This is probably not a surprise to many dog owners, but according to a recent study by canine researcher, Stanley Coren, PhD, of the University of British Columbia, the average dog is as intelligent as a two year old child.

For his book, “The Intelligence of Dogs”, Coren collected data from 200 dog obedience schools in both Canada and the United States and discovered that the smartest canines averaged in intelligence with a 2 ½ year-old child.

Coren discovered that the average dog can comprehend as many as 165 words and gestures - with the “top dogs” understanding up to 250 words.  They can even count to five.  When it comes to their socialization dogs are on par with teenagers.  

And in case you are wondering when it comes to canine intelligence here are the top rive breeds.

Top Five 1. Border collies 2. Poodles 3. German shepherds 4. Golden retrievers 5. Doberman pinchers