Buzz
Assessing animal intelligence is often challenging. Many fundamental questions remain unanswered, leading to endless debates over the interpretation of test results. Hence, even if your dog doesn't excel in this IQ assessment, you can still consider them the brightest pup around.
Procedure
IQ Evaluation
Conceal a treat beneath a towel. Present the treat to your dog. As the dog observes, place the treat on the floor and cover it with the towel. Begin timing and observe how long it takes for the dog to uncover the treat:
- 30 seconds or less: 3 points
- 31–60 seconds: 2 points
- Attempts but fails within 60 seconds: 1 point
- No attempt made: 0 points
Prepare a stopwatch. You'll require a timer with second measurements for these evaluations. They gauge problem-solving abilities and adaptability to surroundings.
Cover the dog's head with a towel. Allow the dog to sniff a large towel or small blanket. Then, toss it over the dog's head, ensuring it's fully covered. Start the timer and note how long it takes for the dog to break free. Record the score:
- 30 seconds or less: 3 points
- 31–120 seconds: 2 points
- Attempts but fails within 120 seconds: 1 point — and assist the dog in removing the towel!
- No attempt to escape: 0 points.
- You might want to practice tossing the towel over a chair beforehand. It should land smoothly in a single motion.
Create a low barrier. Construct a gap close to the ground, reachable by the dog's paws but not its snout. A sofa may suffice, or fashion one using books and a wide plank. Secure the top of the plank to prevent easy tipping by the dog.
Present the dog with a puzzle. Position a treat beneath the plank or sofa while the dog observes. Ensure it's out of reach of the dog's snout. Encourage the dog to retrieve the treat as you time it:
- Succeeds within 2 minutes (using paws): 4 points
- Succeeds within 3 minutes (using paws): 3 points
- Fails within 3 minutes but uses paws: 2 points
- Fails, only uses snout: 1 point
- No attempt made: 0 points
Train your dog to locate a concealed treat. This test focuses on memory rather than problem-solving abilities. The dog must grasp the concept. Place a treat beneath a plastic cup and instruct the dog to find it. Lift the cup to reveal the treat's location. Repeat this process eight to ten times until the dog comprehends that treats are hidden beneath cups.
Evaluate the dog's memory. Position three overturned plastic buckets or cups on the floor, spaced a foot apart. Place a treat beneath one of them while the dog observes. Then, lead the dog out of the room for 30 seconds before returning. Encourage the dog to locate the treat.
- Identifies the correct cup on the first attempt: 2 points
- Finds it within two minutes: 1 point
- Fails to find it: 0 points
Assess the dog's performance. Total the points earned by your dog to gauge its performance:
- 11–12 points: Canine Genius
- 8–10 points: Obedience School Honor Student
- 4–7 points: Just an Average Rex
- 1–3 points: I'm a Barker, Not a Thinker
- 0 points: You might have just tested a mop.
Enhancing Performance
Approach it as a fun activity. This is not the time to be a neutral observer; your dog's academic future is at stake! But on a serious note, if your dog lacks interest, it won't engage in the tasks. Use gestures or smiles to encourage the dog, maintaining its interest without overwhelming excitement that may lead to forgetfulness.
Select a special treat. Cooperation from the dog is essential for testing. Opt for a special, aromatic treat to entice it. Soft, aromatic treats work best as they are easily noticeable and quickly consumed. If you plan to conduct all the tests in one session, cut them into small, pea-sized pieces.
- Consider pieces of hot dog, cooked chicken, or cheese.
- Use a dry, unscented treat when testing memory.
Have the dog's owner administer the test. This test yields optimal results when conducted by someone who spends significant time with the dog. A dog may not perform at its best if it has lived with the tester for less than three months.
Reassess a puppy's intelligence as it matures. A puppy under one year old may not demonstrate the same level of intelligence or obedience as an adult dog.
Engage the dog in treasure hunts for training. Instruct the dog to stay while you visibly 'hide' a treat in various locations. Progressively increase the difficulty of hiding spots as the dog becomes more proficient. Eventually, hide treats while the dog is not observing and behind multiple obstacles.
Introduce the 'new trick' command. Challenge your dog by incorporating this command into its training regimen. It is most effective if you have already clicker-trained your dog in multiple tricks. Utilize the clicker and command 'new trick,' then reward the dog for performing any new behavior. Repeat this process, rewarding only novel actions. Continue until the dog exhausts its repertoire or becomes confused.
Provide brain-stimulating puzzle toys for your dog. Equip your dog with brain-teasing puzzles to keep it mentally engaged. These interactive toys contain hidden treats that require problem-solving skills to access. Some models even feature electronic voices for guidance, but exercise caution when offering them to dogs prone to excessive chewing.
Helpful Tips
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Don't get discouraged if your dog struggles initially. Keep practicing!
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Explore dog intelligence games available online or on mobile devices for interactive playtime with your furry friend.
The guidance provided here reflects the insights shared by Mytour's community of readers. If you have a valuable tip to contribute, please share it with us below.
- Ensure your puppy receives ample playtime and outdoor exercise for at least an hour daily to promote physical health.
- Conduct multiple tests to obtain an average score and assess your dog's intelligence objectively.
- Remember, it's just a test! Maintain a positive attitude and avoid being too hard on your dog.
Important Warnings
- Ensure to use a lightweight blanket that allows your dog to move freely underneath. Avoid using heavy quilts, especially for puppies or small dogs, to prevent suffocation.
Essential Supplies
- A dog
- A stopwatch
- A blanket or towel
- Treats or a toy
- 3 buckets or cups - preferably matching.
