Did you know that King Charles II loved an English Toy Spaniel so much, that he issued a decree stating the breed should be allowed in any public place, including the Houses of Parliament? Indeed, the adoring monarch was so smitten with his furry companions that the breed is now popularly known as the King Charles Spaniel. Fast forward to today, these adorable dogs are popular pets across the globe for their beauty, charm, and intelligence.
Is the English Toy Spaniel a smart dog you wonder? The simple answer is an absolute yes! However, their intelligence is as unique as their adorable, saucer-like, doe eyes. Let’s dive deeper to understand what makes these small dogs impressively smart.
When we talk about a dog’s intelligence, most people often equate it to obedience, learning commands quickly and performing tricks. This is what we call ‘working intelligence’. But did you know, intelligence in dogs isn’t measured only by their working intelligence? There are more kinds of intelligence in dogs. Let me explain.
According to canine psychologist, Dr Stanley Coren, there are three types of intelligence in dogs – instinctive intelligence, adaptive intelligence, and working or obedience intelligence. While instinctive intelligence refers to the skills that are specific to a breed, adaptive intelligence is a dog’s problem solving and learning skill. Working or obedience intelligence denotes a dog’s ability to learn from humans.
This adorable creature, the English Toy Spaniel, may not rank high on the obedience intelligence scale, but they are unbeatable in instinctive and adaptive intelligence. Remember, just because the English Toy Spaniel may not be the quickest at learning a new trick doesn’t mean it isn’t smart. Even Einstein had bad days, right?
Coming from a long line of beloved companion dogs, the English Toy Spaniel’s instinctive intelligence shines in their sociability, loyalty, and their inherent ability to understand human emotions. These dogs can quickly recognize and mirror their human’s feelings. Are you feeling blue? You can bet your Toy Spaniel will cuddle up to you to provide warm comfort.
Their adaptive intelligence is where English Toy Spaniels really excel. They are amazing problem solvers and are quite adept at figuring things out. I guess you could say they’re the diamond that gets brighter under pressure. Leave a door slightly ajar, and your little Houdini will figure a way to get it open in no time.
A little friendly advice: Never underestimate the intelligence of an English Toy Spaniel because they do not shine in the obedience category. Pushed too hard to perform tricks or follow commands, these dogs may become stubborn and refuse point-blank. It’s just their way of showing who’s boss!
Let’s remember, though, that while every breed has shared characteristics, every dog is an individual with its own personality. Just like us humans!
While they may be quite proud and independent as a breed, English Toy Spaniels also have a soft side. They yearn for human love and companionship. So make sure that your bonding sessions with your English Toy Spaniel are filled with love, patience, and plenty of warm snuggles. Toys and positive reinforcement like delicious doggie treats wouldn’t hurt too!
This breed is also great for people who want an affectionate lapdog. They may not sit and give paw on command, but they will provide unwavering love and companionship. Here is their intelligence and charm at work again; they know we humans can’t resist a loving cuddle.
Finally, if you are considering adopting an English Toy Spaniel, remember to be patient with them. They may not be the fastest learners, but they are smart and dedicated companions. With the right family, a comfortable environment and consistent training, an English Toy Spaniel will shower you with love and even surprise you with their intelligence. No matter what, they will turn your heart into a royal court where they reign supreme!
In conclusion, the English Toy Spaniel may march to the beat of their own drum, but that doesn’t make them any less intelligent. Their intelligence just expresses itself differently. So, sit back and enjoy the love, loyalty, and charm of your little royal companion. After all, it’s often the dogs that are a bit quirky who offer us humans the most joy and unwavering friendship.
