In a recent groundbreaking study, a somewhat lesser-known and surprising breed has been granted the title of the world’s smartest dog breed.
The research, conducted by the University of Helsinki, puts this breed ahead of other popular choices like the Border Collie and German Shepherd, which usually come to mind when talking about seriously brainy doggos.
How the Study Was Conducted
Over 1,000 dogs from 13 different breeds were put through a series of tests designed to measure various cognitive traits. The tests, known as the smartDOG battery, assessed areas like problem-solving, memory, and social cognition.
These tasks provided a comprehensive look at each breed’s intelligence, allowing them to score points in each of the different areas.
While the results mostly mirror what has already been widely accepted, the number one dog took some by surprise. A dog breed that is fairly unknown to most people took home the first prize of the smartest dog in the world – the Belgian Malinois!
Quickly Introducing the Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a herding breed, often mistaken for the German Shepherd due to their similar appearance. However, Malinois dogs are generally lighter and more agile. Known for their work in police and military roles, these dogs are fast, alert, and have a natural instinct for problem-solving, making them highly versatile.
What Makes the Belgian Malinois Special?
While most people are familiar with breeds like Border Collies being smart, the Belgian Malinois surprised many. This breed, often seen in police and security roles, is known for its quick decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
In the study, they scored 35 out of 39 points on key intelligence tests.
Border Collies Still Impressive
Though the Belgian Malinois took the top spot, Border Collies performed well too, scoring 26 points. Border Collies are often hailed as the smartest breed, particularly in tasks related to human gestures. However, the Malinois surpassed them in problem-solving and logical reasoning in this study.
The Three Key Tests
The researchers focused on three main tests: the V-detour task, human gesture reading, and an unsolvable task.
The V-detour test measured problem-solving by seeing if dogs could find their way around a V-shaped barrier. The Belgian Malinois performed exceptionally well here, proving its quick thinking.
Understanding Human Gestures
One major aspect of the study was seeing how well dogs understood human gestures. The Belgian Malinois once again came out on top in tasks involving reading human body language, such as pointing and gazing.
This ability is particularly important in working roles, where quick communication with humans is key. You’ll often find the Belgian Malinois in police forces for this exact reason.
Independence and Problem-Solving
Another test assessed how independent dogs were by giving them an unsolvable task—a box that couldn’t be opened to access food. The Belgian Malinois was the fifth most independent breed, showing both the ability to try problem-solving alone and knowing when to ask for human help.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Breed
While the Belgian Malinois excelled in many areas, the study revealed strengths and weaknesses across all breeds.
For example, Labradors were great at reading human gestures but struggled with spatial problem-solving. The Shetland Sheepdog, on the other hand, had consistent but average results across all tasks.
How Smart Is a Dog Compared to a 5-Year-Old Human?
Studies suggest that dogs, including intelligent breeds like the Belgian Malinois, have cognitive abilities similar to a 2 to 5-year-old child.
They can understand basic commands, gestures, and solve simple problems. However, while dogs excel in memory and social interaction, their ability to engage in complex reasoning or use language falls behind that of young humans.
Where the Belgian Malinois Fell Short
Despite its impressive results, the Belgian Malinois didn’t ace every test. In the cylinder test, which measures impulse control, the breed scored low.
This test showed that Malinois dogs tend to act quickly rather than waiting and thinking through their options, which might be less favorable in some scenarios.
What This Means for Dog Owners
If you’re looking for a smart dog, this study highlights the Belgian Malinois as a top contender quite literally. However, intelligence is just one factor to consider. Being the world’s smartest dog is an impressive achievement, but it’s not everything.
Actually, having a superintelligent dog is a bad fit for many people – it’s easy to forget that having an intelligent dog means that you constantly have to activate and challenge it, or else it will easily fall into depression or problematic behaviors.
Every breed has its strengths, so it’s important to choose a dog that fits your lifestyle and needs—whether that’s a quick thinker or a loyal companion.
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