Many people know that dogs are intelligent, but what is their actual IQ? It’s a widely held belief that the average IQ of a dog is 100. However, this number gives a very limited view of a dog’s actual intelligence, as different factors measure human and dog intelligence. A dog’s intelligence can’t be accurately scored by the same metrics given to humans.
If we’re going to compare a dog’s intelligence to a human’s, more recent research shows that a dog’s mental capabilities are comparable to a 2 to a 2.5-year-old human child.1 If you do the math, a dog’s IQ doesn’t equate to the average intelligence of a human adult. There are many myths about a dog’s intelligence, and we’re here to sort out the facts.
What Is Dog IQ?
Human IQ tests are designed to test reasoning and problem-solving skills. These tests start with a baseline average of 100, and people can score above or below this average. It’s important to note that scientists will update these tests every few years to keep 100 as the average.
Knowing how human IQ tests work can help us understand why they simply aren’t applicable to scoring canine intelligence. Human IQ tests are based on questions that measure the reasoning and problem-solving skills catered to humans, and obviously, those same skills do not apply to our pets. However, there are certain tests that dogs can be put through based on skills that are relevant and applicable to their species’ needs and capacities.
How Is Dog Intelligence Measured?
If we are to compare a dog’s mental abilities, it resembles most closely to a human toddler. Data shows that dogs can learn and remember about 165 words and signals. Particularly intelligent dogs can learn to distinguish up to 250 words. Dogs can also learn how to count up to five and have a very basic understanding of mathematics.
Researchers measure a dog’s intelligence with three categories: instinctive, adaptive, and working and obedience. Instinctive intelligence measures a dog’s capacity to do what they were bred to do. Adaptive intelligence refers to a dog’s problem-solving skills and ability to learn from their environment. Lastly, working and obedience measures skills learned through obedience training.
When it comes to working and obedience, Border Collies score the highest, followed by Poodles, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Labrador Retrievers. Afghan Hounds score lowest in working and obedience, and Basenjis, Bulldogs, and Chow Chows are among the least trainable breeds.
While a dog’s mental abilities are comparable to a human toddler, their social intelligence is comparable to a human teenager’s. Dogs have a strong ability to communicate with one another and humans. One study reveals that some dogs can learn to trick humans and other dogs, and they’re able to adjust their behavior around different people.
Can I Raise My Dog’s Intelligence?
While breed may affect a dog’s intelligence, their environment also plays a role. Just like humans, dogs can learn to become smarter through education. Dogs that receive more mental stimulation tend to learn faster than other dogs. When they’re exposed to new challenging situations, neural connections form in their minds.
So, giving a puppy a strong foundation in obedience training can help them learn commands more quickly and have stronger communication with you. Providing enrichment activities, like puzzle toys, can also challenge and stimulate their mind. Early socialization and gently exposing a puppy to new people and experiences can also help raise their intelligence.
Conclusion
While the mental capabilities of a dog are similar to a toddler’s, dogs are still intelligent and remarkable in their own ways. There’s a reason why dogs are known as man’s best friend. Whether it was intentional or not, they made the smart choice of bonding with another smart species and have adapted to survive and thrive amongst humans in a way that’s unique from any other animal.
Featured Image Credit: Lisjatina, Shutterstock