Q&A for How to Test a Dog's Intelligence

Yes. Some dogs have trouble because they are hyper or easily distracted. Just keep at it.

Of course your dog isn't dumb. Perhaps boredom is the issue here. Some dogs are just low-key and not easily distracted.

Ask the owners if you can take him to the vet. Once he is better, you can ask the owners if you can take him to care for him or take him to a shelter.

Don't worry about it. How smart our dogs are is not terribly important, unless you need a dog for certain purposes, like guiding the blind. I love my little guy, and he's so sweet. His quirks make him a thousand times more lovable. Just enjoy your dog.

It depends how you look at it, but I would say probably. Some dogs are simply faster problem-solvers than others, but you also have to consider the age of your dogs, since an older dog may be a bit slower than a fully-functioning pup.

You can create a very low level or find another test to do with her. You could see how she fares flipping over cans too low for her muzzle, or just skip the test.

Yes! It says so in the article, that if your dog gets 11-12 points, then she is a genius!

It will most likely work with verbal reward ("good girl" "good boy") or a treat.

If the cup he knocked over was the correct cup, give him 3 points. If it was the wrong cup, let him keep trying.

No. If you have trained your dog to drag things, it will most likely get more points on that one test.

Yes. The average is 4 - 7 points. 12 points = canine genius. The key is at the end of part 1 of the tutorial. Congratulations, you have one smart dog!

No, not really. Some young people are smarter than older people, same with dogs. Every being has different intelligence levels and abilities.

Maybe he/she is not in the mood for it. Wait until he/she is more alert about their surroundings.