Dog Intelligence:
How Smart is your dog?

When it comes to dog intelligence, the Coton de Tulear doesn’t rank on any of the smartest dog breeds top 10 or even top 50 lists. However, in my opinion, that is just an oversight due to the rareness of the breed.

Luc may not be on the list, but he’s pretty damn smart. He can’t build a rocket engine or do calculus, but I swear he understands everything I say and he sure can figure out how to get into the trash as soon as I leave the room.

How smart is your dog?

I’ve seen variations of these tests for years on TV, the internet and even my local newspaper, and I think these games are a fun way of indicating how smart your dog is. Have fun and try them. Don’t forget to reward your dog with a treat or extra play for participating.

Try one of these fun and easy dog intelligence tests:

Test #1

While your dog is sitting, throw a towel over his head, covering his eyes. Time how long it takes for him to free himself from the towel.

Points:

Free in less than 15 seconds = 3 points
Free in 15 to 30 seconds = 2 points
Free in longer than 30 seconds = 1 point

Test #2

Tell your dog to sit and then place a treat on the floor about three feet away from him. Place a bowl or cup over the treat and turn your dog around. Then tell your dog to get the treat.

Points:

Finds treat immediately = 3 points
If it takes 2 tries = 2 points
If it’s in the 3rd bowl your dog looks in = 1 point

Test #3

Pick a time when you wouldn’t usually take your dog for a walk and then casually pick up his leash while he’s watching you.

Points:

He knows immediately that he’s going for a walk = 3 points
If you have to go to the door before he understands = 2 points
He doesn’t have a clue = 1 point

Test #4

Monitor how long it takes your dog to benefit from one of your mistakes. This is where my dog Luc is brilliant. He seems to have instant radar that let's him know when food is dropped on the floor, the trash can is left unguarded, or a gate if left open.

Points:

He knows immediately and instinctively that he has an opportunity to gain from your mistake = 3 points
He only realizes your mistake if he's in the vicinity of the trash can, gate, or food = 2 points
He rarely notices these opportunities = 1 point

Dog Intelligence: Scoring and results
12 points – Smarter than you
9 to 11 points – Above average intelligence
5 to 8 points – Average intelligence
1 to 4 points – Thank goodness he’s cute

So, you’re probably wondering which dogs did make the Top 10 Smartest Dog Breeds List. These may change in order from time to time, but these are the breeds that make the top ten year after year.