A large number of us have chosen to welcome new four-legged friends into our homes in recent years — according to Kennel Club figures, dog ownership has increased by almost eight percent over the course of the global pandemic.
As well as numerous crossbreeds, there are a whopping 221 different pedigree dog breeds to choose from, giving you a lot to think about before choosing the latest addition to your family.
However, if you are looking for a dog that is as smart as they are lovable, there is scientific research on the subject that can lead you to the smartest breeds.
Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book, The Intelligence of Dogs, is a landmark in canine literature that assesses the relative IQ of breeds based on instincts, obedience, and adaptability.
At the other end of the scale, it also shows the less brainy puppies — canines that can still make loving, loyal, and lovable pets, but who aren’t likely to learn new tricks…at any age.
So these are – officially – the top 10 dumbest pooches.
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Stanley Coren concluded that the beautiful Afghan Hound is the least intelligent breed of dog. Of course, this could be largely due to the fact that they’re also the most stubborn dog breed – notorious for ignoring their owner’s commands. Who says they don’t understand every word!
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The Basenji is said to be the second dumbest dog breed in the world. Given that they’re the only breed of dog that doesn’t bark, we might just not hear all the smart things they’re trying to say.
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Perhaps the reason why the gorgeous bulldog is so high on this list is that they are known for being very lazy – preferring to curl up on the couch rather than running around and being as smart as a Labrador or Border Collie to be.
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What the Cow Chow lacks in intellect it more than makes up for in loyalty – it will do whatever it takes to protect its owner from harm.
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