Dogs can’t think, correct?  WRONG.  You always knew it, but now there is proof.  Psychologist Stanley Coren has been researching dogs and their behavior, concluding that they are capable of learning words.  One hundred and sixty five, as a matter of fact! 

Coren tested dogs with a modified version of a test used to measure language abilities in children.  Not surprisingly, he found the most intelligent breed to be the Border Collie, who can understand up to 250 words and hand signals.  Lowest on the intelligence list?  Older breeds such as the Afghan Hound, Basenji, Bull Dog, Chow Chow and Borzoi. 

Dog intelligence has increased as breeding has become more selective.  As an example, Coren states that if you point, a dog will usually look to where you are pointing.  A wolf that has been raised by humans will simply look at your pointing hand. 

Stanley Coren also reports that dogs dream about “day to day dog activities” just as people dream about daily life.  Smaller dogs are said to dream more than larger dogs. 

The Top Ten Smartest Dogs are as follows: 

• Border Collie
• Poodle
• German Shepherd
• Golden Retriever
• Doberman Pincher
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Labrador Retriever
• Papillon
• Rottwieler
• Australian Cattle Dog

West Highland White Terrier

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The West Highland White Terrier is a small and energetic dog. He is friendly and absolutely loves attention. This breed is not a good apartment dog. They may bark, and although small, require a good amount of exercise. The West Highland Terrier can be dog aggressive.

Training

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Your West Highland White Terrier can be stubborn, so train early. If you plan to be around other dogs, be sure to socialize and train your West Highland with others from an early age.

This little dog has a lot of attitude. Use positive training for positive results. The West Highland was originally used as a work dog, which has resulted in a dog with stamina.

Exercise

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The West Highland White Terrier must be run several times a day. If he is left alone without exercise he will be unhappy and unhealthy.

Grooming

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This breed is known to be good for people who have mild allergies. The West Highland White Terrier has a rough outer coat and a soft undercoat. Brush regularly to keep the oils distributed. Frequent bathing will irritate this dog’s skin.

Health

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The Kerry Blue Terrier is healthy and can live a long life. This breed may be prone to hip dysplasia, PNA and cataracts. Your Kerry only has a one layer coat, so keep him warm in cold weather.