We all know that dogs are more loving and loyal than most humans. Now research has proven that they are more intelligent too. Maybe not than most people, but they are certainly proving themselves to be smarter than the average toddler.
A recent study conducted by Stanley Coren, a professor emeritus at the University of British Columbia and leading researcher on dog behavior, indicates that "dogs are closer to humans than we thought." Adapting tests that are used with children, psychologists have learned that the average dog can count, reason and recognize words and gestures on par with a two-year-old toddler.
Coren says most dogs can understand about 165 words, as well as signs, signals and gestures. They can also count to five. This said, the "super breeds" -- those he considers to be the smartest -- have comparable skills to a 2-1/2 year old, recognizing up to 250 words.
Among the "top dogs" of the class, he noted Border Collies, Poodles, Retrievers, German Shepherds and Dobermans. Those dogs bringing up the tail include the Borzoi, Chow Chow, Bulldog, Basenji and the Afghan Hound.
While this is where Coren and his team netted out, I'm guessing many owners of other breeds -- not to mention those Marvelous Mutts -- would contend that their pups can hold their own with the best of them. Take my very special Max (a.k.a. a Terridoodle - Terrier/Poodle mix) . . . they don't come much smarter than him. He not only knows 250 words, he can spell them too.
Just kidding, of course, but the point being that dogs are indeed very smart creatures. More importantly, they are loving, forgiving and loyal -- much like someone else we all know. Maybe there's a reason why DOG spelled backwards is GOD.
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