Dog Owner's Manual › Introduction › 

Intelligence of Dogs

Experts debate the exact intelligence quotient of dogs and even whether it is possible to gauge the IQ of a nonhuman species. What can be said with certainty is that the average dog’s memory capacity and problem-solving skills far exceed those of the most powerful computers. Consider the fact that while supercomputers can play master-level chess, they can’t begin to tackle such complex tasks as foxhunting or guiding a blind person down a city street.

Similarly, comparing the acuity of different breeds can be a very subjective exercise. Some models excel at mental traits—trainability, energy, inquisitiveness—desired by humans. This may make them appear "smarter" than other canines. However, these traits aren’t always a plus. Many dogs with high "intelligence," such as Border collies and terriers, require plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and "face time" with their owners. Conversely, allegedly less intelligent breeds can be much more laid-back and easier to live with.

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Quirk BooksThe Dog Owner’s Manual is a basic guide to dog care.
The book was written by a celebrated veterinarian and an acclaimed author. It provides dog owners with well-researched and helpful information presented in a lighthearted manner. The creators chose to write the book in a style similar to what you'd find in "operating instructions" for a car or computer, so it would be in a familiar language for someone learning how to do something for the first time. Of course they—and we—respect the fact that our beloved pets are not products or machines, and we hope you will read this guide and discover that it is as valuable as it is fun to read.

Introduction

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The analogies are really off the mark. Wouldn't it be more accurate to compare and contrast high energy breeds to lower energy breeds in terms of which need more exercise and mental stimulation rather than an analogy between "intelligence" and exercise requirements or personality? So dumber dogs are more laid-back? That is just nonsense. If you want to make a point about high and low maintenance breeds I think it would be better to do it in a more thoughtful way not in a section on intelligence. "What can be said with certainty is that the average dog’s memory capacity and problem-solving skills far exceed those of the most powerful computers." This statement has absolutely no basis in science. What is the point of such a statement, it has no credibility. By the way, foxhunting is not a complex task. It's called prey drive and it's instinctual.

barked by Nick on Apr 10, 2008 AT 3:54 am PDT
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I'm a retired educator and have a great deal of training regarding intelligence testing. I too thought dogs were basically the same until I was "owned" by a Westie. This breed of terrier is so smart it is scarey. Her vocabulary rivals a three year old receptively. It does take a lot more energy to care for her needs....but, as my husband said my other pets were just dogs.

barked by Jan Chapman on May 19, 2008 AT 9:58 am PDT
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