From Psychologies · Guillaume Servant · · 1m 20s
Belgian Malinois beats all breeds in dog intelligence test
Researchers tested over 1,000 dogs across 13 breeds and found an unexpected winner.
In brief
Researchers tested over 1,000 dogs across 13 breeds and found an unexpected winner. The Belgian Malinois scored highest in a comprehensive intelligence test, outperforming the Border Collie, but dog intelligence comes in multiple forms. Originally reported by Psychologies.
Scientists rank dog intelligence
Researchers at the University of Helsinki tested over 1,000 dogs from 13 breeds using the smartDOG test battery, measuring memory, understanding of human gestures, impulse control, and problem-solving.
Malinois beats Border Collie
The Belgian Malinois scored 35 out of 39, surpassing the Border Collie, which is traditionally seen as the smartest breed. The Malinois impressed researchers with its balance of speed, memory, and independence.
Three types of dog intelligence
Scientists distinguish adaptive intelligence (adjusting to new situations), social intelligence (reading human signals and emotions), and instinctive intelligence (inherited from the breed's original purpose).
Each breed has different strengths
The Malinois excels at reading human body language and coordination. The Border Collie shines at analyzing signals and taking initiative. The Poodle and German Shepherd stand out for rapid learning.
Intelligence isn't what matters most
What truly connects us to dogs isn't their IQ but their presence and emotional attunement. The smartest dog may be the one who understands us best, not the one who knows the most words.
“What we are touched by in the dog is not their IQ but their quality of presence.”
At a glance
The Belgian Malinois scored highest in a comprehensive intelligence test, outperforming the Border Collie, but dog intelligence comes in multiple forms.
