The American Kennel Club ranks German Shepherds, also known as Alsatians, as the second most popular breed of dog in the United States. They are known for their fierce loyalty, courage, and high intelligence. In fact, they are considered the third smartest dog breed in the world. As a smart choice for owners, their ability to learn commands and perform tasks is truly remarkable. My own experience with these dogs has shown me just how eager they are to please and how quickly they can adapt to new challenges.
How smart are German Shepherds?
In 1994, Professor Stanley Coren published “The Intelligence of Dogs,” a groundbreaking book that provided a ranking of 138 AKC-recognized dog breeds based on their intelligence. Coren’s methodology involved three tests assessing instinctive intelligence (a dog’s ability related to the tasks it was originally bred for), adaptive intelligence (its ability to learn from the environment), and working/obedience intelligence (how well they learn from humans).
His findings are widely considered a true and accurate account of canine intellect. Among the most intelligent dog breeds, the German Shepherd ranked third, only behind the Border Collie and Poodle. Their high intelligence is one of the reasons why German Shepherds are commonly used in police and military work, as well as competing in dog sports around the world. As someone who has spent years working with various breeds, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impressive capabilities of German Shepherds, reflecting Coren’s findings in real-world applications.
Why Are German Shepherds Smart?
German Shepherds exhibit intelligence akin to a 2.5-year-old human, making them stars in canine competitions and leading the pack with their remarkable capabilities. Originally bred in Germany to herd sheep, these dogs were fine-tuned in the late 1900s to excel as sheep-herding dogs. In Germany, specifically a province in 1889, Captain Max von Stephanitz aimed to standardize the breed, valuing their Wolflike, Powerful, Loyal, Confident, and Full of endurance nature.
They Needed very little training and direction. His encounter at a dog show in western Germany drew his attention to a dog named Horand von Grafrath, who became the first registered German shepherd. Von Stephanitz admired this dog breed for their traits of intelligence, perfectly balancing brains and beauty. This ranking makes the German shepherd breed among the elite, showcasing their exceptionally brilliant lineage traced back to wolves, with their gleaming coats symbolizing their original breeder’s focus on genius and smarts.
How smart are German Shepherds compared to other breeds?
In Stanley Coren’s seminal research on canine intelligence, the German Shepherd notably outranked many other breeds. Known for their intelligence, they’ve shown pretty good prowess across six categories, ranking among the brightest. With an excellent capability that’s above average, they’ve demonstrated that not all breeds are created equal.
Tested against standards, they’ve aced being brightest with their excellent ability to learn new commands in fewer than 5 repetitions and performed a known command on the first try with a 95% success rate. In comparison, other dogs from the average category might learn a new command after 25-40 repetitions and follow a known command on the first try with only a 50% success rate. This places German Shepherds five times faster at learning new things than the average dog, and twice as obedient.
Reflecting on personal experience, these dogs’ eager-to-please nature indeed makes training more of a joy than a chore. Their intelligence, coupled with agility, truly sets them apart from Border Collies, Poodles, Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, Shetland Sheepdogs, Labradors, Papillons, Rottweiler, and Australian Cattle Dogs in the brightest dogs category.
How smart are German Shepherds compared to humans?
In the fascinating world of canines, German Shepherds stand out not just like us, but as exemplary figures in the realm of intelligence. Having had the pleasure of working alongside these dogs in several high-pressure situations, I can attest to their great capability as working companions. German Shepherds possess different kinds of intelligence, making them a pretty good match for many tasks that would otherwise be hard to rank against the whole species spectrum.
When we compare their cognitive abilities to humans, it’s clear they know how to impress. They showcase a level of understanding and adaptability that, while not on par with human intelligence, illustrates why they are so valued. In essence, German Shepherds embody a blend of loyalty, smarts, and versatility that’s hard to find in other breeds, making them more than just pets but truly esteemed members of our lives.
4 Ways German Shepherds Use Their Incredible Intelligence
German Shepherds are known for their incredible brains. They come with a mental power that’s truly impressive, making them one of the most adept dogs at learning new things. I’ve seen firsthand how quickly they can sniff out treats that I’ve tried hiding, only to move them and watch as they find them all over again. Their mental acuity has not only helped individuals but has changed history through their work in various roles. It’s fascinating to watch a German Shepherd at work or play, showcasing just how much they know and do with their intelligence.
#1 They Get It Right the First Time
In the realm of dog breeds, German Shepherds stand out not just for their loyalty but also for their remarkable intelligence. From my own journey with Rex, my faithful companion, I’ve seen firsthand how smart these dogs are. They learn a new command with less than five repetitions, showcasing their eagerness to please and love to show off their skills. Not only are they fantastic listeners, but they also respond to a given command about 95% of the time on the first time. This trait alone makes them an exceptionally intelligent dog breed, ready to impress and serve.
#2 German Shepherds Make Great Soldiers
In World War I, German Shepherds were not just sheepherding dogs; they were trained by Germans to assist in the battle. Found on the field performing essential functions like transporting bandages, delivering messages, and working as guard dogs, they were invaluable. These dogs were more than just helpers; they were keeping company to soldiers, even those fatally wounded.
American soldiers, impressed by how quickly these dogs learned commands and their obedient nature on the battlefield, developed a deep bond. Their love for these dogs was so strong that when the war ended, soldiers returned and brought these dogs back home. Today, the German Shepherd remains a top choice as a guard dog, police dog, and service dog, a testament to their versatility and intelligence.
#3 German Shepherds Are Actors
German Shepherds are indeed smart, but did you know they can also be convincing professional actors? Back in the 1980s, a Dutch director, Wim Schippers, decided to put this to the test in Amsterdam with his play, “Going to the Dogs.” He enrolled six German Shepherds in drama classes, and by opening night, they performed a four-act play revolving around themes of love, jealousy, and curiosity. Despite their dedication, the newspaper reports labeled the production a flop, questioning the quality of acting. It seems even treats couldn’t convince critics, proving that while these dogs might not make it in K-9/10 on the big screen, their effort remains a fascinating footnote in theatrical history.
#4 Some German Shepherds Are Both
In the heart of World War I, an American soldier named Lee Duncan discovered a German Shepherd amidst the desolate battlefields of Germany. Little did he know, this dog would soon become Rin Tin Tin, a name that would echo across America and the halls of Hollywood. Transitioning from silent films to becoming a star under the Warner Bros production company, Rin Tin Tin was not just any dog but a savior of the movie industry, pulling the company from financial trouble.
Although Rin Tin Tin’s popularity soared off the charts, it was in 1929 at the first-ever Oscars where the impact of his stardom was most felt. Despite drawing in massive audiences, Rin Tin Tin did not receive the Best Actor award, a title that went to a human actor, Emil Jannings. It’s a story so remarkable that Susan Orlean, a respected biographer, detailed it for Deadline, showcasing how a dog from the war became a peer to his human counterparts in a small studio turned large. This tale of a German Shepherd exceeds the expectations of what an actor can be, proving that sometimes, the line between an animal star and its human actors is beautifully blurred.
Why isn’t my German Shepherd smart?
Wondering why your German Shepherd doesn’t seem as brainy as you’d expected? It’s important to remember that while this breed is renowned for its intelligence, individual dog personalities can vary widely. Sheps are often hailed as geniuses of the canine world, able to learn quickly and solve problems with ease. However, if you’ve adopted an adult from a rescue, your German Shepherd might struggle more with training than a young pup. This isn’t a reflection of their age alone but also the time and effort invested in them.
Being patient and consistent with your training practices, and perhaps consulting a professional, can reveal the true potential of your GSD. Sometimes, owners forget that factors like genetic traits from their parents, or even physical attributes like floppy ears, can affect their dog’s learning capabilities. As a proud owner of a German Shepherd who once thought her dog wasn’t the sharpest due to his color and floppy ears, I found that dedication and tailored training techniques turned him into a remarkable problem solver.
How to Keep Your German Shepherd Sharp
Keeping your German Shepherd at the pinnacle of its genius requires more than just regular walks and fetch games. Humans have discovered that dogs’ cognitive abilities, particularly in breeds as brilliant as the German Shepherd, benefit significantly from a balanced approach to health and diet. To mitigate cognitive aging and promote neurological function, incorporating dog food rich in Omegas, Protein, and high-quality proteins is essential. These nutrients are vital for brain health, supporting neurotransmitters and enhancing memory.
A healthy life for a dog isn’t just about what’s eaten. Prebiotics and a focus on microbiomes can lower stress levels, reducing aggression and other health issues like hip dysplasia and joint health problems. My own German Shepherd, BARK, thrived on a diet that emphasized these components, showcasing a sharpness and vitality that was a testament to the care taken in his nutrition and overall wellbeing.
Conclusion
In my journey with a German Shepherd, I’ve seen firsthand how smart these dogs can be. They learn and recognize not just words and objects, but also complex commands and signals. It’s like having a toddler who grows into an adept learner, eager to train and build a relationship based on understanding and mutual respect. Their intelligence shines through in their ability to pick up positive behaviors and remember different places. This breed’s capacity for learning never ceases to amaze me.
FAQs
What is the IQ of a German Shepherd?
Assessing the IQ of a German Shepherd reveals fascinating insights into their intelligence. These dogs are among the smartest animal breeds, with an IQ falling between 80-90, comparable to monkeys in their learning speed and communication abilities. My experience in training German Shepherds highlights their exceptional performance, underpinned by a keen sense of smell and good vision, traits that elevate their intelligence beyond just IQ numbers. This combination of skills not only makes them quick learners but also versatile in various tasks.
Is the German Shepherd the 3rd smartest dog?
According to renowned canine psychologist Stanley Coren, the German Shepherd is ranked as the 3rd smartest breed. This breed not only exemplifies high intelligence but also a balanced temperament, unlike the Belgian Malinois, which exhibits more aggression. Both breeds are considered extremely intelligent, yet through personal experience, I’ve observed the German Shepherd’s exceptional capability to adapt and learn quickly, truly positioning it among the one of the smartest.
Are German Shepherds smarter than Husky?
German Shepherds and Huskies are both intelligent breeds, but their personality traits make the training experience unique. Training a German Shepherd often feels less challenging than a Husky, as they tend to grasp commands quicker. Huskies, with their independent streak, require a bit more patience and understanding to be trained effectively. From my own experience, the key to success with either breed is recognizing and adapting to their distinct personalities.
Which dog is smarter than a German Shepherd?
While German Shepherds (GSD) excel in various tests, Border Collies and Poodles are often edging out the competition. These breeds, particularly the Border Collie, known as the ultimate herding dog, have been bred to work closely with humans, enabling them to solve problems independently. In my experience, Collies and Poodles often outperform not just GSDs but also hounds and terriers, showcasing their ability to understand tasks much better.