the borderlands between Scotland and England as herding dogs, they were selected to be able to work tirelessly, and to have excellent herding skills, instincts and intelligence. The Border collie is not a good breed for city dwellers; left alone all day, he will become destructive and depressed.

Poodle
While poodles are known more for their appearance, they are actually among the world's smartest dogs (the standard poodle in particular). The air of dignity and elegance with which poodles carry themselves accords with their highly above-average intelligence and trainability. Poodles are happiest when they are around people all day.

German Shepherd
German shepherds are noted for their versatility, courage and intelligence. Intrinsically smart and trainable, they can fill a multitude of roles -- family pet, police dog, search dog, and even TV/movie actor. With puppyhood obedience training and a good leader (you) established early on, German shepherds make wonderful companion dogs.

Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers were originally bred by an upper-class Englishman who wanted a hunting dog that made a great companion. Today's retriever does and is just that. They are America's most popular dog because they are great with kids, and are consistently attentive, loyal and loving -- and they'll chase down anything you throw them!

Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman pinscher originated as a police dog in 19th century Germany. These dogs are top-notch watchdogs, guardians and protectors, as well as guide dogs and military dogs. Exceptionally loyal and intelligent, Dobermans are working dogs and do best with a lot of structured exercise and a strong human in the leadership position.

Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland sheepdog, or "sheltie," was bred on the Shetland Islands of Scotland to herd sheep. These small, agile dogs resemble collies and are widely regarded as highly intelligent. Shelties are also renowned for their trainability, even temperament and loyalty. They are very active and need lots of exercise and human companionship.

Labrador Retriever
Originating from Newfoundland (northeastern Canada), Labrador retrievers have become one of the most popular dog breed in the world. Highly intelligent, Labs are an active, affectionate and very trainable dog. They are great with children and other dogs, and make good family pets, drug-sniffing dogs, hunting dogs and seeing-eye/assistance dogs.

So, which breeds round out the list to make it a "top 10"? The final three are, in order of intelligence, the Papillon (yes, that small furry dog with the butterfuly ears), Rottweilers (Rotti owners aren't surprised), and the Australian cattle dog (cows are even less surprised!).

Whatever your own dog's pedigree, he is still and always will be a dog, and as such needs the kind of patient, consistent leadership from you that ensures a lifetime of love and loyalty.

About Bark Busters:
Bark Busters, the world's largest, most trusted dog training company, started in Australia in 1989 and came to the United States in 2000. Since inception, nearly 400,000 dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural methods. With 250+ franchised offices in 42 states and more than 400 offices in 10 countries, Bark Busters is continuing its mission to build a global network of dog behavioral therapists to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. Bark Busters is the only international dog training company that offers a written lifetime guarantee. SPCA International selected Bark Busters dog behavioral training services as the “Best of the Best” in its category. No other training company or dog trainer received such a distinction. To fetch a trainer in your area, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.

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